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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.
Malaysia Announces Massive COVID-19 Aid Package as Thailand Tightens Restrictions
By Sebastian Strangio
Until Southeast Asian nations achieve widespread vaccination distribution, they will continue to struggle with periodic outbreaks and lockdowns.
Civilian Militias Flourish as Myanmar’s Post-Coup Turmoil Deepens
By Sebastian Strangio
Recent months have seen the emergence of a raft of new armed civilian militias, further complicating the country's political crisis.
Will Vaccination Be Hun Sen’s Legacy?
By David Hutt
Cambodia's successful COVID-19 vaccine rollout has given the country's leader a golden chance to bow out of politics. Will he take it?
US, Indonesia Begin Construction on Maritime Training Center
By Sebastian Strangio
The center will occupy a strategic position at the southern entrance to the Straits of Malacca.
As Outbreak Spreads, Indonesia Notches New Daily COVID-19 Record
By Sebastian Strangio
In parts of densely-populated Java, the surge in coronavirus cases has pushed hospitals to full capacity.
Thai Protesters Return to the Streets After 3-Month Hiatus
By Sebastian Strangio
Demonstrators renewed their calls for charter reform and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Mekong Development Zones Facilitating Illicit Activities: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
In recent years, EDZs have proliferated across the lower Mekong region as its governments have sought to attract foreign investment and fire up their economies.
Philippine Democracy Scion, Ex-President Benigno Aquino Dies
By Jim Gomez
The former Philippine president, in office from 2010 to 2016, was the heir to a family legacy of opposition to authoritarianism.
Loud and Proud: Resisting Authoritarianism in the Philippines
By Rosanna Langara
The country's LGBTQ+ community has mobilized to oppose the Duterte administration's authoritarian turn.
Junta Forces Clash With Civilian Militia in Myanmar’s Second City
By Sebastian Strangio
The clashes in Mandalay mark a significant escalation of the crisis prompted by the coup on February 1.
Cambodia Charges Eco-Activists With Conspiracy, Royal Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
The three activists are the latest victims of the government's war against the advocacy group Mother Nature Cambodia.
Duterte Gives the Philippines a Choice: COVID-19 Jabs or Jail
By Sebastian Strangio
Duterte's threat speaks to the concerns that the country may fail to achieve the widespread coverage required to halt transmission of the virus.