Asia Centre’s Internship Programme
Recruitment From 2016 to January 2025, Asia Centre’s Internship Programme has hosted 56 interns, with a 1:2 male to female ratio for a total of 187 months. The interns were either undergraduates or postgraduates enrolled at universities in Australia, East Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, Southern Africa, and North America. There are three locations that the Asia Centre offers for internships: Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Johor Bahru (Malaysia), and Bangkok (Thailand). Interns will be placed in various locations according to their skills and the project needs of the Centre. Interns applying to Asia Centre begin the process by filling in the online Google application form on the website and attaching copies of a CV, an official letter of university enrollment, and photo page of passport or national ID (for citizens of Cambodia, Malaysia, or Thailand). Following a review of the submitted documents, shortlisted applicants will be invited for up to two rounds of interviews and successful applicants will sign a letter of agreement. Commitment Internships are onsite and full-time, running Monday to Friday (8:30 AM – 5:30 PM) and alternate Saturdays (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM). Interns are expected to arrive 15 minutes before and leave 15 minutes after working hours. The minimum internship duration is 3 months, however, priority is given to applicants committing to 6 months and/or applying exclusively to Asia Centre. Successful candidates must be onsite, fully available, not engaged in other activities, and committed for the entire internship period. Once start and end dates are agreed upon, the duration is non-negotiable. Visas Foreign students enrolled in universities based in Cambodia, Malaysia, or Thailand who are on an Education Visa, have to ensure that their visa covers the duration of the internship if they are applying for an in-country internship. Foreign students who are studying abroad need to acquire a relevant visa prior to being able to undertake an internship at Asia Centre in Cambodia, Malaysia, or Thailand. To facilitate the visa process, successful applicants will receive a letter of appointment, which then can be used to apply for the relevant visa at the embassy or consulate office nearest to them. Onboarding When interns arrive at Asia Centre, they will begin their internship with an orientation of the office and a detailed onboarding process. The onboarding process involves induction conversations with key staff, reading and understanding the details of a number of important Asia Centre working documents. The documents to be reviewed are the following: Induction Guide, Internship Guidelines, Asia Centre Standards, and Workflow Procedures. Interns will receive handover notes to help them settle in and take over previous intern tasks. Onsite Following the onboarding, interns will undertake tasks that cover media, partnerships, programmes, and research. These tasks are connected to the implementation of ongoing projects such as events, publications, media, and social media engagements, and partnerships between external organisations and the Centre. Due to the dynamic nature of the projects, interns must be able to adapt and be flexible in their assigned tasks and responsibilities. In turn, interns have the opportunity to be involved in a number of ongoing real-time projects and through it all, interns will be mentored and coached on the execution of tasks. During the internship, interns will undergo evaluations of their performance. These will be in the form of performance review discussions, which involve feedback from supervisors. The aim is to help interns identify areas of behaviors and skills that need improvement and strengthening. Exit Interns will go through an exit process towards the end of their internship. A good exit process is essential to ensure the smooth and efficient completion and handover of tasks. Abrupt and sudden departures put projects at risk and must be avoided. If such departures occur, the Centre reserves the right to annul the internship, the approved visa, and levy an administrative fee. Under normal circumstances, the exit process begins with drafting a handover document, attending a final interview, completing any required documentation, and returning company property. The handover document’s purpose is to capture ongoing tasks to ensure a smooth transition and continuity across all Asia Centre projects. The final interview with the supervisor(s) includes reflections on the intern’s experience at the Centre and their key learning points. Any documentation needed by an intern’s university will also be discussed and addressed during this period. Conclusion Asia Centre’s Internship Programme offers a well-rounded experience in human rights. Interns are assured of good mentorship and guidance in the implementation of projects and exposed to diverse tasks in media, partnership, programming, and research, providing them with a strong professional foundation. Every office is professionally set up with the latest IT equipment, modern furnishings and good ambience. Applicants with strong English research and drafting skills, social media management experience, and proficiency in design, photography, and video editing are highly encouraged to apply. We are looking for individuals who are committed, understand volunteerism, are dedicated to human rights work, are willing to take on project management responsibilities, and will adhere to their signed agreement with Asia Centre. If you fit the bill, apply for an internship at Asia Centre. Visit our page for the application details: https://asiacentre.org/internship-programme/
Youth Movements Need Momentum Building, Support, Say Young Leaders
Providing a platform for 28 youth representatives to share their insights and challenges surrounding young people’s representation in democratic systems across the Asia-Pacific region was the key achievement of the Asia Centre-led regional dialogue “Youth Voices, Strong Choices: Political Participation in the Asia-Pacific”. Co-convened with the Global Democracy Coalition and Club de Madrid on 26 November 2024, the event brought together two youth networks: speakers from the Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship Programme and the Women and Youth in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) Network of Young Decision-makers, who joined in a hybrid manner. Additionally, representatives from IGOs, INGOs, and CSOs based in Thailand were also present. Having total participation of 41 representatives, the event offered an opportunity for all present to share their views, present their activities, and engage with youth beneficiaries. The event began with opening remarks from Elisenda Balleste Buxo, Project Coordinator of the Global Democracy Coalition at International IDEA, emphasising the significant role the coalition plays in advancing democracy in the Asia region, which, as the most populous part of the world, is grappling with challenges related to democracy backsliding at the same time with youth disengagement from politics. This was followed by remarks from Kartini Sunityo, Programme Manager at the Asia Centre, who discussed the Asia Centre’s work in the region, and briefly updated the participants on the publication of podcasts, social media posts for advocacy and awareness under the #ThankYouDemocracy Campaign, she also emphasised on the need to hear from the youths about their concerns for democracy and democratic participation in the region, and expressed her gratitude to all the participants. The first panel “Youth Voices, Strong Choices: Political Participation in the Asia-Pacific – Perspectives from Thailand”, featured four speakers from Thailand who discussed efforts to encourage youth participation in political and social causes, it was moderated by Fatin Arwaeputeh, the Programme Coordinator at Asia Centre. Prim Maneechot, a Community Organizer from the Daybreaker Network, emphasised the importance of empowering young people with the freedom to initiate and determine their activism. Akarachai Chaimaneekarakate, a Thai Lawyer specialising in human rights, stressed