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ASEAN Beat

‘One Vision, One Identity, One Community.’ That’s the ASEAN motto. But what’s the reality? Our bloggers based around this diverse and strategically key region give you an insider’s perspective on politics, security and society in South-east Asia.

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Cambodian PM Urges Myanmar Not to Execute Political Prisoners

Cambodian PM Urges Myanmar Not to Execute Political Prisoners

By Sebastian Strangio
Earlier this month, the military junta announced that four people would be hanged on treason and terrorism charges.
Indonesia and Qatar Collaborate on Afghanistan Relief Efforts

Indonesia and Qatar Collaborate on Afghanistan Relief Efforts

By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama
The two are Muslim-majority nations that have sought a similar role as international mediators.

Malaysia Abolishes Mandatory Use of the Death Penalty

Malaysia Abolishes Mandatory Use of the Death Penalty

By Sebastian Strangio
While falling short of a total ban on capital punishment, the move is a rare sign of progress for Southeast Asia.

Myanmar Junta to Move Forward With Trial of Australian Economist

Myanmar Junta to Move Forward With Trial of Australian Economist

By Sebastian Strangio
Sean Turnell, a former adviser to Aung San Suu Kyi, was arrested shortly after last February's coup d'etat.

US Official Meets Marcos in Philippines in Diplomatic Push

US Official Meets Marcos in Philippines in Diplomatic Push

By David Rising
Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met the president-elect in a clear sign the U.S. is willing to work with the future Marcos administration.
For Medicinal and Other Purposes, Cannabis Makes a Return to Thailand

For Medicinal and Other Purposes, Cannabis Makes a Return to Thailand

By Luke Hunt
Thailand becomes the first country in Southeast Asia to decriminalize marijuana.

Shangri-La Defense Dialogue Set to Open Amid Growing Global Tensions

Shangri-La Defense Dialogue Set to Open Amid Growing Global Tensions

By Sebastian Strangio
Taiwan, Ukraine, and growing U.S.-China competition are all expected to figure during the three-day conference.
Myanmar Junta Carrying out ‘Genocide by Attrition’ in Rakhine State: Report

Myanmar Junta Carrying out ‘Genocide by Attrition’ in Rakhine State: Report

By Sebastian Strangio
According to the advocacy group Fortify Rights, the state's malign use of identity documents mirrors past episodes of genocide.

Putting a Positive Spin on Cambodia’s Local Election

Putting a Positive Spin on Cambodia’s Local Election

By David Hutt
For the first time, an opposition party not led by a magnetic political personality has made inroads.

Thai Police Sentenced to Life for Killing Drug Suspect

Thai Police Sentenced to Life for Killing Drug Suspect

By Tassanee Vejpongsa
Allegations of corruption and rough treatment of suspects by police in Thailand are not unusual, but a video leaked of the fatal assault last year, prompting action.

What the Cambodian Naval Base Brouhaha Overlooks

What the Cambodian Naval Base Brouhaha Overlooks

By Sebastian Strangio
The establishment of a Chinese military presence in southern Cambodia would mark the culmination of three decades of misplaced U.S. policy toward the country.
The Options for Duterte’s Post-Presidency

The Options for Duterte’s Post-Presidency

By Mong Palatino
Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to retire to his home in Davao City, Mindanao. But don't rule out another political chapter.

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