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The Debate

The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.

What the Trump Administration Can Learn From Aid Reorganizations in Australia, NZ, and Canada

What the Trump Administration Can Learn From Aid Reorganizations in Australia, NZ, and Canada

By Eileen Natuzzi
As the administration considers folding USAID into the State Department, it should study lessons learned from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand – all of which have done the same.

China’s London ‘Super Embassy’ Would Be a Super Surveillance Hub

China’s London ‘Super Embassy’ Would Be a Super Surveillance Hub

By Christopher Mung
The U.K. cannot ignore the broader human rights risks that come with China’s request to build a so-called “super embassy.”
Exiled Kyrgyz Government Critic Threatened With Extradition From Dubai

Exiled Kyrgyz Government Critic Threatened With Extradition From Dubai

By Alva Omarova
Activist Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu is the latest Kyrgyz dissident to face pressure from authorities while abroad. 

Afghan Allies Risked Everything for US Missions. Urgent Action Is Needed to Protect Them.

Afghan Allies Risked Everything for US Missions. Urgent Action Is Needed to Protect Them.

By Demi Hester
Years of bureaucratic delays, policy changes, and geopolitical instability under both the Biden and Trump administrations have left Afghans stranded and vulnerable.

America’s Blind Spot: How Failing Trade Enforcement Strengthens Beijing

America’s Blind Spot: How Failing Trade Enforcement Strengthens Beijing

By David Rashid
Reported tariff assessments and changing trade patterns from 2018 to today tell a striking story of loopholes and weak enforcement in U.S. tariffs on China.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

Beyond the Korean Peninsula: How the South Korea-US Alliance Can Contribute to Regional Security

Beyond the Korean Peninsula: How the South Korea-US Alliance Can Contribute to Regional Security

By Hanbyeol Sohn and Jinki Lee
Even if a strategic and comprehensive alliance can be made a reality, the big question is how to make that happen amid the uncertainty of the Trump era.

On Human Rights, Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Promises More of the Same

On Human Rights, Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Promises More of the Same

By Mu Sochua
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's appointment of two former prime ministers as "special advisors" points to a gap between his words and his actions.
Can Marco Rubio Help Rebuild US Influence in Latin America – and Erode China’s?

Can Marco Rubio Help Rebuild US Influence in Latin America – and Erode China’s?

By Rodrigo Moura
While Rubio’s anti-China rhetoric aligns with Washington’s broader geopolitical goals, the tools at his disposal are insufficient to match Beijing’s economic engagement.

Cambodia’s Proposed Atrocity Denial Law Will Stifle Historical Debate

Cambodia’s Proposed Atrocity Denial Law Will Stifle Historical Debate

By Sebastian Strangio
Under draft legislation announced last week, anyone denying “the truth of the bitter past” could be imprisoned for up to five years.

Forgotten Voices: The Uyghurs Facing Deportation From Thailand to China

Forgotten Voices: The Uyghurs Facing Deportation From Thailand to China

By Abdulhakim Idris
The fate of these 48 men has become a litmus test for human rights in Southeast Asia, with far-reaching implications that extend beyond the borders of Thailand and China. 

Renewed Horizons: Strengthening Central Asia-US Relations under the Trump Administration

Renewed Horizons: Strengthening Central Asia-US Relations under the Trump Administration

By Javlon Vakhabov
As the new administration charts its foreign policy course, a stronger Central Asia-U.S. partnership can serve as a model for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Vietnam: No Country for #MeToo

Vietnam: No Country for #MeToo

By Elaine Pearson
Government connections protect those implicated in sexual violence.

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