the need to equip youth with legal knowledge and skills to protect them from potential rights violations. Don Tajaroensuk from the People Empowerment Foundation addressed the impact of systemic corruption on marginalised youth, highlighting how the legal system often fails to offer protection due to the way their situations are defined under the law. Omar Nunarnun from We Watch Thailand discussed the challenges young people face in volunteering for political participation. Together, the panellists stressed the need for social activists to reorganise the democratic movement from within and address obstacles to hinder greater youth involvement in present-day politics. The second panel “Youth Voices, Strong Choices: Political Participation in the Asia-Pacific – Perspectives from Young Leaders in the Region”, featured three speakers from South Asia, it was moderated by Ekmongkhon Puridej, Researcher at Asia Centre. Young leaders from across the region reflected on the similarities and differences between their communities and Thailand. Vishnuvardhanan Padmanabhan, a Young Leader from Sri Lanka, reflected on the recent surge in youth mobilization through protests, which led to unprecedented youth engagement in the elections earlier in November. This movement mirrors the power of youth seen in Thai youth movements. However, sustaining this momentum remains a challenge. He advocated for inclusive initiatives that reach rural communities and economically disadvantaged groups. Bhawana Ghimire, a legal activist from Nepal, highlighted the lack of representation from working-class and marginalized communities. She also emphasised on the structural economic and political barriers that hinder youth participation in Nepal’s economic and political spheres. This issue, similar to those discussed by the first panelist, resonates with the challenges faced by Thai activists. Seena Kimhoiching, a young ethnic tribal advocate from northeast India, focuses on vulnerable rights. She emphasised on the critical role of student movements and civil society collaborations in fostering collective action. She highlighted a growing shift in youth engagement, driven by dissatisfaction with governance, and emphasized the critical role of student movements and civil society collaborations in fostering collective action. Lastly, the third panel “Building the Capacity of Youth Programmes by Understanding their Concerns”, featured three regional speakers, it was moderated by Kartini Sunityo, Programme Manager at Asia Centre. The panel brought together organisations those who have initiated and implemented youth capacity-building programs for the participants to hear how such programs can be further improved to foster youth political participation. Kewalin Sa-ngapet from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in Thailand stressed the importance of making youth programs inclusive, ensuring access for all young people, regardless of their economic background, gender, or education level, and fostering equal opportunities Jo-Anna Henley from the Women and Youth in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) Network of Young Decision-makers in Malaysia highlighted the challenges of youth activism, particularly burnout, and emphasised the need for sustainable programs with long-term support to maintain momentum in political movements. Tyler Esch from the International Republican Institute in Thailand reflected on the success of capacity-building programs, noting how networks among youth advocates have facilitated collaboration and sustained political engagement, underscoring the importance of nurturing these connections for continued advocacy and action. All in all, the regional dialogue “Youth Voices, Strong Choices: Political Participation in the Asia-Pacific” provided an invaluable platform for young people to engage in discussions about enhancing youth political participation across the Asia-Pacific region. The event highlighted critical issues such as the need for inclusivity in youth programs, ensuring equal opportunities for all young people regardless of their background, and fostering long-term, sustainable support for youth movements to prevent burnout. Participants emphasised the importance of regional collaboration, with young leaders sharing their diverse experiences and challenges while working to influence political processes in their respective communities. This exchange of ideas underscored the shared commitment to strengthening youth involvement in decision-making and promoting democratic processes in the region. The regional dialogue also demonstrated the importance of building strong networks and capacity-building programs to sustain youth engagement in political action, including empowering young people with knowledge, skills, and support systems
From Chiang Mai, Thailand to Empowering Women & Girls in ASEAN: How One Pair of Youth Volunteers Inspires Youth-Led Cross-Border Collaboration for an Empathetic Social Inclusion Movement
The JUSTYouth Programme, an initiative designed by Asia Centre with support from the ASEAN Foundation in partnership with Maybank Foundation, brought together nine passionate young volunteers from across Southeast Asia between July and October 2024. These volunteers collaborated with community-based organisations in Chiang Mai, Thailand, addressing critical social issues such as gender inequality in education and child rights. The programme provides an experiential learning platform that empowers youth to engage in social volunteerism, build leadership skills, and foster cross-cultural collaboration. In the programme’s fourth cohort, nine volunteers from nine ASEAN countries each contributed to local development and social change in their unique ways. Situated in the vibrant city of Chiang Mai, a regional hub for many CSOs and INGOs due to its proximity to neighbouring countries, two exceptional young volunteers, Pran Kittivirapat from Thailand and Alya Nur Azizah from Indonesia, embarked on transformative journeys through the JUSTYouth Programme during their two-week field residence from August 6-20, 2024. Their mission was not only to deepen their understanding of complex social issues but also to inspire their peers to advocate for justice and equality. Through their work, Pran and Alya embodied the essence of the EYAA Programme, demonstrating leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to social inclusion. A Shared Vision for Impact Pran, an engineering student from Bangkok, Thailand, joined the programme with a deep desire to connect with local communities and gain hands-on experience addressing the challenges they face. His particular focus was on women’s empowerment, and he hoped to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that uplift marginalised voices. “I wanted to be part of something meaningful,” Pran shared, reflecting on his motivation to make a tangible difference. Alya, a final-year Business Management student from East Java, Indonesia, was inspired by her family’s cooperative background and her passion for social entrepreneurship. Her goal was to explore how cooperative models could be used to address gender equality at the grassroots level. “I wanted to dive deeper into social issues, especially gender equality,” she explained, recognising the urgency of tackling these challenges directly within communities. Despite having no prior formal training in social sciences, their time in Chiang Mai proved to be a steep yet rewarding learning curve for both Pran and Alya. They navigated the complexities of community engagement, social inclusion advocacy, and collaboration with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). Pran, as the only Thai member in a diverse international team, faced logistical challenges, especially when coordinating with local partners like Greenhouse, a community space supporting media allies, including female journalists from minority communities. “We had to adapt quickly, but that taught me valuable problem-solving skills,” Pran noted. Alya, who was new to gender advocacy, was inspired by the work of local NGOs already tackling pressing gender-related issues. “Seeing their impact made me realise how crucial advocacy is,” she