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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.
Towards A Real Solution to Southeast Asia's Refugee Crisis
By Antje Missbach
A true resolution demands more than empty rhetoric.
Indonesia Sinks 34 Foreign Ships in War on Illegal Fishing
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A closer look at Jakarta’s latest mass public sinking.
Interview: Analyzing Thailand’s Erawan Shrine Bomb Blast
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The Diplomat talks with Dr. Zachary Abuza about the August 17 deadly bomb blast in Bangkok and its implications.
What’s Behind Thailand’s Deadly Bomb Blast?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
An explosion has killed at least 16 people.
Indonesia Foils Deadly Islamic State Attack
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Plot targeted police station, churches during independence day celebrations.
Myanmar Floods a Test for Political Leaders
By Paul Shortell
Responses to the natural disaster will set the tone for the November elections.
Myanmar's Purge a Blow to Reform
By Luke Hunt
Internal purge is a throwback to the era of military rule.
ASEAN's Joint Communique: It's Not Just About China or the South China Sea
By Mong Palatino
The regional grouping is grappling with several other concerns as well that are worth noting.
Laos Gets Plugged In
By Paul Pryce
The Southeast Asian nation is relying heavily on dams to meet domestic and regional demand for energy.
What Does Indonesia’s Cabinet Reshuffle Mean?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A look at who’s in, who’s out, and why it matters.
Thailand Not Tilting Towards China, Away From US: Expert
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A Japanese scholar sees more continuity than change in Bangkok’s foreign policy.
The Labeling Problem in Southeast Asia's Refugee Crisis
By Susan Kneebone
The 'irregular migrant' label does not make much sense.