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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.
Filipino Activists Want Marcos Son Out of Presidential Race
By Jim Gomez
Human rights groups say Marcos Jr. is not eligible to run for president due to a 1995 tax evasion conviction, which should legally render him ineligible to hold public office.
Malaysia’s Record Spending Bill Seeks to Fuel Recovery Ahead of Elections
By Alifah Zainuddin
The country keeps spending in preparation for a post-pandemic economy, but there are big risks ahead.
Thailand’s Protesters Are Battling to Redefine National Identity
By Christian Kurzydlowski
Underlying the movement is a strong desire to reframe what it means to be Thai, moving away from total reliance on the monarchy and military's narrative.
Former US Diplomat Bill Richardson Meets Myanmar Leader
By Grant Peck
Myanmar's health care system is largely broken amid widespread resistance to the military's February coup. Richardson was in the country to discuss delivery of humanitarian aid.
Rodrigo Duterte: From Philippine President to Senator?
By Mong Palatino
Duterte is not acting like a leader ready to give up power and secure his legacy, but a frantic politician negotiating for political survival.
Cambodia Must Change Course on Democracy to Avoid Myanmar’s International Isolation
By Kasit Piromya
ASEAN is testing the limits of its non-interference policy even as Cambodia takes up the ASEAN chair position.
Army Shelling in Myanmar Blamed for Setting 160 Homes Ablaze
By Grant Peck
Local Chins fear that the recent violence may represent just the beginning of a major government offensive in the region.
What’s in ASEAN’s First State of Climate Change Report?
By Yosuke Arino and S.V.R.K. Prabhakar
The report outlines ASEAN’s plan to transition toward a resilient and net-zero emission world.
ASEAN Summit Should Draw Attention to Brunei’s Appalling Human Rights Record
By Kasthuri Patto
Two years after Hollywood’s boycott campaign, Brunei continues to restrict the freedom of religion or belief.
Indonesia Warily Weighs Holiday Travel With Virus Concerns
By David Rising and Edna Tarigan
After announcing that year-end travel would be permitted, the government cancelled the Christmas Eve holiday, a Friday this year, in an effort to discourage vacationing somewhat.
Thailand’s Escalating Crackdown on Dissent
By Pornpen Khongkachonkiet
Thailand may be opening up to tourists, but for many activists it is still a prison.
US, China, Russia Join Asia Summit Amid Regional Disputes
By Eileen Ng and Niniek Karmini
There is no shortage of challenges in Asia these days, from the pandemic, to Myanmar to increasing U.S.-China tensions.