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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.
Marawi Rehabilitation Delays Could Cast a Dark Shadow over Duterte’s Peace Legacy
By Katrina Auditor
The glacial pace of the city's reconstruction could fuel disillusionment among the region's population.
5 Steps Joe Biden Should Take to Confront the China Challenge
By Joey Siu
China is a looming threat to international order. U.S. leadership in confronting the issue has never been more important.
Farmers Protests in India: Politics Over Economics?
By Milind Sathye
New laws around agriculture in India stand to significantly boost farmers’ incomes.
The Jakarta-Bandung Rail Project: 5 Years On and Still Going Nowhere
By Meiki W. Paendong
The railway, China's landmark BRI project in Indonesia, has failed to account for its economic and social impacts.
Taiwan Is Crucial to the Global Fight Against Cybercrime
By Huang Ming-chao
“Cybercrime knows no borders, so Taiwan hopes to work with the rest of the world in jointly fighting the problem.”
A Global Town Hall Welcomes America Back
By Donald K. Emmerson
Despite the reversals of the Trump era, a flurry of online diplomacy served as a reminder that the U.S. is welcome in Southeast Asia.
Is Hong Kong Heading Toward a Russian-Style Electoral System?
By Simon Shen
Beijing may explore allowing a limited, managed style of democracy – one that ensures a toothless opposition, in the style of Putin’s Russia.
After a Humbling Election Experience, Will the US Change Its Tune on China?
By Jin Kai
The 2020 U.S. election undermines Washington’s bid to act as a beacon for the world.
How a Digital Economy Can Save The Philippines from Recession
By Pierrepont Johnson
An improved digital economy would aid social distancing measures and help promote the country’s long-term economic growth.
Biden Must Not Give in to North Korea’s Demand for Early Sanctions Relief
By Mathew Ha
Diplomatic success will require better sanctions enforcement, not looser sanctions.
Afghanistan: A Test for the Global Commitment to Women, Peace, and Security
By Natalie Gonnella-Platts and Farhat Popal
Any political settlement that doesn’t guarantee women’s rights and opportunities has failed before it has begun.
Afghanistan’s Progress Was Made Possible With International Support
By Sediq Seddiqi
It is vital that aid resources remain sufficient over the coming years to sustain these gains.