All Asia: South & Central
- Is there female genital mutilation in India? Delhi says no, survivors say yes.
A court case to determine the rightful leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community is highlighting the oft-ignored issue of female genital mutilation in India.
- Difference MakerArt as a tool for healing? Cambodian circus fosters joy and confidence.
In Cambodia, a circus is helping break the cycle of poverty and renew arts that were nearly wiped out by the Khmer Rouge regime.
- Why is democratic India helping Russia avoid Western sanctions?
Russia’s ability to endure sanctions relies on the reluctance of countries like India to join the West’s economic embargo. The trade channels being formed could have lasting geopolitical effects.
- Crocus blooms in the living room? Kashmir's saffron farmers get creative.
Farmers say efforts to bolster Kashmir’s struggling saffron industry are starting to pay off, sparking hope across the region.
- Endurance test: How Sri Lanka’s batik artists keep the craft alive
Keeping a traditional craft alive in modern times often requires creativity and perseverance. Sri Lanka’s loyal batik artisans have both.
- First Look‘Silent’ protests in Myanmar resist rising political violence
More than two years after the February 2021 military coup in Myanmar, nonviolent civil resistance remains strong. People fight for a return to democracy, and nonviolent protests within cities occur almost daily, though violence in the countryside is rising.
- As Hindu nationalism grows, so does interest in Delhi’s Muslim history
Islamophobia in India is rising, but some tour guides and historians see hope in the growing curiosity about Delhi’s Muslim heritage.
- First LookNepal farmers plant hope, resilience with indigenous seeds
In a region where 80% of the people are farmers, Nepal’s native crops are disappearing. Now a small movement grows as farmers embrace indigenous seeds and the demand for local produce grows. Some say the effort can boost resilience to climate change.
- Long life, good education, but no jobs? Kerala model faces test.
The policies that helped India’s Kerala state punch above its weight on economic and social welfare now appear to be holding it back.
- First Look‘Exemplary compassion’: Nations pledge funding for flood-hit Pakistan
The United Nations allocated over $4 billion Monday to Pakistan in the wake of last summer’s devastating floods. Pakistan estimates it will need $16.3 billion to fully recover. “We are racing [against] time,” said Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.
- Difference MakerIn Sri Lanka, Pastor Moses shows the power of a free lunch
Generosity in one pastor’s youth has created a ripple effect, helping buoy thousands of Sri Lankans through times of hunger and hardship.
- First LookGrowing hope: As climate warms, Bangladeshi farmers swap crops
Farmers in Bangladesh's Rajshahi district have switched from growing water-intensive rice to vegetables as they adapt to a warming planet.
- ‘We are lying to ourselves’: Ban on LGBTQ film sparks debate in Pakistan
Despite being banned in parts of Pakistan, the acclaimed film “Joyland” is prompting honest conversations about how women and LGBTQ people fit into the conservative society.
- To balance China, India charts new foreign policy path
India is pivoting away from its “nonaligned” roots and instead fostering multiple partnerships based on national interests, such as balancing powerful neighbor China.
- First LookMicrofinance helps Indian women borrow – with dignity
In India, where loan sharks have monopolized the rural credit market for generations, formal microlenders are playing an increasingly important role. Small loans can help women boost their incomes and strengthen their community roles.
- What would a climate-resilient Pakistan look like? Sindh offers clues.
In Pakistan’s flood-ravaged Sindh province, an absence of government and international disaster aid has left much of rebuilding to civil society. Local initiatives are aiming to make communities more resilient.
- First LookNew Indonesia penal code criminalizes dissent, sex outside marriage
Indonesian lawmakers passed a revision to its code of laws banning all forms of sex outside marriage for both citizens and foreigners. The package of laws, which was met with criticism from human rights activists, also bans political and religious dissent.
- A promise by Pakistan’s outgoing army chief is met with cautious hope
Pakistan has been ruled either directly or indirectly by the army for 75 years. Now, both hope and skepticism abound as Pakistanis consider a future without a politicking military.
- How can US woo a distrustful Pakistan? Flood relief was a start.
Almost reflexive anti-Americanism in Pakistan speaks to a broken relationship between the two countries. But soft power and person-to-person diplomacy are seen as ways to restore trust.
- In Malaysia election, newly enfranchised teens could be the kingmakers
In an upcoming snap election, 18-to-20-year-old Malaysians wield new power – and new responsibility. How are young voters approaching their first election?