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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 Tumultuous Year in Malaysian Politicking
By Sophie Lemière
The shifting political allegiances of the past three years seem set to continue until the next general election.
The Apparent Stalemate in Thailand’s Deep South
By Uday Bakhshi
The conflict in southern Thailand remains dormant, but is far from being resolved.
Three Decades of Election Protests in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
Even compared to past Philippine elections, the upcoming presidential polls are shaping up as unusually divisive.
Transgender Thais Lack Vital Legal Protections, Says Rights Group
By Sebastian Strangio
Compared to its neighbors, Thailand is relatively accepting of its transgender population. But there's still a long way to go.
Cambodian PM Nominates Top Diplomat as ASEAN Envoy on Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn can be expected to pursue a strategy of pragmatic engagement with the military junta.
Can MUDA Capture Malaysia’s Youth Vote?
By Alifah Zainuddin
If all young people gravitate towards MUDA, the youth-based party will instantly become a major political party. But that is unlikely to be the case.
Malaysia Readies for Crucial Sarawak State Elections
By Sebastian Strangio
The elections fall amidst an upswing in pro-autonomy sentiment in the eastern Malaysian state.
New Philippine President, New China Policy?
By Bich T. Tran
The election of Rodrigo Duterte in 2016 initiated a wild swing in the country's policy toward China. Get set for more change in 2022.
Photojournalist Killed in Custody in Myanmar Amid Press Crackdown
By Sebastian Strangio
Reporters Without Borders estimates that 53 journalists remain in the military's custody.
Why the West Has Gone Soft on Human Rights in Vietnam
By David Hutt
Hanoi's strategic importance to the U.S. and its allies has allowed the Communist Party greater leeway in silencing its critics.
Indonesia Begins Administering COVID-19 Vaccines to Children
By Sebastian Strangio
The decision reflects the Indonesian government's desire to prioritize the attainment of herd immunity in the capital Jakarta.
Philippine Leader Quits Senate Race in Latest Flip-flop
By Jim Gomez
Duterte quit the senate race and his preferred candidate, Bong Go, quit the presidential race.