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Crises May Now Drive Japan’s Relations With China
Crises are not new to the Japan-China relationship, but their impact only grows.
China is Becoming a Military Power in Southeast Asia in More Ways than People Think
Bolstered by joint military exercises and deepening ties between defense leaders, China’s growing share of arms exports to Southeast Asia and South Asia has contributed significantly to its growing influence in the two regions.
The White House’s Trade Policy Alienates Australia and New Zealand
Beyond mere economics, U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policy is proving to have troubling effects on the United States’ strategic, defense, and geopolitical relationships with Australia and New Zealand.
As Indonesia’s Protests Roil On, Prabowo’s Crackdown Could Escalate Violence
Motivated by growing economic inequality and government corruption, Indonesians have been protesting across the country for weeks. Under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, harsh crackdowns could lead to more violent unrest.
Coup Coming? With Paetongtarn Shinawatra Removed From Office, Thailand Is in Chaos
The sudden ouster of the prime minister leaves few positive leadership options, and could push the armed forces toward intervention.
Why Thaksin Was Acquitted of Lese Majeste
In a decision that has bucked the trend of surefire convictions linked to the country's harsh lese majeste laws, a criminal court acquitted former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra of royal insult charges.
Trump’s Tariffs Could Decimate Asia’s Smallest Economies and Weaken U.S. Influence
In the shadow of Washington's trade war with Beijing, unchallenged U.S. tariff rates could have ruinous effects on the economies of Southeast Asia's poorest states.
Can Brunei Copy the Gulf States and Reform While It Still Has a Chance?
The oil-reliant sultanate of Brunei is looking to the modernization efforts of the Gulf to inspire its own economic transformation. But the country faces a unique set of challenges in adapting the model set out by states like Saudi Arabia.
Cancelling President Lai’s Transit Is a Mistake That Will Embolden China
The Trump administration’s cancellation of President Lai’s transit risks emboldening China.
What the Failed Recall in Taiwan Means for U.S.-Taiwan and Cross-Strait Relations
The failed recall campaign in Taiwan will likely prompt continued political gridlock, raising important questions for U.S.-Taiwan and cross-Strait relations.
Thai-Cambodian Border Clashes Help Revive Hun Sen’s Power
Despite ceding power to his son in 2023, Cambodia's former prime minister Hun Sen has continued to dominate the country's domestic and foreign policy. The most recent border conflict with Thailand has helped revive his power once again.
