Sen. Risa Hontiveros: Defending Democracy Amidst China’s Rise

As part of the 30^th anniversary celebration of the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), an insightful Fireside Chat on the theme “Leadership in the Time of Democratic Recession” was held on 9 September 2023 at Great Skyview Taipei, Taiwan. The session was attended by liberals and democrats from across the globe.

The Fireside Chat featured a compelling address by Philippine Senator Anna Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros-Baraquel. A recognized advocate for democratic values and human rights, Sen. Risa delved into the critical leadership qualities required to effectively respond to the growing challenges posed by the rise of authoritarians, populists, and illiberals in contemporary society.

“We know that China wants to influence our region and promote its style of politics because a deeply authoritarian state views the liberal world order as a threat to its existence. An autocracy is never secure of its power as it is power that is not freely given by the governed. This will not stop China from trying, however. She will try to reel us in through promises of investments and economic growth,” opened Sen. Risa during her address. “In the face of a global superpower that is hellbent on bullying us into submission, it is only necessary that pro-democracy forces band together to resist repressive actions,” she added.

Moderated by Facts First Philippines Host Christian Esguerra, the session shed light on how leaders can cultivate resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving political landscape. Sen. Risa’s experiences and perspectives served as a source of inspiration for leaders striving to maintain the integrity of democratic institutions even amidst growing tensions. “As believers of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, we cannot forgo our duty to a peaceful and diplomatic way of resolving our differences. Violence is out of the question… Democracy is a powerful vaccine to armed conflict. Democracy guarantees that we can resolve disputes without the use of force. While far from perfect, democracy is the best thing we’ve got.”

Leaders that respect, value, and recognize the significance of democracy should urgently and resolutely work together to deliver on democracy’s gains, fight off democracy’s adversaries, and protect democracy’s staunchest defenders. “Democratic countries should help each other solve not just our challenges that intersect in the international arena, but also challenges that we face within our own countries.”

And the only way to address China’s hegemonic rise means fortifying our democratic institutions, principles, and values. Before we can even wish to strengthen regional or global democracy, the democracy of our nations should first be solidified, according to Sen. Risa. “…at least in the case of the Philippines, we need to ask help from the international community when the people currently in power are more inclined to do what is best for them, rather than what is best for our country.  When our democracies are this rock solid, we durably shiel ourselves from autocratic China’s creeping invasion.”

As CALD marks its 30^th anniversary, this session reaffirmed the organization’s dedication in

promoting discussion and exchange of ideas regarding trends and challenges affecting democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the region.