Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a dynamic and diverse region at the heart of the Indo-Pacific, playing a critical role in global economic growth, strategic competition, and demographic transformation. It is also central to major conversations on maritime security, democratic governance, infrastructure development, climate resilience, and the future of global supply chains. The United States and its partners increasingly recognize Southeast Asia’s strategic importance, and CSIS research helps shape informed, forward-looking policy toward this vital region.

Photo: Cambodian Government/Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images

Photo: Cambodian Government/Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images

From Fraud to the Frontlines: Scam Centers Caught in the Cambodia-Thailand Conflict

In December 2025, Thailand struck Cambodian casino and hotel complexes, which it says were scam centers being used by the military. Though contested, the strikes show how a border dispute and transnational crime have become intertwined.

Critical Questions by Julia Dickson and Japhet Quitzon — January 15, 2026

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Gregory B. Poling

Gregory B. Poling

Director and Senior Fellow, Southeast Asia Program and Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative
Photo: CSIS

Kathryn Paik

Deputy Director and Senior Fellow, Australia Chair
Harrison Prétat

Harrison Prétat

Deputy Director and Fellow, Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative

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Southeast Asia Radio

Election Updates in Myanmar with Nyantha Lin

Greg is joined by Nyantha Lin to discuss the domestic and international implications of the ongoing elections in Myanmar.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling — January 15, 2026

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio

Indo-Pacific Forecast 2026

Please join the CSIS Geopolitics and Foreign Policy (GFP) Department's annual preview of political, economic, and security developments across the region.

Event — January 14, 2026

The Latest on Southeast Asia: The 2nd Cambodia-Thailand Ceasefire

Cambodia and Thailand agreed to a new ceasefire on December 27 after weeks of deadly border clashes. The latest round of the conflict that began in July displaced more than 500,000 citizens on both sides of the border and killed at least 100 people. 

Blog Post by Japhet Quitzon and Gregory B. Poling — January 8, 2026

Chinese Energy Investments in Southeast Asia

With the Trump administration revoking Biden-era programs to support energy transitions in Southeast Asia, there is a widening funding gap that China is poised to fill.

Report by Lauren Mai and Andreyka Natalegawa — December 17, 2025