Issue Wiretapping Not Discussed At BDF

Nusa Dua, Bali, Nov 7 (Antara) - The Sixth Bali Democracy Forum (BDF), opening here on Thursday, will not discuss the wiretapping issue but will focus on efforts to advance democracy in the Asia Pacific region, former foreign minister Hassan Wirajuda said. "This forum will focus on efforts to develop democracy. We will remain consistent in discussing how our experiences can be shared to advance democracy," one of the BDF initiators remarked after the opening of the Sixth BDF. He pointed out that in line with the theme of the 6th BDF, the forum would address the consolidation of democracy in a pluralistic society within two sub-themes: implementing a fair and free election process and developing and strengthening democratic institutions. Under the first sub-theme, general elections are expected to provide a benefit and direct results for the community as can be seen in the process of the direct general elections underway in Indonesia so far. Under the second sub-theme, to be discussed on Friday, interactive dialogues will be held, he noted. Although the wiretapping issue was not placed on the agenda, Timor Leste`s prime minister Xanana Gusmao expressed his strong criticism on the practice at the opening of the BDF. However, he refrained from directly naming countries he suspected of being guilty of this action. The issue had emerged following reports that the United States and Australia had conducted wiretapping activities across the world. Gusmao said the issue posed a challenge for the development of democracy, especially in a newly established country that is just embarking on the democratic process. "How can we truly have a democracy if we become the target of wiretapping activities?" he asked. He pointed out that modern technological devices used by third parties to monitor communications, the privacy of which should be protected as a fundamental right in a free country, could impact democracy. "As a small country, Timor Leste has limited resources. This means we could become the target of wiretapping activities by countries with vested interests," he stated.