Geopolitics

Southeast Asia’s deepening ties with BRICS signal a move to diversify partnerships and amplify their voice in global governance. With Indonesia joining it and Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam showing interest, leaders see BRICS as a platform for multilateralism, South-South cooperation, and economic reform – rather than a turn against the West.

ASEAN is navigating turbulent waters. As US-China tensions escalate and Trump's return brings a new wave of tariffs, Southeast Asia’s hard-won gains are under threat. Once a quiet beneficiary of trade diversion, ASEAN now faces shrinking space for neutrality. ASEAN needs to hunker down and address its chronic weaknesses – as well as look beyond the big powers.

The Philippine midterm elections may serve as a tie-breaker between the Marcos and Duterte dynasties. The 12 elected senators will determine Sara Duterte’s fate – whether it ends her political career or signals a Duterte comeback.