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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.
Xinjiang vs Gaza: The West’s Shifting Definition of ‘Genocide’
By Juan Alberto Ruiz Casado
The Global North’s foreign policy has a glaring contradiction regarding China’s abuses in Xinjiang and Israel’s in Palestine.
Gaza, Asia, and the Crisis in Global Governance
By Dustin Barter
Like the ongoing violence in Myanmar, the flaring of the Israel-Palestine conflict has once again laid bare the failures of the current international order.
Jokowi’s Washington Visit Could Boost Bilateral Ties – or Highlight Problems
By Scot Marciel
President Joko Widodo and his team arrive in Washington at an uncertain time in U.S.-Indonesia relations.
An Open Letter to Cambodia’s Hun Manet About His PhD Thesis
By David Whitehouse
Despite repeated requests, Bristol University has refused to release the Cambodian leader's doctoral thesis in economics.
Calling for Climate Solutions: A Story of Solidarity Across the Asia Pacific
By Norly Mercado and Joseph Sikulu
From the Pacific Islands to Nepal, people are demanding stronger climate action as part of the Power Up month of action leading up to COP28.
Is China a Friend? Time for Israel to Decide.
By Mordechai Chaziza
While it remains to be seen how the Israel-Hamas war unfolds, it has already shown the nature of the Sino-Israeli relationship and where China’s interests lie.
Indonesia’s Dramatic Turn Toward Semi-Authoritarianism and Dynastic Politics
By Rizal Ramli
President Joko Widodo is using the powers of the state in an unprecedented bid to shape his country's political trajectory.
The West Can Support the People of Afghanistan via Central Asia
By Andrew Gilmour
While Western governments opt to wait out the crisis in Afghanistan, a unique opportunity arises as Central Asian states, in particular Uzbekistan, choose a pragmatic route.
A Turning Point for South Korea’s Weaponization of Defamation Laws?
By Jason Morgan and Kenji Yoshida
The Supreme Court ruling in Park Yu-ha’s case should be a catalyst for change.
What the World Can Learn From 2 Taiwanese Activists Jailed in China
By Benedict Rogers
Their stories serve as a warning of the potential fate for Taiwan itself if Xi Jinping decides to take the island.
International Condemnations of Myanmar’s Junta Must Translate into Actions to End Military Impunity
By Mabel Thwe and Maggi Quadrini
Many U.N. and foreign government statements about recent atrocities have avoided naming the party responsible. That needs to change.
Why RCEP Should Think Twice About Admitting Hong Kong
By Sam Goodman and Anouk Wear
Current members should seriously consider how Hong Kong's National Security Law would impact their investments under the trade deal.