Grasp the pattern, read the trend
No. 5, January/2023, 5
Brought to you by CPG
Dear Readers,
Welcome to this week’s issue of the Asia in Review (AIR) covering the latest events, developments and trends in domestic politics, international relations and geopolitics in East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Wishing you an informative read, I extend special greetings to everyone who celebrates Nauru’s and Sri Lanka’s Independence Day this week.
Henning Glaser
Editor in Chief
Webpage: www.cpg-online.de, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPGTU
Main Sections
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in East Asia
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in South Asia
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in Southeast Asia
International Relations, Geopolitics and Security in Asia
Announcements
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in East Asia
Chinese President Xi Jinping initiates draft of a new Taiwan policy
(sw/dql) The chief political strategist of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Wang Huning, has been tasked by Chinese President Xi Jinping with drafting a new unification policy for Taiwan.
It is expected that the Chinese president will announce a new policy towards Taiwan within the next months.
The move might be seen as a signal to end the era of the “one country, two systems” reunification formula that Beijing held for decades, but that has become discredited in Taiwan in the wake of Hong Kong’s development since the crackdown of pro-democracy protests in 2019.
Wang Huning has been a member of the CCP’s Politburo Standing Committee, the country’s top decision-making body, since 2017, where he ranks fourth in the hierarchy. He is widely seen as the party’s “Grey Eminence” and its principal architect behind the official political ideologies.
Wang will supported by former Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who was promoted to the Politburo at the National Party Congress and who also serves as director of the party's Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission. This position makes him China’s highest-ranking diplomat. [Taiwan News] [Nikkei Asia]
China: Hong Kong sees biggest drop in exports since 1950s
(ms) With a 28.9 percent year-on-year decline in Hong Kong's total exports of goods in December last year, the city experienced its biggest drop since the 1950s.
This data stems from the external merchandise trade statistics released by the Census and Statistics Department of Hong Kong's government. In addition to record declines to Japan with 39.4 percent and Taiwan with 34.4 percent, export volumes to mainland China are also down 30.4 percent, to the United Kingdom 39.6 percent and to Germany as much as 44.1 percent.
Already the whole last year the Hong Kong economy was declining, beside the globally recognizable weak economy above all the Zero-COVID strategy of the Chinese government was responsible for this decrease. According to calculations of Natixis SA, Hong Kong has lost approximately USD 27 billion of potential growth due to these measures.
With the end of Zero-COVID announced in early December of last year, Hong Kong's economy is expected to recover, but Singapore, for example, was able to position itself as a more attractive alternative for the wealthy during the pandemic and overtook Hong Kong as the top financial center in Asia. Therefore, it remains to be seen to what extent Hong Kong will be able to catch up with the pre-pandemic level. [Bloomberg] [Census and Statistics Department]
China: Students must pledge loyalty to party for study abroad scholarships
(ms) According to Radio Free Asia (RFA), Chinese students studying abroad on Chinese government scholarships are required to sign a document pledging their allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
RFA cites a report of a Swedish newspaper about 30 Chinese PhD students in Sweden who signed such a document before leaving China.
Such practices are said to have existed in the same or similar form since the 1990s, and the students agree by signing “not [to] engage in any activities that could harm [China's] interests or national security,” to "protect the honor of the motherland and of their school, and abide by both the laws of China and the country where [they] are studying.”
In the agreement students must also name two guarantors who, in the event of breach of the agreement, must repay the scholarship money. [Radio Free Asia]
China: Former editor of the People's Daily Press arrested
(ms) After reportedly being missing since September last year, the former editor of the Chinese Communist Party (CPP)-affiliated People's Daily Press is now in custody in mainland China on charges of “running an illegal business,” according to Radio Free Asia.
After his time at People's Daily, he moved to Hong Kong and founded the political magazine Exclusive Characters, where, in addition to interviews with influential figures, he attracted attention for his reports on a chained woman discovered early last year in eastern Jiangsu Province [see AiR No. 8, February/2022, 4]. His reports helped spark a nationwide debate about the trafficking of women and girls for marriage as a result of gender imbalance in China caused by the longstanding one-child policy. .
In addition to the mid-January delisting of Next Digital [see AiR No. 3, January/2023, 3] and the mid-November 2021 closure of the pro-democracy Apple Daily, the current arrest is seen by observers as another step in restricting press freedom in Hong Kong since the anti-government protests in 2019. [Hong Kong Free Press] [Radio Free Asia]
China: Satellite images show air defense base on disputed island
(ms) According to analysts, satellite images of Woody Island, which is part of the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea, show air defense facilities equipped with surface-to-air missiles deployed by the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
The pictures date back to April last year and show a completed air defense base as seen on the man-made islands used by the PLA as military bases in the South China Sea.
The archipelago, as well as much of the rest of the South China Sea, is claimed by several countries in the region but occupied by China and its army. Under the 9-dash line, China claims much of the South China Sea, curtailing the territorial claims of other countries in the region. [Radio Free Asia]
China: Breakthrough in defense against hypersonic weapons claimed
(ms/dql) Chinese aerospace engineers of Shanghai Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering have claimed a major breakthrough in strengthening China’s defense against potential hypersonic weapon attack.
According to the scientists, they have succeeded in developing a reusable air defense system based on an unmanned aircraft powered by an air-breathing engine capable of flying at more than five times the speed of sound over a long distance.
Through early warning satellites and ground radar stations, the aircraft is also capable of predicting the trajectory of an incoming hypersonic missile, and then launch a small kinetic energy weapon to strike down the missile in mid-flight. After the attack, it will return to an airport for preparation for its next mission.
Shanghai Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering is a defense contractor developing drones for China’s military.
Meanwhile, on the tenth anniversary of the maiden flight of the Chinese Y-20 transport aircraft of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Chinese military analysts are holding out the prospect of modernization and thus differentiation of the aircraft's possible uses.
Conversion of the Y-20 into a strategic early warning aircraft, a command-and-control aircraft, a long-range electronic warfare aircraft or a drone carrier have been raised as possible variants. [Global Times]
China: New satellite images of rumored warship
(ms) Newly released satellite images may show the first images of the long-speculated Type 054B frigate, which experts believe is nearing completion.
The images, dated January 21, show a dock at Hudong Shipyard in Shanghai where a ship with an already completed hull can be seen. There has long been speculation about the construction of an improved version of the 054A frigate. From the pictures it appears that with larger measurements the type 054B will have a displacement of 6000 tons, which is almost 1,500 tons more than its predecessor model.
According to military experts, the Type 054B will be used to escort the third and subsequent aircraft carriers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), as well as to generally replace older Type 054 and 056 corvettes and further modernize the Chinese military. [South China Morning Post]
China: New lunar rover under construction
(ms) According to a comment by the Deputy Chief Designer of the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center of China, a new Chinese lunar rover is under construction to explore the south pole of the moon in 2026.
The Chang'e 7 mission is part of the three new lunar missions already announced by the Chinese government last September [see AiR No. 37, September/2022, 2].
The new rover will be slightly larger than its predecessor and will be equipped with a panoramic camera and ground penetrating radar, as well as a magnetometer and a Raman spectrometer, and will search for signs of frozen water on the non-Earth facing side of the Moon. A small rover from Saudi Arabia will also be transported during the mission - the two countries agreed on this in September last year.
The Chang'e 7 mission will be preceded in 2024 by the Chang'e 6 mission, which will collect the first samples, and will be followed in 2028 by the Chang'e 8 mission, which will test technologies for 3D printing and the use of local resources.
All three missions reflect China’s increased ambitions to compete with the western but especially US American space program which reached its peak up to now with the completion of its own space station, the Tiangong [see AiR No. 45, November/2022, 2]. [Space]
China: All J-7 fighter jets to be replaced by modern jets by end of year
(ms) Later this year, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) plans to complete the phase-out of the J-7 fighter jet and replace it with more modern jets in all theater commands.
Just last week, the delivery of J-16 jets to the Western Theater Command, and thus the equipping of all theater commands with fourth-generation fighter jets, indicated that the use of the J-7 was nearing an end [see AiR No. 4, January/2023, 4].
This assumption has now been confirmed by a report of the Chinese state television station CCTV. By the end of the year, the J-7, which was first produced in China in 1965, is to be finally withdrawn from the PLA's inventory.
The phase-out of the second-generation jet began in 2018 and was accelerated due to the advancing technology of the Chinese military, especially the development of the Chinese-made WS-10 engine, which allows China to produce fourth- and fifth-generation jets more independently of foreign players and which will represent the future of the Chinese air force in the long term. [Global Times]
Japan: New office to be set up to support abused or financially struggling women
(cc) Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare will establish a new support office in April for women who face problems such as domestic abuse, sexual violence, and financial difficulty.
The new office will be organized under the ministry's social welfare bureau and tasked with thoroughly tackling the myriad of issues surrounding the well-being of women. Ten personnel will be assigned to work for the new office, an increase from the three who are largely occupied with providing assistance to single mothers experiencing financial distress.
The move is in line with the ministry’s efforts to bolster the cooperation between the stakeholders of women's rights issues after a new law that aims to expand the support for women suffering from hardship was passed by the Japanese parliament in 2022. [The Mainichi]
Japan: Online information on crafting guns and bomb to be censored by police
(cc) Beginning in March, online content providing information about manufacturing guns and explosives will be the subject of increased scrutiny and removal by the Japanese police.
The action comes as a consequence of the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe [see AiR No. 28, July/2022, 2]. According to reports, the perpetrator crafted the gun on the basis of information he found on the internet.
The National Police Agency will work with the Internet Hotline Center and website administrators to detect and erase posts or sites related to gun- and bomb-making. In addition, the police will also raise their attention toward online content prodding readers to commit murder, theft, and human trafficking. [NHK]
Japan: Kishida calls for caution on same-sex marriage
(cc) In the plenary session of the House of Councilors on January 26, Fumio Kishida emphasized a cautious approach in dealing with same-sex marriage, citing that the matter could have an effect on the Japanese family structure.
Many members of the conservative ruling Liberal Democratic Party, are against the concept as they highlight the importance of traditional social values, thereby impeding the introduction of the law recognizing same-sex marriage in Japan.
Kishida also avoided answering the question regarding an attempt to change the legal code to allow a married couple to use different surnames. [The Mainichi]
Japan: Eight crew members confirmed dead in a shipwreck incident off the Japanese coast
(cc) According to the Japanese Coast Guard, out of the 13 crew members rescued from the sunken Hong Kong-registered cargo ship, six were confirmed dead. The nationalities of the deceased were Chinese and Myanmese. Combined with the two deaths counted earlier, the maritime disaster in the East China Sea near the Nagasaki Prefecture on January 25 had already claimed eight lives.
With 22 crew members on board, the vessel was transporting wood from Malaysia to South Korea before suffering a disaster approximately 110 kilometers west of Japan's Danjo Islands. A gale warning was in effect when the ship made a distress call at around 11:50 p.m. [Kyodo News]
Japan: Opposition criticizes Kishida’s new tax hike policy
(cc) On January 25, during the House of Representative plenary meeting, Japan’s opposition camp denounced Kishida's plan to increase military spending by raising taxes, claiming that it was formulated without an adequate discussion in the parliament.
Amid rising regional tensions, Kishida aims to bolster the country’s defense capability to deter any potential attack. Accordingly, in December 2022, his administration chose to increase the Japanese defense budget for the next five years two-fold. And at the same time, in financing the military buildup plan, the government proposed to raise taxes on corporations, personal incomes, and tobacco in the 2024 fiscal year or later, which would increase Japan's yearly revenue by around USD 7.7 billion.
The opposition condemned Kishida for making such an important tax decision after the 2022 extraordinary Diet session had already concluded. Kenta Izumi, leader of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, called on Kishida to conduct a snap election to affirm the public support for his tax plan. [Kyodo News], [AIR No. 52 December/2022, 4], [Foreign Brief]
Japan: 2021 election ruled constitutional by Supreme Court
(cc) On January 25, the 2021 lower house election, which had a vote disparity of up to 2.08-fold, was ruled constitutional by the Supreme Court of Japan. The ruling stated that the disparity was due to a population movement that would be dealt with by a framework readjustment every ten years. Only one out of 15 justices of the court's Grand Bench ruled that the election was unconstitutional.
The matter was brought before the Supreme Court following 16 conflicting rulings from lower courts, with plaintiffs calling for a nullification of the 2021 election. The 16 lawsuits came from two groups of attorneys, nine of which said that the election was constitutional, while the rest claimed otherwise, while none of them agreed with the plaintiffs' demand to nullify the election.
Similar to a ruling in 2018 regarding the 2017 lower house election, the recent ruling acknowledged the parliament's efforts to address a vote disparity. In 2016, the Japanese parliament attempted to address the population differences between prefectures by introducing a national censuses-based seat appointment method. According to 2020 censuses, the policy would bring the disparity down to the maximum of 1.999-fold.
In reaction to the ruling, Makoto Ito, one of the attorneys filing the lawsuits, commented that the current electoral system is flawed and must be reformed as soon as possible. Katsuya Uga, the justice that found the election unconstitutional, disclosed a similar opinion, pointing to the necessity for a new system where the disparity is eliminated by default. [Kyodo News]
Japan: Abortion pill to be approved
(cc) On January 28, the health ministry's pharmaceutical advisory body voiced no objection to allowing an abortion pill to be manufactured and marketed in Japan. According to the ministry,, a group of experts had examined the appeal and saw no issue in introducing the drug to the country.
Linepharma KK, a subsidiary of British pharmaceutical Linepharma International Ltd., requested the right to produce and sell its abortion pill, Mefeego, in Japan in December 2021. After consumption, the drug could end the pregnancies up to nine weeks or 63 days of gestation.
As the topic of an abortion pill gained widespread interest within Japanese society, the ministry of health disclosed that it would gather opinions from the public and discuss the issue further with its pharmacy-related subcommittee. [The Mainichi] [Japan Today]
Mongolia: Coal contracts with Chinese buyers terminated
(sw) Mongolia’s largest state-owned coal miner, Erdenes-Tavan Tolgoi JSC, announced that it will terminate sales contracts with buyers in China in February. As a consequence, the coal will be auctioned on the Mongolian Stock Exchange.
The mining company and its coal contracts have been at the center of allegations of widespread corruption in the country’s coal industry that prompted large-scale protests in Ulaanbaatar in December. Police have arrested Erdenes-Tavantolgoi JSC’s chief executive Gankhuyag Battulga and several associates as well as family members. They stand accused of embezzling billions of dollars in coal revenue and await trial. [Al Jazeera]
Mongolia: New law gives government power to shut down internet and control social media
(sw) The Mongolian Parliament has passed a new law on regulating social media that has raised concerns over the freedom of speech in the country.
Among others, the law stipulates that any information shared in an online group of more than three people will be inspected. Further, posting information about any public official will be possible only with express government consent will be banned. Also, citizens can get punished for denigrating state symbols, national, historical and cultural values, culture and customs of Mongolia. A 13-15 member public relations unit will be set up that will be tasked with enforcing the new regulations and monitor content for violations.
It will come into force on February 1 unless the Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh vetoes it or the Constitutional Court rules against it.
While the government justifies the law by explaining that it protects the public from cybercrime, disinformation and the sexual exploitation of minors online, civil rights groups oppose it arguing that it was passed through the parliament within two working days without consultation with the public or stakeholders. They also claim that it deters citizens from freely expressing their opinions.
Currently 6.000 Mongolians support a petition to pressure the government in order to stop the law. [Poynter] [IntelliNews]
Mongolia: Government requests that Rio Tinto to stay on budget for giant copper mine
(sw) The Mongolian government has called on Rio Tinto, an Anglo-Australian multinational company and the world’s second-largest metals and mining corporation, to not further increase its estimated USD 7 billion budget for the expansion of the Oyu Tolgoi mine in the Gobi desert. The mine is supposed to open by mid-2023 and the original estimated costs were USD 5 billion.
