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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.
Indonesia’s Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to Controversial Election Ruling
By Sebastian Strangio
The October 16 ruling opened up a path for President Joko Widodo's eldest son to take part in the presidential election in February.
Philippine Government, Communist Rebels Agree to Resume Peace Talks
By Sebastian Strangio
Both sides said they recognized “the need to unite as a nation” due to socioeconomic challenges and “the foreign threats facing the country."
Campaigning Begins for Indonesian Presidential Election
By Sebastian Strangio
An estimated 204 million are eligible to cast their votes when the country goes to the polls on February 14.
Vietnam, Japan Establish Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
By Sebastian Strangio
The upgrade supplements Vietnam's historic upgrade of relations with the United States in September.
Extinguishing a Point of Contention: Examining Transboundary Haze in Southeast Asia
By Lauren Mai
The region's toxic air pollution is a regional problem requiring a coordinated regional solution.
Myanmar Resistance Alliance Claims Capture of Fourth China Border Gate
By Sebastian Strangio
The capture of the Kyin San Kyawt border gate came as the Chinese military launched live-fire drills along the two countries' border.
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.
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.