“Islam and Democracy”

The crisis in Mindanao remains a core issue in the political and democratic processes in the Philippines, a country known for its rich history of revolutions against oppressive leadership – both foreign and domestic. Behind the nation’s reputation for espousing democracy and human rights, a decades-old conflict in the South involving the Muslim population and the government is the antithesis of a truly democratic political engagement, particularly in light of failed peace processes, internal displacement of a significant number of Muslims, and the endemic violation of human rights.

A close examination of the situation in Mindanao points to a crisis that only seems to be getting worse at every change of leadership. With the upcoming presidential elections in 2010, many are wondering whether the new administration would be capable of addressing the conflict where past leaders failed.

The Roundtable invites papers from senior and junior scholars, graduate students and industry experts discussing issues vital to the interplay of politics, economics, human rights and democracy, and public policy in addressing the conflict in Mindanao. Public policy analysis and comparative studies are highly encouraged. Studies with an international scope are also welcome to provide a wider perspective on the issue. Authors of accepted articles will receive a small honorarium.

Articles must be between 1,500 to 2,000 words including references. Please e-mail submissions to the managing editor, Jacques DM Gimeno at jgimeno@uap.edu.ph or jacqyves@gmail.com.

The Roundtable is an academic magazine and forum published twice a year by the Institute of Political Economy at the University of Asia and the Pacific in the Philippines, and distributed to embassies, foundations, NGOs, think tanks, universities and government agencies in the country.

Important dates:
March 15, 2010 – Deadline for submissions
March 20, 2010 – Notification of accepted submissions