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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.
The State of Press Freedom in Southeast Asia
By Sebastian Strangio
Most nations in the region have risen in the latest RSF World Press Freedom Index, but conditions on the ground range from restrictive to openly repressive.
Myanmar Junta Pardons More Than 2,000 Political Prisoners
By Sebastian Strangio
All of those amnestied were detained under a law – Section 505(a) of the penal code – that makes it illegal to promote dissent against the military.
An Airstrip on Myanmar’s Great Coco Island
By Sribala Subramanian
Myanmar’s leader upgrades a strategic outpost in the Bay of Bengal.
Lao Government Critic Shot Dead in ‘Brazen’ Attack, Rights Group Says
By Sebastian Strangio
Anousa “Jack” Luangsuphom was shot twice by an unidentified gunman in a Vientiane coffee shop on April 29.
Thailand’s Move Forward Party Will Not Join ‘Inter-bloc’ Coalition
By Sebastian Strangio
The Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties both want the military out of power, but how far will that bind them once the post-election horse-trading begins?
Hun Sen Will Never Retire
By David Hutt
Even if Cambodia's leader steps back from his formal duties as prime minister, it is hard to see him abandoning politics altogether.
The Theater of Public Contrition in Cambodian Politics
By Sebastian Strangio
As July's election approaches, a growing number of opposition officials are following the well-worn path into Prime Minister Hun Sen's CPP.
Following Yet Another Execution, Singapore Shows It Is Out of Touch On Capital Punishment
By Aisyah Llewellyn
As its Southeast Asian neighbors take steps away from capital punishment, the Lion City is doubling down on a discredited anti-drug policy.
Thai Opposition Parties Hold Strong Lead in Pre-Election Polls
By Sebastian Strangio
According to a new poll, the Pheu Thai and Move Forward parties command the support of more than 60 percent of the electorate two weeks ahead of the May 14 election.
US Warns China Against ‘Harassment’ of Philippine Vessels
By Sebastian Strangio
The statement from Washington followed another near-collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the South China Sea.
An Australian Who Worked to Restore Cambodian Culture Dies at 76
By Luke Hunt
The passing of Darryl Collins is seen as "a great loss” for Cambodia.
The SEA Games Contain the Seeds of Their Own Irrelevance
By Pattharapong Rattanasevee
The biennial Southeast Asian sporting competition privileges national interests over fairness and sporting spirit.