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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.
In New York, Protesters Mark ‘Global Day of Action’ Against the CCP
By Wilder Alejandro Sanchez
The October 1 gathering brought together Uyghurs, Mongolians, Tibetans, Kazakhs, and their supporters.
Public Shaming is Terrible, But So Is Poor Journalism
By Vu Lam
The online attacks on Vietnam's "Patient 17" were disgraceful, but there is no evidence that her identity was leaked by the Vietnamese government.
Why Bangladesh Must Let the Rohingya Speak for Themselves
By Saad Hammadi
Any durable solution for the Rohingya will not come through more restrictions on their lives.
A Real Opportunity for Religion Law Reform in Uzbekistan
By Knox Thames
Uzbekistan has a real opportunity to cement its significant gains, turn away from its authoritarian past, and reclaim its place as a Central Asian leader.
Why Trump’s Anti-China Policy Falls on Deaf Ears in Southeast Asia
By Dino Patti Djalal
No Southeast Asian nation has been willing to support the Trump administration's hostile and ideological position on China.
Indonesia’s New Omnibus Law Trades ‘Green Growth’ for Environmental Ruin
By Phelim Kine
The new legislation will do irreparable harm to Indonesia's environment. It could well turn away foreign investors, too.
Intergenerational Conflict at the Core of Kyrgyzstan’s Turmoil
By Aksana Ismailbekova
Kyrgyzstan’s “muted” voices -- woman and the youth -- are standing up against the ranks of old politicians and the patriarchy.
A Boycott of the 2022 Beijing Olympics Would Work
By Shannon Tiezzi
There is a massive overlap between Western liberal democracies and medal contenders in the Winter Games – enough to gut Beijing’s Olympic dreams.
Afghanistan Needs Peace, But So Much More
By John Aylieff
Real peace – the type that lasts – is about much more than the absence of guns and explosive devices.
The Foundations of an Inclusive, Tech-Enabled Economic Recovery in Asia
By Antony Cook
New technologies could help foster an inclusive post-pandemic recovery in Asia – if the region's governments can get it right.
Nuclear War with North Korea Shouldn’t Be an Option
By John Dale Grover
Without engagement, neither side will understand each other’s red lines and so might accidentally go too far.
Myanmar Desertions Offer an Opening for Rohingya Justice
By Shannon Maree Torrens
The recent confessions of the two Myanmar army defectors bring justice one step closer to fruition.