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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.
How the Patriotic Investment Act Can Counter China’s Stimulus Package
By David Rader and Adam Chan
A little-noticed bill introduced in the U.S. Congress has the potential to chill American investors’ appetite for Chinese assets.
In Financing ‘Infrastructure for Tomorrow,’ the AIIB Refuses to Learn From Its Past
By Tala Batangan
The AIIB has often failed to assess and mitigate project risks, leading to serious harm for people and the planet. And those harmed have not had an opportunity to seek justice.
Navigating Security and Privacy in the Asia-Pacific: A Legal and Diplomatic Balancing Act
By David S. Lobel-Mandrake
In response to mounting threats, governments have introduce a range of tighter security measures that often conflict with privacy and individual freedoms.
Amid the China-US Competition, Beware of Data Colonialism
By Mitchell Gallagher
As China and the U.S. compete to build digital infrastructure, they are intentionally fostering dependencies that strip away developing nations’ digital sovereignty.
Uzbekistan’s Upcoming Parliamentary Elections: A Chance for Change?
By Mirshohid Aslanov
From tackling corruption to enhancing public services, people of Uzbekistan are clear about their priorities.
The Bangladesh Army Must Not Meddle in Politics
By Ahmede Hussain
Instead of focusing on bringing accountability into the armed forces he leads, Army Chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman is busy offering unsolicited views on an election timeline.
Thailand’s New Leader Faces a Time of Crisis and Opportunity
By Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn and Patrick Phongsathorn
Can Paetongtarn Shinawatra seize the opportunity to make a break with the repressive policies of past administrations?
China’s ‘Gifts’ of Parliament Buildings in Africa Are a Wake-Up Call for Digital Sovereignty
By Marci Harris and Innocent Batsani-Ncube
Over the past two decades, Beijing has financed and built at least 15 parliament buildings in African nations. These projects carry hidden costs that extend far beyond their initial construction.
A New Paradigm For Supporting the People of Myanmar Is Emerging in Rakhine State
By Chris Gunness
And with reports of starvation and widespread atrocity crimes, the pressure to make it work has never been greater.
Holding the Taliban Accountable Through the Media
By Harun Najafizada
The digital revolution and modern journalism allow us to cover Afghanistan during these critical times despite Taliban efforts to block us.
What’s Wrong With Calling Hun Sen ‘Despicable’?
By David Hutt
In clamping down so hard on the speech of its citizens, the Cambodian government only reveals the depth of its insecurities.
Why It’s Time to Rename the South China Sea
By Edmund Lin
The sea needs a name that honors its rich history of commercial and cultural exchange, while positioning the sea as a space for cooperation and mutual benefit.
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