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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.
Indonesian President No Longer a Member of PDI-P After Backing Rival Candidate, Party Says
By Sebastian Strangio
A senior official confirmed that Joko Widodo lost his membership after refusing to endorse its presidential candidate in February's election.
Myanmar Military Reoccupies Myawaddy Base as Karen Rebels Withdraw
By Sebastian Strangio
The Karen National Union said that its forces were pulling back from the important border hub to avoid harm to the local population.
With Landmark Corruption Trial, Vietnam’s Communist Party Flexes Its Muscles
By Mai Truong
The highly-publicized nature of the Van Thinh Phat trial is a possible sign of further political turbulence at the upper echelons of Vietnamese politics.
Vietnamese Authorities Arrest Assistant to National Assembly Chairman
By Sebastian Strangio
Coming amid rumors of further political shake-ups, the arrest casts a shadow over the political future of Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue.
Indonesian Court Rejects Petitions Seeking Rerun of Presidential Election
By Sebastian Strangio
The Constitutional Court's expected verdict has removed the final obstacle to Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto taking office in October.
Is Southeast Asia’s Healthcare Workforce Ready for Climate Change?
By Gabriela Fernando and Angie Bone
Across the region, it’s never been more critical to cultivate a resilient healthcare workforce capable of addressing climate-induced public health issues.
Thousands of Refugees Flee Fighting in Southeastern Myanmar
By Sebastian Strangio
The military junta and ethnic Karen rebels continue to fight for control of the town of Myawaddy on the border with Thailand.
What’s in the Philippines’ Luzon Corridor?
By Mong Palatino
The Philippines' largest island has become the focus of U.S. and Japanese attempts to counter China's growing power in the South China Sea.
ASEAN Calls Again for End to Myanmar Violence As Conflicts Flare
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign ministers from the Southeast Asian bloc have spoken out following the fall of Myawaddy on the Thai border.
Myanmar Military Releases Over 3,000 Prisoners in Thingyan Amnesty
By Sebastian Strangio
Among those released was Dr. Hkalam Samson, a prominent Kachin Christian leader, and three members of the National League for Democracy.
Moving Towards Understanding and Reconciliation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State
By Christopher Win
Recent comments by the commander of the Arakan Army have prompted a heated debate about history, language, and ethnic identity.
Red Shirt Leader’s Return Sparks Hope for Democratic Renewal in Thailand
By Thanapat Pekanan
Can the return of exiled politicians ignite hope for Thai democracy and reshape its political landscape?