Interviews‘Beijing’s attempts at intimidation are not working’ East Asia expert Stephan Thome on the outcome of the presidential election in Taiwan, the country’s expectations of the West and China’s influence
Democracy and societyFrom Sri Lanka to South Korea, Asia elects new leaders in 2024 A momentous election year lies ahead for Asia — expected to shape the future of the rules-based international order, economic prosperity and security By Mirco Günther
Foreign and security policyCaught in the crossfire Following the many Thai victims of the 7 October Hamas attack, the government in Bangkok is facing increased scrutiny and pressure from its citizens By Thitinan Pongsudhirak
Economy and ecologyA healthier China-EU relationship The EU is probing China’s E-car subsidies, underscoring the need to grasp current policy debates around de-risking and explore alternative approaches By Maximilian Mayer, Ping Su
Foreign and security policyGuardians of the international order Japan has been criticised for its cautious response to the war in the Middle East. But Tokyo is simply trying to preserve the rules-based world order By David M. Malitz
Foreign and security policyThe perfect scapegoat Pakistan wants to deport 1.7 million Afghans. Tense relations between Pakistan and the Taliban regime are likely to play a role By Niels Hegewisch, Hamayoun Khan
Foreign and security policyIndia’s surprising change of course While many countries of the Global South stand by the Palestinians, India is on Israel’s side. Why? By Herbert Wulf
Foreign and security policyThe West should engage more in the South Caucasus As Azerbaijan consolidates its control over Nagorno-Karabakh, its growing dependence on Russia raises concerns about regional stability By Rovshan Mammadli
Foreign and security policyThe Central Asian states are stepping up their game Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan show new self-confidence in world politics — and attract the interest of other powers By Alexandra Sitenko
Foreign and security policyA pact of pariahs? Russia needs munitions, North Korea modern military technology. Could closer cooperation be a win–win situation for both? By Herbert Wulf