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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 Myanmar Crisis and the Contradictions of ‘Non-Interference’
By Kyaw Khant
As the situation in Myanmar worsens, it is becoming harder for outside nations to remain neutral.
How the Olympic Movement Can Resist Beijing’s Games
By Ben Lowsen
The world at large cannot expect the IOC to address every issue, but the issue of genocide is too great to ignore.
Politics Are Keeping the UN From Protecting Children
By Karin Landgren
International pressure was critical to ending the use of child soldiers in Nepal. The United Nations can’t let politics undermine its mission to do so elsewhere.
Sri Lanka’s Proposed ‘Burqa Ban’ Would Backfire
By Nilay Saiya
If Sri Lanka adopts the burqa ban and refuses to address systemic issues of bias and discrimination against Muslims, it will only create a breeding ground for terrorism.
Rehumanizing US North Korea Policy
By Esther S. Im and Paul K. Lee
The challenges on the Korean Peninsula have never just been abstract foreign policy issues happening “over there” – they have touched the lives of thousands of American families.
India’s Absurd Sedition Law – And What It Enables
By Aditya Sharma
The Indian Penal Code is replete with pernicious and outdated laws. Its Section 124A is a marquee example.
Have the Gates of Hell Been Opened Upon Myanmar?
By Andreus Sang
The crisis in Myanmar has exhibited some signs that a devastating and deeply divisive conflict may be on the horizon.
The Myanmar Military is Trying to Divide and Terrorize the People. We Must Resist.
By Kyaw Hsan Hlaing
From the perspective of democracy and universal human rights, the common enemy is clear.
If China’s Anti-Uyghur Campaign Isn’t Genocide, What Is?
By Omer Kanat
If the world’s only response to genocide is to engage in endless debate of the term, then “never again” is truly an empty promise.
Sustainable Development Goals Can Guide Asia-Pacific To Build Back Better
By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana
The region fell short of its 2020 milestones for the Goals, even before entering the global pandemic. As the Asia-Pacific rebuilds, it must change course.
Sri Lanka’s Burqa Ban Is More About Islamophobia Than National Security
By Tasnim Nazeer
In truth, the move is consistent with attempts to stigmatize the country's small Muslim minority.
India’s Eroding Democracy Threatens Its Foreign Policy Interests
By Bidisha Biswas and Anish Goel
The 2008 Indo-U.S. nuclear deal shows India's democratic values can lead to significant gains for the country. Modi must keep that in mind.