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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.
Former Thai PM Thaksin Formally Charged With Royal Defamation
By Sebastian Strangio
The case against the 74-year-old suggests that there are limits to the political compact that allowed his return from self-exile last year.
The Battle of Dien Bien Phu and the French Colonial Legacy in Vietnam
By Buu Nguyen
Seven decades after the communist victory, memories have dimmed and the two nations have built a friendship atop the positive legacies of French rule.
US Government Criticizes Vietnam’s Decision to Host Russia’s Putin
By Sebastian Strangio
The Russian leader will visit the country on June 19-20, just days after the conclusion of an international peace conference on Ukraine.
Philippine DOH Wants Answers on US ‘Anti-Vax’ Influence Campaign
By Sebastian Strangio
According to a Reuters investigation, the Pentagon used social media accounts to sow doubt about China's Sinovac vaccine.
In Bangkok, Myanmar’s Exiles Find Space and Time to Rebuild
By Morgan Reinwald
Art houses, tea, and kickboxing offer jobs – and some respite – from the country’s ongoing conflict.
Myanmar Armed Group Calls for Evacuation as It Approaches Border Town
By Sebastian Strangio
The Arakan Army has called for the mostly Rohingya residents of Maungdaw to leave, a month after it was accused of mass arson attacks in a neighboring township.
Exiled Montagnard Activist in Thailand at Risk of Deportation to Vietnam, Rights Groups Say
By Sebastian Strangio
Y Quynh Bdap was arrested in Thailand earlier this week in connection with last year's attack on government offices in Vietnam's Central Highlands.
Central Sulawesi and Central Java Continue to be JI Strongholds
By Adlini Ilma Ghaisany Sjah
Jemaah Islamiyah remains the most active terrorist organization in Indonesia, even as its priority has shifted to preaching rather than conducting direct attacks.
After Pentagon Chief’s Visit, Is There Hope for A Recovery in Cambodia-US Ties?
By Kim Sun and Chhengpor Aun
Prime Minister Hun Manet's accession last year has opened a window of opportunity for Phnom Penh and Washington.
Russia’s Putin Set to Visit Vietnam Next Week, Reports Claim
By Sebastian Strangio
The Russian leader is scheduled to make a short trip to the country on June 19-20, alongside a visit to North Korea.
Germany Faces a Balancing Act in Engaging with Prabowo’s Indonesia
By Tim Hildebrandt and Christopher J. Godwin
The former general, who is set to assume office in October, will present a stiff test of Berlin's values-based foreign policy.
Indonesia’s Prabowo Meets With US Secretary of State Over Gaza
By Sebastian Strangio
Incoming leader Prabowo Subianto seems set to play a more active international role than the current president.