Posts From Laura Southgate
Business as usual after Vietnam’s 12th Party Congress
In January, Vietnam’s 12th Party Congress was held amid rumours of a power struggle for the country’s top political post of General Secretary. Despite this uncertainty, the status quo ultimately
The economic impact of climate change in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is expected to face the worst effects of global warming in the next 30 to 50 years. This will have a significant impact on regional economies and livelihoods.
India’s enhanced engagement with Southeast Asia
India’s strategic engagement with Southeast Asia has gathered momentum over the past two decades. Although still largely driven by trade and economics, regional stability and security are increasingly part of India’s
Political violence threatens economic stability in Cambodia
The United Nations has called for a thorough and independent inquiry into recent instances of violence against political opposition leaders in Cambodia. As political tensions rise, political and social instability
Evidence of a Rohingya genocide in Myanmar
The United Nations has been called upon to investigate recent claims that Myanmar has committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims. What are the expected repercussions if the allegations are found to
Timor-Leste bids for ASEAN membership
As Timor-Leste manoeuvres obstacles to ASEAN membership, we consider what the expected benefits of being ASEAN’s newest member will be, and whether these may come with potential costs. Timor-Leste, the
Religious freedom under threat in Vietnam
This month, Vietnam’s National Assembly will debate the Law on Belief and Religion. Religious leaders have voiced their concerns that this law will restrict religious freedom. Vietnam must tackle human
Southeast Asia at forefront of global infrastructure boom
Southeast Asia regional markets are at the forefront the global construction boom, and will need to do everything they can to enable investment. Recognizing the importance of infrastructure spending on
Indonesia’s haze crisis fuels Southeast Asian quarrel
Southeast Asian countries have called on the Indonesian government to do more to stop the haze crisis. This has strained relationships, in addition to having a significant impact on regional
Southeast Asia’s high speed rail network
A number of Southeast Asian countries are seeking to update their rail networks to high-speed lines. This is expected to significantly benefit state and regional economies. For some states, however,
