It is crucial to note, however, that the vote excluded major opposition parties, including the National League for Democracy, led by detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Min Aung Hlaing is expected to step down as commander-in-chief to comply with constitutional rules barring a president from holding both roles. General Ye Win Oo, a former military intelligence chief and long-time associate of the junta leader, has been promoted and is widely expected to take over the top military post.

Under the constitution, 25% of seats are reserved for the armed forces, while the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party won a large majority of the remaining seats in elections held in December and January.

Tom Andrews, the United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, has urged the international community to reject the election results and any political arrangements that follow, describing the process as an attempt by the military to legitimise its rule.

The political shift comes as Myanmar remains in conflict. According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project and the UN Refugee Agency, nearly 93,300 people have been killed and 3.7 million displaced since the military seized power in February 2021. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners says more than 30,600 people have been arrested since the coup, with about 22,500 still in detention.

An opposition shadow parliament formed by ousted lawmakers also held a parallel session this week, maintaining it is the country’s only legitimate legislature.

Together, these crisis zones will shape migration flows, global security , trade routes, and diplomatic alignments well beyond their borders.

Sudan

Sudan remains the most severe humanitarian emergency globally. The civil war that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has devastated the country, displacing millions and pushing large populations toward famine. In the last year, the conflict showed little sign of resolution, with fighting increasingly fragmented and spilling into neighbouring states such as Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This year, the country could risk sliding further toward de facto partition, a scenario that would entrench instability across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor.

Yemen

In Yemen, the conflict is evolving rather than ending. While large-scale fighting has reduced in some areas, the country is increasingly divided between Houthi-controlled territories in the north and rival factions in the south backed by regional powers. This fragmentation weakens prospects for national reconciliation and carries global implications due to Yemen’s proximity to vital Red Sea shipping lanes. As maritime security concerns grow, Yemen’s instability in 2026 will remain tightly linked to regional geopolitics and global trade.

Myanmar

Myanmar enters 2026 locked in a protracted civil war following the 2021 military coup. Armed resistance groups now control significant territory, while the junta struggles to govern beyond major urban centres. Planned or proposed elections under these conditions risk deepening Myanmar’s legitimacy crisis rather than resolving it. The humanitarian toll continues to rise, with millions displaced and neighbouring countries such as Thailand, China, and Bangladesh absorbing the spillover effects.

DR Congo

In eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, violence persists despite diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region. Armed groups, including M23, continue to challenge state authority, exploiting ethnic tensions, especially in Goma and competition over mineral resources. Peace agreements reached last year still face serious implementation challenges , and failure to consolidate them in 2026 could destabilise the wider Great Lakes region, where conflict has long crossed borders and drawn in neighbouring states.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s crisis heading into 2026 is defined by overlapping insurgency, criminal violence, and worsening economic pressure, with jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP continuing attacks across the northeast and northwest. In the Middle Belt and parts of the north, violence has increasingly targeted Christian communities, with deadly attacks in late 2025 killing dozens of civilians in Benue and Plateau states, particularly around the Christmas period.

The situation escalated internationally when the United States carried out airstrikes on December 24–25, 2025, hitting ISIS-linked camps in northwest Nigeria at the request of the Nigerian government. While the strikes disrupted militant operations, analysts warn that without addressing governance failures, poverty, and local grievances, Nigeria’s insecurity is likely to persist and deepen in 2026.

Taiwan vs. China

Beyond active war zones, strategic flashpoints are also reshaping risk in the Global South. Rising tensions between China and Taiwan, while centred in East Asia, carry global consequences that will be felt acutely across developing economies. Any escalation would disrupt trade , shipping routes, and semiconductor supply chains, forcing many Global South countries, deeply tied to both Chinese and Western economic systems, to navigate difficult diplomatic and economic choices.

Here is a recap of a few:

Sudan

From April 2023, Sudan has been stuck in turmoil, which has claimed the lives of hundreds of people and left women and children vulnerable. The conflict erupted over power struggles between rival military factions, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. The conflict led to parts of the country facing famine. Millions were displaced, health systems collapsed, and reports of mass sexual violence mounted, yet funding and diplomatic engagement remained limited as donor fatigue developed. “Each passing day brings staggering levels of violence and destruction. Civilians are enduring immense, unimaginable suffering, with no end in sight,” Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the UN Khaled Khiari told ambassadors.

DR Congo

In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, fighting between armed groups intensified, particularly in North Kivu. Civilians faced killings, forced recruitment, and displacement, but the conflict received scant coverage outside Africa despite being a deadly one. The fighting resumed at the beginning of 2025 when the M23 rebel group made significant advances across the East. 

Haiti

Haiti continued to slide deeper into crisis as armed gangs expanded control over large parts of Port-au-Prince. Kidnappings surged, state authority eroded further, and humanitarian access shrank, yet international response stalled amid political paralysis. “Caught in the middle of this unending horror story are the Haitian people, who are at the mercy of horrific violence by gangs and exposed to human rights violations from the security forces and abuses by the so-called ‘self-defence’ groups,” Volker Türk, High Commissioner for Human Rights, is quoted .

Myanmar

In Myanmar, clashes between the military junta and ethnic armed groups were reported, with airstrikes hitting civilian areas. The conflict’s impact on women, children and minorities remained severe, even as global focus drifted elsewhere. Four years after the military seized power in 2021, Myanmar’s junta controls just 21% of the country, while rebel groups and ethnic armed forces hold about 42%, according to a 2024 BBC investigation.

Smaller but persistent conflicts in Ethiopia’s border regions, Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado, and Burkina Faso also worsened. While some of these were short-lived, they were mostly driven by a mix of insurgency and political instability.

In a statement released on Monday, December 22, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs confirmed the successful return of the individuals.

"A total of 119 Kenyans have been successfully repatriated following recent raids by Myanmar authorities and rebel groups, with efforts ongoing to secure the return of the remaining Kenyans amid complex regional dynamics," the department said.

The ministry noted that more than 200 other Kenyans remain stranded in the region. "Over 200 Kenyans were left behind and sought refuge in military shelters in Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko, while another group of over 100 Kenyans crossed into Thailand," the statement read.

The September 2025 raids reportedly led to arrests, seizures, bombings, and demolitions of the illegal camps, triggering violent confrontations between Myanmar government forces and rebel factions. As a result, many of the criminal operators fled, abandoning hundreds of foreign workers.

According to the Kenyan government, it responded promptly upon receiving an initial list of 126 affected citizens. It activated several measures through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok. The government also facilitated transportation and airport arrangements for the returnees.

Currently, 198 Kenyans are still in the region. This includes 66 individuals at Thailand’s Immigration Detention Centre, 129 in shelters inside Myanmar, and three in a Catholic safe house in Cambodia, the government disclosed.

Southeast Asia has increasingly become a hotbed for online scam networks estimated to generate billions of dollars. 

British journalist David Whitehouse, who has investigated cybercrime in the region, expressed concern about trafficking operations targeting African youth. “African youth, particularly English-speaking job seekers, are being increasingly targeted by traffickers linked to scam compounds,” Whitehouse told Global South World .

A report by Amnesty International, released in June and titled “I Was Someone Else’s Property” , documented 53 scamming compounds in Cambodia. It featured testimonies from 58 survivors of eight different nationalities, including nine children.

“Survivors of these scamming compounds describe being trapped in a living nightmare – enlisted in criminal enterprises that are operating with the apparent consent of the Cambodian government,” Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnes Callamard said .

“Jobseekers from Asia and beyond are lured by the promise of well-paid work into hellish labour camps run by well-organised gangs, where they are forced to scam under the very real threat of violence.”

A look at the global map reveals a truth of how almost every country uses the metric system, yet a few, most notably the United States, continue to rely primarily on the imperial or U.S. customary units.

Liberia and Myanmar are historically grouped with the U.S., though both have made slow, uneven moves toward metrication.

The result is a world where a kilogram means the same thing almost everywhere, but pounds, inches, Fahrenheit, and miles still dominate key sectors of American life.

This divide raises deeper questions about standardisation at a time when global collaboration is no longer optional. Scientists warn that climate reporting suffers when countries use different measurement norms, because conversion errors can alter data quality.

