KASYP 17.1, Module 01: Political Parties in Democratic Societies

The module offers a comprehensive introduction to the ideational, institutional, and organisational foundations of political parties in Asia, with expert-led sessions on political ideologies, party systems, intra-party democracy, and party mobilisation. Through comparative formats such as discussions and country presentations, participants examine how political parties operate across different democratic contexts in the region. Beyond theoretical inputs, the programme places strong emphasis on practical political skills. Participants take part in hands-on workshops on pitching, framing, storytelling, public speaking, and party platform development, enabling them to translate political ideas into clear and compelling public narratives. The module also integrates direct engagement with democratic institutions, including visits to the Cebu Provincial Capitol, discussions with elected officials and oversight bodies, and exchanges with Philippines KASYP alumni, offering participants insights into democratic practice at the local and sub-national levels. As the inaugural module of the KASYP journey with participants from Thailand, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Maldives, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Bhutan, Timor Leste, Cambodia, India, Mongolia, Singapore and Taiwan, this programme lays the foundation for a cohort-based learning experience that combines political knowledge, practical skills, and democratic leadership development across Asia.