The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy on Nov. 3, 2021 held the 2021 Asia Young Leaders for Democracy (AYLD) virtual conference under the theme, “Empowering Youth to Consolidate Democracy,” and invited four AYLD alumni to serve as speakers. The speakers shared their proactive practices and effective strategies in consolidating democratic governance and strengthening democratic institutions. They also discussed methods that help young people amplify their voices in policy-making processes.

According to the speakers, some countries in the region have in the past few years tightened their grip on freedom of speech and freedom of the press, leading to a wider influence of disinformation over the public. Furthermore, some governments have taken advantage of COVID-19 pandemic prevention measures to further restrict civic space and prevent citizens from exercising their right to free expression.

To safeguard media freedom and ensure accurate information is being delivered to the public, the speakers highlighted the crucial role young people play in supporting independent media in the region. The speakers emphasized that enhancing the awareness and practice of democratic governance among young people is vital to counteracting authoritarianism and addressing threats to democratic institutions. The utilization of social media platforms for generating interaction and dialogue allows the youth to experience democratic inclusiveness and further consolidate their trust in democratic values. Using positive examples that demonstrate the benefits of social diversity also encourage young people to maintain and protect democratic institutions.

In addition, the speakers shared their experiences in how youth can effectively conduct advocacy through social media platforms and create narratives that appeal to both policy makers and civil society. Speakers stressed that understanding the opportunities and limitations for policy change is also key to forming better communication mechanisms and strategies.