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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.
Serial Rapist’s Case Raises Questions for UK-Indonesia Relations
By Aisyah Llewellyn
Jakarta is seeking to repatriate Indonesian nationals imprisoned abroad. The case of Reynhard Sinaga may present more complications than most.
Singapore, Vietnam Announce Anticipated Diplomatic Upgrade
By Sebastian Strangio
The upgrade came three days after Vietnam similarly elevated Indonesia to the highest tier in its diplomatic hierarchy.
The Future of Vietnam’s Strategic and Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships
By Hai Hong Nguyen
The past three years have seen a significant expansion in Vietnam's relations with its major regional and global partners.
Indonesia’s Government Dilutes Proposed Changes to Military Law
By Sebastian Strangio
The shift follows widespread concerns that President Prabowo Subianto is seeking to reinstate the Suharto-era doctrine of "dual function."
What’s Behind Thailand’s Planned Border Wall With Cambodia?
By David Hutt
The wall will probably never be built. But it may prod the Cambodian authorities into taking belated action against the country's online scam syndicates.
Former Philippine President Duterte Flown to The Hague After Arrest
By Sebastian Strangio
The International Criminal Court accuses the ex-leader of orchestrating crimes of humanity as part of his violent "war on drugs" campaign.
Philippine Police Arrest Former President Duterte at ICC’s Request
By Sebastian Strangio
The ex-leader's arrest is the latest outcome of the bitter political feud between the Marcos and Duterte families.
Vietnam Raises Indonesia to Highest Diplomatic Tier, Singapore to Follow
By Sebastian Strangio
Over the past three years, the Vietnamese government has established Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with nine nations.
Southeast Asia Must Learn to Defend Itself
By David Hutt
Would any of the region's governments lift a finger to maintain peace on behalf of a neighbor?
Uyghur Deportation Was Prompted by Fears of China Retaliation, Thailand Admits
By Sebastian Strangio
The remarks confirm reports that the government had received offers from several nations to resettle the asylum seekers prior to their deportation.
Myanmar Junta Chief Lands in Belarus After Russia Visit
By Sebastian Strangio
Sanctioned and isolated by the West, the two nations are moving to develop their currently negligible trade and investment ties.
No Filipino Journalist Killed in 2024, but Impunity Persists
By Mong Palatino
Despite improvements under President Marcos, the country remains a difficult – and sometimes dangerous – place to be a journalist.