A system that the world mostly agrees on, but not universal

The metric system , created during the French Revolution and later refined by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), is rooted in scientific consistency. It is designed around decimals, making it simple to learn, easy to scale, and globally interoperable.

Today, it is the official system for international trade, scientific research, and nearly all global standards bodies.

However, the United States remains the world’s most influential holdout. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the U.S. legally recognised the metric system in 1866 and reaffirmed its intention to adopt it with the Metric Conversion Act of 1975, but adoption was voluntary, not mandated.

This single detail is considered one of the main reasons the transition stalled. Industries, retailers, and local governments were never required to change, making the imperial system an enduring cultural and economic habit.

In practice, the U.S. already depends on the metric system more than most people realise. Scientists, the military, medicine, and even many manufacturers work almost entirely in metric. Yet household products, road signage, real estate, and groceries continue to use customary units, creating a split system that’s both familiar and complex.

Liberia and Myanmar are often mentioned alongside the U.S., but their situations differ . Myanmar announced in 2013 that it would begin transitioning to the metric system to streamline trade. Liberia uses metric units in certain industries such as medicine and shipping, but the customary system persists in everyday life.

But one figure stood out: among the heads of state was a non-leader.

At the far end of the line stood U Hau Khan Sum, the permanent secretary of Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was there in place of his country’s leader, barred from attending.

The absence traces back to Myanmar’s turbulent recent history.

In 2021, the military seized power from the elected government, detaining Aung San Suu Kyi and installing a junta under Min Aung Hlaing. The coup sparked a civil war that has killed tens of thousands, with the military now controlling only about a fifth of the country.

Although the junta handed authority to an interim civilian government in July and announced plans for elections in December, observers warn the move could simply legitimise military rule.

ASEAN’s response has been firm. In 2021, the bloc — including Hlaing himself — adopted a five-point peace plan to end the violence and foster dialogue. Four years later, progress has been negligible.

Citing the junta’s failure to implement the plan, ASEAN has continued to bar Myanmar’s military leaders from attending high-level meetings. The country was also stripped of its turn to host the 2026 summits, a responsibility now passed to the Philippines .

Some member states have floated the idea of reintegrating Myanmar’s leadership, arguing that engagement might yield results. Yet for now, as the world ’s most influential leaders gather for the 47th ASEAN Summit, Myanmar remains on the sidelines.

A new analysis by World Visualized, drawing on data from WorldStats, highlights that Myanmar tops the list of countries with the highest per capita rice consumption at a staggering 278.97 kg per person per year.

It’s followed closely by Comoros (274.51 kg), Gambia (256.4 kg), Cambodia (247.54 kg), and Bangladesh (246.85 kg). Completing the top ten are Vietnam, Laos, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia .

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), global rice utilisation in 2023/24 stood at approximately 522 million tonnes, reflecting steady demand despite elevated prices. However, projections for 2024/25 indicate renewed growth, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where consumption is expected to continue expanding.

The FAO and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) both forecast a rise in global rice output through 2025/26. The USDA estimates total production could reach 541.6 million tonnes (milled basis), led by higher yields in India and Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, global rice trade is projected to climb to nearly 60 million tonnes, driven largely by expanding Indian exports.

India, the world’s largest rice exporter, recently lifted its two-year ban on de-oiled rice bran exports, easing domestic stockpiles and injecting new volume into the global market.

However, not all policy movements are liberalising. The Philippines, one of Asia’s largest rice importers, may extend its import restrictions into early 2026 to protect local farmers, a move analysts say could tighten supply and nudge prices upward in the coming quarters.

Global rice prices have been on a sharp downward trend. The FAO Rice Price Index has fallen about 13% in 2025, and benchmark prices for Thailand ’s 5% broken white rice are now at their lowest levels in eight years. The drop comes after record harvests and excess stockpiles, particularly from India, which exported more than 33 million tonnes in 2024.

Experts say the contamination, believed to come from mining activity across the border, poses serious health risks to nearby communities and could affect the larger Mekong River system if left unchecked.

On July 15, the government said it would take action both inside Thailand and through international cooperation.

The decision follows advice from the National Human Rights Commission, which urged stronger protections for communities affected by cross-border pollution.

Locally, Thai agencies will step up water testing and provide free health checks to residents living near the contaminated rivers.

Clean drinking water will be supplied, and long-term plans are being developed to secure safe water sources.

The government also pledged funding to clean up the affected rivers and protect nearby forests and wetlands.

Meanwhile, Thailand will begin diplomatic talks with Myanmar in a bid to stop the pollution at its source.

Officials said they would seek help from other countries in the region and review domestic laws to strengthen future responses to cross-border environmental threats.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has been named the lead agency to oversee the response and must report progress to the Cabinet within 30 days.

Authorities fear the pollution could hurt not just public health but also farming, tourism, and biodiversity in the area.

A report last month by the Ministry of Health warned of rising cases of illnesses linked to heavy metals in parts of northern Thailand.

He revealed that his long-standing engagement with Cambodia began over a decade ago through his collaboration with exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy.

“I helped him to write his English-language autobiography, which was published in 2013,” Whitehouse said. “Sam Rainsy is a former finance minister of Cambodia in the 1990s."

Whitehouse, now a freelance journalist with a special focus on Southeast Asia, believes Cambodia’s cybercrime industry represents a new phase of long-standing state corruption. “Back in the 1990s, corruption took the form primarily of illegal logging,” he says. “These days, it’s more about cyber scams being more profitable and far less labour-intensive, which, it's fair to say, make money much faster, in much larger quantities,” he noted.

“There is a large body of evidence that the same ruling elite is now being supported by the receipts of cybercrime,” he added.

Whitehouse traced the rapid rise of scam compounds to the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted tourism and left Chinese-run casinos in Cambodia idle.

“COVID-19 made it impossible for these casinos to operate. So what happened is that those casinos were repurposed… into what today are cyber scam compounds,” he explained. “This process has been quite well documented.”

He cited reports from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, as well as a recent Amnesty International publication, both detailing how these facilities have transformed into heavily guarded centres where trafficked victims are forced to defraud people online.

According to reports by Reuters , Human rights group Amnesty International accused Cambodia’s government on Thursday, June 26, of "deliberately ignoring" abuses by cybercrime gangs that have trafficked people from across the world, including children, into slavery at brutal scam compounds.

Amnesty said its findings revealed a "pattern of state failures" that allowed the billion-dollar industry to flourish, including failures to investigate human rights abuses, identify and assist victims, and regulate security companies and tools of torture.

“They are almost without exception sealed. You can’t walk in and out — especially you can’t walk out. They often use barbed wire and electric fences to keep people in,” Whitehouse said.

Africa in the crosshairs

Initially, the scam networks exploited Chinese-speaking victims. But as operations expanded, traffickers sought English speakers — and began targeting Africa.

“Now [they] include pretty much anywhere where there are English-speaking people,” said Whitehouse. “That certainly includes the English-speaking countries of Africa. If there are young people who need a job… those are the type of people the scammers are looking to recruit.”

He identified East African countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Mozambique as particularly vulnerable, citing logistical ease of travel and the influence of nearby trafficking hubs such as Dubai.

Francophone summit raises questions

Whitehouse also criticised the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) for choosing Cambodia to host its next summit.

“The danger with inviting a host of leaders from the Francophone world is that it legitimises the location as a safe, secure, legitimate place to do business and to work,” he warned. “That’s a dangerous signal for people in Africa… who may be tempted to take up job offers there, which may not be real.”

He emphasised that African governments attending the summit should be fully briefed on Cambodia’s cybercrime problem to avoid inadvertently endorsing a country linked to human trafficking and financial scams.

“There should be space for civil society in Cambodia to be represented at the summit,” he said. “Otherwise, you're simply going to get the government narrative.”

Although the U.S. has sanctioned entities like Huione, a conglomerate allegedly linked to the Cambodian government, Whitehouse believes the global response remains piecemeal.

“There’s obviously some awareness of the issue, and some actions have been taken, but they are quite piecemeal. There’s a lot more that needs to be done,” he said.

