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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.

China's Xi Misses the Mark on Vietnam Visit
By Shawn W. Crispin
The limits of the president's well-timed trip to restore Beijing's position.

What Did the 3rd ASEAN Defense Minister’s Meeting Plus Achieve?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Beyond the non-adoption of a joint statement, a look at what was discussed at the ADMM-Plus meeting in Malaysia.

Interview: Cambodia's Political Turmoil and Future Prospects
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The Diplomat talks with Monovithya Kem about the current state of the country’s politics and its future.

China Blocked ASEAN Defense Meeting Pact Amid South China Sea Fears: US Official
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Beijing allegedly didn't want its island-building included in official statement.

ASEAN Sets Up New Hotline Amid South China Sea Tensions
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Move said to help prevent unintended incidents in the high seas.

Tolerant Pragmatism: Singapore’s Next Growth Strategy?
By Kris Hartley
Why decriminalizing homosexuality is a chance to eschew ideology in favor of pragmatism.

Will Irregularities and Fraud Spoil Myanmar’s Election?
By Joshua Kurlantzick
The past few weeks have given observers cause for concern.

Is Genocide Underway in Myanmar?
By Shawn W. Crispin
A new legal analysis released this week presents strong evidence that it is.

The Truth About Myanmar's New Ceasefire Agreement
By Jack Myint
The recently concluded nationwide ceasefire agreement is a step in the right direction.

Indonesia's Haze Crisis Could Get Even Worse
By John McBeth
There are some indications that more trouble could be ahead.

What 1965 Means in Southeast Asia
By Mong Palatino
The year 1965 is politically significant in several Southeast Asian states.

ASEAN's Big Year Offers Little to Celebrate
By Luke Hunt
The launch of the AEC looks set to occur amidst a rather dreadful backdrop.