Research Culture and Academic Freedom in Southeast Asia

This article explores the relationship between research culture and academic freedom in Southeast Asia, drawing on a definition that sees research culture as the values, behaviours and norms within research communities. A healthy research culture supports critical thinking, ethical standards, innovation and societal development. However, in Southeast Asia various political, social and institutional factors – particularly growing autocratization – increasingly limit academic freedom and innovation. The study investigates these dynamics through a literature review, interviews and focus group discussions in Thailand and Indonesia. Its focus is on the limitations on a healthy research culture within higher education institutions in the region, and the resulting negative consequences for academic freedom and positive transformation. The study demonstrates that a positive research culture is shaped by interconnected factors at three levels: individual, institutional, and national. These factors interact with academic freedom and influence the overall research environment. The paper concludes with recommendations on how best to address such external restraints, institutional bureaucracy and poor governance in a region where free inquiry faces increasing restrictions.