South Asia Liberty Forum (SALF) is an independent, regionally focused policy group committed to defending democracy, advancing civil liberties, and promoting human rights across South Asia — with a focused lens on developments in Bangladesh.
Founded in response to the growing threats to democratic governance, judicial independence, and freedom of expression in the region, SALF operates as a platform for rigorous analysis, policy innovation, and principled advocacy. We aim to inform governments, media, civil society, and international institutions through well-researched insights, actionable policy recommendations, and credible evidence-based reporting.

Our mission

To uphold democratic values, amplify suppressed voices, and safeguard the rule of law in South Asia through engagement, and advocacy.

Our Focus Areas

  • Electoral integrity and democratic transitions
  • Press freedom and the right to dissent
  • Judicial independence and legal reform
  • Protection of minority rights
  • Civil-military relations and constitutional accountability
  • Surveillance, censorship, and digital rights
  • Political persecution and human rights violations in Bangladesh

Who We Serve

  • We work to inform:
  • Policymakers across the UK, EU, and North America
  • Media outlets and journalists seeking credible analysis
  • Civil society and advocacy groups working on South Asian human rights
  • South Asian diaspora communities looking to stay connected to democratic developments in the region

Our Structure

SALF is advised by a discreet network of legal scholars, policy analysts, human rights defenders, journalists, and former public servants from across South Asia and the diaspora. In the current climate of political repression and surveillance, many of our advisors have chosen to remain unnamed in the public domain to preserve their safety and operational freedom. This strategic anonymity allows us to maintain proximity to sensitive sources and produce research that might otherwise be suppressed. Our editorial standards are guided by a commitment to factual accuracy, ethical documentation, and transparency of methodology. All publications are subject to internal peer review and legal risk assessment prior to release.

Our Independence

SALF is not aligned with any political party, movement, or government. We operate with full editorial independence and are funded through private philanthropic contributions, institutional partnerships, and research grants. We do not accept funding that compromises our objectivity or mission.