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Towards genuinely localised humanitarian action

Despite consensus that local organisations make aid and development more responsive and effective, implementation lags.

The survival of Myanmar’s democracy demands institutional forbearance

Persistent adherence to the written rules makes Mynamar's vulnerable to authoritarian tendencies and threatens a fragile democracy.

Salvation from Aceh fishermen breaks the silences of the refugee regime

Asylum seekers' silence, which the regime cannot recognise as an expression of vulnerability, is reason enough for Acehnese fishermen to deliver protection.

Federal-state friction amid Malaysia’s dual political and pandemic plight

The COVID-19 crisis tested the boundaries of federal-state relations when decisions from the centre were not received well by state governments.

Moral economies: the politics of donation in Thailand under COVID-19

During the pandemic, “immodest” or ungrateful receiving by the poor has been strongly denounced both by the state and middle-class donors.

ASEAN and Australia: a new rhythm

After COVID-19, Australia will want to step up in the region...especially where the lessons and relevant technology can be generously shared.

What happens when Islamists win power locally in Indonesia?

Does Islamist rule in lower branches of government affect relations between religious groups?

Rupture—hydropower dams in Cambodia as “engines of extraction”

Hydropower dams in Cambodia generate extensive processes of commodification and extraction, feeding the country’s vast shadow economy.

Post GE2020, there has never been a greater need for freedom of information

GE2020 results suggests a greater focus on the details of policy making rather than the broad strokes of policy proposals, making freedom of information increasingly relevant.

China won’t end Myanmar’s conflict with the United Wa State Army

China will continue supporting Ethnic Armed Organisations with cultural and economic ties to China.

Thailand’s King Vajiralongkorn: turning back time

The king is reviving the life of his absolutist forebears while trying to bring the military under control.