Frank discussions during seminar on democracy in Asia

Not just the economy

The world’s gaze at Asia’s rise revolves around economic opportunities. For many millions of Asians however, democracy and actively promoting is an integral part of Asia’s emergence.

Democracy promotion seminar

Responding to this debate and its challenges, the Clingendael Institute and the Indonesian Embassy in The Hague held a seminar to discuss democracy promotion in Asia. In particular the role of Indonesia was discussed. It took place before the annual meeting of Asian leaders at the Bali Democracy Forum (BDF) that was held in November. The seminar was attended by a wide range of speakers and participants.

Seminar report covering frank debate

The Clingendael report ‘Indonesia’s Rise and Democracy Promotion in Asia: The Bali Democracy Forum and Beyond’ gives a representation of the debate. Indonesia’s role as democracy-promoter in ASEAN and the Bali Democracy Forum (BDF), Indonesian national strategy and public diplomacy were among the subjects of the frank discussions. Many participants defended an inclusive approach, in particular the idea that democracies and non-democracies deserve a place at the table.

The seminar was chaired by Jan Melissen, Senior Research Fellow at the Clingendael Institute.