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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.
Worried About Huawei? Take a Closer Look at Tencent
By Sarah Cook
The Chinese social media giant is a growing global force, and it does the bidding of the Communist Party.
Why China Still Isn't Winning its War on Pollution
By Grace Guo
Despite some ongoing efforts, much more work remains to be done in order for meaningful change to occur.
Japan Should Stop Acting Like China in Cambodia
By Teppei Kasai and Brad Adams
Tokyo is fighting a losing battle for Hun Sen’s support, and selling its own legacy in the democratization of Cambodia short.
China’s Reputation for Long-Range Planning Is Wildly Exaggerated
By David Skidmore
Don't be misled by the erroneous notion that China possesses some uniquely successful capacity for long-range planning.
A Free and Open Indo-Pacific: The South Korean Perspective
By Sukjoon Yoon
How does South Korea fit into FOIP, and how would Seoul like to see the concept evolve?
Will the Upcoming Thai Elections Be Free and Fair?
By Kiat Sittheeamorn
And if they are not, what should liberal and democratic political parties in Thailand do?
From Hardware to Software: China’s 2019 Military Budget and Priorities
By Ankit Panda
Growth in military budget may have slowed slightly, but funding leaves plenty of room for the vital job of developing personnel.
America’s Golden Opportunity to Demonstrate Its Support for ‘International Order ‘
By Mark J. Valencia
Will U.S. support for international law extend to respecting an ICJ ruling that jeopardizes an important naval base?
Najib Scandal Links in Focus with Ex-Sabah Chief Minister Charges
By Luke Hunt
The charges against Musa Aman announced last week are just part of the ongoing scrutiny around Najib and his allies in a New Malaysia.
‘Roya’: An Afghan Dream Come True
By Mursal Abasi
How I came to be acting out my life story for an Afghan television show.
Echoes of 1919
By Kan Kimura
A centenary year has significant implications for the region.
Are We Seeing the Mekong River's 'Last Days'?
By Benjamin Zawacki
A book review of Last Days of the Mighty Mekong, Brian Eyler, Zed 2019.