remarked. Their shared commitment to social inclusion deepened as they recognised the power of community-led efforts in driving systemic change. Contributing to the Community As part of their work, Pran and Alya collaborated with Greenhouse to organise the onsite “JUSTYouth Sharing Session“ — a youth-led forum focused on addressing issues affecting women and girls within the ASEAN region. The session featured stories and case studies drawn from Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Brunei, and other ASEAN countries, with participants based in Chiang Mai. This platform enabled local voices to discuss key social issues alongside all youth volunteers involved in the project, as well as other collaborators and supporters from diverse organisations. The volunteers also made connections and formed friendships with local leaders and individuals they met during their field residency. Topics discussed included gender inequality, youth empowerment, and other pressing regional concerns. In their roles, Pran and Alya were deeply involved in managing logistics, engaging with local communities, and inviting expert speakers, which helped facilitate meaningful dialogue. Before the event, the volunteers also engaged with two representatives from Maybank Thailand, gaining insights into the corporate sector’s role in supporting community initiatives. Social media played a crucial role in amplifying the programme’s impact. The volunteers shared powerful videos on platforms like Instagram (@justyouth_eyaa), showcasing the empowerment journeys of women and youth leaders from organisations such as the BEAM Education Foundation. These videos garnered attention on International Youth Day, inspiring others to embrace volunteerism and advocate for social inclusion. The JUSTYouth Sharing Session brought together prominent speakers and local participants, fostering in-depth discussions on issues such as gender equality and youth leadership. Pran took charge of event logistics, ensuring smooth operations, while Alya focused on outreach, encouraging local leaders to share their experiences. “It was incredible to see how these young leaders were shaping the future of their communities,” Alya reflected on the forum’s success. Engaging with Local Leaders A critical aspect of their journey was connecting with influential local leaders who are already driving social change. One such leader was Wirawan (Boom) Mosby, founder of The HUG Project Thailand, an organisation focused on child protection and the fight against sexual exploitation. Pran, Alya, and other YVs were so inspired that during the regional workshop in Bangkok, prior to the field programme, they decided to use Khun Boom’s work as an aspiration for their project and integrated it into their pitch with Asia Centre’s team during the regional workshop. Boom’s dedication to empowering women and youth, particularly through trauma-informed approaches, left a lasting impact on both Pran and Alya. During an online forum, Boom shared powerful insights into women’s leadership and the need to address the root causes of inequality. “Boom’s story exemplifies how empathy and sincerity can drive social inclusion,” Pran noted, highlighting the importance of community-based leadership in addressing complex societal issues. The Empowering “She Speaks” Forum Another significant milestone in their journey was their involvement in organising the “She Speaks: A Collective for Empowering Youths Across Southeast Asia” online forum, held on October 26, 2024. The event focused on amplifying the voices of women leaders and showcasing their achievements across the region. Pran once again led logistical coordination, while Alya took the opportunity to emphasise the importance of empowering young women to take on leadership roles. “It
Asia Centre Hosts Digital Rights Programme for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Regional End-of-Programme Meeting
Spanning a day and a half, the End-of-Programme Meeting for the “Digital Rights Programme for Civil Society Organisations” was held from 25 to 26 October 2024 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. It marked the culmination of a year-long initiative focused on enhancing the understanding and advocacy of digital rights among Civil Society Organisations (CSO)s. The meeting brought together over 60 participants and included CSO representatives from European Values Center for Security Policy, Japan NGO Center for International Cooperation (JANIC), Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), Hashtag Generation, Digital Rights Nepal, Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network(SAFEnet), Cambodian Centre for Independent Media (CCIM), ENGAGE Malaysia, Karyasama, The Independent Singapore and academics working online regulation issues from University of Reading Malaysia, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Universiti Utara Malaysia, University of Dhaka, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology and students from the School of Law, University of Reading Malaysia. Day 1 was held at the School of Law, University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) and featured an MoU signing ceremony with CSO partners, three-panel discussions and one workshop on digital security in the Asia Pacific. Dr James Gomez, Regional Director of Asia Centre opened the event by highlighting Asia Centre’s partnership with Google through the years. He noted the partnership has helped improve the digital literacy of users in the region, with outputs such as the publication of the report on youth and disinformation in Malaysia in 2022 to the delivery of the ASEAN Digital Literacy Programme Training of Trainers in 2022 to 2023 in Malaysia and Thailand, and the current Digital Rights Programme for CSOs in 2024, as well as the ongoing Digital Security Training which is currently being delivered right through to February 2025. Dr. Gomez’s remarks were followed by a short speech from Associate Professor Anne Vergis, Head of Law, UoRM. Prof Vergis emphasised the importance of convening such gatherings in bringing together participants from various backgrounds and expertise to learn from one another and gather insights on how grassroots advocacy is impacted by laws to regulate developments in digital technology. The opening session was followed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Asia Centre and four CSO partners; Digital Rights Nepal, Hashtag Generation, Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network (SAFEnet) and European Values Center for Security Policy. The MoUs are part of eight MoUs the Centre has signed with key partners throughout the Google supported programme to strengthen CSO partnership to advance digital rights in the region. The first session, titled “A Year in Review: The Digital Landscape in 2024”, examined how various Asian governments have used new and existing laws to regulate criticism of public policies. In Singapore, the use of POFMA was noted as a tool to restrict dissent, while Sri Lanka has faced public outcry over its internet shutdowns and restrictive digital laws. Cambodia’s low digital literacy and increasing notoriety for online scams complicate citizens’ awareness of government censorship, which targets grassroots activists and journalists. Japan’s new cyber laws aim to curb cybercrime and improve the effective handling of cyber threats but raise concerns about potential misuse against critics, and Taiwan uniquely contends with Chinese interference through disinformation and cyberattacks. Across these countries, the panellists noted that digital advancements have opened public discourse, however governments have acted to control and monitor online spaces. The second session “The Key Developments in Online Regulation in the Region” was an opportunity for panellists to recount how civil society organisations (CSOs) in Asia, with limited digital literacy, data vulnerabilities, and technical ability are being subjected to state manipulation. It was noted that governments across the region are increasingly enacting restrictive digital laws, leveraging social media to shape public opinion, and employing harassment tactics against critics. Despite these