That includes raising awareness at home. “Governments everywhere, and certainly including African governments, need to do more to warn people about the dangers of travelling to Southeast Asia to take up a job that you don't really know about.”

But what’s behind these high holiday counts? We take a deeper look at why these countries offer so many public holidays, with insights from  World Population Review and The Times of India.

India – 42 Days

India has the highest number of public holidays in the world — but there’s a catch. As The Times of India explains, the 42 holidays include national, religious, and regional holidays. Since India is a multicultural and multi-religious nation, holidays span across Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, and regional celebrations. Additionally, each state has its own unique set of holidays, so not all 42 days apply uniformly across the country.

Nepal – 35 Days

Nepal is second with 35 holidays annually. According to  World Population Review , the country observes a vast number of religious and cultural festivals, largely rooted in  Hinduism and Buddhism. Dashain and Tihar (similar to Diwali) are celebrated for multiple days, significantly contributing to the total.

Iran – 26 Days

Iran has many Islamic religious holidays, especially those based on the Shia calendar, like Ashura and Eid al-Ghadir. In addition, Nowruz (Persian New Year) is a multi-day public holiday. The religious lunar calendar and national commemorations both factor into Iran’s high holiday count.

Myanmar – 26 Days

Myanmar’s holidays are deeply tied to the Buddhist lunar calendar, including Thingyan ( Water Festival), which lasts for several days.  Time Out Dubai  notes that festivals such as Waso Full Moon Day and Thadingyut are observed nationally, adding to the total.

Sri Lanka – 25 Days

Sri Lanka's holiday calendar reflects its ethnic and religious diversity. The country recognizes Poya Days (monthly Buddhist full moon days), along with Hindu, Muslim, and Christian holidays. These recurring religious observances are why Sri Lanka maintains one of the highest holiday counts.

Officials reported that the earthquake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre in neighbouring Myanmar. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake measured 7.7 in magnitude and was followed by a strong aftershock.

"A lot of people were killed because they dropped bombs on a crowded area," a local administrative official told AFP. "It happened at the time people were going to the market."

The church is in Mindat, a town in Chin State that had recently been declared the cathedral for a new Catholic diocese.

Reports say bombs hit the building, destroying the roof and breaking stained glass windows. Church leaders had already left the area due to ongoing fighting, which is why there were no injuries.

Myanmar has been at war since the military took power in a coup in 2021. The army removed the elected government and has since fought against various ethnic and rebel groups.

Chin State has seen heavy clashes between Myanmar’s military and local fighters who oppose the ruling generals.

The church attack is part of a larger conflict that has affected religious communities across the country. Rights groups say the military has targeted churches, mosques, and other religious sites.

Myanmar has also faced international criticism over its treatment of the Rohingya, a Muslim minority forced to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh.

Despite the destruction, local Catholics are determined to rebuild the church. A priest from the area said the attack had wounded their hearts but would not stop their faith.

The new diocese now faces a challenge in organising its first major religious ceremonies, including the consecration of its first bishop.

The ruling junta, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, seized power in 2021. It relies on airstrikes, forced conscription and foreign support mainly from China and Russia to stay in power.

Against the Myanmar military is the resistance. It's a mix of ethnic armed organizations such as the Arkan Army, Kachin Independence Army, Ta'ang National Liberation Army and pro-democracy fighters from the National Unity Government and the People's Defense Forces.

Bottom line, Burma's military is at its weakest point yet and 2025 could be a turning point in the war.

Burkina Faso launches its first electric car  

Burkina Faso has unveiled its first electric car, designed and built entirely by local company ITAOUA.

This is the first time the country has produced its own car, marking a major step forward in technology and industry. Read more here .

  West Africa bloc announces formal exit of three junta-led states

The Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) on January 29, announced the formal exit of junta-led Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from the bloc following their withdrawal last year. Read more here .

Uganda's top court bans military prosecution of civilians

Uganda's top court said on January 31, that trying civilians in military courts was unconstitutional and ordered any ongoing prosecutions to stop immediately. The ruling will offer relief to a key opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, who has been undergoing trial by the country's general court martial, his lawyer Erias Lukwago said, adding that the defendant would now not appear in court on Monday as originally scheduled. Read more here .

Asia

Myanmar imposes travel ban on young people amid new army draft rules

Myanmar’s military government has introduced new rules under its conscription law, including a ban on foreign travel for people who are eligible for military service. The changes, announced on January 23, 2025, have sparked criticism from political groups and legal experts, who say the new rules will increase oppression in the country. Read more here .

More Indians losing hope of improved quality of life under Modi, survey shows

More Indians are becoming less hopeful about their quality of life as stagnant wages and higher living costs cloud future prospects, a survey showed, in disappointing news for Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of this week's annual budget. Read more here .

Taiwan says government departments should not use DeepSeek, citing security concerns

Taiwan's digital ministry said on January 31 that government departments should not use Chinese startup DeepSeek's artificial intelligence (AI) service, saying that as the product is from China it represents a security concern. In a statement, Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs said that government departments are not allowed to use DeepSeek's AI service to "prevent information security risks". Read more here .

Latin America

Brazil, U.S. officials agree to discuss how deported migrants are treated

Brazilian and U.S. officials agreed on January 29, to discuss regularly how Washington will deport migrants from Brazil, as some leaders in Latin America have balked at what they see as poor treatment of their citizens on repatriation flights. Brazil's foreign affairs ministry said in a social media post that the talks will be led by officials from the ministry and the U.S. embassy, after the ministry summoned a senior U.S. diplomat earlier this week over the treatment of recent deportees that local officials condemned as degrading. Read more here .

Colombian planes carrying US deportees arrive in Bogota after Trump-Petro row

Two Colombian air force planes carrying deportees from the United States arrived in Bogota on January 28, the government said, paving the way for U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to lift visa restrictions and other measures on Colombian citizens. Read more here .

Mexico's Sheinbaum awaits US tariff deadline with 'cool head'

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on January 31, that she will wait with a cool head for a decision from the United States ahead of a Saturday deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports. Read more here .

The amendments include 59 new rules and give the junta more power to draft people into the military. Previously, workers in government departments were exempt from being conscripted, but the new rules now allow the military to draft them as well.

Renowned lawyer, U Kyee Myint, told local news outlet BNI that the public had hoped for changes to reduce the number of people eligible for conscription, but instead, the amendments make the law even stricter. He explained that many had expected the junta to create exemptions that would protect some groups from being forced to join the army.

Instead, the changes have disappointed the public and made the situation worse, according to local reports .

The amendments also require schools to include lessons about the conscription law in their curriculum. This has attracted sharp criticism.

Critics have described the move as an attempt by the junta to promote military dominance.

The new rules also target displaced people, including young people from the Arakan (Rakhine) State who have fled to cities like Yangon. The military can now draft these displaced youths into the army at any time. Critics argue this shows the junta’s intention to spread militarism across the country and maintain control.

Since the conscription law was enforced, around 40,000 people have been drafted into the military. Many of them were forced to join. Myanmar’s army has been struggling with manpower due to significant battlefield losses, including the loss of 180 military bases and two major regional headquarters.

Under the current law, around 14 million people in Myanmar are eligible for conscription. They can be forced to serve in the army for up to two years, which can be extended to five years in emergencies. The ninth wave of conscription is now underway.

The scams target people online and include fake gambling schemes.

Myanmar’s state newspaper reported on Tuesday that more than 55,000 foreign nationals have been sent back to their home countries.

Over 53,000 of them were sent to China, with smaller groups deported to Vietnam, Thailand, and 25 other nations.

Myanmar's junta said those involved were not Myanmar citizens but “criminals” who entered the country illegally. It urged neighbouring countries to help fight online scams and gambling operations.

Scam centres, often linked to armed groups in Myanmar, used to operate near the country’s border with China. However, a military offensive by ethnic rebel groups forced many to shut down, AFP reports.

 Some of the scam operators have reportedly moved their operations closer to the border with Thailand.

The governments of Myanmar and Thailand have agreed to work together to tackle online scams, according to state media.

Some inmates also had their sentences reduced, but the majority remain in detention.

