Policymakers and academicians to discuss issues plaguing Asia

31 January, 2013

On 2-3 February 2013, Delhi and NCR will witness a public celebration of liberty; the first Asia Liberty Forum which will bring together over 200 policy experts, academics, think tank leaders and freedom champions from over 30 countries. Hosted by Centre for Civil Society, this forum will provide a much needed platform to identify critical issues plaguing Asia, explore strategies to face the challenges ahead, and generate ways to strengthen the liberal movement in this part of the world.

Over the two days, experts from diverse fields will discuss the challenges and opportunities to advancing freedom in their respective countries and present their work and views on various facets of modern Asia. This power meet of public policy professionals and think tank leaders will delve into the role and impact of Asian think tanks in molding public opinion and strengthening freedom and liberty in our part of the hemisphere.

The forum will provide a unique opportunity to interact closely with distinguished experts across various fields; some who are tackling Asia's unique development challenges, and others who bring international experience and perspectives towards charting our future course. Intellectual entrepreneurs working in some of the most difficult regions in Asia like Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Kyrgyzstan among others will be presenting the political conditions in their respective countries - highlighting the nature, scope and work of liberals in fighting for freedom, prosperity and peace for their citizens.

Their stories speak volumes of the incredible work that celebrates the passion and perseverance of individuals to work towards creating better homes, societies and, at large, a prosperous country for themselves and their future generations.

Key highlights of the conference are:

- Keynote address by Jay Panda (MP, Orissa) on State, Markets & Society: Synergies for Good Governance & Prosperity on 2 Feb, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

- Talk by Chandra Bhan Prasad, leading columnist and author, on Economic Reforms & Caste System at the opening dinner on 2 Feb, 7:30 pm onwards

- Discussion with Ajay Shah (NIPFP) on financial sector reforms on 3 Feb, 11:30 am-1:00 pm

- Panel on ‘Strengthening Religious freedom’ with noted speaker Kris A Mauran from Acton Institute on 2 Feb, 4:00-5:30pm

- Ken Schoolland, author of ‘The Adventures of Jonathan Gullible: A Free Market Odyssey’ published in more than 47 languages, sharing his thoughts on Free Trade and Economic Integration in Asia on 2 Feb, 4:00-5:30pm

- Freedom Dinner on 3 Feb, 7:00 pm onward that will see Freedom Toasts by three individuals from China, Indonesia and India.