Unmasking Oligarchy and Elite Control in Southeast Asia: Convergence Space on Neoliberalism and Alternative Regionalism
How can Southeast Asia experience rising wealth at the regional level while millions remain trapped in poverty? What explains this persistent inequality?
Join our convergence space, “Unmasking Oligarchy and Elite Control in Southeast Asia,” as we take a deep dive into the structural roots of this gap. Moving beyond moralizing rhetoric, identity politics, and individual-centered critiques, we will examine how oligarchs operate in the region. In particular, we will look into how economic elites wield political influence to shape policies that benefit themselves and how this system is perpetuated and reinforced by repressive regimes.
Date: October 28, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM–4:00 PM (Philippine Standard Time)
Venue: Quezon City MICE Center, Breakout Room 3
This convergence space is organized by the Program on Alternative Development of the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies, the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus, Gender and Development for Cambodia, Sajogyo Institute, Kdadalak Sulimutuk Institute, Progressive Muslim Youth Association, and Sitt Nyein Pann Foundation, with support from the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, 11.11.11, and CCFD-Terre Solidaire.