Blog
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.
Myanmar Topped World For Landmine Casualties in 2023, Monitor Says
By Sebastian Strangio
As its military fortunes slide, the Myanmar army has ramped up its use of antipersonnel mines.
Young Southeast Asians Are Slowly Nudging ASEAN Toward Change
By Bryanna Entwistle
Amid skepticism about the bloc’s ability to protect environmental and human rights, a new generation of activists remains hopeful.
Philippines, US Sign Military Intelligence Sharing Agreement
By Sebastian Strangio
The pact could allow the Philippines to access more sophisticated weapons systems from its long-standing security ally.
Myanmar Rebel Leader Has Been Detained in China, Report Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Peng Daxun, the head of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, is reportedly under house arrest in Yunnan.
How ASEAN’s Cybersecurity Push Could Protect People and Economies
By Muhammad Faizal Abdul Rahman
As cybersecurity threats rise across Southeast Asia, new ASEAN initiatives target scam prevention, infrastructure security, and economic and social stability.
Rights Group Demands Investigation of Myanmar National’s Death in Thailand
By Sebastian Strangio
The advocacy group Fortify Rights said that Thai soldiers were responsible for the torture and killing of Aung Ko Ko, 37, in January.
China, Myanmar to Establish Joint Security Company, Reports Say
By Sebastian Strangio
As the military junta loses ground, Beijing's concern about the fate of Chinese assets and personnel inside the country is growing.
Philippines Inches Closer to Cooperating with the International Criminal Court
By Mong Palatino
The Marcos administration's hardline position toward the ICC is beginning to soften as its feud with the Dutertes intensifies.
Microfinance Mouthpiece 60 Decibels Drops Case for Defense of Cambodia
By David Whitehouse
The microfinance industry's own boosters are struggling to put a positive spin on the country's debt crisis.
Philippine President Says He Will Allow ICC Probe if Predecessor Wants It
By Sebastian Strangio
This week, former President Rodrigo Duterte told the international tribunal to "hurry up" with its investigation into his bloody "war on drugs."
Is Thailand’s Power Grid a Gas Guzzler?
By Sribala Subramanian
The country's recent LNG splurge has strained the national budget.
Malaysia to Protest Passage of Philippine Maritime Laws, Government Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Kuala Lumpur believes that the recently enacted legislation encroaches on a long-standing dispute over the eastern Malaysian state of Sabah.
Page 1 of 573