Can the Ideals of Democracy Work in Asia?

A Thai politics professor shares his views on whether it can work in a country like Thailand
By PITCH PONGSAWAT

This question can be viewed from three different aspects: a universal principle, suitability in both the Asian and Thai social contexts, and an ideological struggle over the definition of democracy among various groups in a diverse society. In terms of universality, there is a presumption that democracy is part and parcel of a civilised world. This imposes a widely accepted idea that democracy comprises safeguards that are, for the most, accepted by the international community. The point is that a country needs to be associated with other countries in order to be part of the international Photo: iStockPhoto community. International recognition is of paramount importance. The basic requirement for such recognition is the existence of democracy in that respective country. So what is the foundation of universally accepted democracy? Its the recognition of human equality, rights and freedom, as provided by internationally accepted charters such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Other principles of democracy include a system of representation via free and fair elections. An election system here refers to the fact that governments can change as a result of a regular conciliation process (elections) between the people and their representatives. Elections ensure an examination of representatives who are entrusted to govern the country and pass laws in accordance with popular will. Second, does democracy fit in with the social context of Asia and Thailand? Some experts dont think so, citing that the concept of democracy is imported from abroad it isnt a homegrown idea of Asian or Thai societies. Its important to highlight the fact that certain values indigenous to both Asian and Thai cultures dont support social equality. For instance, the concepts of seniority and the belief in good/bad deeds. These social values may become the foundation for a political regime where equality isnt a priority. The problem is that an undemocratic culture can give rise to either good or immoral governments. If a good government comes to power, there might be an assumption that democracy will bring unnecessary conflict among the people. Democracy after all, encourages people to voice their opinions, no matter how unpopular their views may be. Asia has enjoyed periods of unprecedented economic growth while simultaneously being governed by political systems that arent always exactly democratic. Bear in mind that while an undemocratic system might lead to fast economic development, a system where citizens are denied access to question authority will never ensure sustainable development. Furthermore, many Asian countries boast unusual forms of democracy, such as centralised democracy, guided democracy, authoritarian democracy, etc. In short, we Asians have come up with many styles of democracy, which can be considered invalid by international standards. Lastly, we turn to the suitability of democracy in Asia with the assumption that democracy is not just a form of government or a lifestyle. Democracy is a special term that is full of connotations. Its an ideology referenced by different groups of people fighting to gain hegemonic power over other groups in society.As a result, the interpretation of democracy in Asia varies. In Thailand, democracy with the king as the head of the state is always upheld but also contested by many. For example, there are differing interpretations over the degree and form of royal intervention. This issue, therefore, does not focus on the particularity of democracy in each society. It is an attempt to reveal the concept used by some with an aim to impose their personal point of view as well as to gain more benefits. Personally, I think democracy can work well in Asia and Thailand. I believe in the universality of democracy and human progress. If a universal principle fails to solve the problems in our society, we should adopt our cultural particularity to support democracy.

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