This working paper provides a preliminary conceptual framework and methodology for assessing democratisation in Southeast Asia. 

This working paper illustrates the processes behind one of the ASEAN Peoples Assembly (APA) initiatives, which is the democratisation assessment program for Southeast Asia. This working paper provides a preliminary conceptual framework and methodology for assessing democratisation in the region. This initiative should be recognised as a work-in progress, as the debates on democratisation and empowerment should ultimately involve the participation of more citizens in the region. As such, this initiative will be flexible to the inputs and insights of relevant stakeholders in the region that will definitely be facilitated by future endeavours.