All Asia: South & Central
As world’s biggest election nears, defections hurt India’s anti-Modi allianceAs India’s opposition alliance launches its election campaign, some members have abandoned ship, underscoring the challenges of political cooperation.
In Pakistan, arrest of popular journalist poses fresh threat to vibrant media landscapeMany in Pakistan expected press freedom to improve once Imran Khan was out of power, yet journalists continue to face harassment.
First LookIndia’s Modi enacts faith-based citizenship law in run-up to electionIndia’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi implemented a new immigration law that would fast-track naturalization for members of religious minorities from neighboring countries unless they are Muslim. It’s drawn nationwide protests.
Meet the young rebels fighting against Myanmar’s juntaThe 2021 coup in Myanmar brought new blood into resistance groups. Their fresh ideas have been embraced, building momentum against the junta.
Amid post-election chaos, new government takes shape in PakistanA new government is preparing to take the reins in Pakistan, but not the one its people elected.
In India, what wreaks more havoc than floods and heat? Lightning.India is often at the front lines of climate change, but one of the largest natural threats to public safety gets the least attention. Why is progress on lightning safety so slow?
First LookIndian farmers demand guaranteed crop prices. Why Modi may listen.Tens of thousands of Indian farmers are marching toward New Delhi to demand guaranteed minimum crop prices, a development reminiscent of 2021 protests that succeeded in changing agriculture laws. Police have responded with arrests and tear gas.
First LookNepal’s sacred deities, long hidden overseas, make their way homeHistoric statues of Hindu deities carry deep religious significance in Nepal – but they’ve been repeatedly smuggled abroad. Now the nation is stepping up its efforts to track stolen artifacts and bring them back.
First LookThailand legalized weed two years ago. Now officials want a rollback.Thailand was the first country in Asia to legalize cannabis. But, citing a spike in treatment for mental health issues and unlawful consumption by young people, health officials now want to limit recreational use.
The ExplainerMyanmar’s civil war: Is the stalemate breaking?With support for Myanmar’s military junta declining and rebels gaining ground through unprecedented cooperation, 2024 could prove a pivotal year in the country’s civil war.
First LookIndonesia’s election is about Joko Widodo. But he’s not on the ballot.Indonesia’s popular President Joko Widodo hasn’t endorsed anyone to succeed him. But he’s widely seen as backing a former rival over his own party’s nominee because of family ties to the ticket, part of what experts call a rise in pork-barrel politics.
In Pakistan, a delay in poll results could undercut election integrityPakistan’s election was marred by allegations of rigging before polls even opened on Thursday. Now, as a disruption in results draws additional scrutiny, this could become one of the most controversial votes in the country’s history.
Free pads and frank discussion: Bangkok schools tackle ‘period poverty’In Thailand, improving access to period products requires breaking stigmas as well as material investment. Though national efforts have stalled, local programs have created space for young people and experts to openly address menstrual health.
Iran fired at Pakistan. Pakistan shot back. Can trust be rebuilt?It took only 48 hours and two rounds of missiles for trust to break down between Iran and Pakistan. Understanding why Iran struck its neighbor will help in working to restore lost trust.
How a Muslim tailor and Hindu priest fought hate in Ayodhya, IndiaAs the inauguration of a controversial temple puts this north Indian city’s history of communal violence on center stage, a competing history gets less attention – one of enduring friendships and peaceful coexistence.
First LookRepublicans skimp on Bush-era AIDS relief for KenyaRepublican lawmakers aim to scale back President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief funds (PEPFAR) for Kenya, undercutting a successful Bush-era policy. Kenyans fear they will no longer be able to afford treatment, and progress will be lost.
Muslims helped Jews settle in Kolkata 200 years ago. The bond endures.The Israel-Hamas war has tested the bonds of Jewish and Muslim communities around the world. In the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, a tradition of respect and solidarity is overpowering panic.
First LookIn India, respect for shared forests transcends religious differencesIndia’s “sacred forests” are Indigenous hallowed ground as well as an important source of biodiversity. Now, environmentalists are working with communities in a majority-Christian state to help people of all faiths see the forests as worthy of protection.
Pakistan is gearing up for elections. Will the army let them happen?Ideally, campaign season is a time of rich debate, problem solving, and civic engagement. But in Pakistan, conversation has focused instead on the unlevel political playing field, which threatens to undermine upcoming elections.
First LookCould TikTok hoaxes tip upcoming South Asian elections?Social media feeds in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Pakistan have been flooded with AI-generated fabrications ahead of elections this year. Experts say there aren’t enough safeguards in place to keep voters from getting misled.