Mongolia wants to promote more foreign investment because its state-owned mining companies Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC (ETT) caused billions in debt to the government. Rio Tinto already renounced a USD 2 billion debt that the government owed to it for a previous expansion of the mine.
Currently, Mongolia owns 34 percent and Rio Tinto owns 66 percent of Oyu Tolgoi which is supposed to produce around 500.000 tonnes of copper a year. [Reuters]
North Korea: Pyongyang enforces lockdown because of respiratory disease
(sm) Pyongyang has reportedly ordered a five-day lockdown starting from January 25 due to the spread of a respiratory illness.
The Russian embassy’s facebook page stated that an anti-epidemic period was currently being enforced and that foreign officials were asked to stay inside and measure their temperature four times a day.
While COVID-19 was not explicitly mentioned, North Korean state media have reported increased cases of winter flu and respiratory diseases, omitting the lockdown. The North Korean Central News Agency reported that anti-epidemic public communication campaigns had been increased in Kaesong, a city near the inter-Korean border.
While North Korea reported a COVID-19 outbreak in 2022, it claimed to have tackled the pandemic last August, not having any means to conduct widespread testing. In Pyongyang the daily number of people with a fever rose to 4,77 million out of 25 million in total. [Reuters]
South Korea: Candidate steps back from ruling party leadership race
(sm) On January 25, former vice chair of the presidential population committee and climate ambassador Na Kyung-won announced her decision not to participate in the upcoming ruling People Power Party (PPP) leadership race, scheduled for March 8.
Na cited her wish to prevent within the party. Her withdrawal could significantly affect Kim Gi-hyeon’s chances in winning the elections. Together with PPP lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo, they represent the top three candidates according to opinion polls. Support for Kim, who had already served as acting party leader from April to June 2021 has more than doubled since Na’s announcement. Other candidates include lawmakers Cho Kyung-tae and Yoon Sang-hyun.
South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol has been suspected to oppose her election, firing her from her position last week after Na unilaterally announced a controversial policy proposal to revive South Korea’s low birth rate. In contrast, Yoon is believed to back Kim’s leadership.
The stakes are high, as the new PPP leader has a strong influence on party nominations for the next parliamentary elections. Party leadership election rules changed last December to only include party members’ votes and not a popular opinion survey, as previously [see AiR No. 4, January/2023, 4]. [Yonhap News Agency]
South Korea: Government expands energy vouchers for vulnerable populations amid soaring heating bills
(sm) On January 26, Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs Choi Sang-mok announced the government’s plan to expand the discount of energy prices for vulnerable people through gas vouchers.
Some 1,17 million vouchers’ value will temporarily be doubled to KRW 304,000 (USD 247) per home for the winter period. Similarly, the Korea Gas Corporation, the world’s largest liquid natural gas-importing company, will double its discount for gas to KRW 72,000 (USD 59) for 1,6 million people.
A global increase in gas and energy prices due to the war in Ukraine, as well as a particularly harsh cold wave, have caused heating expenses to surge, causing hardships for vulnerable households. Monthly gas bills show a 34 percent increase compared to January 2022, which represent a relatively lower price surge than in other advanced countries, but still represent a burden on the population. South Korean LNG imports hit a record high of USD 56 billion in 2022. [KBS World_1] [Korean Times] [Reuters]
The main opposition Democratic Party (DP) is blaming the energy price surge on the ruling People Power Party (PPP), accusing them of mismanaging the energy crisis. The PPP in turn blames the previous Moon administration for the current height of prices, due to their shut down of nuclear power plants and transition to more green energy alternatives. [KBS World_2]
South Korea: National human rights agency against use of facial recognition in public institutions
(sm) On January 25, South Korea’s national human rights commission (NHRCK) warned of the recent proposition to introduce facial recognition technology in public institutions, citing violation of the right to freedom, privacy, and expression.
A NHRCK speaker brought the issue up during a parliamentary session, urging lawmakers to create better safeguards against the violation of such rights by facial recognition, especially real-time remote facial recognition technology in the public sector. Until such laws are put in place, public institutions should refrain from using this technology.
The technology could potentially become a pillar of racial and criminal profiling, violating the rights of a great number of people, as it combines real-time biometric information with existing records.
The topic came up after the interior ministry recently announced a plan to build new government buildings with an access system using facial recognition technology. [Yonhap News Agency]
South Korea: New law prohibiting sex offender from living near schools
(sm) According to the justice ministry, the South Korean government will implement a law preventing sex offenders from taking residence in a 500-meter radius around schools and kindergartens.
The law will be limited to repeat offenders, or those who committed sexual crimes on children under 13 years old. The ministry will revise the Act on Electronic Monitoring and submit it to the parliament next May. The move comes as several local communities complained about the frequent move of child rapists to school areas.
Additionally, the ministry has also planned to launch an independent institution responsible for monitoring immigration matters and creating new, related policies. The plan comes as South Korea is experiencing an all-time low birth rate and is in need of a substantial foreign workforce. [Korea Times]
South Korea: Arrest warrant against members of North Korean spy ring demanded
(dql) South Korean prosecutors have requested an arrest warrant for four individuals who are accused of running a spy ring for North Korea.
The four arrested last weekend belong to the so-called pro-unification group which is accused of cooperating with Pyongyang to stage activities against the South Korean government. As part of an investigation that has been ongoing for more than two months, the offices of the group were raided in November.
The Seoul central district court opened a hearing on January 31 to determine whether to meet the prosecution request.
Under South Korea’s National Security Act, the suspects are facing a death sentence or a lifetime imprisonment. [The Korea Herald]
Taiwan: New Premier, Cabinet
(sw/dql) Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen has been appointed by President Tsai Ing-wen as Taiwan’s new Premier on January 27. He replaces Su Tseng-chang who resigned last week. [AiR No.2, January/2023, 4]
The appointment of a new Premier is part of a broader government reshuffle that has been much awaited after the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) suffered a heavy defeat in the local elections in November 2022. The new Cabinet is supposed to prepare the DPP for the elections in early 2024.
In the latest development, Chen announced the new Cabinet January 30 that consists of 40 ministers and deputies. The announcement came after the mass resignation of the former Cabinet under Su on the same day. [Reuters] [Focus Taiwan]
Taiwan: New tax rules for streamers and content creators
(sw) The Ministry of Finance will modify tax rules to include earnings from social media platforms, like Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram. Streamers will have to pay taxes for virtual currency donations, which are important revenues. This makes tax rules more similar to standards of other countries. [Taiwan News]
Taiwan: FDI at 15-year high of USD 13 billion in 2022
(sw) Taiwan’s Investment Commission approved USD 13 billion of foreign direct investments (FDI) in 2022. The increase is because of investments by overseas green and offshore wind energy companies, accounting for an increase of 77.94 percent year-over-year.
Major outbound investments in 2022 which totaled nearly USD 10 billion, include USD 2 billion by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing CO to establish the Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing, Inc., and USD 1 billion by MediaTek Investment Singapore.
The biggest investors by country were Australia, Singapore and Thailand. The value of Chinese investments declined by 67 percent to USD 39 million compared with 2021. [Focus Taiwan]
Taiwan: Surface-to-air defense systems deployed
(dql) Taiwan has reportedly deployed its homegrown Tien-Kung III surface-to-air defense systems Taiwan’s northern coast, along with U.S.-made MIM-104F (PAC-3) Patriot missiles.
The Tien-Kung III missile system replaces the aging U.S.-made Hawk system while the PAC-3 system was designed to intercept China’s Dong-Feng 11 and Dong-Feng 15 ballistic missiles. [Focus Taiwan]
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in South Asia
Bangladesh: High court rules to add mother’s name as legal guardian
(az) For the first time in Bangladesh, the high court has ruled that people can now enter their mother’s name in any government form, including educational certificates and passports, if the person does not have a father or he/she is willing not to add the father’s name. [News Click]
The decision came in response to a petition filed after a student was not allowed to register because his father’s name could not be filled up in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) forms.
Bangladesh: Government defends textbook explaining transgender rights
(az/lm) Bangladesh’s government has defended new school textbooks for millions of pupils, after Islamist groups staged protests saying they “promoted” gender transitioning and homosexuality. While the Islamists claim that the book will promote homosexuality among the children, the government defended the book stating that their purpose is to soften peoples’ attitudes towards the neglected transgender community in Bangladesh. [South China Morning Post]
The demonstrations of the Islamist parties in Bangladesh often conflict with the ruling party's agenda, including the anti-government protest that already led to the arrest of the emir of the Jamaat-e-Islami party, the third largest party in the country. However, this time the government replied by pointing to the situation of transgenders in Bangladesh, where they regularly face violence, forced begging, prostitution, sex trade, and crime.
Bangladesh: Suicide rate among students increases alarmingly
(az) A Bangladesh-based NGO, Aachol Foundation, in a report has shown that the suicide rate among students in the country is dramatically increasing, especially among students from the school and college levels. Among the 585 suicides committed by the students last year, 340 and 106 were school and college students, respectively, while 85 were university and 54 madrasas, the Islamic religious-based institutions. [Anadolu Agency]
The report also finds out that the suicide rate is higher, mainly in populated urbanized city like Dhaka and Chattogram. In Dhaka, the suicide rate among school and college-going students is 23.77 percent, and in the port city of Chattogram, the rate is 17.27 percent. Due to the increased number of suicides among students, especially among females, the survey recommended opening Psychological First Aid Branches in educational institutions.
Bangladesh: Telecom minister orders smartphone users to use his company's software
(az) Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, a division under the post and telecommunications ministry, has made it mandatory to install a particular Bengali-Language software in all Android smartphones sold in the country – a controversial move given that the company that produces the keyboard is owned by the incumbent telecom minister. [Nikkei Asia]
Given that Bangladesh is already ranked 147th in corruption out of 180 countries, the act is considered by Transparency International Bangladesh a grave example of personal power abuse by any individual in the country, which will now sell out millions of user data to the telecommunication ministry.
Experts pointed out that under constitutional law, cabinet ministers cannot maintain any executive role in the private companies. Jabbar, however, is currently the proprietary owner of Ananda Computers, while the operations are maintained by other employees.
India: Display of military and culture at Republic Day Parade
(mk) India celebrated the 74h anniversary of the day its Constitution came into effect on January 26. The event was marked by a grand parade that showcased the country’s culture and military. This military display emphasized India’s move toward indigenous weapons and self-reliance in the defense sector, highlighted by the use of 105mm field guns of Indian-make being used for the traditional 21-gun salute to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. [BBC] [The Hindu] [The Straits Times]
The Guest of Honour for the occasion, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, is the first chief guest at the Republic Day event since the Covid-19 pandemic. He was accompanied by a 144-member contingent of the Egyptian Armed Forces that partook in the parade. [see entry in this edition]
India: Central government to unveil budget for fiscal 2023-2024 on February 1
(wr/lm) India’s central government is set to announce its last full budget on February 1, the ruling party’s last budget before the general elections expected in 2024. In light of this, the budget remains crucial to the government as it will not only set the course of the economy in times of global recession but will also decide on the Bharatiya Janata Party’s popularity in upcoming ballots. [BBC] [The Straits Times]
The government has already cut off subsidies programs provided in the pandemic, notably food and energy reliefs, to boost its reserves [see AiR No. 52, December/2022, 4]. Therefore, the government is expected to present reforms in order to sustain fiscal consolidation and to improve its credit ratings without risking political position.
In fact, the Economic Survey — an annual report card on the economy — suggested that the central government would stay fiscally prudent to leave room for more policy action in uncertain times, while reining in the budget deficit at 6.4 percent of gross domestic product this year. The Survey was tabled in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on January 31. [Bloomberg]
India: Opposition Congress party leader Gandhi ends 135-day march in Kashmir
(wr/lm) Rahul Gandhi, lawmaker and a senior leader of India’s main opposition Congress party, on January 30 concluded his five-month-long march in Srinagar, the capital of the Jammu and Kashmir union territory. [BBC] [The Indian Express] [Reuters]
The walk was suspended for a brief period of a day due to security concerns. In light of this, the Congress party accused the government, namely Union Minister Amit Shah, for being responsible for an alleged security breach and withdrawal of security personnels from the area on January 27. [Times of India] [India Today] [ThePrint]
India: Law minister queries Supreme Court's revelations on choice of judges
(wr/lm) India’s law minister has called the Supreme Court’s move to make public some details of reports by intelligence agencies regarding the selection of judges a matter of “grave concern”.
Under the current system, the appointments and transfers of judges to India’s higher judiciary are decided by a collegium of senior judges. The Supreme Court collegium communicates decisions to the central government, which is expected to approve them. In recent months, however, Law Minister Rijiju has been openly questioning the opaqueness around the process of appointments, wanting the government to have more say in the choice of candidates. [AiR No. 3, January/2023, 3]
Rijiju’s latest comments come after a group of senior judges of the Supreme Court responsible for identifying and appointing judges last week released, for the first time, statements citing the government’s reasons against their choice of candidates. The report includes details about the candidate preferences by government and state institutions. It has also revealed the government's reservation against candidate’s selection and validation, based on their sexual orientation and personal views. [The Straits Times]
India: Opposition Congress party accuses central government of alleged attempts to politicize judiciary
(wr/lm) The leadership of India’s main opposition Congress party has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its alleged attempt to “make the judiciary part of Prime Minister Office”, referring to the prevailing situation as political dictatorship where the central government is neglecting both constitution and parliament. The references were respectively to the Centre’s criticism on collegium system on appointment of Supreme Court judges and no parliamentary discussion on border standoff between India and China. [The Week] [Press Trust India]
India: Police detain students for screening BBC Modi documentary
(wr/lm) Indian police on January 27 detained students in New Delhi after stopping the screening of a BBC documentary on Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the central government described as “propaganda” and invoked an emergency law to block it on YouTube and Twitter. The students at Delhi University had followed several campuses around the country in staging a broadcast, defying government efforts to stop the two-part documentary India: The Modi Question spread. [The Straits Times] [India TV]
A BBC documentary that scrutinizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role during inter-communal riots of Gujarat in 2002 has been criticized by the Indian government as a “propaganda piece” while the broadcaster has said its two-part series was “rigorously researched.” New Delhi blocked the documentary to be aired in India [see AiR No. 4, January/2023, 4]. Opposition parties and rights watchdogs said the ban reflects declining press freedom under the Modi government. [Al Jazeera] [South China Morning Post]
The screening came two days after New Delhi police, clad in riot gear and equipped with tear gas, arrested nearly a dozen students at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) university ahead of a planned screening. Police have not confirmed the number of detainees and they are being prevented from meeting lawyers, an activist wrote on Twitter. [TIME]
Furthermore, the Supreme Court will hear the petitions challenging the ban as "malafide, arbitrary and unconstitutional”, next week. [MSN]
India: New digital ID in Kashmir Valley raises concerns over surveillance
(wr) An initiative by India’s central government to launch digital JK Family ID in which each resident would be digitally registered and eligibility to social welfare programmes will be decided with automated data generation has resulted in frustration among residents. Locals of Kashmir region, due to evident trust deficit between authorities and residents that was widened by the event of Valley’s special, autonomous status abrogation in 2019, have referred to digitalization as a tool for increased surveillance and potential data hacks.
