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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.
Indonesia’s Deadly Disaster Sparks Political Blame Game
By Erin Cook
The earthquake and tsunami that hit Central Sulawesi and the government’s response has raised concerns about some of the decisions being made.
India’s Data Localization Quandary: Three Guiding Principles
By Manpreet Anand and Nikhil Sud
India's government hasn't seriously considered the negative implications of its data localization push.
The Failed Promise of Reconciliation in Sri Lanka
By Mario Arulthas
Sri Lankan governments have proven unwilling to acknowledge, let alone address, the root cause of conflict on the island.
Aiding Africa: If Not China, Then Who?
By Grace Guo
An overemphasis on the challenges posed by Chinese aid to Africa can conceal the difficulty of providing credible alternatives.
US-North Korea: Talking Is Our Only Chance at Peace
By Bonnie Kristian
The United States must commit to diplomacy with North Korea -- even in the face of setbacks.
Abrupt Detention of Meng Hongwei Further Damages China's International Reputation
By Charlotte Gao
Meng, like all other Chinese citizens, deserves procedural justice, one core value of the rule of law which China often ignores.
What Does 'Competition' Between the United States and China Really Mean?
By Ankit Panda
Many of Mike Pence's grievances with China were valid, but competition alone is not a strategy.
Embracing Change and Working Together to Save the Planet
By Haoliang Xu
From fighting climate change to adapting to the fourth industrial revolution, it will take more than government action to make progress.
Why Canada’s Revoking of Aung San Suu Kyi’s Honorary Citizenship Matters
By Luke Hunt
The move is just the latest that illustrate her remarkable fall from grace.
The Truth About KORUS and Jobs
By Phil Eskeland
Far from a “horrible deal,” KORUS has worked quite well for the United States.
China-US Relations: What’s Next?
By Mark J. Valencia
The status quo is breaking down, and proactive steps must be taken to ensure it’s not replaced by another cold war.
Abe’s Coal Addiction
By Hisayo Takada
Abe’s addiction to coal prove his empty words on climate change action.