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.
Why Is Indonesia Sinking 70 Foreign Vessels on Its Independence Day?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Jakarta will conduct its largest public sinking of foreign vessels under Jokowi to date.
North Korea's Leader Wins Indonesian Peace Award
By Luke Hunt
A look at how Kim Jong-un bizarrely bagged a recent prize.
Philippines Must Protect Internally Displaced Persons, Warns UN Expert
By Mong Palatino
A new report highlights the deplorable conditions IDPs face in the country.
The Roots of Religious Conflict in Myanmar
By Matt Schissler, Matthew J Walton and Phyu Phyu Thi
Understanding narratives is an important step to ending violence.
Confirmed: Reunion Debris Is From Missing Flight MH370
By Shannon Tiezzi
Malaysia's prime minister says the wing fragment has been "conclusively confirmed" to be from MH370.
ASEAN ‘Essential’ to Upholding Asia’s Rules, Says US Secretary of State
By Prashanth Parameswaran
“The future of the United States and the future of ASEAN are absolutely interconnected,” Kerry said.
Why Thailand Returned the Uyghurs
By Robert Potter
The move, condemned by the UN, reflects an increasing alignment.
The Future of Democracy and Human Rights in Myanmar
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The Diplomat talks with Delphine Schrank about Myanmar's trajectory.
The Trouble with Thailand's Economy
By Shawn W. Crispin
Anemic performance is denting confidence in the ruling junta.
Understanding the Mega-Crisis in Malaysian Politics
By Yang Razali Kassim
The country's politics is at an inflection point.
The Trouble with the US Human Trafficking Report
By Luke Hunt
A focus on annual rankings misses the point.
Australia and the Southeast Asia Refugee Crisis
By Dr. Savitri Taylor
A look at Canberra's role - or lack thereof.