Digital rights activists have called such governmental attempts of extensive data collection and digitalization without devising reasonable data protection laws and security framework could breach subjects' privacy and make them vulnerable to greater surveillance. [The Strait Times] [NDTV]
India: Government app exposed personal data of millions of students
(wr) An application which was controlled by the central government’s education ministry has exposed the data of users on an open web. The users were mainly students and teachers from 1-12 grade who were compelled to switch to the application for online education during covid pandemic. It is found not that the application has not only collected precise location but has also transferred users’ data including names, emails and phone numbers to third party “using advertising trackers”. The authorities in charge have been accused of making the usage of the application “mandatory” to continue education despite knowing the potential exploitation. [WIRED] [Human Rights Watch]
India: Adani Group accused of malfeasance; company considers legal action over ‘baseless’ claims
(wr/lm) India’s Adani Group has denounced allegations of fraud made by a United-States based short-seller as “baseless” and a “malicious combination of selective misinformation,” and is considering legal action.
Hindenburg Research published a two-year investigation on Adani Group on January 24, alleging that it found the Indian conglomerate had “engaged in a brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades”, calling out Adani’s “substantial debt”. The firm also said it is shorting Adani Group through US-traded bonds and non-Indian-traded derivatives, and that its report “relates solely to the valuation of securities traded outside of India”.
In response, Adani said that all the transactions made by the group met Indian laws and standards and the report was intended for the “short seller gains” and lacks enough evidence. [The Strait Times] [South China Morning Post] [The Washington Post]
India: Coal power outputs to accelerate
(wr) India’s government might invoke emergency law to maximize the coal power generation, pushing the country's major coal-plants in Gujarat to accelerate outputs. In this way, the law will be invoked for a second time intended to meet the demand of power for targeted economic activity. However, the officials have yet not confirmed the move. [Reuters]
India: Two military jets collide in midair; 1 pilot killed
(wr) One pilot has died after two Indian Air Force fighter jets crashed in a mid-air collision in central India on January 28. The other pilot remains missing. The planes were on a routine "operational flying training mission" when the incident happened, the air force said in a statement. [BBC] [The Straits Times]
Lately, there has been a surge in aviation accidents in India’s military fleet, including India’s defense chief, General Bipin Rawat plane crash in December 2021.
India: Hypersonic technology demonstrator vehicle (HSTDV) tested
(wr) India conducted a successful test flight of Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) from Kalam Island off Odisha coast on January 28. It marks the second similar test in three years. India is determined to possess hypersonic technology indigenously. The tested unmanned hypersonic launching jet is designed to carry hypersonic and cruise missiles. [MSN] [Times of India]
Maldives: President Solih to run again after defeating former President Nasheed in primary
(lm) Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will run for a second term in elections this September, after he defeated Mohamed Nasheed, the parliament speaker and a former president, in the Maldivian Democratic Party primary held on January 28. Solih is the only one running for president so far. His main rival, former President Abdulla Yameen, is serving a prison term on charges of corruption and money laundering. [The Washington Post]
Nepal: Deputy prime minister loses parliament seat after Supreme Court rules his ID invalid
(lm) Nepal’s Supreme Court ruled on January 27 that Deputy Prime Minister Rabi Lamichhane had stood for the November elections with invalid citizenship papers, annulling his status as a lawmaker and effectively removing him from office. Lamichhane became deputy prime minister for home affairs - heading the ministry that oversees identity cards - in a seven-party alliance that took power last month. [Al Jazeera] [Reuters]
Pakistan: Senior leader from ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party arrested on sedition charges
(lm) A former federal minister and senior leader of Pakistan’s main opposition party was arrested on January 25 on charges of threatening the chief of the elections overseeing body and other government officials. The arrest of Fawad Chaudhry is a major setback for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which is led by by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and which has been criticizing the election body since the appointment of media tycoon Mohsin Naqvi as interim chief minister of Punjab province. [Associated Press] [Al Jazeera]
Earlier this month, Khan, whose PTI-led coalition was in power in Punjab, ordered the dissolution of the provincial legislature. Four days later, the assembly in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was also dissolved by the party.
The dissolution of the assemblies was part of Khan’s bid to force early general elections in Pakistan, a demand he has been making since April last year when he was removed from power after losing a parliamentary vote of confidence.
Pakistan’s constitution says new elections must be held within three months of the dissolution of a provincial legislature if the house fails to set up an interim government.
But Pakistan has also been historically conducting national and provincial elections together, which is what PTI had hoped while dissolving the two assemblies it held.
However, the ECP did not announce new polls and instead placed Naqvi as interim leader in the Punjab province. The move led to PTI leaders making public statements against the poll panel.
Pakistan: Opposition leader Imran Khan’s arrest would cause severe public backlash, President Alvi says
(fm/lm) Pakistan’s President Dr Arif Alvi on January 26 said that the arrest of opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief Imran Khan would lead to a severe public reaction. He made the remark after hearing rumors that the former premier minister would be detained and crowds of PTI workers gathered in his home to defend him. [Dawn] [Pakistan Today]
Pakistan: Opposition leader Imran Khan confident of election win, backs IMF role
(fm) Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, in an interview on January 25 said he expects to win a majority when elections are held - likely some time after August -, adding that he would support the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s sustained role in supporting the economy and preventing an increasing risk of a debt default. [The Straits Times]
Pakistan: Government lifts fuel, petrol prices; power outage sweeps country
(fm/lm) Pakistan’s government announced on January 29 petrol and diesel prices would rise by USD 0.14 a liter after the country’s currency value plummeted to a historic low against the United States dollar after an exchange cap was lifted. [Al Jazeera]
The decision came days before an International Monetary Fund delegation arrived in Islamabad to discuss the stalled ninth review of the country’s current funding program. It was followed immediately with condemnation and criticism of the government's management of the nation's economic crisis.
Prior to the announcement, a major power outage swept across the country, the longest in recent years, leaving nearly 220 million people without electricity. [CNN]
Pakistan: Mosque attack in Peshawar kills at least 87
(fm/lm) A deadly blast in a mosque in Pakistan’s northwestern city Peshawar on January 29, the country’s bloodiest bombing in years, killed at least 87 people and left hundreds injured. According to Peshawar police commander Muhammad Ijaz Khan, more than 90 percent of the casualties were policemen, and between 300 and 400 of them had gathered in the mosque for prayer.
This week’s suicide attack broke a period of relative calm in Peshawar, the capital of the restive Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province. In fact, Pakistan’s northwest has been the site of several attacks on police and military targets in recent months, and the Pakistani Taliban have claimed responsibility for them. On the day of the attack, the group denied playing a role in this attack. Earlier, however, some junior commanders of the group claimed in Twitter posts that the bombing had been carried out to avenge the killing of a Taliban leader in a bomb blast in August in Afghanistan. No other group came forward to claim responsibility. [CNN] [Dawn] [The New York Times]
Sri Lankan President enacts Article 70 (1) to adjourn the Parliament until February 8, 2023
(sn) According to Article 70 (1) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka, President Ranil Wickremesinghe adjourned the Parliament from January 27 to February 8, 2023.
For the time when the Parliament resumes to work, the Sri Lankan president ought to announce a range of new policies that will be active until 2048, when Sri Lanka celebrates independence. The Public also anticipates amendments that should enhance the rights of the Tamil ethnic minorities living in Sri Lanka. [Colombo Times], [AP News]
Sri Lanka: Parliament speaker endorses certificate on the Bureau of Rehabilitation Bill
(sn) On January 24, 2023, the Parliamentary Speaker endorsed certificates for the Bureau of Rehabilitation and the Election Expenditure Bills. These statutes will come into force as the Bureau of Rehabilitation Act No. 2 and the Election Expenditure Act No. 3 of 2023.
The Bureau of Rehabilitation Bill was submitted to Parliament in September 2022 and received extensive critique from human rights advocates, including Human Right Watch, for providing a basis for the detention of individuals for purposes beyond “rehabilitation.” [Parliament of Sri Lanka], [Air No. 43, October/2022, 4]
Sri Lanka: Consumers association signs writ petition against High Commission’s electricity tariffs rise plan
(sn) A group of Sri Lankan people, including the Electricity Consumers Association and Environmental Justice Center, has signed a writ petition directed to the Court of Appeal. They request to cancel the order by the Cabinet of Ministers along with the Ceylon Electricity Board for the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) to increase national electricity tariffs.
The petitioners point out that since PUCSL is an independent commission, and on these terms, the Cabinet of Ministers has no authority to issue such orders. On January 24, 2023, the Public Utilities Commission responded to the dispute by announcing that it will not implement the cabinet order and plans to consult the Attorney General on the matter of debate resolution. [Colombo Page]
Sri Lanka: CPC reports pressure from Human Rights Commission to sign power supply agreement
(sn) The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), a Sri Lankan oil and gas company wholly owned by the government, reported that two of its members were threatened at the meeting with the Sri Lankan Human Rights Commission (HRC) and forced to sign an agreement for an uninterrupted power supply during the national exam period for senior students. Nonetheless, CEB went ahead with the power cuts because the acute crisis in the South Asian State led to a severe shortage of fuel required for power generation.
The Minister of Power and Energy said that his secretary informed him that CPC members threatened with jail sentences signed the documents. He further said that he plans to inform the President and the Constitutional Council for further legal action on the matter. In response, the government on January 29 its prosecution plans against the HRC. It also plans to remove the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) Chairman. [Economy Next] [News First] [News First 2]
Sri Lanka: Police investigates death threats received by election commission members
(sn) On January 27, three members of Sri Lanka’s Election Committee reported receiving death threats over the phone demanding the member to resign from his position. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has already launched an investigation on this case, as two other members of the Committee received threatening calls from the same number on January 18. [ADA derana], [Colombo Page], [News First]
Sri Lanka: State Defense Minister greets newly appointed Director of the National Cadet Corps (NCC)
(sn) The State Minister of Defense has welcomed the newly appointed Director of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Brigadier G.S. Fonseka. He urged the Director to take measures to popularize cadet duty among the state regions and encompass discipline, language, and personality development in their training. [Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka]
Constitutional Law and –Politics, Human Rights and National Security in Southeast Asia
Cambodia: CATU President expressed concern over the probe inhibition for the 2004 murder of FTUWKC leader
(sn) On January 23, 2023, the Cambodia Alliance of Trade Union (CATU) president, Yang Sophorn, commemorated with her fellow union members their former counterpart, Chea Vichea. He was a leader of the Free Trade Union Workers of the Kingdom of Cambodia (FTUWKC), murdered on January 22, 2004.
In 2015, the inter-ministerial committee was formed to re-investigate the case, but since then, it has produced no new evidence. Along with the CATU president, Men Nath – the Norway-based Cambodian Watchdog Council president, called for authorities to continue the investigation of the Chea Vichea killing on January 20, 2023.
The union affiliates called for the investigation by state authorities, but the probe remains unresolved until today. It was 19 years since the killing of the FTUWKC was committed, yet two men suspected of the crime were released following detention due to the lack of overwhelming evidence, as requested by the Cambodian Center for Human Rights. [Cambodianess]
Cambodia: Government’s dispute with the opposition CL party escalates after the CL Vice President's detention
(sn) The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia – Hun Sen, responded to the oppositional Candlelight (CL) party of his plans to request his Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) lawyers to review grounds for a lawsuit against CL on January 19, 2023. He rejected the statement received from the Candlelight officials and warned that the criticism of the state government is a subset for legal action.
On January 18, 2023, the oppositional party issued a statement proposing that the CCP was targeting its operations. It called for the ruling party to stop the harassment and prosecution of their party members and to fulfill the 1992 Paris Peace Agreements obligation of up holding a multi-party democracy.
The demands proposed by the oppositional party were triggered by the recent detention of the CL Vice President, Thach Setha, over issuing faulty checks. The Candlelight counterparts disapprove of the statement and suggest political motivation instead, further accenting upcoming general elections in Cambodia. [Camboja News], [Radio Free Asia], [AiR No. 4 January/2023, 4]
Cambodia: Defense ministry inaugurates 600 persons, seeks new Techo Hun Sen Military Technical Institute trainees
(sn) On January 24, 2023, the Ministry of National Defense held an inauguration ceremony along with the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), where 600 military officers received rank promotions. The Artillery Command received various promotions, while the leadership authority got granted a higher position of Colonel and Brigadier General.
The Deputy Commander of the Royal Cambodian Armed forces made a speech during the inauguration ceremony, informing its members of military modernization plans. He also signified the contribution of the Prime Minister in peace maintenance; and the qualities of patriotism, sacrifice, integrity, and refining knowledge in defending the homeland.
On January 20, 2023, The Ministry of National Defense of the Kingdom of Cambodia announced that it is recruiting students for the entrance exams for the new generations of active-duty officers, infantry officers, and General Army Officers. The applicants that fit the criteria and pass the exams will enroll in the Techo Hun Sen Military Technical Institute to later join the military servants of the Ministry of National Defense or the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). [Cambodian Ministry of National Defence 1], [Cambodian Ministry of National Defence 2]
Cambodia: Preah Sihanouk authority launches commission to promote awareness of foreign labor laws in business
(sn) Cambodian Preah Sihanouk province governor, Kuoch Chamroeun, launched the campaign on increasing foreign labor law awareness and compliance among businesses with local facilities during the meeting on January 24, 2023. The Department of Labor and Vocational Training was ordered to meet with business owners to collect and examine their legal documents.
The initial phase of the campaign to combat human trafficking implies inspection of the facilities by the accordingly formed Inter-Ministerial Commission. The companies will be required to submit the list of their foreign employers by March 15, 2023. The inspection will take place from April–June 2023. It will report the cases not complying with the inspection standards to the Capital-Provincial Unity Command.
In November 2022, the Cambodian Interior Minister met with the French Ambassador to discuss cooperation in crime prevention, with a primary target of the human trafficking issue. The French Ambassador urged that the scope of support on the behalf of France can be impacted by the outcomes of anti-trafficking operations in the Preah Sihanouk province. [Phnom Penh Post], [AiR No. 45 November/2022, 2]
Cambodia: Bank blocks overseas transfers to the NagaWorld Union activists
(sn) Members of the Labor Rights Supported Union of NagaWorld casino reported that ABA Bank blocked 3 transactions from an overseas sponsor to their accounts, with explanations varying from measures against money laundering to a negative image of the union in the media.
The members further explain that the money were sent to help union members with children who lost their jobs, but each of them got informed about a refusal to process the transaction from a bank representative. The members also expressed a lack of awareness about the money source since the union leader, Chhim Sithar, managed their grant applications.
Chhim Sithar was arrested by police on November 26, 2022, for an attempt to flee the country while attending a workers’ union conference in Australia. Various international observers criticized the detention sentence. Likewise, NagaWorld members resumed their peaceful protests in Phnom Penh until January 2023, demanding the release of Chhim Sithar and recovering some employees from mass lay-offs. [VOD English] [AiR, No. 48, November/2022, 5], [AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2]
Cambodia: CL oppositional party advisor agrees to request of Hun Sen to return land property
(sn) The oppositional Candle Light (CL) Party Advisor, Kong Korm, accepted the demand of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to turn over his land and property with an estimated value of USD 10 million. The Prime Minister agreed to settle the dispute by announcing that he plans to end the case as soon as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs returns to the estate.
The senior CL advisor is a former Cambodian deputy foreign minister who lived in the property since 1982. Kong Korm received a land title for the estate in 1990 and 2015. However, the Cambodian Prime Minister alleges that the property belongs to the ministry and the oppositional party advisor should vacate his home for that reason.
The dispute is long-standing, but the resolution came along following the visit of the CL senior advisor with his wife to the Anti-Corruption Unit. Kong Korm said that after the discussions with the head of the department, he realized a lack of understanding of the process for obtaining estate ownership. As such, the former deputy foreign minister apologized and decided to return the property to the government of Cambodia. [Radio Free Asia]
Indonesia: Protesters call for revision of village law
(os) Thousands of people have held a protest calling for a revision of the 2014 Village Law after village heads voiced similar demands just recently. [The Jakarta Post]
Members of the Indonesian Village Apparatus Association (PPDI) have protested in front of the House of Representatives to express their calls for more clarity in regard to their employment status. They demand the village law be revised prior to the 2024 presidential election.
