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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.
Myanmar Junta Chief to Attend Regional Summit in Bangkok: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
The trip to Thailand for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit would be Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing's first to an ASEAN member state since 2021.
Can Philippine President Marcos Survive the Wrath of the Dutertes?
By Mong Palatino
The economy may pose a more serious threat than the fulminations of the Mindanao-based political clan.
US Defense Chief to Visit Philippines Ahead of Joint Military Drills
By Sebastian Strangio
Manila seems set to remain a priority partner for Washington, despite the Trump administration's radical foreign policy changes.
Philippine Govt Condemns Senator For Saying He Won’t Surrender to ICC
By Sebastian Strangio
As chief of the Philippine National Police, Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa implemented ex-President Rodrigo Duterte's deadly "war on drugs."
Indonesian Parliament Passes Law Expanding Military’s Role in Government
By Sebastian Strangio
Civil society groups say that the changes are a throwback to the repressive New Order period, when the military dominated civilian affairs.
Philippines Wants to Expand ‘Squad’ Grouping to Include India, South Korea
By Sebastian Strangio
The informal grouping, established last May, is intended to counter China's assertive behavior in the South China Sea.
Indonesia’s Foreign Policy Under Prabowo: Still Free But More Active?
By Lucas Myers
President Prabowo’s foreign policy thus far paints a picture of continuity – but there are a few longer-term issues to watch regarding China and ASEAN.
Ethiopian Tech Workers Are Trapped in Myanmar’s Scam Centers
By Sribala Subramanian
The country is the primary recruiting hub for trafficked scam workers in Africa.
Indonesian Finance Minister Denies Resignation Rumors After Market Plunge
By Sebastian Strangio
The Jakarta Stock Exchange Composite Index plunged more than 7 percent, forcing it to suspend trading for the first time since 2020.
Cambodia’s Hun Sen, Myanmar Junta Celebrate Closure of US-Funded Media Outlets
By Sebastian Strangio
The U.S.-funded broadcasters Radio Free Asia and Voice of America have long been a thorn in the side of the region's repressive governments.
Cambodia Willing to Use Force to Defend Sovereignty Over Temple, PM Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The disagreement bears a close similarity to the dispute over Preah Vihear temple, which led to armed clashes during 2008-2011.
Tensions Rising in the Philippines After Former President Duterte’s ICC Arrest
By Ben Sturt
The ex-leader may finally face justice for his bloody “war on drugs”, but the country he leaves behind is increasingly divided.