The recent expansion of BRICS, which several ASEAN countries want to join, signals a potentially pivotal shift in Southeast Asia’s geopolitical landscape. Key takeaways: ASEAN is being negatively affected by BRICS’ accelerating expansion into the region. Six Southeast Asian states seek BRICS’ full membership status at a critical time when ASEAN’s relevance, legitimacy, and so-called… Continue reading ASEAN suffers collateral damage from BRICS expansion
Indonesia’s new president is predicted to employ an outward-looking, non-aligned foreign policy where defense partnerships are prioritized. Slovakia is becoming a promising partner for Jakarta in the EU, with potential cooperation beyond the defense sector. Key takeaways: Indonesia’s new leader, Prabowo Subianto, is projected to stress defense diplomacy in his foreign policy approach. Recent high-level… Continue reading Potential for a deeper partnership between Slovakia and Indonesia under new leadership in Jakarta
As authoritarianism rises, the EU and ASEAN face mounting challenges in maintaining unity and upholding fundamental values amidst internal discord and external pressures. Key takeaways: Hungary’s defiance of EU law, particularly in areas of human rights and democratic governance, has created significant tension within the EU, undermining its unity and forcing the bloc to consider… Continue reading EU and ASEAN must act to preserve unity amid authoritarian onslaughts
As Asia’s geopolitical and economic influence continues to grow, Central Europe must face the reality that distant conflicts in the Indo-Pacific could have direct consequences on its security and prosperity. From Russia’s partnerships with China and North Korea to growing tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, the implications for Europe are undeniable.… Continue reading Central Europe cannot ignore Indo-Pacific tensions
Myanmar faces a dual crisis of civil war and climate-related disasters, underscoring the urgent need for both governance reform and climate action to prevent further regional destabilization in Southeast Asia. Key takeaways: Myanmar’s civil war and frequent climate disasters have combined to create a severe humanitarian crisis, deepening the country’s fragility and leading to widespread… Continue reading Myanmar’s crisis: the fragility of governance and the urgency of climate action
