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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.
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.
Myanmar Junta Releases Infamous Ultranationalist Monk From Prison
By Sebastian Strangio
Wirathu is one of several right-wing fringe agitators to have been released since February's coup.
Southeast Asia Nations Plan To ‘Live With Virus’ As Delta Surges
By Alifah Zainuddin
More developing countries in Southeast Asia are looking ahead to living with the virus. But can they afford to pay the price?
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.