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.
Japan as a Bridge Between ASEAN and the OECD
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
Indonesia and Thailand seek OECD membership. Japan can help.
Thai Courts Set Next Hearing Dates in High-Profile Legal Cases
By Sebastian Strangio
The three cases could end with the removal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office and the dissolution of the country's most popular party.
Thailand’s Senate Approves Landmark Bill Legalizing Same-sex Marriage
By Associated Press
Once signed into law by the King, Thailand will become the third Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage, after Taiwan and Nepal.
Thailand Has Tried – and Failed – to Solve Its Pollution Problem
By Huizhong Wu
From February to April, Chiang Mai in northern Thailand regularly tops the list of the world's worst cities for air pollution.
Former Thai PM Thaksin Formally Charged With Royal Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
The case against the 74-year-old suggests that there are limits to the political compact that allowed his return from self-exile last year.
The Battle of Dien Bien Phu and the French Colonial Legacy in Vietnam
By Buu Nguyen
Seven decades after the communist victory, memories have dimmed and the two nations have built a friendship atop the positive legacies of French rule.
US Government Criticizes Vietnam’s Decision to Host Russia’s Putin
By Sebastian Strangio
The Russian leader will visit the country on June 19-20, just days after the conclusion of an international peace conference on Ukraine.
Philippine DOH Wants Answers on US ‘Anti-Vax’ Influence Campaign
By Sebastian Strangio
According to a Reuters investigation, the Pentagon used social media accounts to sow doubt about China's Sinovac vaccine.
In Bangkok, Myanmar’s Exiles Find Space and Time to Rebuild
By Morgan Reinwald
Art houses, tea, and kickboxing offer jobs – and some respite – from the country’s ongoing conflict.
Myanmar Armed Group Calls for Evacuation as It Approaches Border Town
By Sebastian Strangio
The Arakan Army has called for the mostly Rohingya residents of Maungdaw to leave, a month after it was accused of mass arson attacks in a neighboring township.
Exiled Montagnard Activist in Thailand at Risk of Deportation to Vietnam, Rights Groups Say
By Sebastian Strangio
Y Quynh Bdap was arrested in Thailand earlier this week in connection with last year's attack on government offices in Vietnam's Central Highlands.
After Pentagon Chief’s Visit, Is There Hope for A Recovery in Cambodia-US Ties?
By Kim Sun and Chhengpor Aun
Prime Minister Hun Manet's accession last year has opened a window of opportunity for Phnom Penh and Washington.