Southeast Asia

A crackdown on bars in northern Laos reveals deeper problems with tourism in this small, landlocked country.

Female empowerment must be a top priority as Burma moves towards true democracy.

Surveillance cameras at internet cafés, harsh accountability standards for webmasters and the specter of self-censorship have many questioning the future of Internet freedom.

Will 140,000 refugees in Thailand seeking safety from the world’s longest-running civil war ever be able to go home?

Although some protests have occurred, reactions to the “Innocence of Muslims” in SE. Asia has been restrained compared to the Middle East.

As its rise in the Global Competitiveness Report shows, the economic conditions are improving. Still, many challenges remain.

Last year, Thailand suffered historic floods. Forecasts suggest parts of the capital could be underwater by 2030. Is the country prepared?

While many have put their faith in a Code of Conduct some wonder if China is stalling for time. A real solution may take years, if ever.

Where banking infrastructure is limited in parts of Asia, mobile money could provide a solution. Emulating Kenya’s successful model could speed its adoption.

Will currency reform bring Burma one step closer to creating a modern, stable economy?

From lax safety standards, ineffective police, and drunk driving, operating a vehicle on the streets of Vietnam is a hazardous enterprise. People are now taking matters into their own hands.

The United States must not take direct sides – and instead encourage peaceful negotiation – lest it make matters worse.