The release began on Saturday, with buses seen taking prisoners from Insein Prison in Yangon as families and friends waited outside, hoping to reunite with their loved ones.

Major General Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for the military, said about 600 people jailed under Section 505(A) of Myanmar’s penal code were freed. This law is often used against those who speak out against the military.

Among those released was Khet Aung, a former chief minister of Kachin State, who had been jailed on corruption charges, local reports indicate . Many of the freed foreigners were Thais arrested for gambling and Indonesians caught fishing in Myanmar’s waters.

However, high-profile detainees like Aung San Suu Kyi were not included. The 79-year-old has been in military custody since the army took power in February 2021. She is serving a 27-year sentence on charges widely seen as politically motivated.

Since the military coup, over 28,000 people have been arrested for political reasons, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP). The group says at least 21,499 remain in detention, and more than 6,100 civilians have been killed.

Amnesty is a common practice during major holidays in Myanmar. However, the terms state that released prisoners could be sent back to jail if they break the law again.

The military marked the Independence Day anniversary with a flag-raising ceremony in the capital, Naypyitaw. Myanmar gained independence from Britain on January 4, 1948.

However, the Junta took charge after a military coup on 1 February 2021. The army, known as the Tatmadaw, removed the democratically elected government led by the National League for Democracy (NLD).

Myanmar authorities arrested three individuals, including a Malaysian national, for drug trafficking activities in Yangon. A joint anti-narcotic task force conducted a vehicle search on December 22, resulting in the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal substances, including 238.5 grams of 'Happy Water,' 27 grams of ketamine, and 400 stimulant tablets. Another suspect apprehended had additional drugs, culminating in a total haul of 6.125 kg of 'Happy Water,' 950 grams of ketamine, and 240 ecstasy pills. Following the arrests, the Malaysian suspect was discovered in possession of another 75 grams of ketamine, 450 ecstasy pills, and drug manufacturing equipment. According to The Star , the total estimated value of the confiscated drugs amounts to approximately 278 million kyats (roughly US$132,000), with reports indicating that the suspects targeted young individuals in entertainment venues across Yangon. Legal proceedings are now underway to address these serious allegations.

Mass tourism strategy

Myanmar's Myeik Archipelago is preparing to welcome a vibrant New Year celebration in 2025, focusing on elevating service quality for both domestic and international tourists. The region aims to showcase its unique charm and natural beauty, establishing itself as a premier holiday destination through memorable experiences for visitors, TTW reports.

Thailand denies arm purchases for Myanmar

In neighbouring Thailand, The Edge reports that the country's central bank and anti-money laundering agency have responded to claims made by a UN expert regarding the potential facilitation of weapons purchases by Thai banks for Myanmar's military. Although a June UN report suggested that Thai banks channelled US$120 million to Myanmar's junta in fiscal 2023, the findings disclosed no evidence of associations with arms procurement, instead highlighting occasional transactions with individuals mentioned in the report. This review underscores the necessity for enhanced anti-money laundering practices to mitigate the risks of funding illegal activities and human rights violations.

China charges Myanmar Golden Triangle syndicate suspects with murder

Chinese authorities have made substantial strides in tackling cross-border cybercrime by charging 39 suspects, including 16 individuals from Myanmar, in connection with serious offences such as murder and telecom fraud linked to the significant Ming family. As reported by My News , these criminal factions reportedly coerced individuals into participating in telecom scams, generating millions of dollars daily. Since September, over 31,000 telecom fraud suspects have been extradited from Myanmar to China, revealing the extensive nature of these criminal operations, particularly in Myawaddy, a border town.

Myanmar is one of the world's biggest refugee contributor

The UNHCR has documented a troubling increase in the global refugee count, which has surpassed 122 million in 2024, a rise from 117.4 million in the previous year. UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe has characterised the situation as 'shocking,' reinforcing the urgent need for protective measures for those affected. Major contributing factors include the ongoing civil war in Sudan, displacing over 11.8 million individuals, in conjunction with crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar. Furthermore, conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon have resulted in the displacement of over 1.7 million people, further exacerbating the global refugee crisis, The Star reports.

The refugees, believed to be fleeing persecution in Myanmar, were escorted to a naval base on Sri Lanka's east coast. Upon arrival, they were provided with medical care, food, and water. Navy spokesman Gayan Wickramasuriya noted that while communication difficulties have prevented immediate confirmation of their identities, it is highly likely that the group is from Myanmar.

This rescue operation mirrors a similar incident in 2022 when the Sri Lankan navy saved 100 Rohingya refugees found in similar circumstances. The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group, have faced severe persecution and violence in Myanmar, leading many to undertake perilous journeys in search of safety.

Mixed feelings in Namibia a day after controversial elections

Namibian voters have voiced a mix of emotions after elections characterised by chaos, delays, and accusations of foul play. The contentious extension of the voting period has sparked widespread frustration, with many questioning the process's credibility. Read more here .

Biden’s long-awaited Africa trip to tout a win against China

Joe Biden departed for Angola on Sunday, December 1, fulfilling his promise to visit Africa. The trip will focus on a U.S.-backed railway project aimed at diverting critical minerals from China. This project, partly funded by a U.S. loan, connects the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to the Angolan port of Lobito, providing a fast export route to the West. Read more here .

Mahama vows to slash ministerial positions to reduce Ghana’s debt crisis

Former president and presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama plans to reduce the number of political appointees if he wins Ghana's December 7 election. He criticized the current number of government ministers as "excessive." Read more here .

Asia

War has no winners, Taiwan president says in visit to Hawaii

War has no winners, and peace is priceless, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Saturday, November 30 in Hawaii, after visiting the Pearl Harbour memorial. Lai's sensitive two-day trip to Hawaii, officially a stopover en route to three Pacific island nations that maintain formal ties with Taiwan, has angered Beijing. Read more here .

Thailand protests Myanmar's navy firing at Thai fishing boats

Thailand protested an incident where Myanmar's navy fired on Thai fishing vessels, resulting in one fisherman drowning, two injuries, and dozens detained. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra questioned claims that the boats had intruded into Myanmar's waters. Read more here .

Cyclone Fengal kills 19 in India and Sri Lanka

Cyclone Fengal killed at least 19 people in India and Sri Lanka, causing flooding in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry after crossing India's southern coast on Saturday. Puducherry experienced its heaviest 24-hour rainfall in 30 years, according to India's weather office. Read more here .

Uruguay's left returns to presidency as government vows friendly transition

Centre-left opposition candidate Yamandu Orsi won Uruguay's presidential election with 49.81% of the vote, defeating conservative Alvaro Delgado, who received 45.90%, according to official results with 99% of votes tallied. Read more here .

AI meets accessibility: How a Peruvian startup is making Latin American businesses inclusive

A Peruvian company, Yapaykuy, founded by engineer and entrepreneur Jorge Rojas Barnett, aims to transform businesses into inclusive spaces through innovative technology. Barnett believes that fair and respectful customer service is essential to combating discrimination. Read more here .

Argentina HIV patients, medics fear impact of Milei's spending cuts

Argentines living with HIV/AIDS and medics say spending cuts under President Javier Milei are harming treatment and could lead to more cases due to fewer condoms and tests. Milei's austerity drive aims to reduce the state size and address the fiscal deficit, resulting in frozen or capped public sector budgets. Read more here .

“Before the coup, we could work overtime until 9 p.m. and earn extra money for personal expenses,” Wai Wai said. “Now, the salary we earn is just for supporting our family, and the money left is only enough for food,” she told the AFP.

To stretch her limited income, Wai Wai skips breakfast most days and eats meat only once a week. Her meals typically consist of rice with vegetables or fried eggs.

Another worker, 19-year-old Thin Thin Khine, shares similar struggles. She and her two sisters, all employed in the garment industry, find it impossible to save or spend on anything beyond basic necessities. “In the past, we could buy two or three pieces of clothing every month,” she said. “Now we can’t afford new clothes, cosmetics, or personal care items. Food is the priority.”

Factory owners, too, are caught in the economic downturn. Rising living and rental costs have tightened profit margins, leaving them unable to improve wages for workers.

