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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.
Hamas Still Holding 15 Thai Nationals in Gaza, Bangkok Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement came after 17 people were released over several days during the truce between Israel and Hamas.
The Significance of the Maiden GCC-ASEAN Summit
By Ghulam Ali
Sidestepping geopolitical tensions, the two blocs have signaled their desire to forge closer ties, particularly in the economic realm.
Indonesian Government Claims ‘Positive’ Progress in Myanmar Talks
By Sebastian Strangio
Despite some progress, serious negotiations remain a remote prospect as resistance groups make gains across the country.
Ex-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Hints at Return to Politics
By Mong Palatino
The former president's announcement is a reaction against real and imagined attempts to undercut his family’s political influence.
Vietnam Communist Party Chief Vows to Hasten Anti-Graft Campaign
By Sebastian Strangio
Nguyen Phu Thong's pledge came after last week's revelation of a gargantuan $12.5 billion financial scandal involving a Ho Chi Minh City-based real estate firm.
UN Expert Calls For Regional Action on Rohingya Boat Arrivals
By Sebastian Strangio
Over the past 10 days, more than 1,000 Rohingya civilians have landed in western Indonesia after perilous ocean journeys from Bangladesh.
‘Operation 1027’: The End of the Beginning of Myanmar’s Spring Revolution
By Htet Min Lwin and Thiha Wint Aung
The dramatic events of the past month reflect the junta's waning legitimacy, but the battle for the country's future is only just beginning.
In Cambodia, Foreigners Cannot Own Land. Or Can They?
By David Hutt
There are signs of growing tensions between the country's private sector and its rentier political elite.
Philippines, US Launch Joint Maritime And Air Patrols
By Sebastian Strangio
The long-expected announcement comes at a time of growing tension in contested parts of the South China Sea.
It Is Time For the Thai Authorities to Step Up Their Strategic Communication
By Tita Sanglee
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's first few months in office have been marred by a series of avoidable missteps.
Indonesia’s Refugees Are Just in Transit. What Happens If the Boats Keep Coming?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
The past week has seen a new wave of Rohingya arrivals from the refugee camps of southeastern Bangladesh.
Myanmar’s NUG Needs To Win the Peace
By David Hutt
As the collapse of the military junta begins to seem possible, attention turns to what might be established in its place.