Since taking office, President Duterte has eschewed traditional allies in favour of a pivot towards Beijing. Three years into his term, there are few tangible signs that it was a worthwhile endeavour.
The Cambodian government plans to eliminate six public holidays, including International Human Rights Day, in a move to attract investors. But the ploy has drawn criticism from civil society and suggests the government will refuse to engage with the EU on domestic rights issues.
A UN special rapporteur is urging the Cambodian government to improve its plans for inclusive development, protect freedoms of assembly and expression, and end unjust detentions.
As government officials and leaders from across the globe arrive in Beijing ahead of the Second Belt and Road Forum, they should consider whether China is meeting local and international environmental obligations.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has announced reforms to offset the loss of free trade privileges with the EU. His announcement shows that he is most concerned by how the sanctions may impact him politically.
AI is transforming the human rights space and encouraging civilian participation in the fight against human trafficking.
Last week’s US-ASEAN Partnership Forum highlighted the Trump administration’s efforts to deepen economic ties to the region. But it will not seek to mirror China’s Belt and Road, nor Europe’s plan to make economic cooperation contingent on the upholding of human rights.
ASEAN is approaching a defining moment. Will it allow regional human rights abuses to undermine its power as a supranational body, or will it abandon its policy of non-intervention?
Work on the Chao Phraya Riverside Promenade has begun. Communities are driven away as Bangkok puts profits ahead of environmental concerns.
A tougher penal code and systematic violence mean times are tough for environmental activists across Vietnam.