All Asia Pacific
First LookBooks by Japanese feminist gain traction in China despite censorshipJapanese feminist scholar Chizuko Ueno’s books have helped keep feminism in mainstream conversations in China amid increasing censorship. Ms. Ueno does not directly write about China, but is highly critical of societal expectations of women and misogyny.
Difference MakerIn Japan, domestic violence survivors help victims – and abusersDomestic violence survivors are at the front of the charge to break women’s silence and end cycles of violence across Japan. They say compassion is their superpower.
First LookChina promotes unity at Asian Games as its regional disputes continueChina will be spending billions to host the Asian Games and portray the image of Asian unity and success. But critics say that shouldn’t overshadow the nation’s continued, persistent efforts to vie for power over disputed territory.
The ExplainerWhy China’s ‘miracle’ growth has slowedDecades of rapid economic growth have made China a central player in the global economy. Now, the tide appears to be turning, but experts say the challenges China faces aren’t that new – nor are they insurmountable.
First LookNobel winner Maria Ressa acquitted of tax evasion charge“Facts wins, truth wins, justice wins,” Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa told reporters after being acquitted of a final tax evasion charge. She faces two remaining legal cases she believes the former Philippine president used to muzzle her reporting.
First LookKim could be on his way to Putin to deepen ties. Why now?The prospective meeting between North Korea and Russia comes as Russia seeks to bolster its ammunition for its war in Ukraine, U.S. officials say. In return, North Korea is expected to ask for food, energy shipments, and sophisticated weapons technologies.
For Koreans in Japan, this little-known massacre still carries weightJapan is reluctant to acknowledge colonial-era violence, leaving the job of historical reckoning to individuals and civic groups. For Koreans investigating a 1923 massacre, it’s not just a matter of truth, but also one of dignity and survival.
In Pictures: How Filipino salt makers saved their craftThe traditional asin tibuok salt is only found on one island in the Philippines. Thanks to these artisans, the craft hasn’t been lost.
How the Cultural Revolution shapes Chinese families decades laterIn her book “Red Memory,” journalist Tania Branigan offers a candid look at China’s Cultural Revolution and illuminates the relevance of that decade of chaos in deciphering China today.
To green their ancient alleys, Beijing’s hutong gardeners get creativeFor Beijing’s hutong gardeners, growing peppers and gourds is more about feeding the soul – and sharing that joy with others.
Activist or terrorist? How Filipino authorities blur the line.Who’s considered a terrorist in the Philippines? The designation of activists and Indigenous leaders as “terrorist individuals” has sparked calls to revisit the country’s approach to domestic security.
First LookBeijing’s worst flood in 50 years: Xi calls for ‘all out’ rescueChina’s capital and nearby cities are reporting fatalities and people missing in the worst floods in 50 years. Typhoon Doksuri has destroyed roads and homes and led Leader Xi Jinping to issue an order to help those still trapped.
First LookClimate-resilient women: Seaweed farmers feed families and futuresIn the face of climate change, women seaweed farmers in the Philippines are cultivating a lucrative alternative crop. Seaweed farming is the world’s fastest-growing form of aquaculture and the Philippines is the fourth largest producer globally.
The ExplainerJapan’s plan for Fukushima wastewater: Three questionsIn Japan, plans to release treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant have fishing communities and neighboring countries sounding alarms. But in this case, the fear doesn’t match the facts.
FocusFrom ditch digging to herding donkeys, no rest for China’s rural seniorsIn rural China, where low incomes and limited social support mean no rest for elders, seniorhood is defined more by resilience than by comfort.
China’s ‘no-limits’ partnership with Russia shaken by mutinyThe short-lived mercenary mutiny against Moscow is raising doubts in Beijing about how reliable an ally against the West Russia really is.
After ‘candid’ US-China talks, experts see hope for stabilityTrust between nations comes down to the alignment of words and actions. Talks held this week between top U.S. and China officials provided an opportunity for clarity, and with it, a chance to rebuild relations.
First LookUS, China at odds on many issues after first day Blinken visit to BeijingBoth sides said advancement on the issues that divide them remains a work in progress while the Chinese foreign ministry said “the China-U.S. relationship is at the lowest point since its establishment.”
First LookPhilippines steps up cybersecurity to combat online child abuseIn the Philippines, poverty has driven a surge in online sexual abuse against children. However, cybersecurity experts at the country’s largest telecommunications firm are working tirelessly to prevent access to exploitative images of children online.
First LookToo close for comfort: Australia blocks Russian embassy constructionAustralia’s Parliament has blocked the construction of a new Russian embassy that would be closer to the Parliament House. Australia, which has been a generous donor of aid to Ukraine, cited security concerns as reasons for passing the legislation.
