South Asia
The Foundation was established in Germany in 1958. It aims to promote the goal of making the principle of freedom valid for the dignity of all people and in all areas of society, both in Germany and abroad. The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom works in over 65 countries worldwide. In South Asia we have offices in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Additionally we work with partners in Nepal. We promote civic education, trainings and the exchange of ideas in the region in four focal areas. These are economic freedom, human rights, urban governance and digital transformation. In addition to the country projects, the Foundation supports regional programs.
News
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A Brief Overview of SMEs in Bangladesh: Challenges and the way forward
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of world economies, constituting about 90% of businesses and providing more than 50% of employment globally (World Bank). They stimulate innovation, encourage entrepreneurship and play a vital role in diversifying economies, fostering competitiveness and providing resilience in the face of economic hurdles.
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The critical role of SMEs in Nepal’s economic development
The contribution of SMEs to Nepal’s economy is substantial. SMEs contribute 22% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) besides generating employment for 1.8 million people, especially women, making them invaluable to their empowerment; they also add to an inclusive and broad-based economy.
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Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) of Sri Lanka
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in maintaining the economic fabric of Sri Lanka, contributing significantly to employment, GDP and social stability. These businesses, characterized by their limited scale in terms of employees, revenue and assets, are the backbone of the Sri Lankan economy. This article delves into the current situation of SMEs, their challenges and support mechanisms available while contemplating future policy directions for a resilient SME sector.
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Artificial Election and Its Impact on Election
Growing accessibility to and sinking costs of generative AI heightens fears of the influence of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) and all-out disinformation campaigns in democracies. 2024 is for the super Elections Year with 70 elections scheduled worldwide, including in the USA, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Europe.
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Securing South Asia: Addressing Hybrid Cyber Threats
The increasing prevalence of hybrid cyber threats poses a significant challenge to the security landscape of South Asia. With the region experiencing heightened geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advancements, it is imperative to address these threats effectively. The surge in threats to supply chains, critical infrastructure, and cyber espionage necessitates an evaluation of South Asia's cybersecurity scenario. This study aims to assess the resilience and vulnerabilities of South Asia's critical infrastructures amidst contemporary cyber hazards.
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Global Security Implications of the Bay of Bengal
The Bay of Bengal region occupies a pivotal position in global geopolitics, particularly within the context of the emerging Indo-Pacific framework. Its strategic significance is underscored by its proximity to the Malacca Strait, a crucial chokepoint for China's energy imports, emphasizing its role in securing sea lanes of communication (SLOC). The shift in the global geopolitical and geo-economic centre to the Indo-Pacific has heightened attention on this region, emphasizing the emergence of the Indo-Pacific as a unified strategic entity. This shift has underscored the strategic significance of BIMSTEC as a vital mechanism for enhancing connectivity between the littorals of these adjoining ocean spaces.
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Call for Freelance Journalist from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, & Sri Lanka
The South Asia Regional Office of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is seeking dedicated freelance journalists from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka to provide comprehensive coverage and reporting on events hosted by our regional office in South Asia.
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