Recently, a group of village heads has also protested in front of the parliament, urging lawmakers to extend the possible terms of lawmakers from two to three terms. President Joko Widodo, when asked about the demands, said that only the parliament has the authority to revise the law. His party, the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has stated their general support for the extension of terms.
Indonesia: Defense minister supports Jokowi’s son-in-law for governor
(os) Defense minister and Gerindra party leader Prabowo Subianto has expressed his support for Bobby Nasution to run for governor of North Sumatra. Bobby is the son-in-law of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi). [The Jakarta Post 1]
Bobby currently holds the position of mayor of Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra province. He is contemplating running for governor of the province in the 2024 elections.
Prabowo has also met with Jokowi’s son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, where they discussed a possible candidacy of Gibran for Jakarta or Central Java governor. Gibran has so far failed to confirm what exactly his plans for his political future are. [The Jakarta Post 2]
Prabowo had previously run for president against incumbent President Jokowi, against whom he had lost both times in the last two presidential elections.
Indonesia: Minor cabinet reshuffle might be imminent
(os) According to news reports, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) might be considering a reshuffle of his cabinet in the following days. [Jakarta Globe]
Rumors of a possible reshuffle have come up several times recently. In October 2022, the National Democratic Party (Nasdem), which is a member party of the ruling coalition, nominated Anies Baswedan, a popular opposition figure to Jokowi, as their presidential candidate for the 2024 elections [see AiR No. 40, October/2022, 1].
Since then, discussions have emerged that the three ministers belonging to Nasdem would be replaced. Jokowi announced most of his reshuffles on Wednesdays. February 1 would also be an important day in the Javanese calendar, sparking rumors about a possible announcement. When confronted with the question, Jokowi failed to deny the speculations.
Indonesia: Charity chairman convicted for misappropriating funds
(os) On January 24, the chairman of the charity Aksi Cepat Tanggap (ACT) received a prison sentence of three years and six months. The chairman, who goes by the name of Ahyudin, had misappropriated funds provided by Boeing after the 2018 Lion Air crash. [Al Jazeera]
Ahyudin had cut off more than the legally allowed 10 percent from donations. He had also borrowed ACT money for expenses such as property and cars. After the crash of a Lion Air machine in October 2018, Boeing set up a fund to support the families of the victims. A part of the fund was provided to ACT which was asked to conduct community work in Indonesia.
For many victims and critics, the sentence is not hard enough. They demand a stronger punishment and call for the government to revise the law that regulates philanthropic organizations.
Laos: Three new ministerial appointments approved in cabinet reshuffle
The National Assembly has approved the appointment of three new ministers in a cabinet reshuffle proposed by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.
Following the reshuffle, the former governor of Savannakhet province, Santiphap Phomvihane, now heads the Finance Ministry, the former Governor of Salavanh province, Phoxay Sayasone, is taking the position of Minister of Energy and Mines and former Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Ngampasong Muongmany, moves up to head his ministry. [Laotian Times]
Malaysia: UMNO leader sacks and suspends senior party members
(dql) Senior members of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), Malaysia’s oldest political party, have been expelled or suspended from the party by party leader Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, a move widely seen as a purge of Hamidi against people challenging his leadership in the party.
Among those dismissed are former Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, former Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative Minister Noh Omar. Further, Hishammuddin Hussein, the former defense minister, was suspended for six years, together with the party’s former information chief and two others. [Benar News]
Malaysia: Controversy about Prime Minister’s daughter appointment as senior economic and finance adviser
(dql) Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is facing accusations of nepotism after he appointed his eldest daughter Nurul Izzah Anwar as his senior economic adviser. Members of the opposition demanded that the Prime Minister withdraw his move and called his daughter to step down from the post.
Both are serving also as president and vice-president of the People's Justice Party (Parti Keadilan Rakyat, PKR) respectively.
Anwar Ibrahim disclosed in an interview last week that the appointment took effect on January 3. [Channel News Asia] [Malaysia Now]
Malaysia: Cyber Security Commission to be established
(dql) Malaysian Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has announced that the government will set up the Malaysian Cyber Security Commission, in a move to strengthen cyber security in the country. [New Straits Times]
Myanmar: Opium increases by a third in 2022
(ih) According to a report released by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on January 26, the number of hectares of poppy cultivated in 2022, the first full growing season since the military seized power, has seen an increase of 33 percent. Opium cultivation had been decreasing prior to the military’s seizure of power on February 1, 2021. But as the coup d’état sparked a renewal of the country’s civil war, the inability to conduct drug eradication raids and increased economic instability has driven farmers to fall back on opium cultivation. [The Guardian]
Myanmar: Junta issues new election law increasing requirements for political parties' participation in elections
(ih) The military government of Myanmar has issued a new law on political parties in preparation for the planned August 2023 election, significantly increasing the requirements for political parties to participate in the elections. Membership requirements have been increased from 1,000 to 100,000 within three months of receiving approval. Parties now must deposit 100 million Kyat (approximately USD 44,000) in the state-owned Myanmar Economic Bank. Parties must open offices in at least half of the country’s 330 townships within six months of registration and can be disbanded by the government if they fail to contest at least half of all constituencies and participate in by-elections. All existing parties that fail to re-register with the Union Election Commission within the next two months will be considered dissolved.
Notably, parties alleged to have communications with terrorist organizations can be dissolved by the government under the new law, making it unlikely that the previously incumbent National League for Democracy could participate in the elections. [Bangkok Post]
Philippines: President tells Coast Guard to always be ready to defend the country
(jd) Due to the ongoing territorial disputes related to the West Philippine Sea and the several diplomatic protests that the Philippines has filed consequentially to the incursion of Chinese vessels into the country’s waters, President Marcos Jr. said that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) should always keep ready to defend the country.
PCG’s used to be mainly involved in search and rescue operations, but in order not to increase tensions in the country’s boundaries with the positioning of Philippine military in the area, they are now the main frontliners and have been given duties that previously belonged to the Navy.
Because of the increased responsibilities, The President said that his government plans to continue supporting the upgrade of the Coast Guard’s capabilities, facilities, and equipment, as its members are expected to be ready to confront threats and defend the country.
The latest protest presented by the Philippines against China was filed this week following reports of Chinese Coast Guards driving away Filipino fishermen off Ayungin Shoal. [The Manila Times]
Thailand: Royal Thai Police struggling with charges of extortion and corruption involving foreign tourists
(fj) The Royal Thai Police is under pressure over two cases in which allegations of unlawful behavior relating to tourists have been brought forth against members of the force.
The first case involves a Chinese tourist who allegedly received preferential treatment at the immigration at Suvarnabhumi airport and was subsequently accompanied by a police motorcycle escort to Pattaya in exchange for a fee.
In the second case, a Taiwanese actress claims to have been extorted for a payment of around USD 800 by police officers during a late-night investigation at a checkpoint in front of the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok.
The cases are currently under investigation, with the police vowing to take efforts to rid the force of any wrongdoers. [Bangkok Post 1] [Bangkok Post 2]
Thailand: Proposed payment to cover voters' travel costs rejected
(fj) A proposal made by a Senate committee on compensating voters for their election-related travel costs with a payment of USD 15 (THB 500) per person has been rejected as being against existing laws by Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, the government’s legal expert.
The Senate committee had proposed the scheme with the reasoning that such a handout could improve turnout at the ballots, as many citizens must travel from their workplace to their home districts to cast their votes. Further, it was presented as a potential solution to help curb the problem of vote selling. If realized, the measure would have cost the government around USD 560 million (THB 20 billion) or around four times the budget allocated by the government for the conduction of the upcoming general election tentatively scheduled for May 7. [Bangkok Post]
Thailand: Amended Election Act comes into force
(fj) Two amendments to the nation’s election laws have been enacted and published in the Royal Gazette, thereby legally clearing the way for the upcoming general elections.
The changes consist of amendments to the law on the election of Members of Parliament (MPs) and the law on political parties. Regarding the election of MPs, the law marks the transition from a single-ballot to a dual-ballot voting system in which 400 parliamentary seats will be allocated according to votes in the constituency list and a further 100 seats according to votes cast on the party list. [Bangkok Post 1]
The amended law on political parties foresees a reduction in party membership fees, less stringent party membership criteria and a requirement of having party branches or representatives in all provinces that the party will contest the election as well as other changes.
With the promulgation of these amendments, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is now in a position where he could dissolve Parliament and call for general elections. However, Prayut stated in reaction to the news that it is still too early for such a step as the Election Commission would still need more time for the necessary preparations. If no early dissolution is called, the Parliament’s term will end on March 23, with elections due no more than 45 days later. This yields the tentative election date currently set for May 7. [Bangkok Post 2]
Thailand: New director of Department of National Parks promises to boost transparency
(fj) The newly appointed acting director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), Athapol Charoenshunsa, promised to bring transparency to the workings of the DNP and restore its public image after the recent corruption allegations around former director-general Rutchada Suriyakul Na Ayutya.
Athapol, who is also the director-general of the Department of marine and Coastal Resources, has declared that the most pressing issue will be to investigate the rightfulness of recent transfers, as the graft allegations against his predecessor indicate corrupt promotion and transfer practices within the department. [Bangkok Post 1]
Results on the corruption charges against Rutchada are expected by February 4, as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has urged conclusion of the investigation by then. [Bangkok Post 2]
Thailand: High speed train linking three airports to be completed by 2029
(fj) A high speed train linking the three international airports of Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao is projected to be completed by 2029, a government spokesperson announced on January 29.
The project, developed by a private consortium under contract with the State Railway of Thailand and the Eastern Economic Corridor Committee is intended to boost connectivity and attract foreign investment. Under the concession, the consortium will be the exclusive operator of the rail services for 50 years, after which the railway will fall back into state property.
It will allow trains to run at up to 250 kilometers per hour along its length of 220 kilometers and service nine stations within the five provinces of Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao. [Bangkok Post]
Thailand: Opposition accuses Transport Minister of corruption in bid for his dismissal
(fj) Cholnan Srikaew, leader of the opposition Pheu Thai Party, has accused Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob, member of the Bhumjaithai Party, of profiteering from construction contracts awarded by his ministry to a company in which he used to be a major shareholder.
Cholnan maintains that while Saksayam no longer holds the shares himself, he merely transferred them to a proxy to keep profiting from government contracts. The Bhumjaithai Party has rejected the claims, stating that there were documents clearly showing that Saksayam was no longer a shareholder of the concerned construction company. The party also denied any role of the transport minister in hiring and purchasing decisions by any government agency. They further stated that legal steps against the allegations are being considered. [Bangkok Post]
Thailand: Ministerial regulation proposes to treat anyone in possession of more than a single meth pill as a drug dealer
(fj) The committee on treatment and rehabilitation has drafted an amendment of the current regulations on the possession of methamphetamine pills that will lower the threshold distinguishing those presumed to possess the drug for their own consumption and those that are deemed to be drug dealers from 15 pills down to no more than a single pill.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the move would help in the fight against drug trading, as the fact that anyone currently found with 15 is eligible for rehabilitation rather than prosecution as a drug dealer, is prone to exploitation by criminals. [Bangkok Post]
Thailand: Move Forward Party warned against constitutional breach
(ts) The Move Forward Party (MFP)’s interference with a hospital director being internally transferred is warned against the Constitution by Bhumjaithai Party. The warning came as the former party has issued a written statement in opposition to the transfer, standing up for Supat Hasuwannakit, director of Chana District Hospital, who has been posted to the deeper south of Saba Yoi District Hospital by order of the Ministry of Health with immediate effect. The party claims the transfer is politically motivated, implying unfair treatment.
Conversely, the registrar Supachai Jaismut of the Bhumjaithai Party, with his party leader holding the health Minister position, claims the transfer is common and based on regulations. The registrar has warned that MFP’s interference in this matter could breach Section 185 of the Constitution which reads MPs are prohibited from interfering with the transfer of officials in the state sector. Supachai further cites the director’s personal ties with MFP as he once explicitly sought support for the party’s then-Future Forward Party on Facebook. [Thai PBS World]
Thailand: Ruling PPRP picks Prawit as a sole PM candidate
(ts) The ruling Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) has officially nominated its leader Prawit Wongsuwan (77), current Deputy Minister, as the party’s sole PM candidate for the coming election. The party claims the choice was made unanimously, having confidence that Prawit will serve as the country’s 30th PM. He will face off against the likely top contender from the opposition Pheu Thai Party Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
PPRP manages as the first among other parties in announcing its candidacy while rushing to launch election campaigns. The likely catchy one sees the monthly THB 700 of state welfare as it will be promoted as one of the party’s main campaigns. [Thai PBS World] [Bangkok Post]
Thailand: PPRP sees familiar faces returning
(ts) Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), welcomes back Uttama Savanayana and Sontirat Sontijirawong, Sang Anakot Thai Party’s leader and secretary respectively, while General Wit Dhephasdin na Ayudhya, leader of Thailand Together Party, is also joining. It is reported that Prawit had invited them considering showing the potential for reconciliation and collaboration in the political climate. Uttama and Sontirat, the then-Minister of Finance and Ministry of Energy respectively under PPRP, are expected to help Prawit with their economic mastery.
Uttama points out the return of Somkid Jatusripitak, former Minister of Commerce, is also possible, claiming he had discussed this plan with Somkid who had no objection to returning. [Thai PBS World]
Vietnam: NGOs call for release of environmental activist
(ih) Several environmental NGOs, including Global Witness and Friends of the Earth U.S., have signed a letter calling on the Group of Seven to put pressure on Vietnam to release anti-coal environmental activist Dang Dinh Bach. Bach, director of the Center for Legal Studies & Policy for Sustainable Development, was sentenced to five years in prison and a USD 60,000 fine for failure to pay taxes on international grants received by the organization. The conviction came despite non-governmental organizations being exempted from paying corporate income taxes under Vietnamese law. [RFA]
Vietnam: UN Condemns detention of activist
(ih) The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detentions has called on the Vietnamese government to release Nguyen Ngoc Anh, an environmental activist arrested in and detained 2018. Ngoc Anh was charged with “conducting anti-state activities” for making posts on social media critical of the government. [RFA]
International Relations, Geopolitics and Security in Asia
IMF delegation visits crisis-hit Pakistan to discuss stalled ninth review
(fm/lm) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) sent a mission to Pakistan this week for discussions under the stalled ninth review of the country's current funding program. A successful visit is critical for Pakistan, which is hoping for the release of stalled USD 1.1 billion, originally due to be disbursed in November last year as part of a USD 6 billion bailout secured in 2019.
The IMF’s announcement visit comes just days after the Pakistani rupee dived to a historic low against the United States dollar after an exchange cap was lifted by the Pakistani government on January 25. [Al Jazeera] [The Strait Times]
Sri Lanka’s human rights record to be examined by Universal Periodic Review Working Group
(sn) On February 1, the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group will examine the human rights record of Sri Lanka for the fourth time. Algeria, the United Kingdom, and Qatar will serve as rapporteurs. Sri Lanka’s first, second and third UPR reviews took place in May 2008, October 2012 and November 2017, respectively. While the State under review may take an opportunity to express its stance on proposals, the UPR Working Group should adopt the recommendations given to Sri Lanka on February 3, 2023. [Mirage News]
Sri Lankan central bank holds benchmark interest rate unchanged, expects IMF bailout
(sn) On January 24, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka kept its standing lending facility rate at 15.5 percent for the 4th meeting in a row, as it is expecting approval of the bailout deal for the State by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The decision came after the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor announced that policymakers began to see disinflation. Japan is yet expected to issue a statement supporting Sri Lanka in the conditions set by IMF. Indeed, cooling inflation provides more opportunities for finance decision-makers to manage the state economy. [The Straits Times]
Sri Lanka receives equipment, supplies from Japan, UNICEF following Credentials Presentation Ceremony
(sn) On January 25, 2023, the newly appointed Sri Lankan ambassador to Japan visited the East Asian state to present Credentials to the Emperor of Japan. His Majesty Naruhito conveyed his best regards to the Sri Lankan President and people. The Ambassador, Rodney Perera, acknowledged the courtesy. The Japanese Minister of Defense and the Prime Minister of the State attended the ceremony.