“The working situation right now is like we invest more money and get less profit,” said Khin Khin Wai, a garment factory owner. She estimates that a daily wage of $2 would be the bare minimum for workers to survive but acknowledges her inability to meet that threshold. “We aren’t in a position to pay more.”

Despite these hardships, the garment sector remains one of Myanmar's few economic lifelines, generating billions in export revenue. However, the industry’s reliance on low wages and precarious working conditions highlights the human cost of this success.

Myanmar's economy has been in freefall since the military coup in 2021, which plunged the nation into civil war and prompted international sanctions.

"When I stepped on the landmine, I passed out," he recalled. "When I woke up, the sky and trees were spinning. From that instant, you are disabled; nothing is the same as before," he told the AFP.

Hla Han is one of hundreds of victims of landmines scattered across Myanmar, a deadly legacy of decades of conflict between the military and ethnic rebel groups.

According to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), Myanmar recorded more landmine casualties in 2023 than any other country, surpassing war-torn Syria and Ukraine.

The ICBL's latest report revealed that at least 228 people were killed and 770 others injured by landmines and unexploded ordnance in Myanmar last year. The ongoing civil war, sparked by the military’s 2021 coup, has intensified the problem as new factions like the "People's Defence Forces" battle the junta, adding to the numerous mines laid across the countryside.

For families like Hla Han’s, the consequences are devastating. "Everything is different and difficult after my father lost his leg," said his daughter, Aye Mar. "When he was able to work, we didn't need to worry about anything."

In northern Shan state, 77-year-old Yar Swe Kyin urged her husband, Tar Swe Kyin, not to visit their fields on July 7, a day marked as inauspicious in the Burmese calendar. He insisted on checking their rented farmland and never returned.

Survivors like Hla Han emphasise the urgent need to clear landmines before displaced families can return safely.

In 2023, the TNLA launched "Operation 1027," named after its starting date. The operation has reportedly succeeded in pushing the junta out of approximately 50,000 square kilometres of territory, weakening its hold in parts of Shan State.

The TNLA is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition of ethnic armed groups that have been at the forefront of Myanmar’s armed resistance against the military since the 2021 coup.

Their efforts are aimed at securing greater autonomy and rights for Myanmar’s ethnic minorities, contributing to the broader struggle against the junta's rule.

In the United States, metric is technically the preferred system, as established by the Metric Conversion Act of 1975, but the imperial system remains prevalent in everyday life.

The United Kingdom presents a unique case; it is officially metric, but imperial units are still commonly used, especially for distances, heights, and weights in daily life. For example, road signs in the UK display miles rather than kilometres, and people often use pounds and ounces for body weight.

The imperial system, with units like inches, feet, pounds, and gallons, traces its origins to everyday items or human body parts, making it less standardised and less easily divisible than the metric system. Supporters of the imperial system argue that its units feel more relatable, while critics see it as less practical for scientific and global consistency.

Conversely, some critics of the metric system, which was designed for straightforward conversion and reference, view it as arbitrary.

Overall, the global trend strongly favours the metric system, with increasing adoption even in the few countries where imperial units still hold sway. 

Myanmar authorities have arrested Nay Soe Maung, a former military officer and the son-in-law of ex-junta leader Than Shwe. This arrest arises from Facebook posts that the junta deems as threats to "peace and stability." Since the coup in 2021, the military has ramped up censorship and surveillance of online speech, striving to quash dissent. While the specific posts leading to his arrest were not detailed, Nay Soe Maung's recent comments regarding the death of a member from the now-disbanded National League for Democracy (NLD) have caught the junta's attention. The military regime has communicated its intention to persist in cracking down on individuals propagating dissent online. Myanmar shares the undesirable rank with China for the worst internet freedom worldwide, underscoring the ongoing suppression of free expression in the country.

Myanmar police confiscate 238,000 stimulant tablets

Myanmar police have intensified their narcotics operations, seizing 238,000 stimulant tablets and 220 grams of heroin in Shan State on October 24, 2024. The drugs, valued at around 122.3 million kyats (approximately $58,238), were confiscated during a vehicle interception that was acted upon based on an intelligence tip-off. One suspect has been arrested and charged under narcotics laws. Just a day later, on October 25, law enforcement agencies also seized an additional 3.98 million stimulant tablets in the Yangon region, indicating a significant scale of drug trafficking that continues to plague Myanmar.

Human rights groups call on Thailand to rescue trafficking victims in Myanmar

Human rights advocacy groups are calling on Thailand to intervene and rescue over 100 alleged victims of human trafficking trapped in Myanmar. Reports indicate that a "Chinese mafia syndicate" is coercing these individuals into forced labour, with victims hailing from nine countries, among them 19 from Laos. The located victims are situated in areas dominated by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Border Guard Force (BGF), adjacent to Mae Sot, Thailand. Advocates highlight Thailand's recent election to the UN Human Rights Council as a critical juncture for action against human trafficking along the Thai-Myanmar border. Victims are predominantly lured by fraudulent job offers, only to have their passports confiscated and to fall prey to debt bondage and abuse. Historically, the Thai government has maintained a non-interventionist approach regarding Myanmar's internal conflicts; however, it has committed to collaborating with neighbouring countries to address cross-border crime effectively.

Burmese Americans protest Chinese interference in Myanmar outside Washington embassy

Burmese Americans protested outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington on October 24, 2024, demanding that Beijing cease its backing of Myanmar's military regime. Protesters called for an end to the supply of military equipment, including fighter jets, and condemned China's extraction of natural gas from Arakan State, an act seen as benefiting the junta at the expense of local communities.

Indonesia rescues over 150 Rohingya refugees

After being trapped at sea for many days, Indonesia has rescued more than 150 Rohingya refugees, including women and children, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reported on October 25. A persecuted ethnic community in Myanmar, the Rohingya frequently travel by sea in perilous conditions to flee poverty in nations like Malaysia or Indonesia. The 152-refugee boat was anchored off Indonesia’s South Aceh district's coast. "UNHCR thanks the local authorities and communities for their humanitarian response and granting permission for the landing of around 152 refugees," said UNHCR’s Faisal Rahman. Indonesia has welcomed Rohingya migrants despite not being a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, although it encourages its neighbours to help with relocation efforts.

Beijing's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Lin Jian, condemned the attack, expressing deep shock and calling for a thorough investigation. He stated that China had made stern representations to Myanmar and urged the junta to apprehend those responsible.

The junta, which has been in power since the military coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, has labelled the assailants as "terrorists" and announced an investigation in collaboration with consulate officials.

Reports suggest that a grenade may have been thrown at the consulate, which is typically guarded by Myanmar's security forces.

In response to the attack, the Chinese consulate issued a security warning to its citizens and businesses in Myanmar, advising them to remain vigilant and take appropriate security precautions.

The Freedom House report highlights several key issues contributing to China's low ranking. These include the "Great Firewall," which blocks access to numerous foreign websites and social media platforms, and stringent regulations that limit free speech online.

However, in response to the report, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, dismissed the findings as "entirely baseless" and accused Freedom House of having ulterior motives.

Mao emphasised that Chinese citizens enjoy various rights and freedoms under the law and that the report's claims do not reflect the reality of internet use in China.

"First, I want to tell you that China is a country governed by the rule of law, and Chinese citizens enjoy various rights and freedoms in accordance with the law. The institution you mentioned has long made some false statements regarding China-related issues. As for the so-called report, I think it is entirely baseless and made with ulterior motives," she told reporters on Wednesday, October 16.

A former addict, Marip (pseudonym) from a refugee camp, describes a bleak reality where many youth, uncertain about their future and without job prospects, turn to drugs for solace. 

"There's a sense of hopelessness after school, and with no guarantee of jobs, many youths in the camps fall into addiction," Marip said. Families desperate for help send their loved ones to jungle-based rehab programs, where alternative treatments like acupuncture have proven effective in reducing cravings and stabilising emotions.

He adds, “In our treatment programme, we help people regain full health, free from drug hangovers and cravings. When their minds fully reject the desire for drugs, we can help them maintain sobriety even after they leave, as it did for me."

