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The Debate

The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.

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How a CCP Propaganda Campaign Targeted the Dalai Lama
May 20, 2023

How a CCP Propaganda Campaign Targeted the Dalai Lama

By Magnus Fiskesjö
The latest smear campaign succeeded beyond China’s wildest dreams by playing into Western ignorance about Tibetan culture – and self-righteous “cancel culture” on social media.
The Political Hazards of Economic Decoupling From China
May 19, 2023

The Political Hazards of Economic Decoupling From China

By Max Abbott
Southeast Asian nations are promising candidates for firms seeking to relocate manufacturing operations from China, but investors need to be prepared for the risks.

ASEAN Leaders Tackle Human Trafficking at Latest Summit
May 18, 2023

ASEAN Leaders Tackle Human Trafficking at Latest Summit

By Kuldeep Singh Chauhan
In recent years, the abuse of technology has increasingly facilitated this heinous crime, making it imperative for ASEAN nations to join forces and develop effective measures to combat it.

Global Plastics Treaty Will Test Japan’s Clean Image 
May 17, 2023

Global Plastics Treaty Will Test Japan’s Clean Image 

By Hirotaka Koike
As one of the negotiators representing the Asia-Pacific, Japan's reluctance to embrace agreed global rules capping plastics use is concerning.

Supporting Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Membership Should Be a Priority for Its Friends
May 17, 2023

Supporting Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Membership Should Be a Priority for Its Friends

By Melissa Conley Tyler and Parker Novak
Other countries can support Timor-Leste in the bureaucratic development needed to attend and contribute meaningfully to ASEAN’s numerous annual meetings.
Race to Zero in Asia and the Pacific: Our Hopes in the Climate Fight
May 12, 2023

Race to Zero in Asia and the Pacific: Our Hopes in the Climate Fight

By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana
39 countries have committed to carbon neutrality and net zero between 2050 and 2060. This momentum needs to accelerate like a bullet train.

Thai Elections Won’t Restore the Rule of Law
May 12, 2023

Thai Elections Won’t Restore the Rule of Law

By Sirikan Charoensiri
A 15-year-old sits in detention for insulting the monarchy. With such cases in progress, the election this Sunday alone can’t be expected to put Thailand back on track.
Japan Welcomed This Ukrainian Refugee. Here’s What He Had to Say About the Process.
May 10, 2023

Japan Welcomed This Ukrainian Refugee. Here’s What He Had to Say About the Process.

By Emily Schroen
The experience of Oleksii Yashchyrynskyi reflects Tokyo's surprising willingness to open its arms to refugees from the Russia-Ukraine war.

Why NATO’s Planned Liaison Office in Japan Is a Bad Idea
May 09, 2023

Why NATO’s Planned Liaison Office in Japan Is a Bad Idea

By Kelly Grieco
Although Indo-Pacific countries are seemingly receptive to the idea, NATO’s greater involvement in the region may well do more harm than good to security and stability.

Manila’s Focus on External Defense Needs Peace in Mindanao
May 08, 2023

Manila’s Focus on External Defense Needs Peace in Mindanao

By Georgi Engelbrecht
Despite its increasing focus on external threats, the Philippine government can't afford to take the Bangsamoro peace process for granted.

Challenges Advancing Gender Equality in Myanmar’s Karenni State
May 05, 2023

Challenges Advancing Gender Equality in Myanmar’s Karenni State

By Maggi Quadrini and Anonymous
If Myanmar's revolution is to succeed, it must tackle the patriarchal structures that underpin the country's militarized political culture.
UK Foreign Minister’s China Speech Lacks Details on Rights
May 04, 2023

UK Foreign Minister’s China Speech Lacks Details on Rights

By Maya Wang
It is unclear whether the U.K. government is willing to translate its words about human rights into action and hold Chinese officials responsible for serious human rights violations. 

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