Dec 01, 2023

The ongoing fighting between Israel and Palestine has led to soaring tensions in the Middle East, with additional backlash against America’s role in backing Israel’s actions. China seems poised to take this opportunity to enhance its own interests among regional powers.

Oct 20, 2023

Indonesia is one of the world’s most populous nations, and is rising in regional and international influence. Taking charge as ASEAN chairman amid a contentious time among member states is Indonesia’s chance to prove its ability to lead Southeast Asia and the world in the coming decades.

Sep 22, 2023

Tensions are continuing to escalate in the South China Sea, specifically with the Second Thomas Shoal dispute between the Philippines and China. And in response to China's actions, the Philippines' are shifting towards stronger defense ties with the U.S., including potential joint patrols and resupply missions. If careful diplomacy is not employed, there could be a potential crisis and risk of armed clashes in the South China Sea.

Aug 18, 2023

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made a surprise visit to Beijing last month, taking unusually formal visits with government officials as a private citizen. This reveals a schism among the Filipino ruling elite, diverging on how much the Southeast Asian nation should associate with China.

Jul 21, 2023

Renewed talks between the U.S. and China have led to a flurry of speculation on what the near future holds, but perhaps no one is watching as closely as China’s neighbors who would prefer de-escalated tensions sooner than later, especially if it means avoiding crossfire between the two rivals.

Jun 29, 2023

Amid rising tensions between the United States and China in Asian waters, ASEAN nations, led by Indonesia, are intensifying their efforts to manage and diffuse the military tensions. Initiatives such as the Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) and joint naval drills aim to engage both superpowers and promote dialogue. ASEAN states are strengthening their defensive positions while pursuing diplomatic engagement to ensure regional stability.

Jun 09, 2023

After years of distrust, Vietnam and the Philippines may finally have the opportunity to establish a truly consequential strategic partnership amid rising geopolitical uncertainty in the South China Sea.

May 16, 2023

The U.S. and the Philippines held their first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington, D.C. in seven years, with the aim to strengthen strategic cooperation and mark a new era of partnership. Discussions included the ongoing Taiwan crisis and the Philippines' announcement of opening four additional bases to U.S. troops under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has assured that these bases will not be used for offensive purposes in the event of a Sino-American conflict over Taiwan, despite concerns of dependence and geopolitical provocation.

Apr 04, 2023

The U.S. and China’s growing rivalry was bound to affect global relationships on multiple levels. Already having established the AUKUS program, the U.S. is also pursuing an adjacent Japan-Philippine-U.S. alliance which will add another security barrier in the Pacific, a difficult fence to raise in a region where many countries rely heavily on China for trade.

Mar 24, 2023

As the Philippines shifts its foreign policy strategy, it has become a pivotal player in both the Indo-Pacific and the West. While India has diverged from its Western partners, the Philippines is moving in the opposite direction, not taking “sides” by building stronger relations with other countries and seeking a strong positioning and cooperation with key nations.