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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.
Omicron Variant Threatens to Upend Southeast Asia’s COVID-19 Recovery
By Sebastian Strangio
After a challenging year, the region's governments have ample reason to take the emergence of the new strain seriously.
20 Years After 9/11, Al-Qaida Retains a Deadly Relevance in Malaysia
By J. Fernando and Jasminder Singh
Despite the network's apparent dormancy, Malaysian authorities can't afford to underestimate its potential threat.
Despite Variants, Singapore’s COVID-19 Strategy on Track
By David Rising and Annabelle Liang
Singapore was able to succeed in getting most of its population vaccinated by ensuring there were few barriers to getting the shot and increasing difficulties for the unvaccinated.
Is Mediation Even Possible in Myanmar?
By Naw Theresa
Mediation currently appears more fantasy than possibility as the crisis inches toward its one-year mark with both the NUG and SAC digging in for a long slugging match.
The Human Cost of Myanmar’s Coup Continues to Mount
By Sebastian Strangio
A new survey from UNDP reveals the impact of the coup on everyday life in Myanmar, and the desperate steps people are taking to survive.
Indonesia: Farewell to Joe Cochrane
By Dan Boylan
Over three decades, the American journalist earned a reputation as a keen and impartial observer of the archipelago.
Former Duterte Aide Bows Out of Philippine Presidential Race
By Sebastian Strangio
Senator Bong Go’s decision to withdraw from the contest leaves Rodrigo Duterte’s presidential endorsement up for grabs.
An Optimistic Outlook for ASEAN and China
By Luke Hunt
A conversation with a longtime Asian economic trend watcher.
Cambodia Opposition Fractures as Bickering Breaks Into the Open
By Sebastian Strangio
Kem Sokha has accused his longtime partner Sam Rainsy of using his name and image for personal political gain.
Social Media Misinformation and the 2022 Philippine Elections
By Japhet Quitzon
Next year's presidential contest is set to produce a dramatic sequel to the “social media election" of 2016.
Indonesia and the Papua Issue: Resolution Increasingly Unlikely
By Uday Bakhshi
With a more violent armed separatist organization being active, and Jakarta’s reticence to win hearts and minds, the avenues for reconciliation are decreasing.
The Ultimate Choice in the Myanmar Issue
By OBA Mie
What kind of community does ASEAN want to be?