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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.
ICC Prosecutor Requests Investigation Into Philippines Drug War Killings
By Sebastian Strangio
The court's officials can expect little cooperation from the Duterte administration.
What Explains Vietnam’s Current COVID-19 Struggles?
By Zachary Abuza
Once considered the gold standard for COVID-19 response, Vietnam is now battling rising infections and a glacial vaccine rollout.
Myanmar Puts Aung San Suu Kyi on Trial on Charges Critics Call Bogus
By Grant Peck
Aung San Suu Kyi's prosecution poses yet another major setback for Myanmar.
Rare Earths in Myanmar: Unobtanium?
By Sribala Subramanian
Despite its present political turmoil, Myanmar controls the supply of critical metals for clean energy products.
Despite COVID-19, Asia’s Drug Trade Expands, Diversifies
By Sebastian Strangio
Asian government's seizures of methamphetamine rose 19 percent in 2020.
A Long Road Ahead for the Philippine Economy
By Nick Aspinwall
The World Bank slashed its growth projection for this year, indicating an economic recovery may take longer than expected.
In Cambodia, the End of COVID-19 Will Heighten the Economic Contradictions
By David Hutt
Corruption and inequality are set to rise as the country emerges from the pandemic.
Malaysian King Holds Unusual Meetings With Political Leaders
By Eileen Ng
The king is to continue meeting other political leaders over the next few days before hosting a gathering of state rulers next Wednesday.
Indonesia Targets 1 Million Daily COVID-19 Vaccinations
By Sebastian Strangio
Southeast Asia's largest nation once again stands on the brink of a fresh wave of infections.
In 2022, Cambodia Faces Challenging Turn at ASEAN’s Helm
By Heimkhemra Suy
During its upcoming chairmanship, the country faces a host of daunting challenges. But the year will bring opportunities, too.
UN Expert Says Myanmar Attacks Risk Humanitarian Tragedy
By Grant Peck
Kayah State, in the country's east, has been engulfed in serious fighting since May 21.
China’s Myanmar Policy ‘Not Affected’ by Post-Coup Chaos: Official
By Sebastian Strangio
With no solution to Myanmar’s political crisis in sight, Beijing is making a pragmatic bet on the status quo.