The Issue
The surge in violence, repression and instability in numerous countries around Asia in recent times has taken its toll on rule of law, democracy and the basic human rights of citizens. States are becoming increasingly militarized, utilizing force as a means of social control and punishment. There are many justifications spouted for the necessity of militarization: national security, armed conflict, economic growth or weak governing institutions. In actual fact, militarization causes further harm and instability to society, whether on political, economic or social levels. Violence begets violence; the use of force can never be a legitimate or effective way to govern and develop society.