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Asia Unbound

CFR fellows and other experts assess the latest issues emerging in Asia today.

Latest Post

A member of the insurgent KNDF Karenni Nationalities Defence Force rescues civilians trapped amid airstrikes during a battle to take over Loikaw in Kayah State, Myanmar, on November 14, 2023.
A member of the insurgent KNDF Karenni Nationalities Defence Force rescues civilians trapped amid airstrikes during a battle to take over Loikaw in Kayah State, Myanmar, on November 14, 2023. Stringer/Reuters

The Myanmar Army Could Actually Collapse—But Are the United States and Other Powers Ready for Such a Scenario?

Myanmar's military has recently suffered a string of defeats—but the U.S. government seems unprepared to face the country's potential state collapse. Read More

Southeast Asia
What Southeast Asian States Want from APEC
The Biden administration will seek to gain support for its economic policy and deepen security ties with Southeast Asia, but U.S.-China tensions may hamper progress at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
Thailand
After a Chaotic Election, How Is Thailand’s New Government Functioning?
Thailand's new government, led by the Pheu Thai party, must rebuild the trust of voters.
Indo-Pacific
Assessing the Potential Tensions and Outcomes of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in San Francisco next month is unlikely to alter the United States' approach to regional economic integration and trade.
  • China
    The Passing of a Premier and China’s Future
    While few are likely to mourn one of China's most colorless leaders, his death could be used as a way to criticize his former boss, Xi Jinping. 
  • China
    Prized Panda Diplomats Return to Beijing
    The National Zoo’s giant pandas will return to China by mid-November.
  • China
    Beijing's Message to the National Women's Congress: Gender Equality Is Out, Family and Childbirth Are In
    Rhetoric used by Chinese Communist Party officials at this week's National Women's Congress may hint towards a return of traditional gender norms in China.
  • Southeast Asia
    Southeast Asia Becomes a Hotbed For Extraterritorial Renditions and Assassinations
    Prime Minister Trudeau’s accusation that the Indian government killed a Sikh leader in Canada highlights the growing prevalence of extraterritorial renditions in Southeast Asia.
  • China
    Responding to China and Russia’s Influence on the Militarization of Global Politics
    Large democracies must combat Russia and China's support for the re-militarization of politics around the world.
  • China
    China’s Belt and Road Initiative Enters Its Second Decade: Which Leaders Went to Beijing to Celebrate with Xi Jinping?
    High-level attendance at this year’s Belt and Road forum is down, but BRI still has support in the Global South and will be used by Beijing to strengthen the Global South as a counterweight to the U.S.-led international order.
  • Japan
    Doden Aiko: Answering a Journalist’s Calling
    Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) Special Affairs Commentator Doden Aiko offers her insights from working as a correspondent and field reporter around the world.