Laos and China's Belt and Road Initiative – Gains and Losses

The article analyzes the consequences of Laos' participation in the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative. The benefits acquired and possible losses are assessed. The construction of a railway in Laos, linking it to China, is the most successful Belt and Road project in Southeast Asia, which has a special place in China's strategic plans. The railway construction project is of great economic importance for Laos and in the future can stimulate its economic growth. At the same time, there is a risk of falling into debt dependence on China. The ability of Laos to meet its debt obligations will depend on the profitability of the project, which, however, raises many questions, since the project is more focused on the short-term interests of China than on the long-term interests of Laos. Whether Laos will be able to economically benefit from the construction of the railway remains questionable. But there is no doubt that China will benefit. China will not only strengthen economic presence in this country, relying on the support of the local elite, but also use Laos as a springboard to move deeper into Southeast Asia.

A Critique of the Concept of “Non-Western Political Process”

The article is devoted to criticism of the concept of the so-called “non-Western political process”. Author expresses the opinion that this concept, formulated back in the mid-50s of the 20th century, is outdated today. The fact is that after the active phase of the globalization process and huge changes in the political, economic and social structure of Eastern societies over the past 60 years, the differences between how politics is done in the West and the East have virtually disappeared. The article provides evidence that now we can see a certain universal mechanism of power, which is equally intensively used in both Western and Eastern societies and states.

Indonesia and a Marginality Trap

Indonesia has a huge population over 270 million people. The Republic of Indonesia is the largest Muslim state in the world. Its steady economic growth faces a deep challenge due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Indonesian education and medicine systems are insufficient whereas the country nowadays has no high-tech or knowledge-intensive technologies. Indonesia looks a bit marginal facing current challenges, especially in comparison with the developed countries. The poverty rate is high in Indonesia. The country also faces a rise of radical Muslim communities. The COVID-19 pandemic does help the Indonesian military to strengthen again. Many challenges — demographic, economic, social, political and cultural — imply that any Indonesian government has to maneuver between the Armed Forces, Muslim groups, and the poor.

International Scientific & Practical Conference “Russian Geographical Names on the Maps of the South Pacific”

The article overviews the reports presented at the International Scientific & Practical Conference “Russian Geographical Names on the Maps of the South Pacific” that took place on February 12, 2021 in the form of an online conference. The conference was organized by the Center of the South Pacific Studies of the Center of Southeast Asia, Australia and Oceania of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences; Committee for External Relations of the city of St. Petersburg; and Miklouho-Maclay Foundation. The conference was attended by the scientists and representatives of practical organizations from Russia and Australia.

India – ASEAN: cultural aspect of cooperation

The article is devoted to the analysis of the India`s modern foreign policy based on the "Look to the East" policy in terms of cultural diplomacy and cooperation with ASEAN countries. The authors examine the cultural bases and prerequisites for India's interaction with the countries of the group, in particular, cultural, historical and religious factors. India's modern foreign policy is aimed at restoring cultural ties with ASEAN within various multilateral and bilateral meetings and projects, as well as existing institutions, which were reviewed in the article. In conclusion, author attempts to reveal the influence of India's cultural diplomacy within the framework of interaction with ASEAN on other issues of cooperation with the group.

Income Inequality and Tax Tools to Reduce it in the South-East Asian Countries

Since the end of the twentieth century. In most countries of the world, there is an increase in economic inequality in its various forms - income inequality, wealth inequality and inequality of opportunity. This article examines aspects of the inequality problem in Southeast Asia, such as income inequality at the intercountry and intracountry levels and the fiscal instruments used by governments to reduce inequality.

Role of Social Media in Radicalizing Protests in Thailand

Throughout 2020 youth protests did not stop in Thailand. They began as a reaction to the dissolution by the Constitutional Court of the New Future party, which is aimed at a youth audience. After the introduction of antiepidemiological restrictions street demonstrations stopped, but the activity of their participants shifted to social networks. In a digital space that is less subject to government censorship, the protest agenda has expanded and escalated significantly. As soon as the ban on demonstrations was lifted, the performances continued, but with more drastic demands, which were originally formulated on social networks. This article examines the impact of social media on the radicalization of youth protest in Thailand.

Humanitarian Cooperation between Russia and Japan like Sakura Flowers: a Symbol of Hope for a Better Future

Humanitarian cooperation between Russia and Japan is one of the key factors which can stimulate the development of interstate dialogue. The traditionally stable humanitarian interaction between Russia and Japan is particularly relevant in the face of conflicting political and economic conditions. In this article, the authors provide an analysis of key events and priority areas of humanitarian cooperation between Russia and Japan. The article presents the author's periodization of the development of humanitarian cooperation between countries.

COVID-19 and New Investment Opportunities in Southeast Asia

The article states that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected almost all sectors of the economy in Southeast Asia, which, accordingly, led to a sharp slowdown in the investment process. However, according to the author, as the epidemic spreads, new investment opportunities have emerged in several sectors and spheres of their economy. The author provides a brief analysis of the most likely of these possibilities, believing that it is difficult to say how quickly and successfully they will be implemented.

Singapore Seaport: Trends and Development Prospects

Singapore is located at the crossroads of sea routes. Two hundred years ago this tropical island was uninhabited, and only sixty years ago began its independent development. Over the past years, the country has experienced two industrial revolutions, a financial center of world importance was built, and the industrial structure was transformed into an innovative one. This happened with the active intervention of the state and control over financial flows aimed at technical re-equipment and innovative restructuring of both the entire economy in general and the seaport in particular. The “yesterday”, “today” and “tomorrow” of the seaport are closely related to the economic development of Singapore, with its development in the past, functioning in the present and preparing for future transformations.