Region
Southeast Asia
China’s COVID-19 Diplomacy Backfires in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
A music video ode to “friendly neighbors across the sea” can’t patch over growing discontent with China in the Philippines.
China’s Control of the Mekong
By Philip Citowicki
Whether through its own dams or the financing and construction of dams in other countries, China is largely in the driver’s seat when it comes to the Mekong.
Making Sense of Vietnam’s Suspected COVID–19 Cyber Espionage on China
By Ankit Panda
How did Vietnamese state-backed hackers seek COVID–19 intelligence from Chinese authorities?
Ship Tied to Australia Virus Deaths Sails Into Manila Bay
By Associated Press
The Ruby Princess returned to the Philippines to bring crew members home.
Thai Elephants, Out of Work Due to Coronavirus, Trudge Home
By Associated Press
An estimated 2,000 tame elephants are at risk of starvation because their owners are unable to feed them.
Fears of Press Freedom Crackdown After Philippines Orders Largest Broadcaster Off Air
By Nick Aspinwall
ABS-CBN, which had repeatedly drawn the ire of Rodrigo Duterte, was forced to stop broadcasting on Tuesday, leading to allegations of a political hit job.
Outgoing UN Envoy Hopes Myanmar’s Suu Kyi Can Change
By Luke Hunt
Explosions heard in Rakhine villages as military searches door-to-door.
Will Vietnam Lease Cam Ranh Bay to the United States?
By Carl Thayer
Is there any meat to the rumors that Vietnam would lease Cam Ranh Bay to the United States?
Myanmar’s 2020 Elections: What Does the Future Hold?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
If the polls move forward despite the pandemic, it will be a landmark development for Myanmar.
Philippines Orders Leading TV Network To Shut Down
By Associated Press
ABS-CBN, often critical of President Duterte, was ordered to stop operating after its 25-year congressional franchise ended Monday.
Is Indonesia Facing a Looming Food Crisis?
By Marcus Tantau
Indonesia’s food security has become a focal point as the impact of COVID-19 reverberates across the archipelago.
Reviewing Vietnam’s ‘Struggle’ Options in the South China Sea
By Derek Grossman
What are Hanoi’s options to push back on Beijing?