pressures, grassroots activists have effectively used online platforms to amplify their voices, while some platforms resist demands to compromise user privacy. Panellists’ recommendations focused on enhancing CSOs’ digital literacy and cybersecurity, promoting balanced regulations that protect both security and freedom of expression, and encouraging platforms to uphold user privacy amidst regulatory pressures. The third session of Day 1 was used to deliver a Digital Security Training, starting with an overview of digital threats facing CSOs in the Asia Pacific region. This was followed by an interactive discussion on identifying various ways of protecting individuals and organisations through different tools and digital hygiene practices. Participants shared personal and organisational experiences as victims of scams and phishing, and they expressed concerns about how to enhance digital resilience among the general public as technology evolves rapidly. The last session of Day 1 was a panel on Malaysia on the theme “Holding Tech Companies Accountable”. The panellists emphasised that while tech companies should be accountable for the digital harm on their platforms, responsibility must be shared among users, creators, legislators, and enforcers to maintain a balanced digital ecosystem and avoid over-regulation that could restrict free expression. There was a strong consensus in the room on the need for comprehensive digital literacy and education, especially for young users, as blanket bans on underage access are ineffective. Finally, the panel highlighted challenges in regulating international actors who spread disinformation and navigating vague state laws that grant broad investigative powers, often restricting dissent and enforcing compliance in digital spaces. Day 2 was convened at the Asia Centre Media Hub with two sessions reflecting on the outcomes of the year-long initiative. Session 1, “Revisiting the Project’s Impact”, reflected on the programme’s efforts to establish a regional network and enable resource creation, joint UN report submissions and capacity building. Participants agreed that the network established by the programme now forms a solid foundation of trust to engage in joint advocacy efforts and encourages CSOs from this network to undertake joint future activities. In the final session, “What’s Next?”, participants reflected on the future challenges and directions for digital rights advocacy. Four major issues were identified: misinformation; AI deepfakes; excessive regulation in digital spaces; and foreign interference through coordinated inauthentic behaviour, as critical challenges to address in the digital rights
Navigating Cambodia’s Digital Transformation: Insights from the Phnom Penh Internet Forum 2024
On 17 October 2024, Dr Marc Pinol Rovira, Research Manager at the Asia Centre, and Somaly Kum, Research Associate at the Asia Centre, participated in the Phnom Penh Internet Forum (PPIF), held in Phnom Penh spanning from 17-18 October 2024. The forum sought to address digitalisation in Cambodia, the regulatory frameworks on cybercrime and data protection, and opportunities for Cambodia in the digital world. More than 100 participants joined the event with representatives from government agencies like the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Social Affairs Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, INGOs, civil society organisations, the media sector, and universities. On the first day of the event, on 17 October 2024, Somaly Kum moderated the panel discussion Cambodia’s Vision Toward Digital Transformation: Challenges and Opportunities. The panel featured two speakers. The first speaker, Lam Socheat, Executive Director at Advocacy and Policy Institute, and Pa Chanroeun, is the President of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy. The discussions highlighted concerns about the blocking of independent media outlets by private internet providers and the need for government regulations to protect internet freedoms. Additionally, the panel addressed the lack of internet access in rural areas, emphasising the necessity for government investment in public wifi infrastructure. The conversation underscored the vital role of civil society organisations in advocating for digital transformation and ensuring that the benefits of digital technologies are accessible to all citizens. During the afternoon session, Dr Marc Pinol Rovira, presented “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Rights in Southeast Asia: Civil Society Perspectives” at the TEDx Talk session. His presentation focused on three key ideas. First, Dr Marc Pinol Rovira highlighted that Southeast Asia—particularly Cambodia—is lagging in the adoption of AI technologies compared to other countries in the region. This delay negatively impacts Cambodia’s digital transformation, as its limited readiness prevents various stakeholders from fully benefiting from AI advancements. Second, he emphasised the urgent need for robust legal frameworks to regulate AI, focusing on a human-centric approach that prioritises good governance and ethical considerations. He pointed out that the development of AI has largely been geared towards commercial and governmental use, leaving CSOs without adequate support. Third, Dr Pinol Rovira underscored that the regulatory process is being predominantly led by governments and technology companies, often marginalising CSOs, despite their essential role in the digitisation process. He called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, technology firms, and CSOs to ensure a more inclusive and balanced approach to AI governance. The presentation concluded with a round of questions and answers, during which two critical topics were discussed based on audience questions and comments. First, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of developing a robust legal framework to regulate AI use. This framework should ensure that the opportunities presented by AI can be fully maximised while safeguarding civic freedoms for all. The need for a balanced approach that promotes innovation without compromising rights was highlighted as essential. Second, the discussion focused on creating more opportunities for civil society organisations to actively participate in the development of AI regulations. It was noted that gathering insights from a diverse range of social groups periodically is vital to ensuring that laws remain relevant and responsive to societal needs. This would enable systematic reviews and amendments to AI regulations as necessary, ensuring a more inclusive and adaptive legal framework. With its participation in the Phnom Penh Internet Forum 2024, the Asia Centre reinforces its work at the intersection of digital technologies and governance in Southeast Asia, particularly Cambodia. Over the past five years, the Centre has published several key baseline studies, including Internet Freedoms in Cambodia: A Gateway to Control (2021) and, more recently, Online Content Regulations in the Asia-Pacific: Limiting Civil Society’s Capacity to Hold Governments Accountable (2024) and Digital Security for High-risk Users in the Asia-Pacific: Needs Assessment Report (2024). Acknowledging the growing importance of AI, the Asia Centre’s 10th International Conference in 2025 will focus on the impact of artificial intelligence on governance, with a particular emphasis on its effects on civil society, democracy, and media in Asia. The conference, titled AI and Governance in Asia: Civil Society, and Media, will be held in Bangkok from 20 to 22 August 2025. This event will provide a platform to explore the challenges and opportunities AI presents for governance structures, ensuring that these discussions continue to involve key regional stakeholders. Asia Centre is a civil society research institute in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. It serves as a knowledge partner and undertakes evidence-based research as well as provides capacity-building training for end beneficiaries. If you would like to collaborate with the Centre, please send an expression of interest to contact@asiacentre.org. Follow Asia Centre’s social media channels for more information.
