A range of data suggests Thailand’s economy has not reached maximal employment. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has some good grounds to inject economic stimulus—but should reconsider the policy’s design.
Author Archives: blackbox
The Thai Senate: A Crisis of Representation in the Making
The convoluted selection process and the likelihood of self- or vested interests overshadowing public ones in Thailand’s senatorial race mean that the odds of a truly representative body are slim.
Vietnam Must Not Let Political Rumours Online Undermine Its Anti-Corruption Campaign
Although it is not easy to pinpoint the leaker of each rumour, the disseminators of such leaks are famous, well-connected social media influencers.
Assessing Prabowo-Gibran’s Victory: An Exit-Poll Aftermath Analysis of the 2024 Presidential Election
The victory of the Prabowo-Gibran team in Indonesia’s 2024 presidential elections was due to Jokowi’s high approval rating and support from young voters. The Bansos social assistance scheme also maintained support for Jokowi which in turn boosted support for Prabowo-Gibran indirectly.
Why the Russia-Ukraine War Continues to Fret Southeast Asia
Despite the Russia-Ukraine war’s geographical distance from Southeast Asia, the conflict continues to be a major concern for the region’s elite, especially in Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
China’s Supposed “Change” in Policy Towards Chinese Overseas: Nothing to See Here
Recent remarks by a senior Chinese leader about Beijing’s position towards foreign nationals of Chinese descent (huaren) appears to show some change in official policy. But Beijing has largely taken a consistent position.
Thailand’s Minimum Wage Conundrum: Populist Promise or Productive Policy?
At the May 2023 election, Prime Minister Sretta Thavisin’s Pheu Thai Party promised to double Thailand’s minimum wage. His administration should focus on raising labour productivity rather than pursuing short-term populist policies.
The Risks and Perceived Rewards of Rising Revivalist Populism in Malaysia
The unhelpful antics of a particular populist politician in Malaysia reflect the dangers of playing up differences when a country needs unity.
Politics of Memory in Vietnam: A War Fought Twice
Hanoi’s silence over a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by a Vietnamese-American author speaks volumes about the country’s treatment of its wartime history.
The Ambiguous Response of Indonesian Muslims to Iran’s Attack on Israel
Iran’s missile and drone attack against Israel in retaliation against the 1 April air strike on an Iranian consulate building in Damascus has drawn mixed reactions among Indonesia’s Muslim leaders. The theological divide, however, will limit Indonesian solidarity with Iran.