The United States’ growing emphasis on fortifying the second island chain in the Indo-Pacific has sparked concerns about potential vulnerabilities in the first chain, prompting a reevaluation of regional defense strategies and alliances. Key takeaways: The US pivot towards the second island chain reflects its broader strategic recalibration in the Indo-Pacific in response to China’s… Continue reading US shifts priority to Indo-Pacific’s “second island chain”—what does it mean for Taiwan?
Indonesia’s recent strategic manoeuvres reflect a nuanced foreign policy that extends beyond an alignment with China. However, under new geopolitical dynamics, Indonesia might be hard-pressed to maintain its non-aligned policy. Key takeaways: Despite being touted as Indonesia’s embodiment of a ‘Global South’ orientation and “Free and Active” foreign policy, Jakarta must remain cognizant of the… Continue reading Explaining Indonesia’s ‘multi-alignment’ policy under Prabowo
The US reopening of a cultural center in Myanmar’s second-largest city signals Washington’s bid to counter China’s influence through soft power diplomacy. Key takeaways: The US reopening of the Jefferson Center in Mandalay demonstrates its strategic adjustment to rebuild influence in Myanmar through informal channels while maintaining sanctions. The choice of Mandalay, where Chinese influence… Continue reading What the reopening of an American Cultural Center tells us about US Myanmar Policy
Key takeaways: Gender inequalities exacerbate security challenges. The EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, inherently a security strategy, necessitates a central role for Women, Peace, and Security (WPS). While comprehensive and forward-looking, the EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy falls short of prioritizing WPS which limits its ability to achieve its security objectives. Integrating WPS principles is crucial for the EU… Continue reading Gendering security: rethinking the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy through women, peace, and security
Key takeaways: With a new Republican administration coming to power in the US, Southeast Asian countries seem to have low expectations from Washington and will have to prepare for weaker American engagement in the region. Considering its stewardship of key waterways, Indonesia should expand its coast guard training beyond its current cooperation with the US… Continue reading Indonesia needs to look beyond the US in boosting its coast guard
