
The political and economic transformation underway in Myanmar is an important strategic opportunity for the United States and Japan, given the country’s potential impact on the establishment of a stable and prosperous order in Asia based on democratic values and market-based economic policies.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) occupies a central position in Southeast Asia’s institutional architecture. But recent challenges have cast doubt on ASEAN’s ability to provide a common strategic vision for its ten members.

Although the shutdown in Bangkok currently commands center stage, Thailand has been plagued with two political crises over the past 80 years or more.

A U.S. withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership would not only sink the ambitious free trade agreement, it could sink America’s reputation in the Asia-Pacific.

A trifecta of forces is currently driving the emerging-market crisis and it is too soon to tell if the contagion in emerging markets will spread to their richer counterparts.

The difficulties of emerging nations are unlikely to become so severe as to endanger the global recovery.

The illicit capture of revenues from extractive industries continues to have a significant impact in countries around the world, including as a driver of international security.

While Myanmar’s democratic reforms may appear to signal a move toward the West, their success will in fact depend on Chinese economic engagement—a point that democracy activists should not overlook.

Indonesia’s future depends on a strong Southeast Asia. The country’s next leader must make strategic choices that help prepare the region for the challenges it will face.

Indonesia—the world’s most populous Muslim nation and its third largest democracy—will head to the polls this year to elect national and local legislatures as well as a new president.