Asia Centre Summit 2027 – Peace and Democracy for Asia: Rebuilding Trust in Divided Times
1. OverviewThe Asia Centre Summit 2027 examines the intersection of peace and democracy in Asia at a time when both are under increasing strain. While many of the region’s challenges are not new and are widely recognised, the central task lies in identifying democratic pathways to foster dialogue, strengthen cooperation and rebuild trust across divided societies. Building peace in Asia requires a firm commitment to democratic principles to ensure lasting and effective outcomes. Several examples from across Asia illustrate how these principles have already translated into more inclusive and constructive approaches to addressing division. Civil society organisations, women groups, youth movements, journalists associations, faith-based organisations and local communities continue to develop innovative approaches to dialogue, conflict prevention and democratic participation. 2. Conference Themes The conference will examine the following themes:Democratic Resilience Amidst ConflictDemocratic Approaches to Peace-BuildingSelf-Determination, Autonomy and PeaceRise of Nationalism and Identity PoliticsWomen, Gender and Inclusive Peace ProcessesYouth Participation, Peace Activism and Civic SpaceReligious Freedom, Minority Rights, and Social CohesionHate Speech and Social PolarisationPeace Journalism, Media Ethics and Information IntegrityTransnational Repression and the Safety of DissidentsDigital Democracy and SurveillanceTechnology, AI and Peace-BuildingNote: The above sub-themes are a preliminary guide. Flexibility is encouraged, and partners may propose additional topics aligned with their expertise under the overarching theme of Peace and Democracy in Asia to ensure contextual relevance and innovation.. 3. Objectives The Conference aims to achieve the following objectives: Identify the key drivers of ongoing conflicts, social fragmentation and emerging flashpoints across the Asian region.Highlight current peacebuilding initiatives, including their strengths, limitations and potential pathways for strengthening trust and cooperation in divided societies. Discuss how inclusive, participatory and accountable democratic frameworks can support sustained dialogue, conflict management and the long-term maintenance of peace and social cohesion.4. Conference Structure The conference will consist of short opening remarks, keynote speeches, plenary sessions, and breakout sessions arranged according to themes and/or region and country-specific discussions. Do note: Panel themes and speaker roles are prioritised for title partners.5. Conference Participants Registration is open to participants from national, regional, and global organisations, including civil society organisations, faith-based NGOs, human rights organisations, media and journalism associations, legal and policy entities, parliaments and political parties, technology firms, and intergovernmental organisations. All registrations are subject to review and approval by Asia Centre.6. Programme OutlineDay 1, Thursday 19 August 20279:00 – 17:00 Morning & Afternoon PanelsDay 2, Friday 20 August 20279:00 – 17:00 Morning & Afternoon Panels17:00 – 20:00 Networking Session7. InquiriesPlease contact us at conference@asiacentre.org For the full concept note please click 8. Registration & FeeTitle partners to contact Asia Centre at conference@asiacentre.org for terms and conditions.We invite all individual participants to register through this form to confirm participation.Registration Fee is USD 350/- per person for a single ticket.The summit is a self-funded event. The fixed registration fee only covers the 2-day venue costs, conference materials, snacks, lunch and networking session charges at the end of the second day.