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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 Older People Are Key Players in the Global Development Agenda
By Shamshad Akhtar
With the right preparation, we can benefit from a golden generation of healthy, wealthy and active older persons.
Rohingya Fleeing Myanmar Face Difficulties in Thailand
By Audrey Gaughran
Thailand needs to take action to address its failure to offer protection to those most in need.
Attacking KORUS is Worse than Abandoning TPP
By Shihoko Goto
Retreating from the agreement would not only damage U.S.-ROK relations but impact key U.S. industries that have benefited from the deal.
MIKTA’s Next Steps
By Fikry Cassidy
Its members -- Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea, Turkey and Australia -- have some shared and some divergent interests.
US Threat of War on North Korea: Fulfilling 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong Un’s Wishes
By Patrik K. Meyer
A misguided, ineffective, and disastrous war.
Tokyo Global Financial Center Under the Spotlight Again
By Sayuri Shirai
What does Japan need to do to make Tokyo a true global financial center?
Long Past Time for Sanctions on Myanmar’s Generals
By John Sifton
The Burmese military's atrocities in Rakhine state cannot go unpunished.
Once-Persecuted Bangladesh Proud to Help Rohingyas
By Sajeeb Wazed
Recalling its own history, Bangladesh extends a helping hand.
The Shame of Myanmar
By Amitai Etzioni
Sometimes, geopolitics should be set aside.
Why Should We Pay Attention to China’s Televised Confessions?
By Dinah Gardner
If we want to understand China, the recent televised trial of a Taiwanese human rights advocate is a good place to start.
Should China Now Lead UNESCO?
By Grace Guo
The move would represent a step in the wrong direction for the organization.
The Calculated Logic Behind North Korea’s Missile Tests
By Ankit Panda
North Korea's nuclear tests have strategic and technical purpose.