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC): Forging Coalitions and Defending Information Integrity to Strengthen Civic Spaces
Structural challenges to civic spaces caused by laws, policies and other hindrances, particularly the critical role of media in fostering information integrity, must be examined to ensure civic spaces in Asia remain well-functioning. Towards that end, the civil society sector must build and sustain a cross-sector coalition to support one another. This was the main message across the two panel discussions hosted by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) during Asia Centre’s 9th Annual International Conference, held in Bangkok from 21 to 23 August 2024 under the theme “Shrinking Civic Space in Asia: Stories of Resistance and Pushback.” In her opening remarks on 21 August 2024, Caroline Ford, Director of IDRC, framed the two panel discussions in the conference by stressing that civic space is a vital collective realm where civil society organisations influence and define societal values. When civic space shrinks, it leads to unequal access to freedoms and policymaking. To tackle these issues, we must draw insights from countries with a rich history of vibrant civic spaces, such as Thailand and Burma. Expanding civic space also requires ensuring the integrity of information, particularly online, as it significantly impacts electoral outcomes and civic engagement. On 23 August 2024, IDRC hosted the first plenary session of the day “Shrinking Civic Space – Lessons from Southeast Asia”. This panel was moderated by Caroline Ford – Director of Democratic and Inclusive Governance, IDRC to discuss the evolving nature of civic engagement and activism in Asia. The panel focused on the key role CSOs in Thailand and Burma can play to impact laws and policies in their country. Naiyana Thanawattho, Executive Director, Asylum Access Thailand (AAT), highlighted AAT’s efforts in collaborating with paralegal volunteers to support refugee communities within Thailand. She said they work to uphold refugees’ rights under both Thailand’s legal framework and international law. She added, AAT also shares data with other international organisations. Their strategy to hold the government accountable involves leveraging pressure from international treaties Thailand has signed. Pyrou Chung, Director, East-West Management Institute’s Open Development Initiative, Knowledge for Development Foundation, highlighted the critical need for collaboration of CSOs from different sectors. She also stressed the challenges faced by indigenous communities in gaining legitimacy and representation. To effectively address issues affecting indigenous peoples, it is essential to mobilise human rights experts, CSOs dedicated to marginalised groups and other NGOs to work together. Napas Thein, Fellow, Burma Policy and Community Knowledge Hub (MyPACK), shared the Burma context. While CSOs are actively addressing various issues in the country, the government has often overlooked their concerns. He proposed that a more effective approach would be to form a large coalition, leveraging academic expertise from abroad, rather than having CSOs work independently to influence the government. By building such a coalition, it would be possible to engage productive student groups focused on Burmese issues, connect with the Burmese community, and enlist the support of professors for fundraising and developing solutions for Burma. Later in the day, IDRC hosted a second panel: “Information Integrity and the Digital Public Sphere in Asia”. It delved into the interplay between information integrity and the digital public sphere. Kundan Mishra, Senior Program Officer, IDRC acted as a moderator for this panel. Rossine Fallorina, Sigla Action Research Center, shared that the primary concern with disinformation, especially during elections, is the inability to identify the sources behind it. Additionally, the lack of a clear definition and effective measures for disinformation has contributed to a muddled political discourse. Wathshlah Naidu, Centre for Independent Journalism, highlighted the need to address the state’s responsibilities in the digital realm to safeguard information integrity. However, she stressed that the government must avoid excessive regulation that could infringe upon freedom of expression and speech. Malavika Rajkumar, Senior Associate – Research and Policy Engagement, IT for Change, emphasised that freedom, plurality and diversity are fundamental principles when thinking about information integrity. To enhance information integrity, she urged the government to decentralise information, which would improve transparency and reduce the threat of information censorship. IDRC’s partnership at Asia Centre’s 9th conference builds on the strong collaboration that began during the 7th conference in 2022. Now in their third year of cooperation, this year’s collaboration provides a valuable opportunity for both Asia Centre and IDRC to further strengthen their partnership and establish a foundation for continued cooperation. The International Conference is Asia Centre’s annual event where it brings together its partners to share the outcomes of their programmes and network for future collaborations. Over the years, the conference has become a platform for a range of actors to meet and discuss key democracy and human rights issues. To view the main conference article, articles on individual title partners, as well as TikTok videos and a photo album, read the main conference piece here. If you would like to become a Conference partner for Asia Centre’s 10th International Conference “AI and Governance in Asia” or explore other collaboration opportunities, email us at contact@asiacentre.org. For more information, click here. Asia Centre is a civil society research institute in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. It serves as a knowledge partner and undertakes evidence-based research as well as provides capacity-building training for end beneficiaries. If you would like to collaborate with the Centre, please send an expression of interest to contact@asiacentre.org. Follow Asia Centre’s social media channels for more information.
Radio Taiwan International: The Vanguards of Democracy – Resisting Foreign Interference
Radio Taiwan International (Rti) served as a new title partner for Asia Centre’s 9th Annual International Conference, “Shrinking Civic Space in Asia: Stories of Resistance and Pushback,” held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 21 to 23 August 2024. Through its participation in the conference, Rti underscored the importance of fostering global collaboration in a unified effort to defend democracy; they also stressed that indigenous voices must be heard and represented to protect and expand civic spaces across Asia. On 21 August 2024, the evening before the main conference days, Rti hosted the opening panel of the conference titled “Borders and Ethnicities – Stand with Democracy.” The panel was moderated by Dr James Gomez, Asia Centre’s Regional Director. The first speaker was Kacey Wong, who participated in the panel via video to convey the urgent need for international collaboration to protect small countries from authoritarian expansion and foreign interference by their larger neighbours. This he said can be done through soft power, art and culture. He emphasised that collective action and solidarity are essential for countering the threats posed by authoritarian regimes. Kacey spoke of an “emergency community” underscoring the need for global collaboration and resilience in defending democracy and self-determination, especially in times of crisis and war. From Rti, Isis Lee stressed the importance of international cooperation in countering authoritarian threats, with the Ukraine crisis serving as a warning for Taiwan regarding China. She emphasised the need for global solidarity as Taiwan faces potential conflict. She also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in civic spaces, particularly integrating immigrant communities and ensuring their access to information and services. She underscored the growing presence of international journalists in Taiwan and the need to collaborate globally, ensuring Taiwan’s narrative is told by its own people, not through China’s perspective. Oleksandr Shryn, also from Rti, highlighted the need for small countries to fight for their self-determination and representation, as their stories are told through foreign narratives. He emphasised that both Ukraine and Taiwan face similar challenges, including the external distortion of their narratives – Ukraine’s story has