Blog
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.
Thailand Begins Mass Vaccination Campaign Amid Reported Supply Shortages
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's health authorities are relying heavily on the local production of AstraZeneca vaccines.
Myanmar’s Opposition Shadow Government ‘No Longer Has Faith’ in ASEAN
By Sebastian Strangio
As ASEAN representatives met with senior junta leaders, anti-coup protesters burnt the bloc's flag in the street.
Police Killing Leads to Calls for Reform in the Philippines
By Nick Aspinwall
An apparently drunk officer killed a 52-year-old mother, leading the country’s new police chief to order some police to wear body cameras.
China Steps Toward De Facto Recognition of Myanmar’s Junta
By Sebastian Strangio
For the first time, the Chinese government has referred to Min Aung Hlaing as "the leader of Myanmar."
A Year on, No Word on Fate of Abducted Thai Dissident
By Sebastian Strangio
The rights group Amnesty International calls the Cambodian government's investigation “negligent.”
US Engagement with Cambodia Needs to Move Beyond the ‘China Factor’
By Sao Phal Niseiy
Despite its concerns about China's increasing influence, the U.S. needs to engage with Cambodia more, not less.
Myanmar Shadow Government Pledges Citizenship for Rohingya
By Sebastian Strangio
The National Unity Government has called for the besieged community to join in the “Spring Revolution” against the military junta.
EU Diplomat Seeks Tighter Bond With Indonesia
By Sebastian Strangio
Josep Borrell's visit to Jakarta reflects the broader European turn toward the Asia-Pacific.
Laos Establishes Task Force to Police Social Media Platforms
By Sebastian Strangio
The Lao communist authorities fear that Facebook could become an incubator of anti-government sentiment.
US Official Warns Cambodia Over China Ties, Human Rights
By Sebastian Strangio
Can Washington promote human rights and draw Cambodia out of Beijing’s orbit – at the same time?
Russia Focuses on Arms Sales to ‘Like-Minded’ Generals in Myanmar
By Luke Hunt
ASEAN asks the United Nations to drop a proposed arms embargo on Myanmar.
ASEAN Head, Chair to Visit Myanmar This Week: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
A report by the Reuters news agency shines a light on the tensions within the Southeast Asian bloc.