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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.
Asian Synthetic Drug Production Continued to Grow in 2023, UN Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Last year saw East and Southeast Asian governments seize 190 tons of methamphetamine, the largest amount ever recorded in a single year.
Two More Thai Activists Sentenced to Prison on Lese-Majeste Charges
By Sebastian Strangio
Both were granted bail pending an appeal, following the recent death of a monarchy-reform activist in custody.
Jemaah Islamiyah Is Not Back After Malaysia Attack
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The recent attack on a police station in Johor State bears all the hallmarks of a lone-wolf attack.
In the Hot Seat: To Lam’s Rise to the Vietnamese Presidency
By Ian Hollinger
The powerful former public security minister has been boosted into the ranks of the country's top leaders. Will the promotion come back to haunt him?
Myanmar’s Tepid Thingyan New Year
By Naw Theresa
Like much else, the country's normally raucous new year festivities have become a political battleground since the 2021 coup.
UN Details ‘Disturbing’ New Atrocities Against Myanmar’s Rohingya
By Sebastian Strangio
The U.N.'s human rights office says that tens of thousands have been forcibly displaced in what one expert described as a "hate-driven unnatural disaster."
US Defense Secretary Austin to Visit Cambodia Next Week
By Sebastian Strangio
Lloyd Austin's visit is a sign that Washington is seeking to re-engage the new look leadership in Phnom Penh, in a bid to draw the country out of China's orbit.
What the Senate Coup Reveals About Philippine Politics
By Mong Palatino
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is out, reportedly for opposing a proposal to amend the Philippine Constitution.
Justice Delayed Is Justice Denied: When Will the Rohingya Genocide Case Be Resolved?
By Md. Himel Rahman
In November 2019, the Gambia initiated proceedings against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. More than four years later, the process drags on.
Is Myanmar’s Junta About to Revive a Controversial Dam Project?
By Sebastian Strangio
According to a media report, the military has formed a new committee for the Myitsone hydropower project, which was suspended in 2011.
The Ulu Tiram Attack and the Jemaah Islamiyah Threat in Malaysia
By Bilveer Singh
The shock attack suggests that JI retains a presence in Malaysia, despite years of crackdowns by the state.
Thai PM Avoids Suspension As Constitutional Court Accepts Ethics Complaint
By Sebastian Strangio
Military-appointed senators are seeking Srettha Thavisin's removal from office after he appointed a minister with a past conviction for bribery.