Addiction has wreaked havoc on entire communities, with drugs such as methamphetamine - commonly known as "Yaba" - becoming cheaper and more accessible than ever. In some areas, a pill costs less than fifty cents, Benedikt Hofmann, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Southeast Asia representative, told AFP. 

This has consequently created what Edward Blakely, director at the Dare Network, calls "a perfect storm" of addiction fueled by trauma and hopelessness.

“You've got sort of two large problems. You've got a lot of trauma, a lot of generational trauma. People having to have fled their homes, seen their relatives killed. And then there is an abundant supply of drugs and a sense of hopelessness. And those two things put together creates a perfect storm," said Blakely.

Marip, now free from addiction, reflects on the transformation, "After we stopped using drugs and were free from this addiction - there is no price that compares to the freedom from drugs." 

Benedikt Hofmann, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Southeast Asia representative, told AFP that "Right now in some parts of the Mekong, most parts of the Mekong in fact, getting a pill of Yaba, for example, a tablet of Yaba, which is methamphetamine mixed with caffeine, is cheaper than buying a beer. 

In August 2017, violent attacks forced thousands of Rohingya to flee Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Many endured long, dangerous journeys to Bangladesh, where nearly 1 million now live in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox's Bazar. 

Syed is one of thousands of young men from the persecuted Rohingya community who have been conscripted into Myanmar's military, intensifying violence against civilians and prompting a new wave of refugees into Bangladesh, which already hosts around one million Rohingya.

“The people there are suffering a lot. I saw that with my own eyes,” he shared with AFP after returning to a relief camp in Bangladesh where he has lived for seven years. “Some are starving, they are dying of hunger,” he added.

In June, Syed was conscripted by a Rohingya armed group operating in the camps and sent to fight against the Arakan Army, a rebel group seeking autonomy in Myanmar. He and other recruits were assigned to support Myanmar troops by digging ditches and fetching water, with no military training provided.

"I was first taken to a police station and kept there. We were afraid, seeing the weapons and seeing the Myanmar military. They are the ones who once oppressed us and sent us here," Syed told AFP. 

The UN refugee agency reports that around 14,000 Rohingya have crossed into Bangladesh in recent months as conflict near the border has escalated. Experts estimate that at least 2,000 Rohingya have been forcibly recruited from Bangladeshi refugee camps this year, while many more within Myanmar have also been conscripted.

Those forced into service claim they were pressured by armed groups seeking to gain concessions from Myanmar’s military that might allow for their return home.

Mohammad Johar, a newly arrived refugee told AFP his brother-in-law was killed in a drone strike while they fled the border town of Maungdaw. “Dead bodies were lying everywhere,” he recalled. “The Arakan Army is more powerful there. The Myanmar military can't keep up with them, and it’s the Muslims who are dying.”

Despite the risks, many refugees have no choice but to flee. “After seeing dead bodies, we were scared that more attacks were coming,” said 20-year-old Bibi Faiza, who crossed the border with her young daughter.

Displaced residents sought refuge in a local school building after the floodwaters overwhelmed their homes.

A 76-year-old resident while describing the experience told AFP, "Some stuff was left behind. I don’t think about it anymore. We got here to save ourselves. We brought some pots and pans with us. The rest we left on the bar under the roof. I don’t care if it survives the water or not."

The elderly resident emphasised how this flood stands apart from previous events, stating, "It is worse this time. It’s nothing like before. There have been one or two floods before, but this time is the worst. The water came halfway up our house."

Despite the devastation, she disclosed: "I am going straight home the moment the water level drops. When the water reaches up to my waist, I will go home."

The flooding, caused by Typhoon Yagi, has also tipped rivers in Myanmar over their danger levels, severed communication lines, and cut off the railway between Yangon and Mandalay, the former royal capital in northern Myanmar, according to AFP.

Typhoon Yagi , Asia's most powerful storm of the year, wreaked similar havoc in northern Vietnam during the weekend, submerging the city of Thai Nguyen under floodwaters on September 10 and causing deadly landslides across the region.

The sister and brother, who were born a few minutes apart were unable to feed directly from their mother’s breast because of their initial size.

Born four inches shorter than the average calf, the twins had to be fed with bottled milk until after three days when they were able to suck breast milk directly with the aid of small wooden blocks.

The arrival of the twins takes the population of the elephant camp up to nine, an official at the camp was quoted by AFP.

Recently, residents in Yangon queued overnight at petrol stations, hoping to secure fuel for their vehicles. The shortage also affects businesses and hospitals that rely on generators during frequent power outages in the city of eight million.

The central bank's statement on August 14 confirmed the $100 million allocation for the fuel oil sector in the foreign currency market.

"The Central Bank of Myanmar has arranged to provide US$100 million towards the fuel oil sector in the foreign currency market," it said in a statement as reported by AFP.

This move follows a previous injection of over $16 million into the foreign exchange market last month to curb currency devaluation. Inflation is projected to be around 15.5 percent for the fiscal year ending next March, according to the Asian Development Bank.

The economic downturn has led to soaring prices for essentials like cooking oil, rice, and other staples. Last December, the junta cracked down on fuel hoarding, threatening jail time for anyone found with more than 180 litres of petrol without a license.

Myanmar's economy has been struggling since the military coup in 2021. The coup also sparked massive pro-democracy protests, which were met with a harsh military crackdown.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand targeted Taiwanese tourists with cultural exhibits and special deals at the “Amazing Thailand Travel Fair 2024” in Taipei. The fair showcased Thailand’s attractions, cuisines, and festivals, and highlighted the new visa exemption for Taiwanese tourists. The event aimed to entice Taiwanese visitors to experience the Loi Krathong Festival in Thailand and featured activities such as traditional Thai dances, Muay Thai exhibitions, and demonstrations on preparing Thai cuisine, Travel and Tour World reported.

Foreign business

The Thai government is addressing concerns over foreign business encroachment, particularly in the restaurant, transportation, and e-commerce sectors. They are enforcing laws to ensure maximum benefit for Thai people and are working to support the hospitality industry through digital technologies. According to Khaosod English , the government is also investigating companies with nominee agreements and clarifying legal requirements for foreign ownership in various sectors.

New immigration rule

A new immigration rule in South Korea has led to a social media boycott campaign by Thai tourists, causing a significant drop in Thai tourist numbers in the country. The boycott has led Thai tourists to favour Japan and China as holiday spots instead, Daily Express reports indicated. The issue at the border is attributed to the arrival of illegal workers from Thailand, and the introduction of the electronic travel authorisation system, K-ETA, has also contributed to the decline in Thai tourist numbers in South Korea.

Myanmar refugees

Thailand is prepared to accept 100,000 people fleeing Myanmar due to ongoing fighting near the border. The country is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention and does not distinguish between refugees and other migrants. The Thai-Myanmar border remains open, but trade has decreased by 30% over the last year. The Thai government has granted a request from the junta to repatriate people, and thousands fleeing Myanmar have been permitted to stay in informal settlements near the border since the 1980s, news agency The Sun reported.

Tesla plant

Tesla is reevaluating its global investment strategy and may scrap plans to invest in Thailand, as well as other proposed new sites in Mexico and India. The company is focusing on its existing major production bases in the US, China and Germany. According to Bangkok Post , the Thai government is waiting for confirmation from Tesla about halting the investment plan. Meanwhile, Indonesia is also waiting to hear from Tesla about a planned EV battery manufacturing plant. The Prime Minister of Thailand had previously announced Tesla’s interest in investing in the country, but there are now reports that Tesla may only invest in EV charging stations in Thailand.

Myanmar has a long history of military rule, civil conflict, and political instability. The Tatmadaw seized power in a coup in February 2021, overthrowing the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

In recent months, the Tatmadaw has suffered significant defeats at the hands of ethnic armed groups and the People's Defence Force (PDF), a coalition of pro-democracy fighters. These groups have launched coordinated attacks, capturing military posts and strategic locations, particularly in Shan State. The losses have been described as the most serious setbacks for the junta since the coup.

