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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.
The Dark Side of Indonesia's Social Media Boom
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat
Fake news, defamation, and hoaxes point to the urgent need for social media literacy training in Indonesia.
Indonesia Wants Global War on Illegal Fishing
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The Southeast Asian state wants illegal fishing to be declared a transnational crime.
A New Chapter in Myanmar-Vatican Relations
By Jonathan T. Chow
The restoration of diplomatic ties comes with Pope Francis' offer to help with peacebuilding in Myanmar.
Can ASEAN Save the Mekong River?
By Luke Hunt
As discussions continue, the future of one of the world’s greatest rivers is as bleak as ever.
Thailand’s Missing Plaque: The Final Failure of the 1932 Revolution
By Eugene Mark
A small incident reflect broader trends in the consolidation of monarchical power.
The Truth About Duterte’s ASEAN South China Sea Blow
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Though the Philippine president has complicated things, focusing on this episode alone obscures more enduring challenges on the South China Sea question.
After Summit, ASEAN Remains Divided on South China Sea
By Cal Wong
Once again, there was little productive discussion of the China factor at the latest ASEAN gathering.
What Did Laos Leader’s Singapore Visit Achieve?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith’s one-day trip was dominated by economic issues.
Trilateral Patrols in the Sulu Sea: Still Coming Soon?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A look at the status of a much-anticipated initiative between Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
ASEAN at 50: A New Test for Democracy in Southeast Asia
By Khoo Ying Hooi
The aspects of the ASEAN Charter dealing with rights and democracy have been largely ignored.
Is the Philippines’ Duterte Really a Leftist?
By Mong Palatino
The reality is much more complex than some – including the president himself – are making it out to be.
Indonesia and Libya are Restoring Ties in Post-Gaddafi Era
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat
The Arab Spring caused a break in relations, but the two countries are on track in rebuilding their partnership.