Human Security Centre Human Rights and International Security Research

In the years since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, pursuing Gray Zone activities has lost its luster in the US. However, examining assistance to the Mujahedeen in Afghanistan during the 1980s can provide lessons for Washington policymakers as they confront contemporary challenges.

Over the past fifty years, the United States has increasingly focused on missile defense to deter threats against its strategic interests and those of its partners. Unfortunately, the acquisition and planning emphasis on defensive systems has resulted in a loss of attention to offensive capabilities.

For decades, Washington has made Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons program the focus of its attention. But broadening the focus of sanctions to include humanitarian abuses is appropriate given the horrendous conditions in North Korea.

As the Obama Administration’s time in office came to a close, there is prudence in assessing the “Pivot to Asia.”

The recent agreement between Japan and South Korea to improve sharing of intelligence information marks an inflection point in bilateral relations. Brought together by Pyongyang’s belligerence, Seoul and Tokyo have found common ground and an impetus for more significant cooperation.

By gaining separation today, the US will be in a better position to negotiate with the Philippines from a position of strength tomorrow.

jn Japan's options going forward in dealing with belligerent neighbour North Korea.

North Korea’s most recent missile test, which involved the firing of a submarine-launched ballistic missile, elevates the level of instability in Northeast Asia at a time when the regional political climate is already fragile

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a cosmopolitan group drawing from diverse ethnic, historical, and political backgrounds. If there is one thing that unites all ten states, it is that change is occurring at a lightning-fast pace.

The challenge for the US and its partners in the region is appreciating China’s complex history and the difficulties the CCP now finds itself in while also trying to develop negotiating space.