Two sides of the social media coin
Where the Pakistan hybrid set-up’s near-total control of traditional media platforms has meant compliance and the dissemination of a view favourable to it, it has had to turn…
OPINION
Street art and the democratisation of urban spaces
In Bangladesh, recent issues regarding street art demonstrate how it can serve as a form of protest, challenge authority, and spark discourse.
Sustainable tourism: Between revenues and national heritage preservation
Countries are counting the costs of overtourism, such as environmental degradation, garbage crises, water shortages and irresponsible behaviors of tourists whose numbers have…
Populism and democracy: Lessons from the US and Indonesia
The narrative of victimhood and rebellion against elites mirrors trends in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, where populist rhetoric has significantly shaped political…
RCEP can release potential of region’s blue economy
Maritime transport accounted for more than 94 percent of China's foreign trade and over 60 percent of ASEAN's foreign trade, and 65 percent of China-ASEAN trade in 2023.
BNP’s show of force on Dhaka’s Airport Road and a political culture that refuses to change
The BNP, on Tuesday night, made a clear show of its lack of respect for the people whose support they hope will carry them into power, says the writer.
How Trump’s economic policies will impact South Asia
Washington's South Asia policy will align with its Indo-Pacific vision initially established during Trump 1.0. His foreign policy could significantly influence the region's…
A package of anti-torture measures at Thailand’s doorsteps
While Thailand has progressed much by passing its law against torture and enforced disappearances, the country still has a lot to do with regard to a raft of recommendations from…
‘Kisses democracy’ will prevail
Although Kisses democracy has strongly demonstrated its resilience to normal democracy in Korea for about a month, this does not necessarily mean that the prospects of Korea are…
The Pacific in 2025: Navigating the shared challenges
The region faces challenges of climate change, geostrategic tensions, political upheaval, disaster recovery and decolonization, plus a 50th birthday party.