In East and Southeast Asia, democracy must be understood within the region’s unique political, historical and economic contexts. While liberal values are present, many citizens prioritise stability, economic growth and effective leadership over individual freedoms. Popular conceptions of democracy blend electoral, substantive and liberal elements, with many also favouring authoritarian alternatives. The challenge lies in fostering democratic legitimacy by carefully navigating authoritarian legacies while addressing growing demands for political inclusion. This requires region-specific approaches rather than simply adopting Western liberal democratic models.
Beyond the liberal model in East and Southeast Asia | East Asia Forum
