Southeast and East Asia
The Foundation's work in Southeast and East Asia is aimed to support political, economic, and social developments. On a regional level, this is realized in cooperation with our partners like the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), the Economic Network Asia (EFN), and the Working group for an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism. We bring together like-minded individuals in the region to promote the liberal principles of individual freedom, social market economy, and the protection of human rights.
News
-
A phenomenal song from a generation that speaks out
A song about breaking free from domestic violence earned the judges nod at the regional songwriting contest, Living Freedom
-
In Asia, democracy is tested by coronavirus and China
In Southeast Asia, where democracy has been sliding back in a number of countries, leaders have used the pandemic to boost their authoritarian rule in the name of a state of emergency. They have restricted freedoms, tightened law enforcement, and abused their emergency powers. But citizens are pushing back, a silver lining in these bleak times.
-
Southeast Asia uses pandemic and spread of disinformation to restrict press freedom
The health crisis became an excuse to tighten restrictions on news coverage and harass journalists, sending chills to newsrooms in the region. This wave of repression came on top of authorities clamping down on ‘fake news,’ using the supposed spread of disinformation as a justification to attack the press.
-
Why EU and ASEAN won’t seem to get a Free Trade Agreement anytime soon
In times of turmoil in international relations, the European Union has to find new regional trade partners - and ASEAN is a potential candidate for a fruitful Free Trade Agreement. But even though there have been several rounds of discussions, an agreement is nowhere in sight. ASEAN is EU’s third largest trading partner outside Europe, but the road to an FTA between EU and ASEAN is long and bumpy. What are the reasons?
-
Naumann Foundation relocates Global Innovation Hub to Taipei
The Hub aims to serve as a catalyst for digital projects in order to strengthen democracy and open society, and to support FNF on its way to becoming a creative innovation platform for liberalism. With its political stability and its democratic, pluralistic and liberal society, Taiwan offers ideal conditions for the work of the Global Innovation Hub. Taiwan is an internationally recognized pioneer in the field of digitalization.
-
Thailand takes lead in LGBT rights
Thailand is seen as a relatively LGBT-friendly place, but there is no legal partnership status to support LGBT couples. However, this might change soon. Thailand is close to allowing same-sex unions. The planned legislation could be a major breakthrough. If the bill passes the parliament, Thailand would be the first country allowing same-sex partnerships in Southeast Asia and the second one in Asia. Can full equality already be achieved?
-
Democracy means balance: Do not deny governments authority to deal with pandemic
Liberals and democrats must be careful not to be seen to be opposing the role of the state. The challenge is heightening awareness, vigilance, and readiness to push back against attempts by autocrats to exploit the crisis; and the need for innovation and enterprise in pushing approaches that highlight the advantages of democratic norms and processes as successful democratic states have demonstrated.
-
Temporary measure or a long-term violation?
With the current political situation in Southeast Asia where violation of human rights has become widespread, people are worried about the possibility of government intruding further into their personal digital space. Governments should ensure that people's personal data are collected only in light of the health crisis. The purpose of collecting personal information, and how they are processed should be transparent. Digital rights are human rights.
-
Get a course certificate!
Media literacy is an essential credential in today’s digital world that is full of snares. Get a training, and don’t fall into the trap of disinformation.
-
Anatomy of a Failed Pandemic Response
Philippine Leila de Lima writes that today “is like witnessing again the dark days of our country with a national health crisis. Undoubtedly, the Philippines’ longest lockdown was in fact a crackdown.”
-
Music is who you are
Reese Lansangan shares how music is a celebration of one's individuality, and how it feels to float among the stars in space.
-
Song contest gathers music artists in Southeast Asia on one stage
Music artists from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, and Thailand gathered on one virtual stage as mentors of the Living Freedom Songwriting Contest.
-
What’s in a law?
Gender-related laws and strategic actions that have been put in place to secure women’s rights in Southeast Asia
-
Down but not out
Liberal democrats face serious challenges—but armed with lessons from the past and the coronavirus crisis—they can push back the seeming slide to authoritarian rule.
-
Artificial Intelligence and its role in disinformation
Deepfakes are still relatively uncommon on the internet, but as their use and dissemination increases, they are turning into a growing challenge for our society.
Social Media
-
4
Laws to combat disinformation is centered on authority of the state to decide what is false information. The provisions in these laws is vaguely-worded, and false information by government is not subject to these laws. They are punitive, and impact freedom of expression. Defending Freedom of Expression: Fake News Laws in East and Southeast Asia, published by Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats and Asia Centre is a toolkit for advocates who want to ensure that when laws and policies are enacted to respond to disinformation, they do not infringe on freedom of expression.
-
1
Happening later at 2pm GMT+7! Join the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats and Asia Centre as they examine laws and policies related to disinformation in the region. You can still register here - http://bit.ly/2MtmM5G
-
157
#FNFSEEAsia travels to Europe! Virtually for its online regional meeting 🚀
