Region
Southeast Asia
How Thai Civil Society Influenced the Outcome of the Senate Selection Process
By Jittip Mongkolnchaiarunya
Civil society groups found creative ways to improve the quality of an election that has been described as “strange and undemocratic."
Residents Flee From Myanmar Military Garrison Town as Resistance Attack Looms
By Sebastian Strangio
Relatives of civil servants and military personnel are reportedly evacuating the scenic hill town of Pyin Oo Lwin, the location of the country's Defense Forces Academy.
Can China and the Philippines Save Their South China Sea Understanding?
By Christian Schultheiss
An analysis of the Philippines’ recent resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal suggests that the understanding can, in fact, satisfy both sides’ red lines.
Palm Oil Smallholders in Indonesia Need Government Help, Not Hindrance
By Tania Murray Li and Pujo Semedi
Indonesia’s independent oil palm farmers face myriad challenges, Reforms are needed so they can benefit from this profitable crop.
Indonesia Relaxes Local Content Rules to Spur Green Energy Investments
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's local content requirements are one reason for the slow progress of the $20 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership.
What’s Next for Thailand’s Disbanded Move Forward Party?
By Sebastian Strangio
The ex-party's leaders plan to reassemble under a new banner, but in the face of conservative opposition, their victory is far from inevitable.
US, Australia, Canada, Philippines Stage Naval and Air Force Maneuvers in Disputed South China Sea
By Jim Gomez
The Philippine military said three Chinese navy ships “tailed” the four-nation maneuvers off the western coast of the Philippines.
Indonesia Faces Border Test as Local Election Season Approaches
By Curie Maharani and Andi Raihanah Ashar
As terrorist releases and deportations ramp up, Indonesia border forces face a tough challenge keeping the country safe amid substandard infrastructure.
Thailand’s Constitutional Court Dissolves Progressive Move Forward Party
By Associated Press
The ruling is part of a long war of attrition against the progressive opposition by conservative forces trying to maintain their grip on power.
Meta Apologizes to Malaysia for Deletion of PM’s Posts on Hamas Assassination
By Sebastian Strangio
Kuala Lumpur has accused tech giants of censoring pro-Palestinian opinion since the beginning of the Gaza war on October 7.
Why Japanese Investment in Southeast Asian LNG is Surging
By James Guild
As the use of liquefied natural gas in Japan has declined, the country's major gas players have pivoted toward investments in other markets.
The Philippine Economy: Glass Half Empty or Glass Half Full?
By Jesus Felipe and Susan Kurdli
Recently announced growth figures look impressive, but they conceal the structural issues holding back the Philippine economy.