long been told by Russians, while Taiwan’s has been shaped by China’s perspectives. He noted that self-representation and political nationalism resonate strongly with Taiwan’s current situation and their need to assert their own narrative. Dr Niranjan Sahoo, Senior Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in India, provided insights into the context of India, the world’s largest democracy. He emphasised the crucial role that news and social media play in countering dominant narratives and fostering democratic discourse. Dr Sahoo underscored the importance of revitalising civic space and reopening deliberative forums. Recent political dynamics in India have highlighted the suppression of various civil society groups, including farmers, students and trade unions. The revival of these forums is essential for re-engaging diverse voices in democratic processes. During the Q&A session, questions were raised about the foreign media representation of Taiwan and Ukraine, and how narratives shaped by external sources impact these countries’ images and identities. Oleksandr responded by emphasising the need for Ukraine to remove the Russian language from its media and political landscape. He argued that sharing a common language with Russia, the foreign intruder, makes Ukraine more accessible and thus more vulnerable to external interference, which in turn justifies such interference. Taiwan’s role as a beacon of democracy was also emphasised during the opening remarks on 22 August 2024. Cheryl Lai, Chairperson of Rti, highlighted that Taiwan, with its successful democratic transition, should advocate for democratic developments in neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, Hong Kong and Mongolia. She further stressed the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity within civic spaces, particularly in the context of media and radio broadcasting. Rti hosted a second panel on 22 August titled “Beyond Borders and Ethnicities – Amplify the Voice and Diversity”. The panel was moderated by Cheryl Lai at Rti. Filip Noubel, Managing Editor at Global Voices, Taiwan, highlighted the importance of supporting a diversity of narratives in newsrooms and decolonising them to expand civic space. He noted that embracing linguistic diversity is crucial for accurately conveying stories and contexts, especially in the media landscape. Each language offers unique cultural insights, and ensuring messages are communicated appropriately enhances the depth and inclusivity of news coverage. Tony Thamsir, Broadcaster and Presenter at Radio Taiwan International, shared his personal journey towards embracing diversity. As an Indonesian Chinese, Tony faced discrimination and threats from Indonesians, which led him to distance himself from his Indonesian heritage and avoid working with Indonesians. However, after collaborating with Indonesian immigrants in Taiwan, he began to adopt a more open-minded perspective. Through this experience, Tony learned to appreciate and embrace diversity, overcoming his earlier biases and gaining a broader understanding of different cultures. Mulihay Talus, Host at FM 96.3 Alian Radio, Taiwan, promoted diversity by sharing her personal story on the culture of the Sakizaya tribe in Taiwan. The Sakizaya have endured oppression, including land displacement and political exclusion. With Taiwan’s development into a democratic nation, there has been progress in recognising the Sakizaya and addressing past injustices. Dr Martin Petlach, Assistant Professor at Mendel University, Czech Republic, stressed the importance of public trust between the government, media, and other relevant institutions in Southeast Asia. He argued that fostering social trust can significantly enhance engagement between various stakeholders, including indigenous communities, ultimately leading to the expansion of civic spaces. During the Q&A session, panellists and participants discussed how the cultures, languages, and tribal traditions of indigenous peoples can be preserved and protected. Mulihay shared a story about the language teaching and learning structure of the Sakizaya tribe. The programme involves a three-hour session every Saturday for different age groups. RTI’s participation in Asia Centre’s 9th conference nurtured and further strengthened the partnership with the Asia Centre. This partnership follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 25 September 2023, which established a formal framework for cooperation between the two organisations. The MoU outlines their shared commitment to working together on various initiatives aimed at promoting democratic values,
The International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL): COVID-19’s Lessons: Safeguarding Civic Space in Future Crises
Learning how governments managed the COVID-19 is crucial for protecting civic spaces and enhancing resilience and preparedness for future emergencies in Asia. This central theme emerged from all three-panel discussions hosted by the International Center for Not-for-profit Law (ICNL) – a Tier 1 title partner – during Asia Centre’s 9th International Conference, “Shrinking Civic Space in Asia: Stories of Resistance and Pushback,” held from 21 to 23 August 202 in Bangkok, Thailand. During her opening remarks on 22 August 2024, Julie Hunter, ICNL’s Senior Legal Advisor for Asia & the Pacific, outlined how ICNL’s contribution to the conference is aimed to reflect on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasised that the pandemic raised not just public health concerns, but also about the infringement of civic freedoms. As future pandemics or other public emergencies are anticipated, it is essential to review both the negative impacts and the best practices from this period. This approach will facilitate the adoption of preventative strategies to better safeguard civic freedoms moving forward. Following the opening remarks, Julie Hunter moderated the first of the three ICNL panel discussions. Entitled, “Best Practices in Collaborative Governance of Public Emergencies”, the panel focused on pandemic best practices across Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan, drawing on a series of reports that ICNL had published on these countries. Five speakers, including the authors of the reports, discussed effective strategies and lessons that other nations can learn to enhance governance during public emergencies while upholding civic freedoms. Lina Salim, Programme Coordinator at the Asia Centre, and Aoi Horiuchi, Senior Advocacy Officer at the Japan NGO Center for International Cooperation (JANIC), highlighted Japan’s “soft legal strategy”, which emphasised clear communication with the public, utilising “requests” rather than strict orders, and decentralising power to local authorities. This approach fostered effective local governance and minimised the need for broad, sweeping restrictions. Dr Bok Gyo Jeong, Associate Professor at Kean University (New Jersey, USA), emphasised that South Korea’s success in managing the pandemic while ensuring civic freedoms was primarily due to the strong collaboration between the government, the private sector and civil society. He pointed out that the creation of an enabling environment – marked by effective information-sharing and active stakeholder consultation – was key to this achievement. In New Zealand, Dr Dean Knight, Professor of Law, Victoria University of Wellington, explained that the broad Executive authorities conferred by COVID-19 laws and policies were grounded in legislative and judicial checks & balances and, most importantly, were accountable to the country’s Bill of Rights Act. Protests during that period, for instance, were protected and actions were taken only against individuals who had abused their freedom to assemble and express. Dr Shawn Shieh, Founder and Director of Social Innovations Advisory and Freshwater Institute, described Taiwan’s pandemic management as composed of three key aspects: information transparency; government accountability through the implementation of rights-respecting laws and effective checks & balances; and cross-sector collaboration founded in strong societal trust, notably with the civic tech community that resulted in tracking website and fact-checking institutions. On 23 August 2024, ICNL hosted its second panel discussion titled “National Government-Run Relief Funds and Other Barriers to CSO Resourcing.” Moderated by Julia Wang, ICNL’s Legal Advisor for Asia & the Pacific, the panel brought together three panellists who addressed the critical need for more effective funding models and resource allocation for civil society organisations