Caught between its growing energy needs and Laos’ controversial plans for more hydropower dams along the Mekong River, Vietnam has taken stakes in the projects to influence their development and minimise their environmental impact.
Author Archives: blackbox
Thailand’s New Security Plan Highlights Threats to the Throne
Years of political turmoil and ingrained problems such as inequality, corruption and and inefficient administration have led to declining faith in the monarchy. This has widened political divisions in Thailand – an issue so serious that it has become the focus of Thailand’s latest security plan.
Myanmar at the ICJ: Intent and Implications
Aung San Suu Kyi’s decision to represent Myanmar herself to defend against the genocide charges in the ICJ has sent a message that she is taking responsibility as the country’s leader. This may translate into more votes for her party in the 2020 elections.
What India’s Withdrawal from RCEP Means for ASEAN, India and the Indo-Pacific Concept
India’s surprise withdrawal from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership has diminished the country’s strategic weight and relevance. The withdrawal consitutes a major setback to the Indo-Pacific concept and has caused ASEAN to lose a counterweight to aspiring powers with hegemonic ambitions.
Anand Panyarachun and Royal Intervention in Thai Politics
Unlike most constitutional monarchies that stay above the political fray, the late King Bhumibol often sent his men to rescue Thailand from crises – such as the appointment of Anand Panyarachun as Prime Minister after the 1992 protests. However, these royal interventions were not always effective, and had in fact eroded the monarchy’s popular legitimacy.
US Downgrading of Summit Representations Sets Worrying Precedent for ASEAN
The appointment of National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien as the United States’ Special Envoy to the East Asia Summit should have been seen as a sign of encouragement due to his close connection to the President. But it may also be perceived as a snub as he will be the first US delegate who is deemed to be not senior enough in the pecking order.
In Thailand, High-Speed Train, Low Speed Negotiations
After months of drawn-out and intense negotiations, the contract for the high-speed train project was finally signed to much fanfare and relief. With the three-airport high speed train project going forward, Thailand’s ambitious Eastern Economic Corridor project is one step closer to reality.
Vietnam’s Infrastructure Development Dilemma: The China Factor
Hampered by a lack of capital funding, Vietnam is faced with the dilemma of balancing the country’s infrastructure development needs with the economic and security concerns of accepting loans and investments from China.
All Eyes on the Thai Parliamentary Debate: A Road to Nowhere
The issue of why Prime Minister Prayut did not recite the complete oath during his swearing-in ceremony will be the focus of the upcoming parliamentary debate. Given that the Thai people care little about the issue, the debate could backfire on the opposition.
Anwar’s “Needs-Based Affirmative Action” Has Noble Intentions but Flawed Perspectives
The system-wide change to needs-based policies proposed by Anwar is lacking in details and rooted in nebulous rhetoric, making them likely to fail. Reforms should be pursued sector by sector, and thought through systematically in order to succeed.