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The Debate
The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.
China Should Broker Peace Between Saudi Arabia and Iran
By Lucille Greer
Beijing has the motivation, leverage, and opportunity to convene all parties in the Gulf and pull them back from the brink of war.
The Trouble with Thailand
By Chonthicha Jangrew
Despite this year’s “elections,” Thailand is no democracy.
‘Good’ vs ‘Bad’ Nationalism in Asia
By Amitai Etzioni
The task of keeping nationalism civic, rather than aggressive and authoritarian.
Afghanistan’s Road to Peace Still Needs US Leadership
By Farhat Popal and Chris Walsh
At this crucial time in Afghanistan’s nascent journey toward freedom, U.S. support is still necessary.
How Torture Is Institutionalized in Sri Lanka
By Ana Pararajasingham
Many alleged torturers remain in senior police positions.
These 2 Factors Increase the Odds of Resumed US-North Korea Talks
By Ankit Panda
U.S.-North Korea talks may yet resume once again, but Washington must tread carefully.
Trump Dangles Possible 4th US-North Korea Summit: A Mistake?
By Ankit Panda
Trump is depriving his lead negotiator of leverage by suggesting a new summit.
Cash or Kind? The Debate Over Humanitarian Assistance Continues in Malaysia
By Saqib Sheikh
Despite the clear advantages of cash-based assistance, globally, such aid still only accounts for a lowly 6 percent.
Bridging the Gaps in the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway
By Liu Diyi
How can we foster a more connected and inclusive Asia-Pacific?
Pakistan’s Kashmir Narrative Is Falling Flat. How Might That Change?
By Murtaza Solangi
How can Pakistan come out of the cul-de-sac on Kashmir?
A Crucial New Phase in the Battle to End TB in Southeast Asia
By Poonam Khetrapal Singh
A new plan to tackle latent TB will prove vital to routing the disease.
Will China Take Advantage of the Japan-South Korea Security Rift?
By Ankit Panda
When Seoul and Tokyo bicker, Beijing senses opportunity.