Archive
June 2022
How Engaged Was China at the Shangri-La Dialogue?
By Mark S. Cogan
At this year's Dialogue, Chinese officials were strident and defensive – but it's better to have Beijing in than out.
Cambodia’s Ruling Party Sues Opposition Politician Over Election Criticism
By Sebastian Strangio
Son Chhay, the vice president of the Candlelight Party, has been accused of "seriously damaging" the reputation of the ruling Cambodian People's Party.
Thailand’s Bhumjaithai Party: The Dark Horse
By Tita Sanglee
Despite not running candidates in this year's by-elections, Anutin Charnivakul's party is quietly gathering political momentum.
Indonesian President Reshuffles Cabinet Amid Food Inflation Crisis
By Sebastian Strangio
The shuffle follows a series of flailing government actions to rein in the spiraling price of cooking oil.
A New Era for Beijing’s Quirky Music Scene
By Kyle Mullin
Beijing’s “uniquely intellectual” indie music scene has entered a new era, shaped by new restrictions (pandemic and otherwise) but still going strong.
Japan, Australia to Expand Defense Ties, Citing Concerns About Regional Order
By Mari Yamaguchi
The two countries’ defense ministers pledged to boost ties, including working more closely in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Will IPEF Help the US Counter China?
By Dingding Chen and Yingfan Chen
It is uncertain whether the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework can succeed in reshaping China’s economic influence in Asia.
Thousands Protest ‘Bulldozer Justice’ Against Indian Muslims
By Biswajeet Banerjee
Officials say the demolitions only target illegal buildings, but rights groups and critics say they are an attempt to harass and marginalize Muslims.
Tokayev Downplays January CSTO Deployment to Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
In a recent interview, the Kazakh president again pushed back against those in Russia who say Moscow "saved" Kazakhstan in January.
As Taiwan Remembers Tiananmen, Hong Kong Looms Large
By Brian Hioe
The annual June 4 rally is now strongly connected to remembrance of Hong Kong's 2019 protest movement -- and the resulting political repression.
Pakistan’s New Budget Aims to Please the IMF
By Umair Jamal
However, the funding body's representatives say that additional measures are needed to bring the budget in line with its objectives.
Takeaways From the 2022 Shangri-La Dialogue
By Ankit Panda and Catherine Putz
The Shangri-La Dialogue returned to convene for the first time since 2019 this year. What was on the agenda?