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Center for Asian Democracy

The Center for Asian Democracy promotes research, student opportunities and community engagement that advances our understanding of democracy in Central, Southern, Southeast and East Asia.

Advancing democracy across Asia

The Center for Asian Democracy at the University of Louisville leads groundbreaking research on democratic movements and governance across Central, South, Southeast and East Asia. Since 2006, we have connected scholars, students and communities through innovative research projects, international conferences and expert exchanges.

Our center creates vital opportunities for faculty and student research while hosting world-renowned experts and engaging with Asian-American communities in Louisville. Through publications, workshops and collaborative partnerships, we build understanding of political dynamics in one of the world's most important regions.

Asia in numbers

4.4 billion

approximate population of our region of focus, per UN data

20 countries

in our region of study are considered 'autocracies', as reported by the V-Dem Institute (2024)

21%

proportion of female representation in legislative bodies in Asia, per UN Women statistics

Learn how to support us

The Center for Asian Democracy is entering its second decade with ambitious goals for expansion. Your support can help us achieve much more in advancing democratic understanding across Asia.

Thanks to modern fundraising platforms, you can now contribute directly to the center's mission. Consider making a donation to enable groundbreaking research, enhanced student opportunities and deeper community engagement in the years ahead.

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Power the next decade of Asian democracy research. Your support creates student opportunities, funds vital research and builds bridges between communities working toward democratic progress.