during public emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Biraj Patnaik, Executive Director of the National Foundation for India, noted that laws like India’s Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act limited options for international resourcing for civil society organisations. In the vacuum, the government has managed relief funds and gathered resources, but this approach has proven ineffective and lacks transparency. Patnaik suggests that allowing cross-border funding for civil society organisations would enable funds to be implemented more effectively. Jose Africa, Executive Director, IBON Foundation, noted that in a country like the Philippines, the main barrier to civil society resourcing is laws and regulations that can be invoked to ban organisations deemed threatening national security. This results in citizens being afraid of providing support, of any kind, to CSOs in the country. Therefore, an enabling legal framework is required for effective support to civil society in the region. Kirana Anjani, Program Coordinator for Democracy and Fundamental Freedoms, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights, offered a model of a civil society trust fund in a context where civil society funds are limited through regulatory barriers. Models such as this that seek to provide resources to civil society organisations would decentralise funding from government and authorities during public health crises in the future. Building on the discussions from the two previous panels, ICNL hosted a third panel on 23 August 2024 titled “Legacies of COVID-19 Governance and Impacts on Civic Freedoms.” Moderated by Lily Liu, ICNL’s Legal Advisor, this session featured a panel of researchers who shared critical insights into the enduring impacts of the pandemic on governance and civic freedoms. Prashant Singh, a legal researcher based in India, noted that the role of civil society organisations issuing reports and policy recommendations to monitor governments was critical in ensuring that authorities are held accountable. Such roles must be safeguarded in future emergencies. Meghna Sharma, another legal researcher in India, highlighted the important role of human rights documentation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was critical in ensuring evidence-based advocacy. She noted that, in future emergencies, the focus should be put on these activities as a foundation for calls for legal reforms and government accountability. Kirana Anjani from ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights called on the civil society sector to form broad and multisectoral coalitions, where they can work together to address wide-ranging issues from public health to civic freedoms during future pandemics. This would not only strengthen civic spaces but also allow civil society activists to be able to effectively serve their roles during public emergencies. ICNL’s participation in this conference reflects the Asia Centre’s ongoing collaboration with ICNL. Across 2023, the Asia Centre, in
Counterpart International: Strategies for Restoring Civic Spaces
Counterpart International (CI) was a new title partner in Asia Centre’s 9th International Conference, held from 21 to 23 August 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand, under the theme “Shrinking Civic Space in Asia: Stories of Resistance and Pushback”. CI’s contributions throughout the Conference centred on the need to develop a comprehensive blueprint to guide the reopening of civic spaces and safeguard democratic values. This message emphasised the importance of strategic planning and actionable approaches to counteract the restrictions on civic freedoms and to promote resilience within the region’s civil society. Through its involvement, CI underscored the critical need for coordinated efforts and innovative solutions to combat shrinking civic spaces in Asia. On 23 August 2024, CI convened a panel titled “Strategies for Defending and Expanding Civic Space: Tactics for Building Positive Relationships with Decision Makers.” This session was designed to equip civil society leaders and activists with practical tools and tactics for cultivating constructive relationships with decision-makers. The panel aimed to foster collaboration and enhance the ability of civil society organisations to navigate and expand civic spaces, even in the face of restrictive environments. Arzak Khan, Digital Policy Expert at Innovation for Change – South Asia Hub in Pakistan, emphasised the importance of developing strategies to build effective and positive relationships with decision-makers. He noted the complexities of navigating bureaucratic systems, suggesting that untangling these structures is crucial for identifying barriers to opening civic spaces and highlighted the necessity of direct lobbying, coalition-building, and networking as key tactics for engaging a wide range of actors, from supporters to decision-makers. His insights underscored the need for strategic engagement and collaboration to overcome obstacles and advance the cause of expanding civic spaces. Sarah Little, Governance & Civil Society Specialist at Counterpart International, introduced a framework for Civil Society Resilience in Closing Spaces. This framework, she emphasised, is designed as practical guidance for CSOs to navigate and respond to the challenges posed by shrinking civic spaces, stressing its importance in classifying civic spaces based on their levels of openness or vulnerability to closure. Such classification is crucial for effectively identifying and engaging with the sectors and agents responsible for these closures. The framework aims to provide actionable strategies and best practices to help CSOs address and counteract the erosion of civic space. By offering a structured approach to understanding and responding to these challenges, the framework seeks to bolster the resilience of civil society in increasingly restrictive environments. Kourtney Pompi, Senior Director of Governance at Counterpart International, emphasised the critical connection between the tool presented, ‘Civil Society Resilience in Closing Spaces’ and its practical implementation. For the tool to be effective, she said it is important to map and identify the sectors and actors that are affected by restrictive civic spaces before implementation. She also highlighted the need to address the various dimensions of civic space – such as its political, digital or economic nature – and the challenges posed by limited resources, time, and personnel in the effort to expand and open up these spaces. Pompi stressed that civic spaces are not uniform; while some situations may require active pushing or challenging of governments to effect change, other scenarios might benefit more from fostering constructive dialogue and building effective relationships. Her insights underscored the importance of tailoring approaches to the specific context and needs of each civic space, recognising that flexibility and strategic engagement are essential for advancing civic freedoms. Flora Soriano Menezes from the Judicial System Monitoring Programme (JSMP) at Counterpart International outlined the organisation’s strategy to improve court processes in Timor-Leste. She stressed the need for effective communication within the judiciary, mandatory recording of court proceedings, and adherence to international standards. She highlighted the success of JSPM’s focus on legal assistance, education, and advocacy, demonstrated by the National Parliament’s collaboration with JSMP on legislation. Additionally, Soriano Mendez noted that political instability, restrictive defamation laws, and conservative norms occasionally threaten Timor-Leste’s civic space. After the presentations, participants engaged in a lively Q&A session, where they posed pertinent questions and sought clarifications on the topics discussed. A prominent discussion point was the management of risks associated with decision-making when engaging with stakeholders, including bureaucrats and policymakers. The panel underscored the importance of avoiding close associations with any single stakeholder, suggesting a strategy that involves mapping key stakeholders and tracking their influence and relevance. This approach is particularly crucial in the event of a government shift, as it helps in diversifying collaborations and maintaining professional relationships to mitigate risks. The panel recognised that significant policy changes often require time, and thus, maintaining a broad network is essential. The session concluded with an interactive segment addressing Civil Society Resilience