Research & Policy

At JALAN Civic Lab, research is not just about generating knowledge—it’s about shifting power.

We conduct participatory, community-based, and policy-informed research that intentionally centres the voices of marginalised communities and directly informs actionable strategies. Whether through fieldwork, collaborative studies, or impactful policy briefs, our research are designed to support movements, strengthen civic spaces, and make significant contributions to building democratic futures across Southeast Asia.

  • Produce research that highlights lived experiences and systemic issues

  • Translate findings into accessible formats for advocacy and education

  • Co-develop policy recommendations with communities and stakeholders

  • Engage in regional knowledge exchanges and collaborative inquiry

What we do

Our work bridges grassroots knowledge and policymaking, challenging dominant narratives and supporting collective organising.

We work with activists, researchers, and local community members to co-create knowledge that matters in both academic and community spaces.

Research

Our research is characterised by a critical and participatory approach, integrating interdisciplinary, intersectional, and localized perspectives.

Our research expertise covers topics such as:

  • Youth and civic participation in Southeast Asia

  • Disinformation, digital literacy, and information integrity

  • Democracy and governance

  • Environmental and climate justice

  • Gender, sexuality, and intersectional rights

  • Human rights and shrinking civic space

  • Community organising and participatory policy

  • Feminist and decolonial research methods

  • Social innovation and civic education

  • Social enterprise

Interested in collaborating on research? Reach out to us at jalanciviclab@gmail.com

Reports & policy briefs

We are dedicated to enriching public discourse, fueling advocacy, and influencing policy through the publication of accessible and action-oriented materials.

Our work ensures that critical information reaches those who need it most, empowering informed decision-making and driving impactful change.

Our outputs include:

  • Thematic research reports

  • Policy briefs for governments and CSOs

  • Community-based findings and narratives

  • Conference presentations and submissions to UN mechanisms

Our policy reports cover topics that are in line with our research expertise.

Interested in collaborating on co-creating reports and policy briefs that shape democratic futures? Reach out to us at jalanciviclab@gmail.com