UNICEF provided cold chain equipment and food supplies on behalf of the government of Japan worth USD 3.5 million to support the needs of Sri Lankan children. The Ministry of Health received the donation stock on January 24, 2023. The Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka took part in the matter and expressed wishes for efficient outcomes from the counseling and support to the children of the South Asian state. [Colombo Page], [Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka]
Human trafficking increases due to the climate crisis in Bangladesh
(az) According to the United Nations, the climate crisis has made displaced people fall prey to human traffickers. Because of the millions of displaced people around Bangladesh, the traffickers can now easily arrange campaigns taking the vulnerability of those people as an opportunity. As the pandemic hit Bangladesh hard, the rescue operations of victims were also sharply neglected.
The UNODC staff suggests using the latest techs to track the human traffickers, as the traffickers are also using the techs to attract vulnerable people with lucrative offers abroad. The UN also suggested doubling the efforts to fight human trafficking in Bangladesh. However, the report shows that Bangladesh has been fighting well against human trafficking in recent years. Last year human trafficking in Bangladesh alone fell by 56 percent, and the global human trafficking fell by 27 percent. [Anadolu Agency]
Indian President Murmu participates in CELAC Summit
(wr) Indian President Murmu participated virtually as a special guest in the 7th Summit of Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). The annual Summit was held in Argentina with regional representatives from 33 sovereign states emphasized upon multilateral response to the concerns such as pandemic, climate change and economic disruptions. [MEA]
USAID announces an additional USD 75 million in aid for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh
(az) To meet the need for food and fuel, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an additional USD 75 million in aid to the Rohingya refugees and the host community in Bangladesh. The additional aid will be distributed among 60,000 people in the southeast part of the Coxs Bazar area as critical and life-saving assistance. [Anadolu Agency]
Also, as a part of the United Nations’ World Food Program (WFP) to provide critically needed food and nutrition assistance, infrastructure maintenance, disaster risk reduction, and logistics support, the USAID will help build infrastructures inside the refugee settlements.
Cambodian Foreign Ministry formally dismissed social media claims on the Kingdom’s military support of Ukraine
(sn) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Cambodian Kingdom published a statement that formally dismisses a social media proposal classifying Cambodia as “Military supportive of Ukraine.” The assumption was publicized in one of the channels in the telegram social media platform.
The Ministry explained its statement by accenting the humanitarian rationale of the demining support and training of Ukrainian counterparts, in line with previous missions in Africa and the Middle East. In turn, the Ministry urged the channel administrators to correct the publication, as geopolitical neutrality for Cambodia is a principle of a constitutional level. [Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation], [AiR No. 4 January/2023, 4]
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister visits Japan on an invitation of its Foreign Minister during January 21–24
(sn) Cambodian foreign minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Prak Sokhonn, visited Japan during January 21–24, 2023, on an invitation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Hayashi Yoshimasa. The trip coincided with the 70th Anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations between the Kingdoms.
The States have recently upgraded the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to increase cooperation in different sectors, including tourism, politics, and trade. The Foreign Ministers also regarded cooperation enhancement of the State’s defense ministries while recalling exchange visits between the Army and Naval departments in 2022 and demining support of Ukraine on behalf of ASEAN and UN.
The countries plan to resume direct flight correspondence following the COVID-19 pandemic recovery. Ministers also proposed upgrading the Bilateral Consultation mechanism across Senior Officials –Deputy Ministers governing levels. The Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister also attended events with the Japan–Cambodia Friendship Parliamentary League and the Japan–Cambodia Association, where he thanked the members for increasing collaboration between the Kingdoms. [Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation]
Cambodia repatriate’s Malaysian human-trafficking victims while retaining potential scammers for investigation
(sn) Cambodian director-general and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Malaysian Police cooperated to repatriate 5 Malaysian victims of the scam work offers on January 27, 2023. However – 6 more alleged victims from Malaysia currently remain in the Cambodian detention center, since they remain under probe and require record clearance.
While some immigrants violating state laws were deceived into entering Cambodia, others seem to have malicious intentions. In this sense, they either knew what kind of fraudulent work they ought to do and had intentions to support operating scam centers or were unable to afford their stay and leave Cambodia but attempted to use rescue operations to return to their home state. Indeed, both types of immigrants came out to the national police as human-trafficking victims, and the Cambodian CID currently stopped accepting unverified information from non-governmental agencies. [Khmer Times]
US general predicts war with China in 2025
(ms) In a memo sent to officers under his command, U.S. four-star General and head of the US AiR Mobility Command, forecast that the U.S. is likely to be at war with China in 2025, presumably due to an invasion of Taiwan by China.
He argued that the presidential election in 2024 in Taiwan and the U.S. presidential election in the same year, that will lead to a “distracted America” that could provide Beijing with an opportunity to attack the island.
The US Department of Defense was quick to clarify that Minihan’s statements, which come ahead of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to China this weekend, “are not representative of the department’s view on China.” [NBC News] [Financial Times]
Chinese company hit by US sanctions against Wagner Group
(ms) A Chinese company that is believed to be providing satellite imagery to support the paramilitary Wagner Group in its activities in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has become a target of the U.S. Department of the treasury’s new sanctions imposed on January 26.
The Chinese company is Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. LTD (Spacety China) and its subsidiary Spacety Luxenburg. It is alleged to have provided satellite imagery of Ukrainian regions to the Wagner Group, a mercenary force accused of war crimes during its operations in Syria and Central Africa, among others, and which also plays an active role in the Russian war efforts in Ukraine.
Spacety China is one of 16 entities that fall under the new U.S. sanctions, along with private individuals.
While the U.S. government cannot prove that the Chinese government was aware of the Chinese company's activities, there are concerns that the company acted at the behest of the Chinese government as a close partner of Russia.
The Biden administration is said to have confronted its Chinese counterpart with the evidence, but so far there has been no response from China. [Bloomberg] [South China Morning Post] [U.S. Department of The Treasury]
Chinese sentenced to eight years imprisonment for espionage in the USA
(ms) On January 25, a Chinese engineer was sentenced to eight years in prison in the U.S. for providing the Chinese government with information about potential targets for recruitment by the Chinese government.
The convicted 31-year-old has also been found guilty of being part of the Chinese effort to obtain trade secrets from U.S. aircraft engine manufacturer GE Aviation and other U.S. aerospace companies and is said to have been subordinate to Xu Yanjun, who had been sentenced to 20 years in prison for espionage at GE Aviation in November [see AiR No. 47, November/2022, 4].
The 31-year-old, who entered the U.S. on a student visa back in 2013 and even joined the U.S. Army Reserve, is said to have passed on “biographical information on certain individuals for possible recruitment” to Chinese intelligence agencies. The individuals are said to be Chinese citizens or people with Chinese roots who have worked as engineers and scientists for U.S. companies, including companies working on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense. [Radio Free Asia] [VOA News]
Earlier this year, a U.S. citizen employed by GE Power was convicted of allegedly cooperating with China in industrial espionage [see AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2].
U.S. extends DED status for Hong Kong citizens
(ms) With less than two weeks before its expiration, the U.S. government has extended the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status for Hong Kong citizens living in the United States for another two years. [U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service]
DED status was introduced for Hong Kong citizens in August 2021, with the U.S. government at the time accusing the Chinese government of "assaulting Hong Kong's autonomy" in the aftermath of the anti-government protests in Hong Kong in 2019 and the National Security Law introduced in mid-2020. At the beginning, only about 4000 Hong Kong citizens were allowed to enter the country under the condition, but this has since been extended to all citizens of the city who have emigrated to the US since August 2021. [Radio Free Asia]
In response, the Hong Kong government and the Chinese Foreign Ministry accused the U.S. government of “hegemonic bullying” and called on the U.S. to stop interfering in Hong Kong’s national affairs, adding that the extension was a violation of international law that undermines the integrity of the Hong Kong legal system and the National Security Law. [Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR] [South China Morning Post]
Battle of words between U.S. and China at WTO meeting
(ms) During a heated meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Jan. 28, the Chinese ambassador to the WTO accused the U.S. of being a “unilateral bully.”
In December last year, the WTO ruled on several decisions against mechanisms introduced by the US. Among those were two which had been introduced under the Trump administration. First, according to the WTO, the U.S. government has violated global trade rules by requiring products from Hong Kong, which is a separate WTO member state, to be labeled as products from China since the end of 2020. Secondly, the tariffs on steel and aluminum imports already imposed in 2018, which was also adopted at least in part by the Biden administration, was also judged by the WTO to be a violation of global trade rules.
Based on these and other measures imposed by the U.S., the Chinese ambassador to the WTO called the U.S. a “unilateral bully” and “supply chain disruptor.”
The U.S. Deputy United States Trade Representative refuted the accusations and, in return, accused the Chinese government of having imposed “illegal unilateral retaliatory measures” against the U.S. in response to the metal tariffs. Also, in addition to criticizing China, the U.S. side also voiced a general criticism against the WTO, saying a “WTO that serves to shield China’s non-market policies and practices is not in anyone’sinterest.” [Reuters] [WIO News] [Xinhua]
China could soon dethrone Japan as the world’s top car exporter
(ms) The fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) sector in China, in particular, is responsible for a sharp increase in the export volume of Chinese car brands and could make China the world's largest car exporter in the coming years if the trend remains steady.
Since 2020, the number of China’s car exports has tripled, overtaking the previous second, third and fourth ranked car exporters Germany, South Korea, and the US. With 2.5 million car exports in 2022 and a projected 5.5 million in 2030, China is also on track to overtake Japan, whose export numbers have stagnated at around 3 million since 2020. [Bloomberg] [South China Morning Post]
EVs accounted for more than half of all China’s exports in October-December last year, and there is no sign of that trend reversing, in fact quite the opposite. The chief executive officer (CEO) of Toyota, the world's largest auto export brand, expressed doubts about the sole focus on EVs and advocated more hybrid gas-electric cars, which could be beneficial to Chinese supremacy in the EV industry. [The World Street Journal]
China ends visa ban against Japan
(ms) The Chinese Embassy in Tokyo announced on January 29 that it will resume issuing short-term visas to Japanese citizens to enter the country.
On January 10, the Chinese government suspended the issuance of short-term visas, first to South Koreans and then to Japanese citizens, in response to the COVID-19 testing requirement imposed on Chinese citizens in both countries following the end of China's zero-COVID policy and the opening of its borders [see AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2].
Whether or when the suspension of the short-term visas for South Korean citizens will be lifted has not yet been announced by the Chinese government. [Deutsche Welle] [South China Morning Post]
Japanese Buddhists support appointment of next Dalai Lama by Tibetans
(ms) The Japan Buddhist Conference for World Federation has voiced its support for the appointment of the next Dalai Lama by Tibet, opposing China's possible interference in the appointment of the next head of Tibetan Buddhism.
The statements come in the wake of growing fears by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), which is sometimes referred to as the Tibetan government-in-exile, that China could interfere in the election of the upcoming 15th Dalai Lama. This was further reinforced with statements by the Chinese government in mid-January that it "will support and guide the work of finding the successor of the 14th Dalai Lama and the successor, like his predecessors, will be finally approved by the central government" [see AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2].
Iran increases oil export to China
(ms) In the face of U.S.-led Western sanctions against Iran, the Iranian government has increased the export of oil to China at a cheaper price.
In the last three months, the export volume of oil to China is reported to have reached 1.2 million barrels per day, which if full capacity is used, makes about one-third of the oil produced by Iran and ranks Iran as China’s third largest oil supplier, after Russia and Saudi Arabia.
The price cap on Russian oil exports to USD 60 per barrel imposed by the G7 countries in December also has consequences for Iran. In order to convince Chinese companies to trade with the Western-sanctioned Iranian companies, Iranian oil is offered at an even lower price than the already low ceiling on Russian oil.
In addition, in order to better disguise transactions with Iran, China pays for large portions of the oil not in oil but in goods, often including medicine, light machinery, and food. [VOA News]
This, however, is not purely born out of necessity, but an active decision of the Iranian government, as it recently rejected offers from Syria, which wanted to increase their imports of Iranian oil for a price of USD 70 per barrel. The reason is said to be that the Iranian government prefers the open market of China over Syria. [The Arab Weekly]
Regarding the increased export volume to China, the U.S. government already announced to increase pressure on China to make them stop trading with Iran. U.S. Special Envoy for Iran declared that the U.S.“have been in contact with Chinese authorities, and will continue to sanction those who are involved in the import of Iranian oil.” [Bloomberg]
Already in 1995, China allegedly intervened in the election of the 11th Panchen Lama, the second highest spiritual leader of Tibet and co-responsible for the appointment of the new Dalai Lama. The Chinese government allegedly abducted the 6-year-old, who was considered by Tibet to be the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama, along with his family, and selected an alternative candidate. [Radio Free Asia]
China condemns terror in Israel-Palestine Conflict
(ms) In a statement published on January 29, the Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the violence and terror in the Israel-Palestine conflict as a reaction to the deadly events in recent days and advocated the two-state solution.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the failure to establish a Palestinian state in line with the two-state solution is the reason for the escalation of violence in Israel. China calls on the Israeli government in particular to “show calm and restraint in order to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.” [Chinese Foreign Ministry] [Global Times]
Australia plans to buy smart sea mines against “potential aggressors”
(ms) The Australian government plans to buy smart sea mines worth up to AUD 1 billion, according to reports, to protect its coastline and maritime routes from “potential aggressors” in the face of China's growing military presence in the region.
By purchasing the mines, the Australian government would expand its previously lacking defense capabilities, making it less dependent on U.S. support in the event of war or military incursions. Although Australia is already planning to purchase nuclear-powered submarines as part of the AUKUS military and security alliance, which would be used in particular for reconnaissance in the Pacific and would be an important addition to the Australian military, there are doubts as to when these would actually be delivered to Australia. In the meantime, the modern naval mines are a cost effective alternative to expand Australia's defense capabilities.
Even though not mentioned by name, the move is widely seen as targeting China. [ABC News] [Asia Times] [The Sydney Morning Herald]
China's President Xi stresses importance of Sino-Latin American and Caribbean relations
(ms) China’s President Xi Jinping delivered on January 24 a video address to the seventh Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in which he stressed the importance of China's relations with the region. He that in the course of the Belt and Road Initiative and the South-South cooperation, China would continue to build close relations and friendship with the region in the future. [Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
China’s involvement and influence in Central and Latin America has been growing steadily in recent years. In early January, Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso announced that Ecuador and China were close to the signing of a free trade agreement, which would make it the fourth Latin American country after Chile, Costa Rica and Peru with which China has concluded such an agreement [see AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2].
For numbers of China’s investments in Latin America over the two past decades that has risen from USD 12 billion in 2000 to USD 450 billion in 2012 and that are expected to surpass USD 700 billion in 2035, see [Newsweek].
