Archives

Between inequality and identity in Jakarta polls

Ian Wilson is right that binary 'diversity vs. sectarian populism' narratives are unhelpful. But religious divides still matter in the politics of inequality.

‘Bottom up’ campaigning failed Ahok, and it might fail Jokowi.

Hailed as a game changer in the 2012 Jakarta polls, volunteer and social media campaigns are playing an increasingly ambiguous role in Indonesian politics.

Oorlog (voorkeur) Beeldbank WO2 - NIOD 88146 - collectie Bob van Dijk

Digging up the Dutch colonial past

An official Dutch inquiry will confront the bloody end of the country's colonial rule in the Indies. It will also open old wounds in Indonesia.

A science circus for Southeast Asia

How a revolutionary approach is addressing major gaps in STEM education.

Via flickr user Christopher Michel, used under Creative Commons licence.

Interpreting communal violence in Myanmar

On the nature of communal violence in Myanmar, and divergent Burmese and international interpretations of its causes.

Ahok’s absurd trial won’t satisfy anybody

Prosecutors' request for a suspended sentence for Ahok underscores what a political farce the legal process has been.

Via Flickr user Ronn Aldaman, used under Creative Commons licence.

Last orders in Bangkok

The creativity, informality, and disorderliness of Bangkok's street vendors couldn't survive the junta's impulses for social control.

Film review: By The Time It Gets Dark/ดาวคะนอง

Anocha Suwichakornpong's new film haunts long after the credits are over.

Jakarta: inequality and the poverty of elite pluralism

Framing Jakarta's election as a referendum on Indonesian pluralism is a way to avoid addressing inequalities of political and economic power.

Kingdom of fear (and favour)

Pavin Chachavalpongpun: Vajiralongkorn has been ruthless in consolidating his position within Thailand's ruling elite.

New editor for New Mandala

New Mandala founder Nicholas Farrelly announces Liam Gammon's new role

Slashing livelihoods

How poor policy understanding of slash and burn farming has impacted communities.