Blog
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.
International Scholars Sound the Alarm Over Legislative Reforms Proposed in Taiwan
An open letter from 30 scholars expresses “strong concern and disappointment about the set of parliamentary reforms.”
ASEAN’s Environment of Denial: New Declaration, Same Old Story
By Prarthana Rao and Ian Salvaña
The bloc's Declaration on Environmental Rights is vaguely-worded and lets member states off the hook on conservation efforts.
As Taiwan’s New President Takes Office, Can China Seize Taiwan Without Firing a Single Shot?
By Chiang Min-yen
A controversial bill in the Legislative Yuan sparks fears of a hostile takeover from within, inspiring mass protests.
From Tsai to Lai: The Past, Present, and Future of Taiwan’s Foreign Policy
By Peng-Hsuan Chen
Given that Lai seems poised to carry on outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen's diplomatic approach, a look at her foreign policy evolution is useful.
Road to Busan for a Plastic-free Future
By Jed Alegado
Asia-Pacific countries could prove critical to ensuring the treaty addresses not only waste management, but the root issue of plastic production.
Myanmar’s National Unity Government Must Be Doing Something Right
By Than N. Oo
While the country's shadow opposition has attracted criticism, it has made significant gains on both the political and diplomatic fronts.
Indonesia’s Game-Changing Bid for OECD Membership
By Yopi Irianto Panut, Rio Kevin, and Aureishia Huang
Here are the three key areas that will be central to the country's bid to join the exclusive global economic club.
Russia’s Cover up of Its Dangerous Dealings With North Korea Leaves Us All Less Secure
By Jung H. Pak
Moscow killed a U.N. body overseeing North Korea sanctions compliance for one simple reason: Russia is flagrantly violating the U.N. sanctions.
What It Will Take for India to Address Climate Change?
By Divya Sharma and Avantika Shrivastava
Climate pledges and the energy transition can only truly be achieved when these are linked with development promises. At present, however, there seems to be a gap.
Military Conscription in Southeastern Myanmar Demands International Intervention
By Nai Aue Mon and Maggi Quadrini
To stave off defeat, the military regime is robbing the country's youth of livelihoods and educational opportunities.
Xi Jinping Visit Gives France’s Macron Chance to Raise China’s Uyghur ‘Genocide’
By David Whitehouse
A leading Uyghur diaspora activist says that Paris should adopt robust sanctions such as those adopted in the United States in recent years.
Taiwan’s Human Rights Priorities After the 2024 Elections
By Jean Wu
Despite demonstrating a strong human rights record, there is still room for Taiwan to improve – especially on migrant workers' rights and refugee law.