| Abstract: | This paper explains how the notion of “critical engagement” has been a popular basis for NGO‐state relations in the Philippines and Indonesia. It has been used, moreover, in both liberal democratic (post‐1985 Philippines) and authoritarian (late 1960s to late 1990s Indonesia) political regimes. For both states and reform‐minded NGOs, critical engagement has represented a flexible means by which to pursue assorted political, economic and social ends. In a context of regional political and economic upheaval, it is likely to remain popular with both states and many NGOs for the foreseeable future. |
