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.
Southeast Asian Journalists Recognized With International Awards
By Sebastian Strangio
Two journalists' work encapsulates both the resilience of the region’s media, and the increasing threats to its survival.
Indonesian Police: Clash in Papua Killed 5 Rebels, 1 Police Officer
By Alfian Kartono
Attacks by rebels in several districts in Papua have increased over the past year.
Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pledges Deeper Cooperation With Japan
By Sebastian Strangio
The call between the two nations' foreign ministers came on the final day of a state visit by China's defense minister.
Indonesia Arrests Firebrand Cleric’s Lawyer Over Attacks
By Niniek Karmini
Police arrested Islam Defenders Front leader Rizieq Shihab's lawyer, Munarman, in a raid this week.
COVID-19 Shows the Philippines’ Need for a More Open Government
By Rej Cortez Torrecampo
A new wave of COVID-19 infections has once again laid bare the shortcomings of the state's response.
Assessing the Outcome of ASEAN’s Special Meeting on Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The outcome of the special summit reflected both ASEAN's limitations and the intractable nature of the country's crisis.
COVID-19 Third Wave Menaces Southeast Asian Nations
By Sebastian Strangio
As the disease ravages India, several Southeast Asian nations are also weathering record outbreaks.
Myanmar Protests Continue After ASEAN Peace Initiative
By Associated Press
After chanting their opposition to the junta and listening to speeches, the protesters quickly scattered to avoid any confrontation with police or soldiers.
Duterte Joins Thai PM on the Sidelines of ASEAN Myanmar Summit
By Sebastian Strangio
The leaders' absence doesn't bode well for ASEAN's ability to muster a united front against Myanmar's junta.
Philippine General Criticized for Saying Community Pantries Are the Work of ‘Satan’
By Nick Aspinwall
Antonio Parlade Jr. faces fresh criticism for making unfounded claims that community leaders and government critics are linked to communist rebels.
Laos Introduces Two-Week Lockdown to Contain Rare COVID-19 Outbreak
By Sebastian Strangio
The outbreak comes after a year in which the Southeast Asian nation mostly evaded the coronavirus.
Can the ASEAN Leaders Meeting Address the Crisis in Myanmar?
By Lina Alexandra and Evan A. Laksmana
Despite the many political obstacles, an ASEAN-led option seems like the best of the bad options available.