Archive
April 2021
Learning From Kyrgyzstan’s Local Elections
By Colleen Wood
Local elections provide a window into the state of Kyrgyz politics – and what might come next in the three decade-long game of political musical chairs.
5 Years of Duterte: A Calamity Reaching Its Crescendo
By Michael Beltran
The Diplomat spoke with experts, victims, documenters, and communities affected by one of the most polarizing governments in Philippine history.
The Coming Age of Strategic Annoyance
By Jacob Parakilas
Small drones, used unpredictably, could conceivably force defenders to adopt a wearying posture of constant readiness and uncertainty.
The Taliban’s Difficult Pledge
By Obaidullah Baheer
Even if it wanted to, could the Taliban ever really cut ties with and oppose al-Qaida?
China Launches Core Space Station Module
By Abhijnan Rej
The country expects to complete construction of its space station, called Tiangong, next year.
Japan Has a Chance to Break the Ice With South Korea
By Darlene Onuorah
Recent developments coming out of Seoul have presented opportunities for Tokyo to explore means of cooperation.
The CCP Hand Behind China’s Xinjiang Cotton Backlash
By Angeli Datt
The boycott movement marks a blurred line between genuine anger and manufactured outrage.
Myanmar Ethnic Rebel Coalition to Begin Unity Talks: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
Signatories to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement are looking to build an "all-inclusive" ethnic minority front against the junta.
Thailand’s COVID-19 Cases Skyrocket, Eroding Support for Prayut Government
By Tita Sanglee
After containing COVID-19 for most of 2020, the Thai government is coming under increasing pressure for its slow response to the latest outbreak.
ASEAN’s Next Steps for Ending the Myanmar Crisis
By Muhammad Waffaa Kharisma
ASEAN's special envoy to Myanmar has the potential to push the warring parties onto the path of peaceful dialogue.
Cambodia Opposition Leader Charged Over COVID-19 Lockdown Comments
By Sebastian Strangio
The charge against Sam Rainsy comes amid controversy over the severity of the lockdown around the capital Phnom Penh.
How Biden’s Attempted Shortcut Undermines Peace in Afghanistan
By Ezzatullah Mehrdad
The Biden administration hoped to take a shortcut to peace in Afghanistan with one more big conference. It won’t work.