LATEST PULSE

Growing public support for an anti-political dynasty law in the Philippines reflects rising frustration over corruption and entrenched political power. Yet experts warn that passing a law alone will not solve deeper governance problems rooted in inequality, weak political institutions, and uneven political awareness.   A recent Pulse Asia survey found that 64% of Filipinos support legislation limiting or banning political dynasties, up fro...

Colombia appears to be politically splintering. Far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella won Colombia’s presidential runoff by less than 1%. Preliminary results gave him about 49.6% of the vote, against nearly 48.7% for his left-wing rival, Senator Iván Cepeda.   The vote closes a historic political chapter. Outgoing President Gustavo Petro led Colombia’s first modern left-wing government, after coming to power in 20...

For decades, Central Asia's borders have been a source of conflict rather than cooperation. Drawn during the Soviet era with little regard for local communities, they left behind disputed territory, isolated enclaves, and competing claims that repeatedly erupted into violence after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.   Now, the region is trying something once considered almost impossible. Instead of treating borders as untouchable, several...

Angola is entering a new economic phase as agriculture emerges as a central driver of growth. While oil has dominated the economy since the early 2000s, farming, food production, and rural industries are becoming increasingly important sources of jobs, investment, and economic stability.   With extensive arable land, favorable climate conditions, and rising investment, Angola is expanding production of crops such as corn, cassava, bananas,...

China has built a 100-meter observation megatower in the northern South China Sea, near the country's southern coast. According to Chinese media, the structure is designed to monitor typhoons and collect real-time meteorological data.   Its size and location, however, suggest it could serve a broader strategic purpose. China has increasingly used civilian infrastructure to reinforce its presence in one of East Asia's most sensitive maritim...