Region
Southeast Asia
Looking Back on Deng Xiaoping’s Landmark Visit to Singapore
By Edmund Lim
The trip, when Deng met Lee Kuan Yew for the first time, offers a reminder of the importance of competent leadership to nations' development.
Thailand Takes Another Step Toward Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
By Sebastian Strangio
The lower house overwhelmingly passed a package of four laws that would redefine marriage as a union between any two individuals.
China, America, and Vietnam’s Diplomatic Blitz in 2023
By Sebastian Strangio
The Diplomat interviews Khang Vu, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Political Science at Boston College, about Vietnam’s diplomatic strategy amid great power competition.
Thailand’s Quiet Pivot to the Maritime Sphere
By Tita Sanglee
In 2023, the government published several documents detailing the steps necessary to enhance the country's maritime governance.
The China-Philippines South China Sea Face-Off Requires Restraint
By Sarang Shidore
The Philippines and the U.S. are on solid legal ground, but what is lawful is not always wise.
Workers Lose as Indonesian Laws Can’t Keep Pace With Rideshare Apps
By Nabiyla Risfa Izzati
Gig platforms have mushroomed in Indonesia in the past decade. But regulations have lagged, and it's the workers who pay.
Human Rights and Protecting Cambodia’s Rainforests
By Luke Hunt
Luke Hunt interviews Suwanna Gauntlett from the environmental group Wildlife Alliance.
Philippines Again Calls Out China Over South China Sea Clashes
By Sebastian Strangio
The comments from Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro came as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that bilateral relations are "at a crossroads."
Malaysia Bars Israeli Cargo Vessels From Its Ports Over Gaza Conflict
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban singled out ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., Israel’s largest shipping company, which has been permitted to dock at Malaysia's ports since 2002.
Italy and Vietnam Mark 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
By Andrea Pezzati
Recent advances in the relationship reflect Rome’s increased strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific region.
Myanmar Resistance Forces Seize Another China Border Crossing
By Sebastian Strangio
The MNDAA's reported capture of the Yanlonkyaing border gate marks a further step toward its reconquest of the Kokang Self-Administered Zone in northern Shan State.
The Rise of Prabowo and the Return of Indonesia’s Old Elite
By Edward Parker
The former Suharto-era general is the leading candidate to become Indonesia's next president. Is the country on the brink of New Order 2.0?