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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.

A Small State’s Limited Playbook: Cambodia Exploits Thailand’s Weakness
By Kathrin Reed
Unable to match Bangkok militarily, Phnom Penh has instead pursued asymmetric strategies in the current border dispute.

To Be a Bridge Builder: Indonesia’s Debut at the BRICS Summit
By Klaus Heinrich Raditio
Jakarta understands the importance of maintaining cooperation with both China and the United States, as demonstrated by Prabowo’s attendance at the BRICS Summit and his efforts to negotiate with the Trump administration.

What’s Next for Thai Politics After the PM’s Suspension From Office?
By Sebastian Strangio
With Paetongtarn Shinawatra under investigation for her conduct in a leaked phone call, the country once again faces a protracted political interregnum.

Why the 2025 UN Conference Must Deliver on the Rohingya Crisis
By Zulficar Niaz Tushar
Seven years on, the refugee camps are still full. Rohingya futures are still frozen. And the promises from the international community remain, for the most part, unfulfilled.

Decoding ASEAN’s Measured Engagement with BRICS
By Huynh Tam Sang and Vo Thi Thuy An
Why has only Indonesia pursued full membership, while Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam remain content as “partners” of the grouping?

China Sanctions Former Philippine Senator For South China Sea Advocacy
By Sebastian Strangio
Francis "Tol" Tolentino helped author two recent pieces of legislation asserting Manila's claims in the disputed waterway.

Thailand’s Constitutional Court Suspends Prime Minister Over Leaked Call
By Sebastian Strangio
Under pressure in the courts and in parliament, Paetongtarn Shinawatra's chances of remaining in office are rapidly approaching zero.

Indonesia to Relax Import Restrictions as US Tariff Deadline Looms
By Sebastian Strangio
Jakarta says that the measures will aid its tariff negotiations with the Trump administration, while advancing its broader economic goals.

Why Did Hun Sen Call For Regime Change in Thailand?
By David Hutt
It is hard to see what Cambodia's former leader gained by openly violating the regional norm against mutual non-interference.

UN Rapporteur Highlights Continuing Restrictions of Civic Space in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
While the situation has improved under President Marcos, Irene Khan identified numerous areas of concern.

Anwar, Prabowo Call for Middle East Peace, Pledge Joint Development of Disputed Maritime Area
By Sebastian Strangio
Malaysia and Indonesia have both been outspoken about recent events in the region, particularly Israel's ruthless attacks on the Palestinians of Gaza.

Timor-Leste Joins ASEAN
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
The ideal of inclusion meets the reality of institutional adjustment.
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