CALD was founded on the belief that democratic forces across Asia can achieve more by working together. Inaugurated in Bangkok in 1993, the organization brings together like-minded political parties, leaders, and individuals who share a commitment to liberal democratic values.
Through conferences, workshops, political exchanges, missions, leadership programs, and partnerships, CALD creates opportunities for people across Asia to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and work together toward a more democratic and inclusive region.
CALD exists to promote dialogue, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas among liberal and democratic political parties and individuals in Asia.
CALD began with a simple recognition: Asia needed a platform where its own liberal and democratic voices could meet, exchange ideas, and respond to the challenges facing the region.
The idea emerged in the early 1990s, when Asian political leaders recognized the need for a distinctly Asian forum for democratic dialogue. Following years of discussions and preparations, CALD was formally inaugurated in Bangkok in December 1993.
CALD is led by representatives of its member parties and supported by a network of political leaders, democratic advocates, and partners from across Asia.
The organization operates through a rotating chairmanship, allowing member parties to take an active role in shaping CALD’s direction and regional priorities. The current CALD Chairperson is Florencio “Butch” Abad of the Liberal Party of the Philippines.
The CALD Secretariat serves as the operational center of the organization. It supports the Council’s programs, coordinates regional activities, maintains relationships with partners, and helps connect CALD members and democratic organizations across Asia.
Based in the Philippines, the Secretariat works to transform CALD’s mission of dialogue and cooperation into meaningful programs, initiatives, and opportunities for engagement.
CALD’s governance structure is designed to encourage participation, accountability, and cooperation among its member parties and organizations.
The Council operates through its General Assembly, Executive Committee, Chair Party, and Secretariat. Its Charter provides the framework for the organization’s membership, leadership, decision-making, administration, and regional cooperation.
CALD’s annual reports provide an overview of the organization’s activities, programs, partnerships, discussions, and achievements throughout each year.
From democratic resilience and the future of democracy to leadership development and regional cooperation, the reports document CALD’s continuing work across Asia and provide a record of its evolving priorities
