Region
Southeast Asia
Japan and the Philippines Sign Defense Pact in the Face of Shared Alarm Over China
By Jim Gomez and Haruka Nuga
The Reciprocal Access Agreement allows Filipino and Japanese forces to enter the other’s territory for joint drills.
The Problem With POGOs
By Felix Iglesias
An ongoing investigation into Alice Guo, the mayor of a small city in Luzon, has prompted increased scrutiny of online gambling operations – and their possible links to Chinese espionage.
Malaysia Appoints New Negotiator for Southern Thailand Peace Talks
By Sebastian Strangio
The change comes amid an uptick in violent attacks in the Deep South, including the killing of a prominent human rights defender.
Myanmar Junta’s No. 2 Visits China Amid ‘Intense’ Fighting
By Sebastian Strangio
Vice-Senior Gen. Soe Win's visit comes shortly after the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armed groups resumed their offensive in Shan State.
Thailand’s Strange and Undemocratic Democracy
By Voranai Vanijaka
The kingdom’s senatorial selection is a reminder that although Thailand is no longer under a dictatorship, the dictator’s legacy continues to rule.
Myanmar’s Civil War: A View from Washington
By Luke Hunt
Michael Martin of CSIS discusses the progress of the conflict, and the possible impact of the U.S. presidential election.
China’s BYD Opens EV Factory in Thailand, Expanding Regional Presence
By Sebastian Strangio
The factory is the Chinese automaker's first in Southeast Asia, where it already dominates the fast-growing market for electric vehicles.
Philippine Military Demands $1M in Reparations From China After Maritime Clash
By Sebastian Strangio
The two sides pledged this week to de-escalate the situation after a June 17 clash at a disputed shoal in the Spratly Islands.
Malaysian Court Slaps Down Former PM Najib’s House Arrest Bid
By Sebastian Strangio
The former leader's legal team claim that the former king issued an order allowing him to finish his sentence “under condition of home arrest.”
Fighting Erupts in Myanmar’s Shan State as Armed Groups Resume Offensive
By Sebastian Strangio
The Three Brotherhood Alliance has launched the second phase of its Operation 1027 offensive, attacking regime positions across northern Shan.
Why Indonesia’s State-Owned Railway Company Is Taking On Debt
By James Guild
A costly China-backed high-speed rail project has increased scrutiny of Kereta Api Indonesia's finances.
Another Trade War? Escalating Friction in Indonesia-EU Relations
By Michio Ueda
The discord between Indonesia and the EU over nickel and deforestation issues reflect broader challenges facing the global order.