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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.
With New Law, Singapore Takes Aim at ‘Foreign Interference’
By Sebastian Strangio
The Ministry of Home Affairs argues that foreign interference poses a serious threat to Singapore's "political sovereignty and national security.”
Why are Schools Still Closed in the Philippines?
By Mong Palatino
The decision reflects the highly centralized nature of decision-making under President Rodrigo Duterte.
With Eye to Next Election, Thai Government Tweaks Voting Rules
By Sebastian Strangio
The election tweaks, which will benefit larger parties, are designed to solidify the control of Prime Minister Prayut's government.
Vietnam Welcomes Top Officials From China, Japan
By Sebastian Strangio
The concurrent visits offered a classic example of Vietnam’s all-inclusive diplomatic approach.
A Perennial Offender, Malaysia Need Not Be on US Forced Labor Watch List Forever
By Simon Tran Hudes and Danielle Fallin
Malaysia’s history of forced labor and mistreatment of migrant workers presents yet a hurdle to closer ties with Washington.
Indonesia, Australia Urge Taliban to Respect Rights of Women
By Niniek Karmini
"Indonesia has a significant role to play as a Muslim country with a strong voice on these issues," Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said.
Foreign Governments, Experts Urge Peace After Myanmar Opposition Announces Mass Uprising
By Sebastian Strangio
The National Unity Government's declaration of a "people's defensive war" has raised a host of political and ethical questions.
Indonesian Fire Shines Grisly Light on Region’s Prison Overcrowding Problem
By Sebastian Strangio
Southeast Asia boasts three of the 10 nations with the world's most overburdened prison systems.
Duterte’s Party Picks Him as VP Candidate in Philippines
By Kiko Rosario and David Rising
Under Philippine law, the vice president is elected separately from the president.
Myanmar’s Armed Forces: The Ukraine Connection
By Sebastian Strangio
According to a local advocacy group, the European nation is "aiding and abetting the atrocity crimes of the Myanmar military."
What Explains Cambodia’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Success?
By Sebastian Strangio
The country is outpacing most of its Southeast Asian neighbors – and many of the world's wealthiest nations.
Myanmar Shadow Government Declares ‘National Uprising’ Against Military Rule
By Sebastian Strangio
The National Unity Government has declared an all-out struggle against the "military terrorists" that seized power in February.