According to the Myanmar Country Director at the United States Institute of Peace, Jason Tower, "What's clear is that the Chinese side wants the Myanmar military to come to the table, it wants to bring the EAOs to the table to try to de-escalate, but the Myanmar military is refusing to do that. And so that actually plays to the hand of the EAOs that see that this military is historically at a weak point."

Reuters also adds that Myanmar's junta has admitted to losing communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, following rebels' claims of capturing the key regional army headquarters.

On July 25, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) claimed to have taken over a major military base and continued fighting to secure full control. On Saturday, August 3, the group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold in Lashio.

“It has been found that senior officials were arrested,” military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said on Monday, August 5.

Jason also suggested that the fall of the key regional army headquarters near the Chinese border "could mark the beginning of the end" for the junta that has been in power since the 2021 coup.

Africa

Seychelles maintains lead as African country with most powerful passport

In 2024, Seychelles retains its position as the African country with the most powerful passport, according to the latest Henley & Partners Passport Index. Read more here .

Kenya's Ruto names opponents to cabinet, protesters slam 'corrupt' deal

On Wednesday, July 24, Kenyan President William Ruto nominated four members of the main opposition party to a "broad-based" cabinet, fulfilling a promise made in response to nationwide protests. However, activists have criticized the new government, calling it a corrupt bargain. Read more here .

Namibia imposes visa restrictions on U.S., UK, and 21 other European countries

Namibia has announced plans to impose visa-free restrictions on the USA, Canada, the UK, and 21 other European nations that have not reciprocated its visa exemption efforts. This decision also impacts certain selected Asian countries. Read more here .

Asia

Bangladesh says it forgot to remove UN logos from vehicles as it contained unrest

Bangladesh has acknowledged that it failed to remove U.N. markings from vehicles during an army-enforced curfew aimed at containing deadly violence that erupted across the country last week, resulting in nearly 150 deaths. Read more here .

Myanmar regional military HQ captured, rebels say, in blow to junta

On Thursday, July 25, a rebel army in Myanmar announced that it had taken control of a major regional military headquarters near the Chinese border. This could represent the junta's most significant recent defeat as it struggles to contain an expanding revolt. Read more here .

Oil spill threatens Philippines capital after tanker capsised

On Thursday, July 25, a marine tanker carrying industrial fuel sank in rough seas off the coast of the Philippines, resulting in the death of a crew member and causing an oil spill that could potentially reach the waters near the capital, Manila, officials reported. Read more here .

Latin America

'Decade-old' president Maduro vs 'strongman' Gonzalez. Who will Venezuelans vote for?

More than 17 million Venezuelans are set to vote on July 28 in a highly anticipated presidential election. The results will shape the political and economic future of the South American nation for the next six years. Read more here .

Cuba passes law to revoke citizenship of government opponents

Cuba's parliament has passed a Citizenship Law enabling the government to revoke the citizenship of Cuban nationals living abroad if they join or form any "type of armed organization to attack" the country or its citizens. Read more here .

Violence against Brazil's Indigenous people unabated under Lula, report says

A report published on Monday indicates that the protection of Brazil's Indigenous communities from violence by land grabbers and ranchers was "insufficient" in 2023, dampening hopes for improvement under leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula. Read more here .

Rohingya minority face danger as rebels attack Maungdaw town in western Myanmar. Residents report armed drones, injuries, and worsening conditions. Thousands of Rohingya are trapped in the town with limited access to food and healthcare. The ongoing conflict has forced some Rohingya to flee to refugee camps in Bangladesh, according to the Indian Express . Myanmar's military junta and armed rebel groups have been clashing in the area, leaving the local population in fear for their lives.

Floods force thousands to flee homes

Floods in northern Myanmar have displaced 10,000 people, with many trapped on their roofs as rivers burst their banks. Heavy rain in Kachin state has caused widespread flooding, forcing residents to seek shelter in monasteries and evacuation facilities. The flooding has also affected camps for people displaced by fighting between insurgent groups and junta forces. According to reports , there are concerns that the flood will reach other river-side communities in the region.

Surge in violence in Shan state

Myanmar's Shan state has seen a surge in violence over 10 days, resulting in casualties and displacement. Rebels attacked military battalions, and airstrikes have caused extensive damage. The fighting has affected the operations of humanitarian groups. The upsurge has also led to unrest in other regions, including Rakhine and Chin states, UCA News reports.

Japanese leader arrested for price inflation

Myanmar's military junta has arrested a Japanese supermarket executive for allegedly inflating prices of basic necessities in response to public discontent over rising prices. The arrest comes amid a deepening economic crisis, with the World Bank forecasting minimal economic growth and persistent inflation due to civil conflicts and supply chain disruptions. The country's economy remains smaller than before the military coup, with shortages of essential imported components and electricity supply disruptions posing significant challenges for businesses, Agenzia Nova reports

Central command chief sacked after shooting monk

Myanmar junta has replaced its Central Command chief Major General Kyi Khaing after the shooting of  78-year-old Buddhist monk Sayadaw Bhaddanta Munindabhivamsa. Kyi Khaing was replaced by Major General Aung Khaing Win. The regime's forces were responsible for the killing of the senior monk. Aung Khaing Win previously led the Triangle Region Command. His transfer comes amid fighting with armed groups in the Mandalay Region. Kyi Khaing is the first Central Command chief to be dismissed since the 2021 coup, local media The Irrawaddy reported.

Escalating fighting in Rakhine has put Myanmar's Rohingya community at risk, forcing tens of thousands to flee towards Bangladesh. The Arakan Army (AA) is targeting Rohingya, causing civilians to be caught in the middle. According to The Straits Times , the conflict has left over 350,000 people displaced, with limited access to basic services and closed hospitals. The situation is becoming increasingly dangerous, with the AA warning of more battles.

Craven killing

A new art exhibition in Bangkok explores the civilian experience of air strikes in Myanmar. The Asia Times indicated that the State Administration Council regime's use of air power has intensified, resulting in a rise in civilian casualties and the destruction of buildings. The resistance is using civilian drone units to combat the regime's increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles. The exhibition aims to raise awareness and commemorate those affected by the air strikes.

Fighting leaves dozens hurt

Fighting in northern Myanmar has trapped 40 people and wounded dozens, with the Kachin Independence Army capturing junta camps and towns. According to Radio Free Asia , Twenty-six civilians were injured and about 40 were trapped in the latest fighting. Limited telecommunications are hampering relief efforts. Seven residents were killed and 22 wounded in fighting last week.

Summer Olympics

Twenty-five swimmers from Myanmar competed for spots in the 2024 Summer Olympics at the National Swimming Pool in Yangon. The contest, organized by the Myanmar Swimming Federation, included 12 male and 13 female athletes in eight swimming events. One male and one female athlete were chosen to represent Myanmar at the Paris 2024 Olympics, pending approval from the Olympic scrutinising committee, reports media agency The Star .

Chinese-backed dam in Myanmar

Myanmar's junta has revived plans for a $3.6 billion Chinese-backed dam in the north of the country, suspended over a decade ago due to public opposition. The project to build a 6,000-megawatt dam in northern Kachin state ended in 2011, but the junta has now announced a new "leading group" for the hydropower project. News of Bahrain added that critics fear the dam would cause environmental damage and primarily benefit China.

Myanmar rebel group, the Karen National Union (KNU), has withdrawn from the town of Myawaddy on the Thai border after a counteroffensive by the junta. A “temporary retreat” from the town of Myawaddy came after the return of junta soldiers to the vital strategic area that is a conduit for annual foreign trade of more than $1 billion”, a spokesperson of KNU told reporters . Fighting has caused thousands of civilians to flee, but many have since returned. The junta was able to enter the area with the help of a regional militia. Myanmar's junta is under pressure, having lost control of key frontier areas to rebel groups.

Resignation of vice-president

Myanmar Vice-President Henry Van Thio has resigned for health reasons, with no details about his health condition or replacement. He had previously served under the ousted National League for Democracy government and was spared by the junta after the 2021 coup. Van Thio, a former major in the Myanmar military, attended meetings infrequently due to health issues and was expelled from the NLD after attending a junta meeting. He is replaced by First Vice-President U Myint Swe, who currently serves as acting president for the junta.

