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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.
3 Killed in Philippine Army Attack on Militant Camp in Mindanao
By Sebastian Strangio
The attack was intended to root out 50 fighters belonging to the Dawlah Islamiya group, which was responsible for the 2017 siege of Marawi city.
US Government Sets Date for Special ASEAN Summit in Washington
By Sebastian Strangio
President Joe Biden will welcome ASEAN leaders to Washington on March 28-29, though military-ruled Myanmar is likely to be excluded.
Breaking with ASEAN, Some Regional Leaders Find Their Voice Over Ukraine
By Luke Hunt
Jettisoning Myanmar and admitting Timor-Leste would bolster the bloc.
Singapore Announces Sanctions on Russia Over Ukraine Invasion
By Sebastian Strangio
The city-state will impose export controls on items with a military use, and block certain financial transactions with Russian banks.
Ahead of Vietnam Tourism Opening, Daily Omicron Toll Nears 100,000
By Sebastian Strangio
On March 15, the government plans to reopen the country fully to international tourists.
ASEAN Foreign Ministers Express ‘Deep Concern’ About Ukraine Crisis
By Sebastian Strangio
The statement sidestepped any direct mention of Russia, and referred to the invasion as an "evolving situation."
Myanmar Air Force Launches More Air Strikes in Kayah State
By Sebastian Strangio
The air assaults, which displaced thousands of civilians, reflect the unusually robust nature of the resistance in the eastern state.
How Southeast Asia Is Responding to the Russian Invasion of Ukraine
By Sebastian Strangio
Most governments have so far been reluctant to call out Russia's aggression against another sovereign nation.
Philippines’s Mandatory SIM Card Registration Threatens Privacy and Free Speech
By Mong Palatino
Opponents claim that the new law could become "a potent tool for mass surveillance and authoritarianism."
Cambodia and Malaysia Try to Resolve Their Differences
By Luke Hunt
“Frank and candid” talks held as Olympic-sized global issues take hold.
Why Southeast Asians Should Care About the Ukraine Crisis
By David Hutt
The region professes a concern for the norm of national sovereignty. Will it speak up in the case of Ukraine?
Lawyers Urge ICJ to Continue with Rohingya Genocide Case
By Sebastian Strangio
One lawyer for The Gambia urged the court to “reject Myanmar’s meritless preliminary objections" and proceed to the case.