Asian Affairs covers the whole region of Asia - the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, South East Asia and East Asia. The Journal has a multi-disciplinary approach, which includes social, political and historical perspectives as well as contemporary affairs.

Editions of Asian Affairs generally consist of articles on specific countries, locales or historical episodes. Some articles are based on lectures to the Society. These and others are the fruit of academic research or the experiences of contributors. Biographical pieces and accounts of archaeological and historical travel have also been published. The editor welcomes contributions which fall within the overall framework of the Journal.

Asian Affairs also still maintains its character as a journal for Society members, with reports of Society activities and tours.

A substantial section of each issue consists of book reviews of new publications. The editor encourages offers to review relevant titles.

The Journal aims to appeal to a broadly interested readership as well as those with an academic interest in Asian affairs. It provides a forum at the interface between learned interest, scholarship, journalism and personal experience.