Run the world, girls!: Women shaping policy narratives in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

The transformative influence of Filipinas in public participation remains a cornerstone yet often undervalued aspect within the fabric of the Philippines and beyond the Southeast Asian region. Simply put, women who have taken on leadership roles, both in the past and now, have impacted society, catalyzing holistic and profound advancements across diverse…

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Why should we cover religious minorities in the news?

Media plays a constructive role in developing democracy and nourishing a democratic environment as it is 4th pillar of democracy. It is a tool for nurturing individuals to develop healthy relationships and to foster a solidaristic environment in society. It bears a significant responsibility when it comes to accurately and fairly representing…

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Am I too young to change the world?

“We want young people to be engaged in the civic and public participation process. Let’s make voice, not the noise, and be the change!” said John Samuel (Regional Director of Oxfam in Asia)This quote encapsulates the entire five-day experience of Oxfam Fellows during the Induction Meeting for the Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship…

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COVID-19 and the erosion of civic space in Asia: An urgent call for democratic vigilance

Civic space, the arena where citizens gather to express their concerns and shape their political futures, has been a battleground. Asia has witnessed a clash between growing authoritarianism and pockets of democratic resistance. In the context of COVID-19, governments have been determined to enact vaguely worded laws that could potentially lead to…

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Stuck in a box: A life with Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME) 

I spent 23 years of my life growing up in Chennai, India, living in the same house since I was born. My family was rife with sexist ideas and menstrual taboos. But being the eldest child, and a rebellious, feminist one at that, earned me a few accommodations. I could sleep on…

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Creating queer inclusive education experiences in India

In India, despite educational institutions and their stakeholders claiming equality, there remains embeddedness in a larger society and state that has yet to fully grant human rights to the queer community. As advocates for equitable education, we bear the responsibility to strive for an inclusive, conducive, and safe learning environment for all…

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