What does Vietnam’s trade deal with the EU mean for the country and ASEAN?
Vietnam’s economy is expected to gain enormously from the FTA with the EU. However, the country will face major criticism unless it adopts labor and human rights reforms.
Human Rights
China is making headway in its campaign to redefine the conversation around human rights
Emboldened by its increasing influence in the UN, Beijing is ramping up its attempts to reframe the international human rights conversation.
Duterte has little to show for his embrace of authoritarian China
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.
Cambodia cancels holidays to boost growth but stalls on key rights issues for EU trade
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.
UN human rights expert pushes Cambodia on repression as civil society struggles
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.
Is China meeting its international environmental and human rights obligations on BRI?
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 PM’s proposed reforms show why EU sanctions will fail
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 changing the fight against human trafficking
AI is transforming the human rights space and encouraging civilian participation in the fight against human trafficking.
US-ASEAN Forum shows the need for concrete plans on economic integration and human rights
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.
Inaction by consensus: Will ASEAN change course to address human rights abuses?
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?