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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.
Women are Key to the Humanitarian Response in Myanmar
By Maggi Quadrini
Since the coup, local women’s organizations have stepped up to meet the growing need of support for internally displaced populations, the majority of whom are women and children.
There is No ASEAN Consensus on Myanmar
By Oren Samet
Two months on from ASEAN’s high-profile summit, the organization appears more divided than ever.
Apple Daily Raid Is the Latest Blow to Hong Kong’s Freedom
By Benedict Rogers
The world's democracies must take action after the latest assault on press freedom.
Stranded, Stateless, Imprisoned: How Asia is Failing Rohingya Children
By Hassan Noor
No child, wherever they are, should grow up living in fear.
Fukushima: Depoliticizing the Release of Treated Water into the Ocean
By AKIYAMA Nobumasa
It’s time to take the politics out of Fukushima.
Afghan Children Are Paying the Price for Global Vaccine Inequality
By Athena Rayburn
If Afghanistan is any example to go by, it is blindingly apparent that we have failed to live up to big promises of global solidarity.
Nepal’s Leaders Must Put Aside Differences Amid COVID-19 Crisis
By Nirajan Thapaliya
For now, instead of endless politicking, Nepal’s leaders must put their differences aside and work together
To Prevent Violent Extremism in Tajikistan, Promote Religious Freedom
By Tony Perkins and Nury Turkel
Washington should promote and directly incorporate religious freedom training as a requirement for Tajikistan to receive aid.
The G-7 Must Talk About 3 Urgent Asia Issues
By Benedict Rogers
The crises in Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and Myanmar must be discussed – and all three involve a serious consideration of the China problem.
How the US Can Help Cambodians Restore Their Country’s Democracy
By Mu Sochua
The U.S. should propose a post-pandemic development program based on human rights, democratic principles, and the rule of law.
Why the US Should Recognize the Rohingya Genocide
By Michael P. Scharf, Paul R. Williams, and Milena Sterio
The Biden administration has a chance to reassert the United States’ moral authority on human rights.
South Korea’s Wandering Judiciary
By SAKAMOTO Shigeki
A look at two local cases involving former comfort women.