The Power of Timely Intervention
Michael S Lund, Preventing Violent Conflicts: A Strategy for Preventive Diplomacy, USIP Press, 1996
ASEAN Vision: Peace or Conflict?
Kyi Kyi Seinn discusses ASEAN Vision 2020, and looks beneath the rhetoric of peace and harmony to reveal the tensions of economic exploitation and international migration. She argues that the significant power imbalances between the original ASEAN 6 countries and the newer, less developed member states (Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines) have not been adequately addressed in the plans of economic cooperation.
Key words: regional integration, economic exploitation, migration, displacement, ASEAN Vision 2020, CLMV countries, AFTA, CEPT, ASC, AEC
Doublethink and Dictatorship: The Legitimacy of the State in Burma/Myanmar
The immesurable tragedy that unfolded in Myanmar last month is a sobering reminder of the extent to which poor governance can multiply human suffering in the aftermath of a natural disaster. The Burmese military government’s delay of humanitarian assistance and hostile attitude towards the international community undoubtedly increased the death toll of the cyclone, and stands out as another black mark on the regime’s claims to legitimacy. As Hamish Low describes, even before their deadly mismanagement of the cyclone, the Burmese Junta’s illegitimacy was patently clear.
Land of the Golden Pagodas: Checking in on Myanmar’s Peace Process
Monica Paniagua reports on her recent trip to Myanmar to support the ongoing peace process. In this article, she also reflects on the still-troubling human rights situation in the country and the recent economic and political changes that continue to be a source of cautious optimism.