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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.
UN Strikes Deal for Access to Bangladeshi Refugee Island
By Sebastian Strangio
The arrangement will grant UNHCR an official presence on Bhasan Char, which has been criticized for its remoteness and vulnerability to extreme weather.
Philippine Journalist Maria Ressa Awarded 2021 Nobel Peace Prize
By Kiko Rosario, Frank Jordans, and Vanessa Gera
Ressa and Dmitry Muratov of Russia won the Nobel Peace Prize for their fight for freedom of expression in countries where reporters have faced persistent attacks and even murder.
Is ASEAN Ready for the Disasters of Tomorrow?
By Alistair D.B. Cook and Christopher Chen
ASEAN has recognized the value of cutting-edge technologies to predict and address natural disasters. But much more can be done to implement these solutions.
Ramping up Inoculation Drive, Indonesia Approves Fourth Chinese Vaccine
By Sebastian Strangio
The approval of the Zifivax jab is set to add further momentum to the country's vaccine rollout, but serious obstacles remain
Vietnam’s Hidden Debts to China Expose its Political Risks
By Zachary Abuza and Phuong Vu
Although Vietnam's Chinese debt burden is low compared to some of its neighbors, it is still a worry for the Communist Party mandarins in Hanoi.
Is the West Responsible for Southeast Asia’s Democratic Backsliding?
By Lasse Schuldt
Universal security narratives on fake news, terrorist financing, and foreign interference have been adopted across the region – with troubling effects on freedom of expression.
Philippine VP Leni Robredo Enters Crowded Presidential Ring
By Sebastian Strangio
The May 2022 poll is shaping up as a rematch of the close-run vice presidential race of 2016.
Malaysia Threatens to Open Talks With Myanmar Opposition Forces
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah once again condemned the junta's lack of cooperation on the implementation of an ASEAN consensus agreement.
Cambodia Considers Dual Citizenship Ban for High Office Holders
By Sebastian Strangio
The knee-jerk move followed a newspaper report – later corrected – that Prime Minister Hun Sen had acquired Cypriot citizenship.
Is ASEAN at Fault for Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions?
By David Hutt
Through its dithering and lack of unity, the bloc has opened a space for further interference from outside powers.
Ready or Not, Cambodia Plots its ‘New Normal’
By Luke Hunt
Official caseloads are plummeting after the government scaled back rapid COVID-19 testing.
Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi Set to Testify in Incitement Trial
By Sebastian Strangio
The military's persecution of the NLD leader could reinforce her symbolic power.