A joint project of the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), the Hanns Seidel Foundation and International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) this publication looks closely at initiatives and activities undertaken by political parties in Asia and Europe to relate to civil society organisations and citizen movements. Since political parties in the two regions operate in different domestic political contexts and different socio-economic conditions, there are varying approaches and a myriad of experiences, which vary from country to country—including the idea that there is no common definition of democracy and no single political trajectory toward democracy.
The case studies presented in this publication highlight common issues, challenges and lessons that can be shared between the two regions. They also serve as examples of good practice from which actors from the two regions and beyond can benefit and learn.