Author: Anoulak Kittikhoun
Published: 10 Jun 2026
“Might makes right” is back in form with major powers’ use of tariffs and military actions, leaving small states like Laos with fewer buffers and narrower margins for error than more capable middle powers. This Long Read explores options and imperatives for Laos as it navigates new geopolitical realities.
We live in an uncertain world in which “might makes right” is back in fashion. It was always there in substance and episodes, but past transgressions had at least been couched in internationally acceptable terms. Presently, even successful regional institutions such as the EU and ASEAN feel lost in the realist world of big power politics.
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