in Closing Spaces, where the audience assessed the state of civic space in their respective countries. Participants mapped and visualised the dimensions of civic space using varying colours to illustrate different levels of openness and restrictions. They also shared innovative ideas on how to bolster the resilience of civil society, contributing to a comprehensive discussion on strengthening civic engagement and advocacy. The urgent need to re-open civic spaces was also underscored during the welcome remarks on 22 August 2024 by Sarah Little, Governance & Civil Society Specialist at Counterpart International (CI). She highlighted the need to strengthen democracy and open up civic spaces. Her address set the stage for CI’s involvement throughout the event, including a panel that focused on instances of progress in defending open civic spaces and exploring strategies to counteract the backlash against these freedoms. She also underscored the significance of the partnership between the Asia Centre and CI, particularly mentioning the Global Coalition for Democracy (GDC), co-convened by CI and International IDEA. The Asia Centre is a member of this coalition, along with other institutions present at the conference – such as CALD and the International Republican Institute (IRI) – in a unified effort to strengthen and protect democracy and civic spaces. Asia Centre’s 9th Annual International Conference was the first occasion in which the Asia Centre and Counterpart International partnered to
International IDEA: Advancing Equity for Indigenous Communities
Indigenous communities across Asia are denied equal treatment and face significant challenges related to rights, representation and safety. Despite official legal recognition, these communities often feel powerless as the civic space to advocate for their rights and needs is diminishing. This was the core message delivered via the panel titled “The Vanguards of Change and Opportunities for Indigenous Youth and Women” held by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) during Asia Centre’s 9th Conference “Shrinking Civic Space in Asia: Stories of Resistance and Pushback” in Bangkok from 21 to 23 August 2024. The panel served as a platform to amplify the voices of Indigenous peoples, providing them with a venue to share their messages and support their efforts to combat discrimination and advance the decolonisation of democracy. The International IDEA hosted the panel featured four speakers: Renuka Gurung from International IDEA Nepal; Edchamcy “Edward” Abelardo from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) & International IDEA IP Champions; Professor Awi Mona from Dong Hwa University; and Falguni “Flora” Tripura from the Bangladesh Indigenous Women’s Network (BIWN). Charu Bikash Tripura, from the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP), moderated the panel and opened the discussion by emphasising that two-thirds of the world’s indigenous peoples reside in Asia. Despite the official recognition of Indigenous rights by the United Nations through the 2007 enactment of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), he noted that Indigenous communities across Asia continue to face significant challenges, including violence and discrimination. Tripura stressed the urgent need to enhance the rights, representation, and self-determination of indigenous communities across the region, highlighting the ongoing struggles these communities face in securing justice and equality. Renuka Gurung from International IDEA Nepal highlighted that Indigenous communities in Nepal experience severe curtailments of their rights, including threats to their safety. She noted specific issues such as violence related to land grabbing, denial of fundamental rights like freedom of assembly, and instances of surveillance and harassment. These challenges reflect broader patterns of oppression faced by indigenous peoples in the region, underlining the need for increased protection and advocacy. From his perspective, Edward Abelardo, highlighted the marginalisation and suppression of rights faced by indigenous peoples in the Philippines, pointing out their lack of political participation, denial of legal rights, and inadequate political representation. According to Abelardo, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges by causing widespread displacement and increasing hardships. He emphasised the urgent need for enhanced advocacy, public awareness, and protection for these communities, citing troubling reports of extrajudicial, state-sponsored killings of Indigenous representatives in the southern regions of the country. The case of indigenous peoples in Taiwan was presented by Professor Awi Mona, National Dong Hwa University, highlighting the ongoing discrimination, hate speech, and legal obstacles faced by indigenous communities in Taiwan. He pointed out that these communities are denied full citizenship rights and that their advocates encounter racism and hostility. Despite Taiwan’s active civil society and movements like the Sunflower (2014) and Bluebird (2024) Movements pushing for constitutional reforms, indigenous peoples still face significant inequalities. Professor Mona criticised the limited and often superficial parliamentary representation of Indigenous peoples and emphasised the urgent need for improved protection and recognition of their rights. Flora Tripura’s presentation focused on the challenges faced by indigenous communities in Bangladesh. She highlighted that, similar to the situation in the Philippines, indigenous peoples in Bangladesh struggle with a lack of recognition, public participation, and access to justice. Particularly concerning are the severe dangers faced by indigenous women in rural areas, including rape, human trafficking, and systemic discrimination. Flora pointed out that these women are often victims of gender-based violence exacerbated by land-grabbing issues. She noted that since 2007, over 700 Indigenous women have endured repression and violence related to land disputes, emphasising the critical need for funding to support advocacy efforts and safeguard the rights of Indigenous communities, as they are frequently denied access to government resources and financial support. During the Q&A session, questions were raised related to the ratification of indigenous rights, risks of co-option and unrepresentative indigenous leaders in politics, the tensions between safeguarding indigenous self-governance and ensuring political participation as well as ways of how to support communities, network and social enterprise. In response to the questions, the panellists stressed the need to create systems that allow for democratic space for indigenous peoples within national frameworks, to ensure consultation and knowledge sharing and urging governments to be accountable for making indigenous voices heard and bringing various stakeholders together to safeguard and enhance the rights and recognition of indigenous communities. This message was also underscored during the welcome remarks of the conference where Leena Rikkilä Tamang, Director for Asia and the Pacific at International IDEA emphasised that the curtailment of civic space, particularly marked by the decline in fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and freedom of the press, is a pressing contemporary issue. Asia Centre and International IDEA have nurtured strong informal and formal connections and continue to advance their long history of collaboration. During Asia Centre’s 9th Annual International Conference, held from 21 to 23 August 2024, the longstanding partnership between the two organisations was further strengthened. It continues a collaboration which follows from previous engagements, that saw International IDEA being a title partner for Asia Centre’s 8th International Conference on “Democracy and Elections in Asia” in August 2023. Their formal partnership began with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2022, marking a commitment to advancing democratic values and practices through joint initiatives. Thereafter, their collaborative efforts have included several significant initiatives. One key event was a closed consultation on “Digital Authoritarianism in Southeast Asia,” which took place in Bangkok, Thailand on 8 December 2022. This consultation brought together representatives from UN agencies, diplomatic missions, and civil society to address the impacts of digital authoritarianism in the region. Earlier, Dr James Gomez, Asia Centre’s Regional Director, presented on the effects of disinformation on media trust at International IDEA’s “Democracy in Asia