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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.
Beware the War Against ASEAN’s Atheists
By David Hutt
A look at the ongoing persecution of a minority group that continues to be under assault in some parts of the region.
The Russia Factor in China's North Korea Challenge
By Joel Wuthnow
A closer look at a less obvious but potentially crucial variable.
Trump Is Undercutting America’s Allies and Strengthening China’s Hand
By Chris Carothers
Meanwhile, the Presidents of South Korea and Taiwan are trying to ride the tiger of Trumpian uncertainty .
A Tragic and Avoidable Death on Manus Island
By Anna Shea
The recent death of Hamed Shamshiripour highlights Australia’s vicious policies toward asylum seekers.
Chinese Double Standards in the Maritime Domain
By Tuan N. Pham
Beijing clearly understands its maritime rights, but does not necessarily tolerate and accept the same rights for others.
Why the US Has to Take the First Step in Deescalating Tensions With North Korea
By Daniel DePetris
How to get out of the North Korea morass.
North Korea Could Determine the Future of US-China Relations…Again
By Michael Green
North Korea is once again the variable that could most determine the future course of U.S.-China relations in the 21st Century.
Is America Losing the Soft Power Contest in Southeast Asia?
By Mark J. Valencia
The recent ASEAN meetings capped an alarming trend of eroding U.S. influence.
Climate Change and Food Security in Nepal: Why the Developed World Must Step Up
By Sumesh Shiwakoty
The developed world must show moral leadership in assisting Nepal.
North Korea’s Nukes: Time for The Pentagon’s Philosopher-in-Chief to Step In?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The North Korean crisis prompts the need for a philosopher in chief at the Pentagon.
Sending an Ultimatum to Kim Jong-un
By Zheng Wang
It's time to separate the Kim family from the North Korean people in crafting North Korea policy.
The China Wildcard in the Qatar Crisis
By Rob Edens
A closer look at the stakes for Beijing and what that might mean.