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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.
The Yearlong Failure to Protect Myanmar’s People and What to Do Now
By Savita Pawnday and Liam Scott
There is much more the world can do to help the people of Myanmar in their struggle against the military dictatorship.
The Difference Between Ukraine and Taiwan
By Francis P. Sempa
The arguments that U.S. credibility on Taiwan hinges on Ukraine is the latest version of the discredited domino theory.
Why the Paris Peace Agreements Deserve a Place in Cambodia’s National Calendar
By Courtney Weatherby and William M. Wise
The landmark accords played an important role in enabling an end to decades of conflict.
How Realpolitik 2.0 Can Prevent a Global Conflict
By Liam Gibson and Erich Elkins
Proponents of a rules-based order can learn much from the pragmatic policies pursued by West German leaders during the Cold War.
Taiwan Provides Powerful Lessons on Democratic Resilience
By Zoe Leung and Alan H. Yang
The future of democracy hinges on inclusive partnerships among like-minded democracies and stakeholders.
Barbados’ New Republic: A Win for China?
By Judith Mwai and Lauren Ashmore
Centering Barbados’ decision to end ties with the British monarchy around China only underscores the problem: The U.K.'s lack of interest in Barbados and similar countries.
Myanmar Has Moved Beyond Aung San Suu Kyi vs. the Generals
By Philipp Annawitt
One year on from Myanmar's coup, things on the ground have moved on. It's time the international community does as well.
North Korea’s Escalation Strategy Won’t Work Anymore
By Man-seok Lee and Seung-min Woo
If North Korea conducted the recent missile tests in order to convince the U.S. to return to the negotiation table, Pyongyang should quickly change strategy.
How Energy is Aiding ASEAN’s Post-Pandemic Recovery
By Helena Aurellia and Gabriella Ienanto
The energy sector is in a good position to drive ASEAN's recovery and its transition to a greener economy.
It’s Time for a Japan-US Pandemic Partnership
By James Gannon
Beyond their moral responsibility, Japan and the United States have compelling interests in doing more together to battle COVID-19 internationally.
Little Blue Helmets in Kazakhstan
By Matt Cavanaugh and Jahara Matisek
A blue line was crossed; the international community must respond.
Summit for Democracy Showed the Challenges to Democracy
By MIMAKI Seiko
The problem is not just the rival camp, but the unclear US strategy.