Policy areas
Bangladesh Confronts Growing Militancy Threat
A recent UN report has raised concerns about al-Qaida's efforts to establish cells in Bangladesh, sparking a media frenzy and increased police vigilance.
Policy areas
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Policy areas
South Korea's Nuclear Dilemma
South Korea faces a growing nuclear threat from North Korea and a decreasing reliability of the United States as a security guarantor, leading to a debate on acquiring nuclear weapons.
Policy areas
Cambodia's Security State: From Scam Empire to Authoritarian Control
Cambodia's ruling families have leveraged a crackdown on online scams to boost their military might, seize billions of dollars' worth of real estate, and consolidate authoritarian control.
Policy areas
Why Kim Jong Un Might Seek Another Summit with Trump
Despite North Korea's strengthened position, Kim Jong Un may have strategic reasons to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump again, including nuclear recognition, security reductions, and diplomatic leverage.
Policy areas
Kyrgyzstan Shuts Down More Firms Amid Sanctions Compliance Push
Kyrgyzstan has ordered the liquidation of 19 additional companies as part of its efforts to address Western concerns over sanctions evasion linked to Russia. The move follows EU pressure and earlier actions, including the closure of 50 firms and banking restrictions on over 130 companies.
Policy areas
Indonesia’s Transgender Community Faces Rising Repression Under New Security Policy
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s 2025 decree labeling LGBTQ+ culture as a national security threat has coincided with a surge in violent attacks against transgender women. Activists warn of worsening conditions, citing legal discrimination, shrinking civil spaces, and state-driven moral panic. Grassroots efforts, including digital advocacy and mutual aid, are emerging as key responses amid funding cuts and growing vigilante violence.
Policy areas
Thailand Denies Reports of Using Security Cooperation as Tariff Leverage in US Trade Talks
Thailand's government has denied reports that it plans to use military and security cooperation as leverage in its ongoing trade negotiations with the United States.
Policy areas
Vietnam and Australia Strengthen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The recent visit of Vietnamese President To Lam to Australia has resulted in the signing of three joint statements, marking a significant milestone in the Vietnam-Australia relationship.
Policy areas
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye Forge Collective Defense Pact in Mecca
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye signed the Mecca Joint Deterrence Agreement to enhance collective security against aggression, raising questions about its implications for India. The pact reflects regional shifts away from U.S. reliance and strengthens existing defense ties, though its immediate impact on India remains uncertain.