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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.
Asia’s Environment Is at a Tipping Point
By Madhav Karki and Sonali Senaratna Sellamuttu
We need to act now to save biodiversity and ecosystems.
Indonesia’s Human Rights After 20 Years of Reformasi
By Usman Hamid
Despite progress, human rights are still under threat.
Malaysia Won't Look Away From China So Soon, Despite Mahathir's Words
By Ankit Panda
Why Malaysia’s China policy is unlikely to change, for now, despite the election shock.
The Missing Piece in Macron's Asia Vision: Japan
By Valérie Niquet
France’s conflicting visions of strategic balances in the Indo-Pacific.
Uyghurs: Victims of 21st Century Concentration Camps
By Mehmet Tohti
More than a million Uyghurs are believed to be in Chinese “re-education centers.”
Why Punishing India on Russia Would Be a Mistake for the United States
By Mukesh Aghi
Though workarounds can be found, a troubling new piece of legislation has once again raised concerns regarding the U.S.-India defense relationship.
Taiwan, US Get Down to the Business of Defense
By Gary Sands
A recent forum, held in Taiwan for the first time, deepened defense industry links -- much to China's dismay.
Lawfare Waged by the Hong Kong Government Is Crushing the Hopes of Democrats
By Benedict Rogers
In Hong Kong, the law is being used to intimidate opponents, disqualify lawmakers, and limit freedom of expression.
For Asia's Sustainable Development, Regional Governments Must Take Taxation Seriously
By Neeti Biyani
'Tax' can't continue to be a hated word in Asia; the region's future depends on sound fiscal health.
Fighting Inequality in Asia and the Pacific
By Shamshad Akhtar
The region’s remarkable economic success story belies a widening gap between rich and poor.
The Afghan Peace Process: An FAQ
By M. Ashraf Haidari
M. Ashraf Haidari explores the challenges and opportunities facing the peace process.