Archive
February 2015
Islamic State Murders: Japan's Tipping Point?
By Ankit Panda
The Diplomat‘s editors discuss recent events in Asia, including Japan and the Islamic State, Russia-China-India talks, and Cobra Gold 2015.
One Year After Election, Violence Persists in Bangladesh
By Jack Detsch
A year after disputed elections threw Bangladesh into turmoil, a call for boycotts from the opposition has led to renewed violence.
Could East Asia's Weak Institutions Be a Blessing in Disguise?
By Robert Farley
East Asia's multilateral institutions -- from ASEAN to APEC -- are generally weak. This might be a good thing.
Did China Just Boost Military Ties with Thailand?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The symbolism of a recent meeting is clear, but the substance is less so.
World’s Largest Human Migration Underway in China
By Shannon Tiezzi
Plus, the Dalai Lama, U.S.-China CBMs, "discord" in the South China Sea, and Chinese militants in IS. Your China links.
Xi's Flattery and China's Global Ambitions
By Kerry Brown
China professes deep appreciation and concern for the developing world. It's time to take Beijing at its word.
China’s Push for Press Legitimacy
By Jeffrey Cusack
While Beijing tries to increase the overseas credibility of its media, China Daily U.S.A. remains sharply political.
Australia Nibbles at the Edges of Press Freedom
By Helen Clark
With its new security laws, the current government aims to shift the balance between freedom and security.
‘Nipped and Tucked’ from Translation: Censorship in Vietnam
By Helen Clark
One author experiences the thoroughness of Vietnam’s censors.
China’s Changing Labor Conditions
By Sara Hsu
The country’s increasingly skilled labor force will need service sector reforms to accommodate it.
US Missile Defense in South Korea 'Concerns' China
By Ankit Panda
Plus, Japan's constitutional reform, Russian Air Force bombers, and shifting Indian defense priorities.
Laos’ Killer Drunk Driving Problem
By James Elton-Pym
Cheap alcohol and an absence of breathalyzers are playing havoc on the roads of Laos.