The art of successful negotiations over protracted conflicts presupposes a political commitment to peace and a willingness to compromise, which are sorely lacking in the current disorderly world. Part of the blame for this lies in weak and ineffective national and global leadership. This book’s sharp focus on the role of leadership at different levels—national government, rebel and Western/regional government mediators—as well as that of the UN and non-governmental players in settling intra-state disputes, is a unique feature which sets it apart from others. Much of the existing literature does not adequately discuss the role of the above actors in developing countries. Asia’s Trouble Spots is a serious attempt to fill this gap. The seven country studies in Asia—Myanmar, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India and China—discuss, inter alia, how peace negotiations between national political and rebel leaders have unfolded. The role of state-sponsored cross-border terrorists and non-state spoilers such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS is addressed in the context of geopolitical rivalry among regional and global powers. A. S. Bhalla challenges the view that Western leaders can act as impartial mediators in intra-state and inter-state disputes. With few exceptions, their record has been dismal at best. Their failure in conflict resolution arises from a loss of moral authority and credibility, which follows the gradual erosion over the years of such liberal values as the rule of law and respect for democracy and human rights. Commercial and strategic self-interests have also tended to undermine peacebuilding efforts.

The regions of Asia and Oceania, with their many diverse peoples, massive size, and vast cultural history, have birthed some of the most critical conflicts of the modern era. From border disputes to current nuclear threats to regions still shattered by the effects of past wars, this volatile region is a key player on the world stage of global conflict. This exciting volume provides up-to-the minute coverage of the most critical situations and explosive events in the region, including internal strife in Indonesia, insurgency in southern Thailand, nuclear issues in India and Pakistan, the Tibetan revolt, the Spratly Islands dispute, and terrorist organizations such as Abu Sayeff. The conflicts are explored against the backdrop of major conflicts like the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Maps, a timeline, an index, and an annotated bibliography supplement the chapters for a greater understanding of the material. With ties to several curricular areas, including Asian studies, political science, global studies, military history, international relations, regional history and politics, this is an essential source for students of world history and global conflict.

Pacific Asia - from Burma to Papua New Guinea to Japan - is the most dynamic and productive region in the developing world, the result of an economic explosion fuelled by industrial activity. This is where the Green Revolution began, where more women are employed in factory work than anywhere alse; the region is also the most predominately socialist in the Third World. David W. Smith assesses Pacific Asia both in terms of its historical development and the present global system, placing general development issues in their local contexts. The book will be an invaluable introduction to the region.

The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget is the ultimate guide to exploring this fascinating region on a shoestring, with coverage of all the top sights, the clearest mapping of any guide and handy hints on how to save money. Discover all of the most popular Southeast Asian destinations, alongside lesser-known places, with information on getting off the beaten track – whether you want to hike through the rainforest, visit remote hill tribes or just find a quiet stretch of white sand. The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget has detailed practical information that will help you make the most of your time and money, whether taking a slow boat down the Mekong or catching the ‘Jungle Railway’ through Malaysia’s interior. And you’ll discover the things to see and do in each country, plus all the best hostels and budget hotels, bars, cafés and cheap restaurants. This guide is the budget-conscious traveller's must have item for Southeast Asian trips. Make the most of your time on earth with The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget.

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The Rough Guides Snapshot Southeast Asia on a Budget: Indonesia is the ultimate backpacker's guide to this breathtaking country. It leads you through the country with reliable information and comprehensive coverage of all the top sights and attractions, from the orang-utans of Bukit Lawang to the dance performances of Ubud, alongside cash-saving tips and suggestions for when you feel like treating yourself. Detailed maps and up-to-date listings pinpoint the best cafés, restaurants, hotels, shops, bars and nightlife, ensuring you make the most of your trip, whether passing through, staying for just a few days or longer. The Rough Guides Snapshot Southeast Asia on a Budget: Indonesia covers Java, Sumatra, Bali, Lombok and the Giki Islands, Sumbawa, Komodo and Rinca, Flores, Sumba, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Maluku. Also included is the Basics section from The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget, with all the practical information you need for travelling in and around Indonesia, including transport, costs, health, food and drink, culture and accommodation, plus a handy itineraries section. Also published as part of The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget. The Rough Guides Snapshot Southeast Asia on a Budget: Indonesia is equivalent to 184 printed pages.