India expects more clashes with Chinese troops in Himalayas, confidential police report says
(wr/lm) India expects more clashes with Chinese troops in the border areas in the Himalayas, according to a confidential security assessment by Ladakh police submitted at a conference of top police officers held from January 20-22. According to the assessment, which is based on intelligence gathered in the border areas, the massive infrastructure build up on the Chinese side of the contested border could result in more clashes. It additionally said India might lose strategic grounds in the region by Chinese aggressive push and creation of buffer zones. [South China Morning Post] [Times of India]
India hosts Egyptian President al-Sisi as chief guest at Republic Day parade; several MoU exchanged
(mk/wr/lm) Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi visited India as chief guest of Republic Day on January 26 - —the first chief guest since 2020, and just the fourth leader from the Middle East. His visit marked an exchange of five Memorandum of Understandings between two states covering political, cultural, defense, energy, economic, technological cooperation and aimed to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. [The Indian Express] [MEA]
During his three-day visit, El Sisi along with his delegation of ministers held extensive discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendrai Modi and the business community of India on bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest. He pledged to invest in India’s agriculture, infrastructure, health care, education and IT sectors. He also welcomed Indian industries and investments in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. Meanwhile, both sides reiterated the significance of combating terrorism with a “zero tolerance” strategy and collective response against terror groups. [Times of India]
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s presence signified not only the established trade ties between India and Egypt, but also an emerging partnership based on security. It also signals an attempt being made by both countries to move away from overt dependence on Russia for food and weapons imports, which have been uncertain since the war. [Al Jazeera]
India invites Pakistan foreign minister to attend SCO summit
(fm/tj) Pakistan has confirmed India’s invitation for Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari to attend a meeting of the eight-member Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) scheduled to take place in New Delhi in May - but a decision regarding the participation is still pending. If Islamabad does accept the invite from India, it will be the first time its foreign minister will visit India in almost 12 years. [Al Jazeera]
Other members of SCO are China, Russia as well Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
India issues notice to Pakistan seeking modification to Indus Water Treaty
(wr/lm) India last week issued a notice to Pakistan, saying that it seeks to to change the 1960-signed Indus Water Treaty (IWT), two days before a Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague started its hearing on the dispute over the treaty that governs India-Pakistan water sharing in the Indus River system.
The current dispute first flared in 2015, when Pakistan objected to two hydro-power projects on tributaries of the river in India’s portion of the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir – Kishanganga on the Jhelum River and Ratle project on the Chenab River. Islamabad said the projects violated the IWT by aiming to divert the Indus waters.
Pakistan initially asked for neutral experts to examine their objections - something New Delhi agreed to - but later asked for legal arbitration. Last year, the World Bank moved on both fronts, appointing independent experts and initiating arbitration proceedings.
But India on January 27 boycotted the first hearing of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the matter. Pakistan, for its part, has opposed the notice with its Attorney General stating that news about New Delhi’s attempt at a unilateral modification of the IWT is misleading.
Reportedly, Indian pitch to the amendment refers specifically to the clause of Dispute Settlement Mechanism of the treaty which subsequently enables third party intervention namely World Bank or Court of Arbitration as last resort in dispute resolution. The parties, however, are encouraged to resolve conflict bilaterally. In this way providing two forums for dispute resolution altogether. [Anadolu Agency] [Dawn] [The Straits Times] [ThePrint] [Economic Times]
India, Russia presidents hold phone conversation
(wr) India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on January 27 reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy as the only way forward to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. [Hindustan Times] [The Indian Express]
Following up on their meeting in Samarkand on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Summit last September, the two leaders reviewed several aspects of the bilateral relationship, including energy cooperation, trade and investments, defense and security cooperation, and other key areas. Modi also briefed Putin on India’s ongoing G-20 Presidency, highlighting its key priorities. He further looked forward to both countries working together during India’s chair of the SCO.
In separate developments, an Indian former envoy to Moscow suggested that New Delhi might consider an energy alliance formation with Russia considering its huge energy trade and investment proportions. [Economic Times]
India, Japan discuss technology cooperation
(wr) India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar met the special advisor to Japan Prime Minister on January 25. Both sides discussed the opportunity of collaboration in third markets and exchange of Japanese technology with India. They also discussed the Bullet Train project in India that aims to provide a high-speed rail line between Mumbai and Ahmedabad using Japanese technology. [Economic Times] [ANI]
Indonesia summons Swedish ambassador regarding Quran burning
(os) The Indonesian government has summoned the Swedish ambassador to Indonesia in regard to the Quran burning by a right-wing Swedish-Danish politician in Stockholm. [Antara News] [The Jakarta Post]
The burning, conducted by politician Rasmus Paludan in front of the Turkish embassy in Sweden, has sparked widespread criticism in several Muslim countries. Indonesian Vice President Ma’ruf Amin stated that he believes the incident cannot be justified by referring to the freedom of expression.
The vast majority of Swedish politicians have also condemned the action. However, they cite the freedom of expression in relation to the act. Indonesia has now lodged an official complaint against the act and summoned Sweden’s ambassador Marina Berg. The Indonesian government has also criticized a similar incident in the Netherlands, where a right-wing Dutch politician burnt pages of the Quran in The Hague.
According to Amin, the Indonesian government aims to remedy possible negative effects in the country emanating from the two incidents. Indonesia is the country with the largest Muslim population worldwide. On January 30, hundreds of Indonesian Muslims held a protest in front of the Swedish embassy in Jakarta. [AP News]
Indonesia establishes first trading house in Europe
(os) The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) together with a Swiss partner, Pasar Indonesia AG, has inaugurated the Indonesia Trading House (ITH). The goal of ITH Switzerland is to act as a hub for Indonesian products entering the European and Swiss Markets. ITH Switzerland is the first collaboration between KADIN and Indonesian diaspora in Europe. The concept is planned to be replicated in several other European countries. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indonesia] [Tempo]
Indonesia, Guinea discuss cooperation in aviation
(os) Indonesian Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi has met with his Guinea counterpart Felix Lamah in Jakarta to sign a Letter of Intent (LoI) for cooperation in the aviation sector. [Antara News] [Tempo]
The West African country stated its plans to modernize its transportation sector. They emphasized their interest in cooperating with Indonesia in this sector, particularly in air transportation. For instance, the government of Guinea is interested in aircraft made by Indonesian aerospace company PT Dirgantara Indonesia. Guinea considers using them for its planned national airline.
The cooperation will not only encompass the area of air transportation, but also land, sea, and railway transportation, as well as human resources. The LoI is aimed to be later followed up to the technical stage.
Indonesia condemns Israeli use of force against Palestinians
(os) Indonesia has expressed that it strongly condemns the excessive use of force by Israeli security forces which resulted in the death of nine Palestinians. [Tempo] [The Jakarta Post] [Twitter]
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the international community and the United Nations to urge Israel to respect the rights of the Palestinian people.
On January 26, Israeli forces conducted a raid on a refugee camp in Jenin, a city located in the West Bank. According to Palestinian health officials, nine Palestinian civilians died during the raid.
Indonesia, Malaysia discuss protection of migrant workers
(os) Indonesian Manpower Minister Ida Fauziyah has met with Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to discuss the protection of Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia. [Antara News]
The talk revolved in particular around the progress of a protection scheme in accordance with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the placement and protection of domestic sector Indonesian migrant workers. Malaysia boasts the largest number of Indonesian migrant workers abroad.
The meeting was a follow-up of the recent meeting between Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim [see AiR No. 2, January/2023, 2].
Japan, NATO vow to deepen ties
(dql) During a meeting in Tokyo on January 31, Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg vowed to deepen ties and shared concerns over Russia’s nuclear threats, intensifying military cooperation and joint exercises between Beijing and Moscow, as well as the development of nuclear weapons in North Korea. [NATO] [Reuters] [Al Jazeera]
The meeting with Kishida is part of Stoltenberg’s visit to Japan during which he is scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi on February 1.
The visit comes after Japan adopted a new national security strategy in December under which the country seeks to massively increase its military capabilities, with the deployment of enemy strike capabilities at the center. Japan has also committed to raising annual defense spending to 2 percent of GDP.
Earlier on January 30, he met with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol to call on Seoul to commit to providing direct military support to Ukraine [see entry below].
New base for U.S. marines opens at Guam, troops transfer expected to begin in 2024
(cc) On the U.S. territory of Guam, a new military base was opened by the U.S. Marine Corps on January 26. The new installation could accommodate 4,000 personnel currently deployed in Okinawa, with the relocation set to start in 2024.
Funded by Japan and the United States, the base construction and the transfer program is based on the 2006 force realignment scheme that, among other goals, aims to decrease Okinawa's burden of hosting U.S. military bases.
At Guam, there were mixed receptions to the action. Lou Leon Guerrero, the Governor of Guam, looked at the relocation positively, noting that the success of Guam's populace is intrinsically linked with the success of the Marines. Meanwhile, Monaeka Flores, an activist, expressed concerns about how a new base would turn Guam into a war target. [Kyodo News] [Twitter, Ministry of Defense, Japan]
Meanwhile, Japan and the U.S. carried out a multi-service exercise on January 27 in the Sea of Japan. [Twitter, Ministry of Defense, Japan]
Further, Japanese, U.S., Australian, and French air forces are arriving in Guam to set up the command and control multinational task force for Cope North 2023, scheduled for February 8-24.
Cope North is a multilateral field training exercise sponsored by the U.S. Pacific Air Forces-sponsored and carried out annually at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Established in 1987, it is the U.S. Pacific Air Forces’ largest multilateral exercise. In this year, 1,000 U.S. Airmen, Marines, and Sailors and 1,000 service members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the Royal Australian Air Force, and the French Air and Space Force will be involved in the exercise. A combined total of around 100 aircraft from the four countries are expected to fly 1,200 sorties across seven islands and ten airfields. [Pacific Air Force, USA]
Intelligence satellite for observing weather and North Korea launches by Japan
(cc) On January 26, a rocket carrying an intelligence-gathering radar designed to bolster the disaster response capability and observe the situation of the North Korean military installations was successfully launched by Japan.
Operated by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., the rocket can take photos of the ground at night and during harsh weather. It can also transmit information in times of natural calamities. Mitsubishi Heavy was assigned to lead the operation by Japan's Cabinet Satellite Intelligence Center. Overall, developing and launching the rocket costs JPY 62.6 billion or USD 482 million. [Kyodo News]
Japan plans to lift export control against South Korea
(cc) Japan is reportedly considering the possibility for South Korea to regain its preferential export status. According to sources from the Japanese government, the removal of trade control would come during negotiations to solve the dispute on the wartime labor issue.
In 2019, Japan stripped South Korea of its special trade status, citing Japanese national security considerations and the worsening relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, South Korea claimed that the action was a retaliatory response to the ruling of the South Korean Supreme Court that instructed two Japanese companies to pay compensation for wartime forced labor.
Earlier in January, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol tried to mitigate the issue by suggesting that the payment could be made from private South Korean firms, not Japanese companies. While Japan is receptive to the proposed plan, it maintains that the issues related to its occupation of the Korean Peninsula between 1910 to 1945 were completely settled by the bilateral agreement in 1965. [Japan Times]
Chinese government ships enter Japanese waters near the Senkaku Islands
(cc) According to the Japanese Coast Guard, four Chinese government ships encroached into the Japanese territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands on January 30. The ships were spotted sailing a few kilometers from the Japanese survey and fishing vessels. Coast guard ships were sent to protect the Japanese boats and signal the Chinese fleets to withdraw from the area.
The incident was the second time the Chinese government ships were spotted in Japan's territorial water near the Senkaku Islands in 2023, with the first happening on January 10. [NHK]
Japan to restrict technology exports to China
On January 27, the Netherlands and Japan agreed to join the United States in restricting China’s access to materials needed for producing semiconductors. Though, the full details of the agreement remain ambiguous due to the sensitive nature of the situation, with the governments of all three countries refusing to give comment on the circumstance.
In October 2022, citing concerns about how China could use semiconductors for military purposes, the United States issued strict regulations on the sale of semiconductors and machinery related to their production to China. Both being significant players in the global semiconductor manufacturing industry, the Netherlands and Japan have been encouraged by the United States to follow its action. [New York Times] [AP News]
Sony moves some production plants from China
Amid the rising tension between the United States and China, Sony Group moved the production plants of cameras for the Japanese, American, and European markets from China to Thailand.
Previously, Sony cameras were produced for the global market by facilities in China and Thailand. But after the move, the Sony factories in China will only be responsible for supplying the Chinese market.
Other Sony products, such as camera lenses and game consoles, designated for the international market will still be manufactured in China.
Following disruptions caused on the supply chain by China's zero-Covid policy, other companies have been making a similar move, with Canon shifting part of its camera production from China to Japan in 2022 and Daikin Industries planning to establish a production system that does not rely on Chinese-made components within fiscal 2023. [Asia Nikkei]
Japan, Greece aim for strategic partnership
(dql) During their meeting in Tokyo on January 30, Japanese Prime Fumio Kishida and his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis agreed to elevate their countries’ relations to a strategic partnership and deepen cooperation in defense that includes military equipment and technology and other areas such as political dialogue, trade, investment, and energy and space. [Prime Minister’s Office, Japan] [NHK]
Fifth Bridge between Laos and Thailand to open in 2024
(fj) The so-called fifth Thai Lao Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River that marks the border between the two countries is expected to be opened in early 2024, according to an announcement by a Thai government spokesperson.
The project is expected to facilitate trade between Thailand and Laos and improve connectivity between Thailand and Vietnam as well as contribute to the connectivity of the Greater Mekong Subregion, which includes Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Yunnan province of China.
The bridge’s cost of around USD 110 million is shared by Thailand (USD 76 million) and Laos (USD 34 million). [Bangkok Post]
Malaysian prime minister makes first official visit to Singapore
(ih) On January 30, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim made his first official visit to Singapore for meetings with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Halimah Yacob.
The two prime ministers witnessed the signing of three agreements. Two of the agreements were between the Singaporean Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade. The first was an agreement to cooperate on the development of a green economy, Malaysia’s first ever green economy agreement.
The second was a framework of cooperation for the digital economy. The third agreement consisted of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the fields of cybersecurity, personal data protection, and digital economy between the Singaproean Ministry of Communications and Information and the Malaysian Ministry of Communications and Digital. [The Straits Times]
Malaysian Prime Minister to visit Thailand, boosting hopes for reconciliation in deep south
(fj) Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to visit Thailand on February 10. Besides strengthening the bilateral relations between the two nations, some observers are taking it as a positive sign for reconciliation in Thailand’s conflict-ridden southernmost provinces, where Malaysia has long aspired to act as a facilitator.
The insurgency in Thailand’s deep south, which has a long and complex history showing intersecting causes of competing religious and national identities as well as socio-economic disparities, has claimed more than 7,000 lives and left another 13,500 injured since 2004.
With a history of prolonged but unsuccessful attempts to negotiate a solution between the Thai government on one side and local social society groups and insurgents on the other, it remains to be seen if Anwar Ibrahim’s reported credibility with local stakeholders and Thai politicians will prove useful in making meaningful progress. [Bangkok Post]
Malaysia, Russia to sign MoU on fishing and aquaculture
(dql) The Malaysian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) has revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and Russia is expected to be signed this year.
The MoU will center around working relationships in modern farming, seedlings technology, fishing and aquaculture. [The Sun Daily]
Mongolia signs agreement with South Korean telecommunications firm to promote digitalization
(sw) On January 26, the Mongolian government signed a contract with the Korean telecommunications company KT to promote digitalization in Mongolia. In exchange, Mongolia supplies the firm with mineral resources, like rare earth elements.
This can be seen as one more step of the digitalization process in Mongolia. In 2021, the government announced a new growth policy to improve economic development. In May 2022, it established the Ministry of Digital Development. [Business Korea]
Mongolia strengthens aviation partnership with the United States
(sw) The Mongolian government signed the first bilateral air transport agreement with the United States that strengthens their aviation and economic partnership.
The agreement includes “unrestricted capacity and frequency of services, open route rights, a liberal charter regime, and open code-sharing opportunities,” according to the U.S. Department of State. [Department of State, USA]
Russia’s energy exports to China and Mongolia reached all-time high in 2022
(sw) The Russian state-owned energy company Inter RAO increased their energy exports to Mongolia and China by 15-20 percent in 2022.
