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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.
Indonesia Stirs the Pot on WTO Reforms
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
A bold move by Jakarta may give WTO reforms the shakeup they need.
How Does The Myanmar Crisis End?
By David Hutt
The military junta's possible handover of power to a quasi-civilian "transition council" could create complications for the country's resistance forces.
Why Vietnam’s Political Shake-Up Will Not Affect Its Foreign Policy
By Khang Vu
Two structural constraints, one international and one domestic, ensure a high degree of continuity in Hanoi's external relations.
Myanmar Military Spokesperson Expresses Uncertainty Over Junta Polls
By Sebastian Strangio
Frequent resistance attacks have greatly complicated the holding of a stage-managed election this year.
Thai Tourism Recovery On Track as International Arrivals Jump
By Sebastian Strangio
The country welcomed 11.15 million foreign visitors in 2022, up from just 428,000 the previous year.
A Touch of Populism and Austerity from Laos’ New PM
By David Hutt
A month after his appointment, Sonexay Siphandone has given some indication of how he plans to tackle the country's severe economic challenges.
Rights Group Files Complaint in Germany Against Myanmar’s Generals
By Sebastian Strangio
The complaint is the latest that seeks to use the doctrine of "universal jurisdiction" to bring the country's generals to justice.
Why Did ASEAN Leaders Skip Davos?
By Sribala Subramanian
The annual gathering of global elites has grown more “eurocentric.”
Thai Activists Hospitalized After Hunger Strike Over Royal Defamation Cases
By Sebastian Strangio
Tantawan Tuatulanon and Orawan Phuphong demanded that a judge revoke their bail in solidarity with other activists facing lese-majeste charges.
Philippines’ Marcos Seeks Foreign Minister Talks With China on Maritime Disputes
By Jim Gomez
The Philippine president said Manila will continue to push back against China, despite his proposal for higher-level talks to rapidly address future conflicts at sea.
The Continuing Threat of Self-Radicalization in Singapore
By Mohamed Bin Ali
The internet and social media have created a host of novel internal challenges for the city-state's authorities.
Indonesia’s Jokowi Registers All-Time High Approval Rating
By Sebastian Strangio
With just a year until the end of his second and final term in office, Joko Widodo is more popular than ever.