All Asia Pacific
- Fighting ‘bad’ fire with good: Australia revisits an Aboriginal tradition
Australia’s bushfire crises might be alleviated with more low-intensity burns, fire experts argue – a traditional practice in Aboriginal communities.
- First LookChinese 'hero' doctor dies, unleashing public fury at Beijing
Li Wenliang was detained by police in December after warning people about the new coronavirus on social media. His death has reignited outrage over the Communist Party's lack of transparency and accountability.
- First LookWhy virus travel bans can undermine the global economy
Travel restrictions and business closures have little benefit, but hinder info-sharing, medical supply chains, and harm economies, says a WHO official.
- Coronavirus outbreak highlights cracks in Beijing’s control
China’s coronavirus outbreak has raised simple but powerful questions about its style of government, in a system with little room for dissent.
- Pocketbook polarization: In Hong Kong, you are what you buy
Hong Kong protesters, keen to keep up momentum, are boycotting “blue” businesses deemed pro-China in favor of “yellow” pro-democracy businesses.
- First LookLessons learned from SARS: China locks down three more cities
In the midst of a new virus outbreak, China works to avoid past mistakes by communicating information faster and restricting travel.
- First LookChina's President Xi on first visit to Myanmar. Why?
President Xi Jinping's first trip to Myanmar, a linchpin of China's geopolitical ambitions, deepens their relationship at a crucial time.
- First LookTaiwan sends message of 'peace, parity, democracy' to Beijing
In her victory speech, President Tsai urged China to resume talks with Taiwan without preconditions while warning against threatening use of force.
- First LookAustralian firefighters go on offense in bushfire battle
Thanks to a break in the weather, for the first time in weeks Australia's firefighters went on offense. But Sunday the death toll rose to 27.
- Difference MakerThailand’s Steve Irwin wants to make snakes less scary
Nirut Chomngam shares his knowledge with villagers in the Southeast Asian nation, where snakes frequently cross paths with humans.
- Closer ties with China? Taiwan’s voters look likely to say, ‘No thanks.’
Taiwan’s election Jan. 11 looks likely to bring a second term for President Tsai Ing-wen, suggesting China’s increasing pressure has backfired.
- First LookCarlos Ghosn says he had 'zero chance' of a fair trial in Japan
After fleeing to Lebanon, the former Nissan chairman is bringing international attention to flaws in Japan's justice system.
- First LookCooler temperatures and rain take edge off Australian wildfires
For Australian communities battling wildfires, Monday brought some relief. But there are still more than 135 fires burning in New South Wales.
- First LookNorth Korea’s Kim touts strategic weapon amid stall in talks
Defiant words indicate Kim’s “new way” could look like the old: a determination to wait out sanctions while cementing the status of a nuclear state.
- First LookAustralia sending aid after thousands flee wildfires
Navy ships and military aircraft were bringing water, food, and fuel to towns where supplies were depleted and roads were cut off by powerful fires.
- ‘Translating for myself’: Ann Scott Tyson on seeing China from the inside (audio)
How do you learn the language of a place? Ann’s expansive vocabulary, not just of words but of patterns of behavior and habits of thought, has allowed her to share a nuanced narrative about one of the world’s most influential countries.
- Hong Kong’s freshman councilors get a crash course: City Gov 101
Hong Kong’s pro-democracy camp won big in district elections. Now, incoming councilors have to translate their dreams into day-to-day decisions.
- Behind huge Hong Kong march, a dramatic show of public support
At the six-month mark, about 89% of Hong Kongers believe a combination of peaceful protests and radical tactics can achieve the best outcome.
- After six months and a siege, Hong Kong’s front line takes stock
Hong Kong’s protests saw a dramatic November, with a campus siege and local elections. A protester takes stock at the six-month mark.
- First LookMoon calls for cooperation with China on North Korea
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made his first visit in four years to South Korea to thaw strategic relations and promote regional stability.