A Question of Agency

New Naratif's Southeast Asia Dispatches

Many modern Southeast Asian countries often try to develop a thriving academic and research environment as an indicator of development. But how free are scholars and academics to pursue topics that challenge the interests of elites and those in power? The type of threats can range from extrajudicial killings to a lack of funding and job insecurity for scholars. How do academics navigate serving as part of civil society, while also being viewed as institutes that serve the state’s interests?

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Disclosure: Dr. Sol Iglesias is married to New Naratif’s Co-founder PJ Thum. New Naratif declares that Dr. Sol is appearing on this episode in her capacity as a researcher in political violence in the Philippines.