Pledges to Islamic State: Weak and Strong Alliances
Synopsis
Pledges of allegiance and obedience are the typical mechanisms used by jihadist groups to create “alliance hubs”, including the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) which is also known as Islamic State (IS). Some of the alliances may have proven strong, while others remain weak and exist in name only.
Immigration and Singaporean Identity: The Ethnicity Conundrum
Synopsis
The compartmentalisation of Singapore’s multicultural citizens into the four main ‘races’ prevents the effective forging of a comprehensive Singapore identity which new and local-born citizens can relate to. A stronger Singaporean identity needs to be inculcated in all citizens, especially with the increasing diversity of new immigrants to its shores.
G20 and Global Governance: Can it Do Better?
Synopsis
The G20 convenes this weekend in Brisbane for yet another summit. In the aftermath of the recent global financial crisis, some wonder whether the G20 still has relevance. Can this exclusive group of world leaders be the hope of global governance?
Income Inequality: New Worry Over Impact of QE
Synopsis
While the policy of easy money known as quantitive easing (QE) has saved the US financial sector from collapse, it has also been criticised for causing various problems. One recent criticism: QE could worsen the already worrisome global trend of increasing income inequality.
Immigrant Athletes in Singapore: When Gold is Not Good Enough
Synopsis
Citizens’ unreceptiveness towards foreign-born athletes carrying the Singapore flag in international competitions could perhaps be mitigated or even eradicated if immigrant athletes can integrate into Singapore society and express their loyalty to the country.
Online Extremism: Challenges and Counter-Measures
Synopsis
The propaganda function of the Internet is arguably more significant than its function as a virtual terrorist training camp. The long-term answer to online extremism requires preventive measures that are concerted online and offline.
Can ASEAN Develop a Robust Nuclear Energy Regime?
Synopsis
The development of nuclear power in Southeast Asia faces hurdles to collectively ensure nuclear security, safety and safeguards (3S). However regional cooperation remains key to achieving it. Can ASEAN live up to expectations?
MD3 Laws in Indonesia: Sword of Damocles over the Jokowi Presidency?
Synopsis
The amended Law on Legislative Bodies (or MD3 Laws) has received scant attention although it is a scourge for the new Joko Widodo administration.
Jokowi’s “Look West” Foreign Policy: Expanding Indonesia’s Sphere of Influence?
Synopsis
While President Jokowi has to contend with intense short-term domestic challenges, it does not mean he will completely decry the internationalist foreign policy outlook of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. His primary strategies will be to turn Indonesia into a “global maritime nexus” and pursue a “Look West” strategy.
Addressing Indonesia’s Maritime Needs: Jokowi’s Ground and Sea-level Challenges
Synopsis
The new Jokowi government faces a major challenge to upgrade its maritime policy to safeguard Indonesia’s economic and defence needs. Besides securing its sea-lanes and overcoming logistical hurdles, the policy has to address the needs of Indonesia’s fishing and sea-based communities across the archipelago.