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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.
Indonesian Workers Say They Faced Modern Slavery in the UK. Who Is Responsible?
By Aisyah Llewellyn
A post-Brexit seasonal labor migration scheme has been marred by claims of exploitative practices.
Myanmar’s Braveheart Journalists Persist Amid Immense Pressure
By Rajeev Bhattacharyya
Scores of journalists have been arrested, and some even killed by the military junta. Others have had narrow escapes.
Did Indonesia Just Capitulate to China on the South China Sea?
By Sebastian Strangio
Over the weekend, the two nations signed a joint development agreement that refers to "overlapping claims" in the disputed waterway.
China Declares Baselines Around Disputed South China Sea Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
The move was a direct response to the Philippines' enactment of two new laws aimed at strengthening the country's own maritime claims.
China, Indonesia Sign $10 Billion in Deals as Prabowo Visits Beijing
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama
The deals included a controversial agreement on economic activities in areas around the Natuna Islands in the South China Sea.
Philippines’ Marcos Signs Laws Aimed at Strengthening Maritime Claims
By Sebastian Strangio
The enactment of the new legislation prompted the Chinese government to lodge a “stern protest” with Manila.
Thai Economists Warn of Political Interference in Central Bank Selection
By Sebastian Strangio
The government has nominated ex-Finance Minister Kittirat Na Ranong, a loyalist of the ruling Pheu Thai party, as the next chairman of the Bank of Thailand.
What the Loss and Damage Fund Means for Indigenous Communities
By Raksha Pandya-Wood and Azliyana Azhari
It’s time for Malaysia to tap into the insights of its Indigenous communities to develop sustainable climate adaptation strategies.
Trump’s Victory Will Test What’s Left of ASEAN’s Resolve
By Luke Hunt
Calls for an ASEAN reboot as the “Goldilocks” era comes to an end.
How Southeast Asia Responded to the US Presidential Election
By Meghan Murphy
The region's leaders appear to be taking the prospect of a second Donald Trump administration largely in their stride.
Famine Imminent in Myanmar’s Rakhine State as Economy Collapses, UN Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The UNDP is warning of an "unprecedented disaster" for the people of Rakhine, as fighting between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar military drags on.
Thai PM Paetongtarn Meets Myanmar’s Junta Chief in Kunming
By Sebastian Strangio
The Pheu Thai government has pledged to play a more active role in the resolution of the conflict in Myanmar.