In seeking to shape the public information space, some governments have resorted to digital repression. But these instruments come with the danger of overreach.
Author Archives: chahaewon
Amid the Uncertainty of US Tariffs, Asian Exporters Are Forging Ahead
Amid the gloom brought about by the US’ reciprocal tariffs, there appears to be a glimmer of hope for Asian exporters.
Indonesia: The Possible Perils of Naming Suharto a ‘National Hero’
Indonesian President Prabowo is choosing family loyalties over the country’s unity by anointing his former father-in-law as a national hero. This is likely to spur protests on the streets.
Unfinished Business: Why Thailand’s Tariff Talks Are a Diplomatic Test
The Thai government is focused on dealing with the repercussions of the US tariffs on the country. It needs to craft a broader foreign policy narrative.
Towards a Robust Philippines-Canada Security Partnership in the Indo-Pacific
The Philippines and Canada have deepened their strategic partnership, but there is still some way to go before the relationship approaches levels that Manila enjoys with other regional partners.
Millets: A Potential Crop for Myanmar’s Food-Resilient Future
As Myanmar continues to face moderate hunger level and high rates of malnutrition, the cultivation of millet might go a long way in combating such problems.
Recalibrating Southeast Asia’s Climate and Energy Strategies Amid US Policy Shifts
The US government has withdrawn globally from climate and clean energy engagement, undermining prospects for clean energy and climate collaboration with Southeast Asia. On the flipside, China’s historic climate-related finance in the region has far outpaced that of the US, particularly in infrastructure-heavy projects. While the loss of US climate finance may not be detrimental in the near-term, it does undermine the region’s support of environmental governance, and civil society and institutional capacity to pursue its climate efforts.
Malaysia as a “Second Palestine”: Dangerous Reframing of Siege Mentality
Parti Islam SeMalaysia has sought to frame Malay-Muslims in Malaysia as being under “siege” from non-Malay pendatang (immigrants), like the Palestinians under Israeli occupation. This is a dangerous form of false equivalence.
Vietnam’s Memory Diplomacy: Curating the Past for an Uncertain Future
Vietnam has stepped up efforts to broaden and deepen memory alliances, enabling its multidirectional foreign policy amid intensifying geopolitical tensions and competing blocs.
Abhisit’s Clean Politics Faces Formidable Odds in Thailand’s Cut-Throat Political Arena
Former PM Abhisit’s “clean politics” stance may complicate his Democrat Party’s ability to recruit experienced candidates for the upcoming Thai election and prospects of joining a coalition government.