That is the highest amount of electricity ever delivered to these countries. This occurred while the company stopped exports to the European Union in June 2022. [UrduPoint]
International Criminal Court to resume investigations into Philippines' "war on drugs"
(jd) The International Criminal Court (ICC) has authorized the resumption of the investigations into Philippines’ “war on drugs” carried out by the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, which left at least 6181 dead. The ICC stated that it is not satisfied with the country’s proceedings as they don’t result in tangible investigative progress.
The former president pulled the Philippines out of the ICC in 2019 after a preliminary and consequential official probe were launched. The probe was then suspended in November 2021 after the country stated that it was re-examining several cases of drug operations where law enforcers caused victims.
Current Philippine President Marcos Jr., for his part, has vowed to continue the war on drugs by focusing on prevention and rehabilitation, but has no intention of rejoining the ICC claiming that it is a court that should only intervene when a country can’t prosecute its offenders.
Although the Philippines claims that its judiciary system is functioning well and doesn’t need any form of external intervention, there were only two convictions related to the war on drugs up to this day. [Philstar]
United States to secure expanded access on Philippine military bases
(tjb) The United States army is preparing for expanded access to military bases in the Philippines, a move that analysts predict will provide Washington with a strategic vantage point should the geopolitical tensions in Taiwan or the South China Sea be heightened.
While dialogues between Manila and Washington are still ongoing, an announcement to further explain the plan is expected to be revealed when US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visits his counterpart in the Philippines before engaging in a dialogue with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. [Washington Post]
The Philippines, a treaty ally of the US, is also looking to fully utilize the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) by completing projects and facilities. With the EDCA still enforced, the US may operate Philippine army bases provided that the Philippines retains ownership of the sites. [Philippine Star]
Earlier, activist groups voiced their criticism of both the Austin visit and the implementation of EDCA. They condemned the move as a violation of the country’s national sovereignty while maintaining that the US presence in the Philippines is unlikely to deter Chinese aggression. [Philippine Star]
NATO chief requests more military support from South Korea for Ukraine
(sm) On January 30, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg pressed South Korea for additional military support for Ukraine in light of the US and Germany’s recent decision to provide tanks to the Ukrainian military.
In a speech at the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies in Seoul, Stoltenberg thanked South Korea for its humanitarian support to Kiev until now, but explained that more military support is needed, especially ammunition. His remark comes as several NATO allies, such as Sweden and Norway, have changed their stance on exporting only non-lethal commodities to Ukraine.
While South Korea has signed several billion dollar weapon deals, including tanks and aircrafts, with Ukraine’s neighbor Poland, the law prohibits the supply of weapons to countries in conflict, according to South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol.
Stoltenberg subsequently met with Yoon and Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup, who both expressed support for closer ties with NATO but did not comment on the request for more military assistance.
Stoltenberg argued that containing the war in Ukraine is also the first step to contain the overstepping of authoritarian regimes, such as Russia and China.
In response to the remarks, China’s Foreign Ministry expressed China’s urged the NATO and its allies to abandon its Cold War mentality, and see China as a partner in climate and economic issues, rather than an adversary.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s sister Kim Yo-jong issued a statement on January 27, heavily criticizing the supply of weapons to Ukraine and arguing the US was crossing a line by sending tanks to Kiev. [Yonhap News Agency_1]
Stoltenberg’s trip will bring him to Japan next to advocate increased assistance to war torn Ukraine.
In light of the war in Ukraine and increasing rivalry between the West and China, South Korea opened its first diplomatic mission to NATO in June 2022 to deepen cooperation in nuclear non-proliferation, cyber security, disaster response, and counterterrorism. It has also stepped up its trilateral security cooperation with Japan and the US over North Korean missile and nuclear threats. [Reuters] [Yonhap News Agency_2]
Japan, South Korea clash over ownership of Dokdo/Takeshima islands and wartime forced labor legacy
(sm) On January 30, South Korean Director General for Asia and Pacific Affairs Seo Min-jung held working-level consultations on the compensation of wartime forced labor victims with her Japanese counterpart Takehiro Funakoshi.
Tensions over the issue had surged after the South Korean Supreme Court had ruled in 2018 that two Japanese companies (Mitsubishi heavy industries and Nippon steel corporation) should pay reparations to South Korean citizens forced to work in mines during World War Two under the Japanese regime.
In an effort to improve diplomatic relations between the two countries, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had decided to resume working-level consultations in 2022. Noting the refusal of the two Japanese companies to pay compensations, Seoul proposed in mid-January that the compensations would be paid through a South Korean public fund instead.
The proposal has been met with heavy opposition by victims and civic groups, who advocate for an official Japanese apology and a direct payment by the firms involved in the supreme court lawsuit. Several high level South Korean diplomats, Foreign Minister Park Jin among others, have commented that such a direct compensation would be more desirable. [Yonhap News Agency_1]
Following the meeting, Seo reported that both sides were willing to continue talks over the matter on the working and higher diplomatic level.
The meeting came just after South Korea contested Japan’s official claim of the Dokdo/Takeshima islands which the two countries have a long-standing territorial dispute over.
After Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi made the controversial statement during a parliamentary policy speech on January 23, an official of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul was summoned to the South Korean foreign ministry to express their protest. The ministry also issued a statement calling for the prompt retraction of Hayashi’s remarks, highlighting their negative effect on their bilateral relationship. [KBS World] [South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
Both the forced wartime labor issue and territorial dispute over islets in the East Sea have long been stumbling steps in the diplomatic relationship between Japan and South Korea.
As the countries have recently sought to improve their security relations together with the US against North Korean missile and nuclear threats, ongoing disputes could impede or slow down trilateral military cooperation. [Yonhap News Agency_2]
South Korea, U.S. to increase combined military exercises
(dql) At the South-Korea Defense Ministerial Meeting on January 31, South Korean Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup and his U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin reached agreement on a further expansion and reinforcement of joint drills and training, in a bid to cope with growing nuclear and missile threats from North Korea.
Austin, for his part, furthermore vowed to boost the deployment of US strategic assets to South Korea that seeks to strengthen US extended deterrence against North Korea, in line with last year’s dispatch of fifth-generation fighter jets and nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to South Korea.
Subject of the discussions during the meeting was also the enhancement of the trilateral security cooperation between the two countries and Japan, where Lee and Austin reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the development of “specific courses of action to facilitate trilateral sharing of missile warning data.” [Department of Defense, USA] [The Korea Herald]
US nominates North Korean human rights envoy for the first time since 2017
(sm) On January 24, US President Joe Biden nominated a new special envoy for human rights to Pyongyang, for the first time since 2017.
The post had been vacant because of diverting opinions on the role human rights have to play in the US’ plan for North Korea’s denuclearization. The new special envoy, Julie Turner, is the current director of East Asia and the Pacific at the Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor of the Department of State.
Biden had promised to appoint a new envoy as he took office in 2021, stating human rights were central to his foreign policy.
North Korea sees the US’ accusations of human rights violations as a political tool to tarnish its reputation. Accusations have led to the stalling of denuclearization negotiations in the past, which has made the US hesitant to reappoint someone to the position.
The South Korean foreign ministry has welcomed the nomination, stating it wants to work with the US for the improvement of the North Korean human rights situation.
Meanwhile, on January 25, South Korean Special Representative for Peace and Security on the Peninsula Kim Gunn met with International Atomic Agency Deputy Director General Massimo Aparo to discuss the stalling on denuclearization talks with North Korea, hoping for a more active role of the agency.
The South Korean and US Army chiefs Park Jeong-hwan and James McConville furthermore met in Washington DC to sign a strategic vision statement to increase cooperation in various areas, such as space security, science, and technology, and to boost space deterrence against Pyongyang on January 27 [Korea Times] [Yonhap News Agency_1]
North Korea’s human rights record has been seen as poor, with a 2014 UN report concluding North Korean military and political officials should be sued over their establishment of an authoritarian regime which endorses grave human rights violations. The country’s humanitarian situation has only gotten worse with the pandemic through greater surveillance and border security. [Reuters] [Yonhap News Agency_2]
South Korea faces Chinese cyberattacks and fighter jets in shared airzone
(sm) South Korea authorities confirmed both the hacking of twelve education institutions and the presence of Chinese fighter jets in their shared airspace.
On January 26, two Chinese fighter jets flew into South Korea and China’s shared air defense identification zones in an apparent protest over US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s prospective visit to South Korea. The South Korean military put its own fighter jets on standby, but the Chinese planes did not violate the South Korean airspace. The presence of the jets was confirmed by the South Korea-US Joint Chiefs of Staff on January 27. [Yonhap News Agency]
In the meanwhile, the Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA) disclosed that the Chinese hacking group Xiaoqiying (Dawn Cavalry) had hacked into a dozen academic and research institutions, such as the Korea Research Institute for Construction Policy, the Korea Association for Education, and the Korean East-West Mind Science Association, over the Lunar New Year holiday.
Xiaoqiying, known to be an anti-Korean hacking group, claimed they had hacked the systems of some 70 institutions during the holiday, and threatened to disclose 54 GB worth of data collected through their recent attack. They had previously announced that they would target the KISA.
Although KISA has not found any signs of hacking in their own systems, it will remain vigilant against Chinese cyber attacks. Investigations into the extent of damage created are still ongoing. Science Minister Lee Jong-ho visited the institution on January 25 to review the cyber security measures in place. [KBS World] [Korea Times]
UNC confirms violation of armistice by both North and South Korea
(sm) Both North and South Korea have violated their armistice through drone incursions into each other’s territories in December 2022, according to the US-led UN Command (UNC).
The UNC had launched a special investigation into Pyongyang’s drone incursions into South Korea on December 26, which was followed by Seoul sending its own drones in retaliation.
Seoul defended its decision, explaining it only exercised its right to self-defense which cannot be considered as a breach to armistice. It however respects the judgment of the UNC and has been actively cooperating with the investigation. North Korea on the other hand slammed the investigation as a UN-led attempt to fasten its annihilation.
The UNC has been the authority in charge of enforcing the 1953 armistice, which suspended the Korean War. [Yonhap News Agency_1] [Yonhap News Agency_2]
Cambodia, South Korea to maximize trade through new free trade agreement
(sm) During a business and investment forum on January 27, Cambodian Commerce Minister Pan Sorasak met with his counterpart Ahn Duk-geun and several government and corporate officials to discuss ways to increase bilateral trade through their new FTA which came into force in December 2022.
According to the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Energy, the two countries are looking to enhance trade in the areas of green energy, and digital economy among others. Ahn also offered support through official development assistance programs for Cambodia’s digital development.
The two countries’ FTA came into force on December 1 and stipulates the expansion of cooperation in the textile, automobile, machinery, and food industries. It represents a deepening of the ongoing South Korea-ASEAN FTA and regional comprehensive economic partnership (RCEP) multilateral trade agreement, additionally covering China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea.
Bilateral trade between Cambodia and South Korea has seen a significant increase since the two countries reestablished their relationship in 1997, rising from USD 54 million in 1997 to USD 1,05 billion in 2022. [Yonhap News Agency]
South Korea, Australia to increase cooperation on key minerals
(sm) On January 30, South Korean Industry Minister Lee Chang-yang and Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan agreed to increase their cooperation on energy and key minerals in Seoul.
Lee and McGowan signed a letter of intent for increased investment and trade in the advanced energy sector, including hydrogen, carbon technology, and minerals, and more traditional energy industries, such as steel and gas.
Australia and South Korea are considered perfect partners for secure supply chains and energy technology innovation, as South Korea possesses high technological know-how and capacities, while Australia is rich in natural resources, such as LNG, lithium, and cobalt.
South Korea has recently been increasing its imports of Australian natural resources in an effort to reduce its dependency on Chinese imports. This is largely due to the US Inflation Rate Act’s stipulations, which disadvantage products using Chinese minerals to build semiconductor chips, for instance. [Yonhap News Agency]
India, South Korea discuss ways to elevate their special strategic partnership
(sm) On January 30, South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin and his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had a phone call to discuss ways of enhancing their cooperation in the fields of economy, development assistance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges in an effort to strengthen their 2015 special strategic partnership.
Park also voiced Seoul’s support for India’s 2023 G20 presidency. The two countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties this year. [Yonhap News Agency]
Sri Lankan foreign minister visits Saudi Arabia
(sn) During January 23–27, Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, undertook an official trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on an initiative of the Saudi State Foreign Minster, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.
Sri Lanka thanked the Middle East counterpart for the support from Saudi Development Fund and in the matters of the IMF restructuring program. The Island Kingdom also urged the hosting state to enhance employment options for Sri Lankan residents and expressed gratitude for already supporting 185000 of its foreign workers living in Saudi Arabia. It also encouraged more tourist visits from citizens of the Middle East State. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud that his Kingdom will continue encouraging businesses to invest in Sri Lanka. The Foreign Ministers also agreed to resume flight correspondence between their countries.
Later on the occasion, Mr. Ali Sabry met with the Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation and the Vice President of the Islamic Development Bank, where parties agreed to continue cooperation and support of the Island state. The Sri Lankan minister announced that the trade volume of the South Asian State with the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries (GCC) attained USD 2.5 billion. In turn, the counterparties agreed to enhance the framework agreement development. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka]
US Republicans launch resolution to formalize US relations with Taiwan
(sw) A group of 18 Republicans in the U.S. Congress has introduced a resolution that calls on the U.S. government to abandon the “antiquated” one-China policy, to recognize Taiwan as an independent country, and to re-establish formal diplomatic relations.
In response to the resolution, the Chinese side is more determined to address the Taiwan question. Furthermore, it makes actions with higher intensity and larger-scale engagement of the People’s Liberation Army more likely. [Focus Taiwan] [Taiwan News] [Global Times]
US bill proposes to support Taiwan IMF membership
(sw) A new bill, that supports Taiwan’s admission to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has been introduced to the U.S. Congress. The bill is part of the bipartisan Taiwan Non-Discrimination Act that was introduced on January 26.
The goal is to ensure that Taiwan can participate in international financial decision-making. Furthermore, it would cause Taiwan to participate in the regular surveillance activities of the IMF relating to its economic and financial policies. In addition, the bill calls for the provision of IMF technical assistance and training to Taiwan, and job opportunities at the IMF for Taiwan nationals. [Taiwan News] [Focus Taiwan]
Chinese military aircraft, naval ships around Taiwan
(dql) Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has spotted nine Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military aircraft and three naval vessels around Taiwan between January 30 and 31.
In January, China dispatched 355 military aircraft and 107 naval ships around Taiwan. [Ministry of National Defense, Taiwan] [Taiwan News]
Taiwan’s Foxconn plans to increase investments in Mexico
(sw) Foxconn intends to enhance investments in Mexico, because of North America’s growing demand for electric vehicles and smart technologies. Furthermore, the economic risk in China has increased and the Chinese working-age population is diminishing.
Other Taiwanese companies like Pegatron, Quanta Computer, and Compal Electronics also plan to invest in Mexico, which is attractive for investments because of its growing population, comparatively low costs, and strategic geographic position that provides access to the US. [Taiwan News]
Thai navy to observe testing of Chinese submarine engine in controversial procurement case
(fj) A group of Thai navy officers will be sent to Wuhan to attend the performance testing of CHD620 submarine engines that might be installed in a Chinese-built submarine under a procurement contract by the Royal Thai Navy.
In the controversial case, the Royal Thai Navy has claimed that it was promised a submarine fitted with a German made MTU396 motor in their contract with China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC). However, MTU reportedly refused to deliver such an engine to the Chinese company, leading CSOC to propose fitting the submarine with a CHD620 instead.
While initial reactions of the Royal Thai Navy were strongly dismissive of the Chinese proposal, the announced presence of navy officers during the testing signals that there might have been a change of mind. [Bangkok Post]
Thai Minister of Foreign Affairs travels to Ankara for meeting on economic cooperation
(fj) Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Don Pramudwinai, travelled to Türkiye on January 26 to meet with Ministry of Industry and Technology Mustafa Varank. Together, they chaired the fourth meeting of the Thai-Turkish Joint Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation.
