Step By Step From Cambodia Toward ASEAN

Abstract

This chapter reflects on the experience of Cambodia in building civic engagement in the context of war and terror. It highlights the role of Buddhism in bringing about the conditions for peace as well as engagement, especially as the Buddhist message was expressed and lived out by Cambodian monk, Venerable Maha Ghosananda. The chapter argues that: (1) The Middle Way expressed in various religions is a desirable pathway to peace. (2) Civic engagement requires a systematic bottom-up approach and takes time to develop. Contrary to top-down, or authoritarian approaches, it is non-violent in spirit and works toward inclusivity through consensus decision-making. And (3) The Cambodian organization, Buddhism for Development (BDF), has managed to develop a local constituency through civic engagement that is holistic, based on the people’s needs, and multiplied by the efforts of the people themselves. Finally, the author argues that the efforts of such local and national organizations in creating small steps for peace can lead in the end to a peaceful and harmonious ASEAN community.