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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.
Chinese State Media Hints at ‘More Drastic Action’ in Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
After Chinese factories were damaged during anti-coup protests, an editorial warned that “China won't allow its interests to be exposed to further aggression."
European Parliament Turns up the Heat on Cambodia’s Hun Sen
By Sebastian Strangio
The strongly-worded resolution is unlikely to induce any change of heart on the part of Cambodia's corrupt and self-focused elites.
Attacks on Chinese-run Factories in Myanmar Vex Beijing
By Sam McNeil and Fu Ting
The attacks on Myanmar's garment factories have injected an extra complication into an already very complex situation.
Black Sunday in Myanmar: Dozens Killed as Martial Law Declared
By Sebastian Strangio
The day saw at least 39 people killed by security forces, as Chinese-financed factories came under attack.
From COVID-19 to the Coup, Myanmar’s Doctors Are Risking Their Lives
By Adam Lalley
Politically active medical professionals are managing to balance their activism with their commitment to the Hippocratic Oath.
Malaysia Under Fire for COVID-19 ‘Fake News’ Ordinance
By Sebastian Strangio
For Malaysia's media, the new rules are set to make an already restrictive situation worse.
Myanmar Expands Crackdown on Journalists
By Associated Press
As a court extends the detention of an AP journalist, a Polish journalist was reportedly beaten and detained.
Philippine Mayor Among 6 Killed in Police Shootout
By Nick Aspinwall
The killing of Calbayog City Mayor Ronald Aquino is just one of several recent deadly shootouts involving the Philippine National Police.
Myanmar Junta Lobs Corruption Claim at Senior NLD Leaders
By Sebastian Strangio
The detained leader's lawyer described the charge of corruption as "the most hilarious joke."
Thailand to Boost Prison Capacity Amid Political Crackdown
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement follows the arrest of nearly 400 people in connection to the ongoing pro-democracy protest movement.
Did the Myanmar Coup Install an Illegitimate President?
By Melissa Crouch
The junta-appointed president, Myint Swe, may face the same citizenship questions as Aung San Suu Kyi.
UN Calls on Asian Nations to Vaccinate Migrant Workers Against COVID-19
By Sebastian Strangio
In many places, migrants have been disproportionately affected by the spread of COVID-19.