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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.
ASEAN’s Myanmar Envoy Negotiating With Junta Over First Country Mission
By Sebastian Strangio
Erywan Yusof is hoping to visit the country before the next ASEAN Summit in late October.
Thai Leader Survives No-Confidence Motion, but Political Liabilities Remain
By Sebastian Strangio
The result was expected, but the former Thai general continues to struggle with a steep legitimacy deficit.
Myanmar’s Opposition Shadow Government to Unveil $700m Budget
By Sebastian Strangio
Outright victory might be difficult, but anti-coup opposition has enough resources to make life difficult for Myanmar's military junta.
Myanmar’s Coup Has Put Women in Harm’s Way
By Maggi Quadrini
Seven months after the military’s seizure of power, women in Myanmar are facing a rise in threats to their livelihoods and health.
Indonesian Soldiers Killed During Papuan Separatist Raid
By Sebastian Strangio
The attack, which claimed the lives of four soldiers, was the deadliest to have taken place in the region this year.
Report Illustrates Snap-Freezing of Cambodia’s Online Space
By Sebastian Strangio
Since nearly losing an election in 2013, Prime Minister Hun Sen’s government has taken a range of steps to establish a firm grip on digital communications technologies.
The Curious Case of the New Chinese Ambassador to Thailand
By Tita Sanglee
The new envoy's appointment comes amid increased U.S. efforts to contain Chinese influence in mainland Southeast Asia.
Months After Coup, Myanmar Accelerates Toward Surveillance State
By Estey Chen
Since the February coup, the country's military government has clamped down on communications technologies.
Vietnam Lost Public Buy-in. Its COVID-19 Struggles Followed.
By Le Vinh Trien and Kris Hartley
Collaborative governance and facilitative leadership will help Vietnam win its battle against COVID-19.
Chinese High-Speed Rail Network Reaches Myanmar’s Border
By Sebastian Strangio
The opening of the Chengdu-Lincang line will further mainland Southeast Asia's historic reorientation toward the north.
An Italian Job in Myanmar
By Luke Hunt
The EIA report finds Italian companies continue illicit teak trade with Myanmar
Thai Parliamentary No-Confidence Debate Targets Government’s COVID-19 Response
By Sebastian Strangio
While it is unlikely to unseat Prayut Chan-o-cha, the debate will allow the opposition to exact a political cost from the government for its handling of the pandemic.