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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.
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
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.
Myanmar Military Junta Says Criticisms of Executions ‘Irresponsible and Reckless’
By Sebastian Strangio
The junta's plans to execute four political prisoners have prompted a wave of criticism from the U.N. and foreign governments.
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.
Vietnam’s Communist Party Dumps Officials Over COVID-19 Test-Kit Scam
By Sebastian Strangio
The pair were linked to a $172 million scandal in which officials were bribed to supply hospitals with vastly overpriced test kits.
Provisional Results Give Cambodian Ruling Party Victory in Local Elections
By Sebastian Strangio
According to the National Election Committee, Prime Minister Hun Sen’s party won 9,338 out of the 11,622 commune council seats up for election.
Myanmar Junta to Carry out Death Sentences Against Activist, NLD Lawmaker
By Sebastian Strangio
The executions of democracy activist Ko Jimmy and former NLD lawmaker Phyo Zayar Thaw will likely be the first of many to come.
Timor-Leste Signs Four Cooperation Agreements With China
By Sebastian Strangio
But like many of its Southeast Asian neighbors, Dili will seek to maintain a judicious balance between dueling hegemons.
As Expected, Cambodia’s Ruling Party Claims ‘Sweeping’ Victory
By Luke Hunt
But what are the actual numbers?
What China Gets Wrong About Southeast Asia
By Arrizal Jaknanihan
Despite its economic centrality to the region, Beijing continues to elicit significant levels of mistrust.
Fuel Shortages Threatens Rural Crisis in Laos
By Sebastian Strangio
A candid report in a sedate state-run newspaper hints at the seriousness of the country’s economic problems.
Myanmar’s Total Displaced Population Tops 1 Million, Says UN
By Sebastian Strangio
According to the U.N.'s humanitarian agency, 694,000 people have been displaced by conflict since last year's coup.