Airstrike near India border kills civilians

Three civilians, including a child, were killed in an airstrike near the Indian border in the resistance-occupied town of Khampat in western Myanmar. A volunteer helping victims of the airstrike told reporters “Their hut was hit and the child died on the way to the hospital. The mother had her leg broken,” The town, strategically located on the border trade route, has been repeatedly targeted by the junta. The resistance forces have declared an emergency and the National Unity Government is preparing to install a civilian administration in Khampat. Additionally, junta troops have been torching and bombing villages in the area, forcing thousands of residents to abandon their homes.

173 Bangladeshis return home after prison sentence

A Bangladesh Navy ship returned 173 Bangladeshis who had served prison terms in Myanmar. A Myanmar delegation also arrived in Cox's Bazar City, southeast coast of Bangladesh to take custody of 285 Myanmar Army and Border Guard Police who had escaped violence in Myanmar. The returnees will be received by Border Guard Bangladesh and handed over to the police for verification and then to their relatives. Of the 173 returnees, 144 served full terms in prison and 29 are being pardoned.

Rainy season to flood camp for internally displaced

Hundreds of people in Myanmar's Pa Law Ta Moe camp for displaced persons are facing misery as the rainy season approaches. “I’m concerned about the coming rain. Where would I go? My hut is on the river bank,” a 70-year-old camp settler told Radio Free Asia . Many have been forced to flee their homes due to fighting and are now living in inadequate conditions with limited assistance. The Thai government has provided some aid, but questions remain about the effectiveness of the humanitarian efforts. The situation is further complicated by ongoing conflicts in the region, and there is a call for peaceful dialogue to resolve the crisis.

The local authorities in the Yangon Region of Myanmar have issued local orders to prohibit the sale of drones and accessories, citing attacks by People’s Defence Forces (PDF) groups in schools, office buildings, and public places, local media Eleven Myanma r reported. "That announcement is true. It was released on November 18. If you want to shoot at bridge construction sites and donations, you must apply for permission from the relevant authorities. If you don't comply with it, we will take action under Section 188," local authorities said.

Airport attack

Myanmar’s Kalay Airport in the Sagaing Region was attacked by a drop bomb and drone attacks followed. ''On the Sagaing side, there was a drone attack on the runway of the Kalay Airport, followed by an attack,'' a spokesperson for the State Administration Council (SAC) said on November 21. According to Eleven Myanmar , armed groups took two vessels belonging to the Myanmar Inland Water Transport and orchestrated attacks that targeted public areas rather than military areas.

Telecom fraud

Myanmar has handed over 31,000 telecom fraud suspects to China since a crackdown on online scams in September, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security announced on November 21. The suspects include 63 alleged masterminds and 1,531 fugitives, Chinese media Xinhua reported. According to Xinhua, authorities in Muse, northern Myanmar on November 18 transferred over 571 telecom fraud suspects to Chinese authorities.

Repatriated Thais

Thai nationals trapped in northern Myanmar have returned to Thailand, amid a surge in fighting between junta troops and armed ethnic-minority groups near the Chinese border. Tens of thousands have been displaced across Myanmar as the military government battles a coordinated offensive by three ethnic-minority groups and pro-democracy fighters, Reuters reported. According to Thai authorities, some of the people who were stranded in Myanmar were "victims of human trafficking" while others may have had ties to gangs who commit telecom fraud.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) in Myanmar has called for the safety of patients and healthcare workers in conflict areas of Myanmar, following drone attacks at Pang Hseng Hospital on 18 November, the MSF reported. The MSF in a statement said “Yesterday, our team in Shan received reports that Pang Hseng Hospital, a facility that MSF has supported in the past, was hit by a drone strike. Thankfully no injuries were reported, but this is only because the hospital recently stopped functioning when hostilities escalated at the end of October.”

A curfew has been implemented in the Rakhine State capital, Sittwe, where military tanks have been observed, according to the local administration. The rebels have seized control of several towns and military posts, including those near the Chinese border, posing a significant challenge to the junta since the 2021 coup.

Zaw Min Tun, a junta spokesperson, accused the rebel groups of causing widespread destruction and labeled reports of captured military posts as "propaganda." He acknowledged ongoing fighting in Shan, Rakhine, and Kayah states but did not comment on reports of junta forces surrendering.

In Chin State in the northwest, where rebel attacks occurred, 43 Myanmar soldiers reportedly crossed into the Indian state of Mizoram. Indian forces transported most of the soldiers to another border point, where they were handed back to Myanmar authorities, according to an unidentified Indian security official.

Last week, Myanmar's military-appointed president expressed concern about the country potentially breaking apart due to the inadequate response to the rebellion. The military has long asserted that it is the only institution capable of holding Myanmar together, advocating for a democratic, federal system is met with opposition from critics of military rule.

Nong Rong, assistant Chinese foreign minister, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Chinese border residents and strengthening the security of Chinese personnel, according to a report from Reuters.

China hopes Myanmar will restore stability and supports all parties in handling their differences and achieving reconciliation through dialogue.

Thailand is working to bring home its nationals trapped in Myanmar due to the ongoing conflict.

Myanmar has been facing turmoil since a military coup in February 2021 that ousted the democratically elected government.

Pro-democracy insurgent groups have joined forces with ethnic minority guerrillas in some areas to confront junta forces. While Western governments have condemned the Myanmar military and imposed sanctions, China has been supportive of the generals and has called for respecting Myanmar's sovereignty.

Nong, during his recent visit to Myanmar, also encouraged the strengthening of security for Chinese institutions and projects in the country.

He visited a significant natural gas pipeline, part of China's Belt and Road infrastructure and energy network, connecting Ramree Island on Myanmar's west coast with the Chinese border city Ruili in Yunnan Province.

The allegations encompass a range of crimes, from the murder of a pastor and two church elders to what the victims' families describe as a systematic campaign of burning down civilian homes in their village in September 2021, carried out by Myanmar's military, also known as the Tatmadaw.

During a news conference held in Manila, Philippines, Zing Ral Tu, a Myanmar national who mourns the loss of her father, emotionally expressed her grief and frustration after filing a criminal complaint regarding war crimes committed by the Myanmar military.

“My father and his friend were murdered by the Burmese army,” Ral Tu said.

Her father held a prominent position as a community leader and played a crucial role in facilitating a peace agreement that led to a ceasefire in 2012 between the conflicting Myanmar army and the Chin National Army.

"The soldiers also mutilated Pastor Cung Biak Hum by severing his ring finger and pilfered his wedding ring, watch, and mobile phone."

The affidavit includes compelling evidence, such as photographs depicting the aftermath of the heavy artillery strikes on civilian residences by Myanmar military personnel. Before the case can proceed to court, it will be contingent on Philippine prosecutors to approve an indictment based on probable cause.

This case stems from the aftermath of Myanmar's military coup in February 2021, which resulted in the removal of the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and unleashed a wave of violence across the predominantly Buddhist nation. In September of that year, residents of Thantlang witnessed their homes being set ablaze by the junta, prompting most of the villagers to flee to the neighboring state of Mizoram in northeast India.

The complaint referenced the report of the United Nations High Commissioner of Human Rights, dated February 25, 2022, which attributed the destruction of more than 900 structures in Thantlang to Tatmadaw Light Infantry Brigade (LIB) 222, as a result of at least 23 consecutive attacks.

Legal representatives from the Philippines who are advocating for Myanmar nationals have contended that the country can adjudicate these cases by relying on its International Humanitarian Act. This law allows the application of both international customary and conventional legal principles as a reference for domestic courts.

“Universal jurisdiction means that any state can prosecute a crime,” Lawyer of the complainants Romel Bagares explained.

“This is not an ordinary crime. It's considered a crime against the entire international community. What we've brought to the attention of the DOJ are war crimes targeting civilians, mutilation, and the targeting of civilian objects. Houses of civilians were burned down. Churches were burned down.”

Legal actions targeting the Myanmar military have also been initiated in Indonesia, the United Kingdom, and Türkiye.

Myanmar, Indonesia, and the Philippines, all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) adhere to a principle of refraining from involvement in the internal matters of its member states.