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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 Burning of Jaffna Public Library: Sri Lanka’s First Step Toward Civil War
By Thamil Venthan Ananthavinayagan
The events of 39 years ago set the stage for Sri Lanka’s civil war – and still echo today.
COVID-19 and Trust in the Chinese Government: What Do We Actually Know?
By Allison Quatrini
We need to be cautious about survey data exploring the Chinese public's attitudes toward their government.
Pandemic Adds New Threat for Rohingyas in Myanmar
By Param-Preet Singh and Nadia Hardman
Burmese authorities are using COVID-19 response measures as a pretext to harass and extort Rohingyas.
Forget About a ‘New’ Cold War. The Old One Never Ended.
By Francis P. Sempa
James Burnham and ‘The War We Are In’ with China.
Hong Kong and China’s National Security
By Jin Kai
Shouldn’t national security be universal and equal?
Managing the Coronavirus: What the World Can Learn From Asia-Pacific Responses
By Eik Swee
What are the dilemmas governments must navigate in responding to the pandemic?
Can the International Solar Alliance Truly Be India’s ‘Gift to the World’?
By Zerin Osho
Solar-powered vaccine logistics may present an important opportunity for the ISA amid the global pandemic.
A Ceasefire for Eid, Peace, and Fighting COVID-19 in Afghanistan
By M. Ashraf Haidari
Violence has continued in Afghanistan throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
COVID-19 in Afghanistan: Going Beyond a Ceasefire
By Ben Francis
A ceasefire is necessary to give all Afghans the best possible chance of defeating their common enemy: COVID-19. But there are limitations.
Pakistan Discovers the High Cost of Chinese Investment
By Hussain Haqqani
A new report sheds light on the true costs of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor for Pakistan.
25 Years After ‘Disappearing’ Tibetan Panchen Lama, China Is No Nearer to Its Goal
By Sophie Richardson
In 1995, Chinese authorities took a 6-year-old Tibetan child, identified as the Panchen Lama reincarnate, from his home. He hasn’t been seen since.
Kazakhstan-ASEAN Relations: Prospects for Greater Engagement
By Paradorn Rangsimaporn
Kazakhstan’s central role in China’s BRI and membership in the EAEU present new opportunities for stronger relations between Kazakhstan and ASEAN.