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Writer's pictureManushya Foundation
Sep 19, 2023

ACSC/APF 2023: Uniting Hearts and Minds for Safer Online Arena in Southeast Asia








Take a moment to transport yourself back to September 1st, 2023, when something truly extraordinary šŸŒŸ unfolded at Atma Jaya University, Semanggi, Jakarta as Indonesia took the chairship for 2023.


The ASEAN Regional Coalition to #StopDigitalDictatorship seized the spotlight at the ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN Peoples' Forum (ACSC/APF) 2023. Let's relive the unforgettable moments and the lasting impact of this monumental event that has set us on the path to a brighter digital future! šŸ’ŖšŸ”


Recapturing the Transformative Essence


The heart and soul of this event revolved around a powerful theme: "Dismantling Digital Dictatorship: Safeguarding Rights in the Online Arena." Visionaries, digital defenders, and those who've experienced the struggle firsthand came together to dissect threats, unlock opportunities, and blueprint the way forward for alternative regionalism of ASEAN. šŸ’”



Distinguished Speakers šŸŽ¤ šŸŽ¤


  • Damar Juniarto, Executive Director of SAFEnet Indonesia

  • Jean Linis-Dinco, An Independent Cybersecurity Expert

  • Arus Pelangi

  • ASEAN SOGIE Caucus


Moderator and FacilitatoršŸ‘©ā€šŸ’¼


  • Debbie Stothard, Founder of ALTSEAN Burma, as the Moderator

  • Ni Putu Candra Dewi from Manushya Foundation, as the Facilitator

  • Nadine Hassan of ILGA ASIA, as the Rapporteur



šŸ”„ While youā€™re here, dive into the Event's Highlights!


Jean Linis-Dinco

"I want to emphasize the intricacies of the digital realmsā€¦And its far-reaching consequences for grassroots movements and personal liberties. I contend that the responsibility to protect our digital freedoms extends beyond policymakers; every netizen plays a crucial role in defending our cherished values, particularly in the face of state-led surveillance and cyberattacks." šŸŒšŸ›”ļøšŸ”



Damar Juniarto


"In Southeast Asia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Singapore, are already under the sway of authoritarian regimes, employing digital repression as a tool within their political landscape. However, the reach of authoritarian practices extends beyond borders, even infiltrating democracies like Indonesia, where the presence of cyber troops seeks to manipulate public opinion. This phenomenon is not surprising, as nearly all Southeast Asian countries engage in collaborations with China, encompassing digital policy development, participation in projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Smart/Safe City initiatives, facial recognition, smart policing, and the adoption of Chinese technology " šŸŒšŸ“²šŸ’»šŸ¤–


Arus Pelangi


"Despite escalating digital security dangers, state-sponsored attacks, and other obstacles, we passionately support LGBTQIA+ activists and their freedom of expression throughout Indonesia and Southeast Asia. We urge the Indonesian government to conduct an immediate and impartial investigation into and resolution of these security threats. Furthermore, the international community should keep an eye on the situation and support and protect LGBTQIA+ activists and organizations.ā€


ASEAN SOGIE Caucus

"Addressing regional threats, whether digital or physical, is crucial. The threat of hacking and potential state-led action jeopardizes organizations like ours, including our Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This not only imperils our work but also sends a concerning message to the broader human rights community to protect our fundamental rights and freedom."



A Spark for Digital Freedom and Collective Action" šŸŒšŸ”„šŸ’Ŗ

The ASEAN Regional Coalition to #StopDigitalDictatorship's presence at ACSC/APF 2023 was truly remarkable. It ignited a passion to strive for digital freedom and human rights across Southeast Asia, resonating far and wide. As we reflect on those discussions, let's remember that defeating digital dictatorship is a collective effort. Stay tuned for the next steps in our journey toward a just and liberated digital future for all


#WeAreManushyan ā™¾ Equal Human Beings




šŸ”„ While youā€™re here, discover our pivotal work on democracy and digital rights, shaping our safer online arena in Southeast Asia ā¤µļø





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