Following up on the third such meeting held back in 2003, the visit is a clear signal of mutual interest in boosting bilateral relations after a period of relative inactivity. Strengthening the economic ties between the countries as well as the promotion of technical cooperation including in the energy sector and the defense industry were among issues discussed.
During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding between the Thailand International Cooperation Agency and the Turkish Cooperation & Coordination Agency was also signed, attesting to shared ambitions to play a role in international development efforts. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
Announcements
Upcoming Events
1 February 2023 @ 9:00-10:00 a.m. (GMT), Chatham House, UK
Working with ASEAN: How can the UK learn from Japan’s experience in Southeast Asia?
This online event will explore the following questions: What can the UK learn from Japan, which is one of ASEAN’s oldest partners and has developed extensive relationships with key Southeast Asian states? How can the UK and Japan work together more effectively to pursue shared ambitions in Southeast Asia? What does the region want from key outside partners such as Japan and the UK?
For more information, see [Chatham House].
1 February 2023 @ 3:00-4:15 p.m. (GMT-5), Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, USA
Ralph Bunche and the Making of the Modern World
This online event will feature a talk with Ralph Bunche, counselor to presidents, recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, architect of the United Nations and later a senior UN official about the emergence of the modern world.
Visit [Carnegie Endowment for International Peace] for details of the event.
2 February 2023 @ 1:00-2:15 p.m. (GMT-5), Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, USA
One Year On: Germany’s Foreign Policy Shift and the War in Ukraine
This hybrid event will offer an in-depth review of Germany’s foreign and defense policy changes and its impact on allies in the region and around the world almost one year into the war in Ukraine.
Further information is provided at [Carnegie Endowment for International Peace].
2 February 2023 @ 10:00-11:00 a.m. (GMT+8), ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore
Trade in Digital Services in Asia and the Pacific: A Study of Six Selected Economies
This webinar will explore commonalities and differences across these six countries in order to obtain key policy insights about the emerging opportunities and challenges in digital services trade, how governments can support it, and the regulatory and other practices for ensuring its growth and equitable distribution of associated benefits.
Find more information at [ISEAS].
7 February 2023 @ 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. (GMT-5), Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), USA
How Private Are Chinese Companies?
This online event will provide an overview of the latest data-driven research evaluating the influence of the Chinese party-state on Chinese companies and their ability to maintain autonomy.
For more event details, go to [CSIS].
Recent Book Releases
Simon Commander, The Connections World: The Future of Asian Capitalism, Cambridge University Press, 342 pages, published on October 27, 2022, reviewed in [LSE].
Andie Tucher, Not Exactly Lying: Fake News and Fake Journalism in American History, Columbia University Press, 384 pages, published on March 29, 2022. For a review, see [New Books Network]
Calls for Papers
The University of St. Thomas invites paper proposal for its virtual conference on the theme “The Immigration and Refugee Crisis,” scheduled for April 14, 2023. The deadline for abstract submission is February 28, 2023. For more information, see [CPF List].
The London Centre for Interdisciplinary Research (LCIR) invites paper proposal for its international conference “Somewhere in Between: Borders and Borderlands,” to be held on April 29-30, 2023. Abstract submission deadline is February 15, 2023. More about the call at [LCIR].
Jobs and positions
The United Nations Development Programme seeks a Grievance & Social-Environment Analyst to be based in India. Core responsibility is to develop guidelines to ensure that environmental assessment is a part of developing and implementing projects. The contract is only for Indian nationals with two years of experience. Applications are accepted until 22 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNDP].
The United Nations Development Programme seeks a Project Management Analyst to be based in India. Core responsibility is to manage the project's operations team and compile project component reports. The contract is only for Indian nationals with one year of experience. Applications are accepted until 22 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNDP].
The United Nations Development Programme seeks a Finance Analyst to be based in India. Core responsibility is to collect annual audit reports and assist Senior Finance Officer in reporting to the government of India. Applications are accepted until 22 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNDP].
The United Nations Development Programme seeks a Project Management Associate to be based in Thailand. Core responsibility is to support the management and implementation of project activities. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNDP].
The United Nations Development Programme seeks a Procurement Analyst to be based in India. Core responsibility is to analyze the requirements of proposals for cost saving and reduction strategies. The contract is only for Indian nationals with one year of experience. Applications are accepted until 22 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNDP].
The World Food Programme seeks a Human Resource Assistant to be based in Kenya. Core responsibility is to provide assistance to the human resource department. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WFP].
The World Food Programme seeks a Vulnerability and Assessment Mapping (VAM) Officer to be based in Egypt. Core responsibility is to help with the development and integration of VAM projects and activities. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WFP].
The World Food Programme seeks a Humanitarian Military Interaction Officer to be based in Italy. Core responsibility is to establish and maintain communication systems at the operational and tactical levels with the WFP field staff. Applications are accepted until 19 February 2023. More information is provided at [WFP].
The World Food Programme seeks an Emergency Logistics Preparedness Expert to be based in Peru. Core responsibility is to help develop and implement Emergency Logistics Preparedness projects and activities. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WFP].
The World Food Programme seeks a Procurement Associate to be based in Egypt. Core responsibility is to provide coordination and administrative services to support the procurement process. Applications are accepted until 12 February 2023. More information is provided at [WFP].
The World Health Organization seeks a Technical Officer on Infodemic Management to be based in Switzerland. Core responsibility is to manage projects and create tools to support the development of the infodemic management country toolbox. Applications are accepted until 21 February 2023. More information is provided at [WHO].
The World Health Organization seeks an Adolescent Health Consultant to be based in the Republic of the Congo. Core responsibility is to manage a workplan on adolescent health for WHO Regional Office for Africa. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WHO].
The World Health Organization seeks a Regional Evaluation Officer to be based in the Philippines. Core responsibility is to facilitate the development and implementation of regional and country evaluation workplans. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WHO].
The World Health Organization seeks a Consultant for Evidence and Data to Policy to be based in Egypt. Core responsibility is to contribute to the development and implementation of the communication system for the policy-making process. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [WHO].
The World Health Organization seeks a Project Officer to be based in Afghanistan. Core responsibility is to develop work plans, track the status of the assigned projects, and produce progress reports. Applications are accepted until 20 February 2023. More information is provided at [WHO].
The United Nations Children's Fund seeks a Planning Manager to be based in Denmark. Core responsibility is to lead and supervise staff and consultants to ensure the success of the project. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNICEF].
The United Nations Children's Fund seeks a Communication Officer to be based in Mongolia. Core responsibility is to support the production of communication materials that meet local and global standards. Applications are accepted until 12 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNICEF].
The United Nations Children's Fund seeks an Information Management Officer to be based in Mozambique. Core responsibility is to manage information, innovation, and knowledge relevant to the projects. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNICEF].
The United Nations Children's Fund seeks a Senior Executive Associate to be based in Sudan. Core responsibility is to administer the communicational, administrative, and operational aspects of the organization. Applications are accepted until 11 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNICEF].
The United Nations Children's Fund seeks a Security Specialist to be based in Ghana. Core responsibility is to manage security risk and provide security services. Applications are accepted until 20 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNICEF].
The United Nations Secretariat seeks a Legal Officer to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to handle legal issues related to the operations of the United Nations. Applications are accepted until 15 March 2023. More information is provided at [UN].
The United Nations Secretariat seeks a Human Resources Assistant to be based in Switzerland. Core responsibility is to oversee the recruitment process and provide general office support services. Applications are accepted until 12 February 2023. More information is provided at [UN].
The United Nations Secretariat seeks a Telecommunication Officer to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to provide advice on managing and maintaining the communication system. Applications are accepted until 15 March 2023. More information is provided at [UN].
The United Nations Secretariat seeks a Graphic Designer to be based in Tajikistan. Core responsibility is to produce designed content and presentation materials for the UN. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [UN].
The United Nations Secretariat seeks a Political Affairs Officer to be based in Iraq. Core responsibility is to facilitate cooperation between relevant political actors and provide reports on local strategic and legal issues. Applications are accepted until 12 February 2023. More information is provided at [UN].
The International Rescue Committee seeks an Employment Specialist to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to develop long-term relationships with local employers and determine employment opportunities for clients. Applications are accepted until 30 March 2023. More information is provided at [IRC].
The International Rescue Committee seeks a Research and Learning Officer to be based in Somalia. Core responsibility is to serve as a focal point for processing and developing evaluations, progress reviews, and assessments. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [IRC].
The International Rescue Committee seeks a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to track outputs and outcomes for all projects. Applications are accepted until 30 March 2023. More information is provided at [IRC].
The International Rescue Committee seeks a Housing Specialist to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to identify safe housing for refugees and conduct outreach programs to landlords and property managers. Applications are accepted until 30 March 2023. More information is provided at [IRC].
The International Rescue Committee seeks a Case Aide to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to manage the issues related to the well-being of clients, such as housing and access to education. Applications are accepted until 30 March 2023. More information is provided at [IRC].
The Food and Agriculture Organization seeks a Procurement Assistant to be based in Pakistan. Core responsibility is to prepare procurement plans and preparing documents related to the procurement process. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [FAO].
The Food and Agriculture Organization seeks a National Security Specialist to be based in Nigeria. Core responsibility is to provide security to assist FAO’s delivery program and monitor the security environment in the area. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [FAO].
The Food and Agriculture Organization seeks an Office Assistant to be based in Croatia. Core responsibility is to oversee the administrative activities and transactions of the office. Applications are accepted until 21 February 2023. More information is provided at [FAO].
The Food and Agriculture Organization seeks an Administrative Assistant to be based in Rwanda. Core responsibility is to provide the office with administrative and logistic support in organizing meetings, conferences, and activities. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [FAO].
The Food and Agriculture Organization seeks an Office Assistant to be based in Italy. Core responsibility is to supervise the administrative and logistical aspects of the organization. Applications are accepted until 17 February 2023. More information is provided at [FAO].
The Action Against Hunger seeks a Health and Nutrition Coordinator to be based in Syria. Core responsibility is to provide strategic leadership to the program and coordinate with other departments. Applications are accepted until 28 February 2023. More information is provided at [ACF].
The Action Against Hunger seeks a Policy and Advocacy Expert to be based in Ukraine. Core responsibility is to develop strategic engagements and provide policy recommendations to missions in Ukraine. Applications are accepted until 28 February 2023. More information is provided at [ACF].
The Action Against Hunger seeks a Health and Nutrition Programme Manager to be based in Ukraine. Core responsibility is to manage and monitor the project activities. Applications are accepted until 9 February 2023. More information is provided at [ACF].
The Action Against Hunger seeks a Deputy Country Director Support to be based in Ukraine. Core responsibility is to manage the organizational structure of the three support departments of the mission in Ukraine. Applications are accepted until 14 March 2023. More information is provided at [ACF].
The Action Against Hunger seeks a Senior Officer on Business Development to be based in the United States. Core responsibility is to oversee the proposal development, pricing, and submission to ensure their quality. Applications are accepted until 16 February 2023. More information is provided at [ACF].
The Danish Refugee Council seeks a Project Manager to be based in the Central African Republic. Core responsibility is to control the quality of the implemented programs and activities for the populations. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [DRC].
The Danish Refugee Council seeks a Grant Management Specialist to be based in Yemen. Core responsibility is to provide services to process related to grant management and donor compliance. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [DRC].
The Danish Refugee Council seeks an Economic Recovery Assistant to be based in Burundi. Core responsibility is to provide management and leadership to local stakeholders and communities. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [DRC].
The Danish Refugee Council seeks an Administration Assistant to be based in Ukraine. Core responsibility is to manage the day-to-day affairs of the office and clients. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [DRC].
The Danish Refugee Council seeks a Protection Manager to be based in Yemen. Core responsibility is to oversee the project management cycle and produce reports and procurement plans. Applications are accepted until 11 February 2023. More information is provided at [DRC].
The International Organization for Migration seeks a Programme Coordinator to be based in Mauritius. Core responsibility is to lead the implementation of the project and monitor its results. Applications are accepted until 19 February 2023. More information is provided at [IOM].
The International Organization for Migration seeks a Resource Management Officer to be based in Mauritius. Core responsibility is to assist with the financial management of all activities in the country and prepare financial reviews of projects. Applications are accepted until 19 February 2023. More information is provided at [IOM].
The International Organization for Migration seeks a Supply Chain Officer to be based in El Salvador. Core responsibility is to prepare strategic planning for supply chains of the related activities of the local office and conduct the logistical assessment. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [IOM].
The International Organization for Migration seeks a Social Media Associate to be based in Switzerland. Core responsibility is to manage the social media activities to be in alignment with IOM’s communication priorities. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [IOM].
The International Organization for Migration seeks an Information Management Officer to be based in Mozambique. Core responsibility is to contribute to the development of a mechanism for information management and data collection. Applications are accepted until 13 February 2023. More information is provided at [IOM].
The United Nations Office for Project Services seeks an Intern Graphic Designer to be based in Denmark. Core responsibility is to design materials for the organization that could convey desired messages. Applications are accepted until 14 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNOPS].
The United Nations Office for Project Services seeks a Procurement Senior Associate to be based in Mali. Core responsibility is to ensure that transactional procurement activities are within the rules and regulations of UNOPS. Applications are accepted until 15 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNOPS].
The United Nations Office for Project Services seeks a Procurement Senior Analyst to be based in Denmark. Core responsibility is to support the planning or procurement development initiatives and facilitate training to related personnel. Applications are accepted until 24 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNOPS].
The United Nations Office for Project Services seeks a Programme Management Senior Assistant to be based in Myanmar. Core responsibility is to support the day-to-day operations and document the relevant development of the project. Applications are accepted until 16 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNOPS].
The United Nations Office for Project Services seeks a Project Management Support Officer to be based in the Philippines. Core responsibility is to manage the information flow and monitor the financial situation of the work. Applications are accepted until 15 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNOPS].
The United Nations Environment Programme seeks a Programme Management Officer to be based in Switzerland. Core responsibility is to participate in the development of the program and analyze its implementation. Applications are accepted until 16 March 2023. More information is provided at [UNEP].
The United Nations Environment Programme seeks a Biodiversity Expert to be based in Saudi Arabia. Core responsibility is to compose and review biodiversity documents and reports. Applications are accepted until 27 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNEP].
The United Nations Environment Programme seeks a Senior Administrative Assistant to be based in Kenya. Core responsibility is to oversee the human resource, finance, and administrative aspects of the organization. Applications are accepted until 28 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNEP].
The United Nations Environment Programme seeks a Finance and Budget Assistant to be based in YY. Core responsibility is to assist the Finance and Budget officers in managing the finance of the operation. Applications are accepted until 25 February 2023. More information is provided at [UNEP].
The United Nations Environment Programme seeks a Strategic Planning Expert to be based in Saudi Arabia. Core responsibility is to define and analyze policy options for the relevant stakeholders and prepare documents related to the projects and operations. Applications are accepted until AA. More information is provided at [UNEP].
Team:
Chanon Atom (ca), Duc Quang Ly (dql), Farhan Maqsood (fm), Felix Jonas Jantz (fj), Henning Glaser (hg), Ian Hollinger (ih), Jennifer Marie Domenici (jd), Lucas Meier (lm), Manmehak Kaur (mk), Natalie Svinina (ns), Ole Stark (os), Peer Morten Strantzen (ms), Sheikh Afif Bin Zaman (az), Silke Marian (sm), Sophia Wesenberg (sw), Thammasorn Sangiamjit (ts), Theerapon Damrongruk (td), Tim Hildebrandt (th), Tomwit Jarnson (tj), Venus Phuangkom, Wardah Rehman (wr)
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