Analysis

Myanmar’s “time-out” from Asean is not a long-term solution

Myanmar's absence from the recent summit highlights future challenges for Asean member states and puts pressure on Cambodia as it prepares to take the chairmanship
By Michael Vatikiotis • Nov 09, 2021

Environment

UN deforestation scheme under scrutiny after Indonesia debacle

The collapse of a $1-billion deal to curb Indonesian deforestation has highlighted the pitfalls of a UN-backed global initiative, REDD+, which some brought up its ineffectiveness and disregard for indigenous rights
By Sam Reeves and Lucie Godeau • Oct 12, 2021

Analysis

Thailand’s human rights narrative runs contrary to reality, even at the UN

Despite cases of lèse-majesté piling up and pro-democracy protesters facing serious charges like sedition, Thailand’s third time through the Universal Periodic Review later this year will most likely be as inconsequential as previous UN human rights inspections
By Mark S. Cogan • Aug 06, 2021

Myanmar coup

Myanmar declares martial law in Yangon townships after deadly day

Myanmar's military junta imposed martial law on March 14 in two densely populated Yangon townships after at least 18 protesters were killed in one of the deadliest days since the February 1 coup, bringing the death toll to nearly 100.
By Agence France-Presse • Mar 15, 2021

Myanmar coup

Regional powers to pressure Myanmar junta over deadly crackdown

Myanmar's military junta is facing regional pressure from ASEAN, with some Southeast Asian powers breaking diplomatic traditions and delivering unusually harsh rebukes as part of an effort to end deadly crackdowns against anti-coup protesters.
By Agence France-Presse • Mar 02, 2021

A young Cambodian teacher’s view: How to improve our education system

Cambodia's traditional education system based around rote learning is failing to prepare the Kingdom's youth for the fast changing world of work. Phannaro Nhem, a maths teacher in Phnom Penh, believes preparing educators to impart soft skills like adaptability is the future of schooling
By Phannaro Nhem • Feb 24, 2021

Opinion

Recover better: Stand up for human rights

On International Human Rights Day 2020, global celebrations are focusing on ensuring that all efforts to rebuild after the pandemic have human rights at their core. In Cambodia, the United Nations is calling for young people to be placed at the heart of that
By Pauline Tamesis • Dec 10, 2020

Cambodian democracy

‘An awkward situation’: UN rights expert Rhona Smith reflects on Cambodia role

As Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, Rhona Smith has faced criticism for being too strong in her assessments by some, while labelled too weak by others. Entering the final six months of her mandate, Smith reflects on the evolution of democracy and human rights in the Kingdom during her tenure
By Alastair McCready and Andrew Haffner • Dec 04, 2020