In Cambodia, the population of the endangered river tern has seen a fragile increase thanks to the efforts of community-based conservationists like Meak Phoeurn and his family, who have worked as nest protectors since 2008 under a WWF-managed program. Despite the recent positive trend, the river tern faces existential threats from hydropower projects along the Mekong River, which impact nesting sites and fish stocks, the bird's main food source. Conservationists like Andrea Claassen from the University of Minnesota and local Forestry Administration officer Sok Ko express concerns about the future of the species, especially with the proposed Stung Treng and Sambor dams. The conservation efforts have led to a shift in local attitudes towards protecting the river tern, but the gains are threatened by declining fish stocks and the broader environmental impact of the dams.

At the Asian Development Bank's 50th annual meeting in Yokohama, civil society organizations engaged with ADB management to discuss reforms. Activists presented ADB President Takehiko Nakao with critical materials and emphasized the need for greater accountability, particularly in addressing the impacts of historic projects like the Marcopper mine in the Philippines. Concerns were raised about ADB's lending to authoritarian regimes, such as Laos, and the associated risks to local communities. Calls were made for explicit anti-corruption efforts in ADB's Strategy 2030, stronger labor rights protections, and an end to ADB's legal immunity. Despite these challenges, Nakao recognized NGOs as important partners and reiterated ADB's commitment to good governance.

In Stung Treng province, Cambodia, indigenous minorities are resisting relocation due to the Lower Sesan 2 hydropower dam, which has begun a test run, flooding areas and displacing over 4,000 families. Funded primarily by China's HydroLancang International Energy, the dam aims to reduce Cambodia's energy dependence and spur development. However, the project has faced fierce opposition due to its environmental impact, including a significant drop in fish stocks and the destruction of fertile land and sacred sites. Activists from the Cambodia Indigenous Peoples Alliance and Mother Nature Cambodia are supporting the holdouts, who prefer to risk flooding over abandoning their ancestral lands. The situation has led to increased police presence and restrictions on access to the area. Those who have relocated to government-provided villages face poor soil quality, limited income opportunities, and cultural dislocation.

Cambodia's upcoming national election on July 23, 2023, is characterized by a lack of viable opposition and avenues for protest, marking the culmination of a three-decade experiment in managed democracy under Prime Minister Hun Sen. The election is seen as a step towards positioning Hun Sen's son, Hun Manet, as the next leader. The ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) controls the legislature, judiciary, and ministries, while civil society and free media have been mostly silenced. The main opposition Candlelight Party was disqualified on a technicality, and advocating for a voter boycott has been criminalized. Opposition figures, activists, and journalists face intimidation, arrest, or prosecution. The CPP's dominance is contrasted with the 1993 U.N.-administered election, which is considered by some as Cambodia's only truly free and fair election. Hun Sen's tenure has seen a mix of development and repression, with recent years marked by increased suppression of dissent and consolidation of power. The opposition, now largely in exile, calls for voters to spoil their ballots as a form of protest.

River Terns, once abundant on the Mekong River in Cambodia, are now facing extinction due to habitat destruction, egg collection, and the impact of hydropower dams. Conservation biologist Andrea Claassen and local nest protector Meak Phoeurn have been instrumental in stabilizing the dwindling population through nest protection and community education. The World Wildlife Fund supports their efforts, but funding is inconsistent. The recent construction of the Lower Sesan II dam poses a significant threat to the River Terns' habitat and food supply. Despite these challenges, Claassen has developed a 10-year species action plan and is considering starting a nonprofit to ensure the continuation of conservation work.

In Stung Treng province, Cambodia, indigenous minorities are resisting relocation due to the Lower Sesan 2 hydropower dam, which has begun a test run, flooding areas and displacing over 4,000 families. Funded primarily by China's HydroLancang International Energy, the dam aims to reduce Cambodia's energy dependence and spur development. However, the project has faced fierce opposition due to its environmental impact, including a significant drop in fish stocks and the destruction of fertile land and sacred sites. Activists from the Cambodia Indigenous Peoples Alliance and Mother Nature Cambodia are supporting the holdouts, who prefer to risk flooding over abandoning their ancestral lands. The situation has led to increased police presence and restrictions on access to the area. Those who have relocated to government-provided villages face poor soil quality, limited income opportunities, and cultural dislocation.

The article discusses the recent election in Cambodia, highlighting the overwhelming victory of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), which is expected to have won every seat in parliament. The election saw a significant increase in spoiled ballots, which many view as a silent protest against what is considered the country's least free election. The main opposition, the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), was dissolved last year, and its absence was felt as many voters were unsure of who to vote for. The government had put pressure on citizens to vote, with threats of withholding services and arrests. Despite the high turnout, the legitimacy of the election is questioned, with the CNRP calling it a 'sham election' and attributing the CPP's expected victory to manipulations by Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The article discusses a series of sophisticated phishing attacks and hacking attempts targeting Cambodian opposition figures, government departments, rights defenders, and media outlets ahead of the country's national elections on July 29. A report by U.S. cybersecurity firm FireEye links these incidents to TEMP.Periscope, a Chinese cyber espionage group believed to be working for the Chinese government. The group has previously targeted various entities in the U.S., Europe, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The attacks compromised several Cambodian institutions, including the National Election Commission and the Interior Ministry. Rights groups like Licadho and media organizations have experienced an increase in cyber attacks, which are more sophisticated and frequent. The Cambodian government is also increasing online surveillance, and there are concerns that hackers could manipulate social media to spread fake news or incite unrest. The article underscores the global relevance of such cyber threats to election processes.

Hassan Al Kontar, a Syrian man, has been stranded at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for 91 days due to complications with international asylum systems and visa issues. Unable to return to Syria or the UAE, and rejected by Cambodia and Ecuador, he has turned to social media to share his plight and seek assistance. His Twitter videos, detailing his life at the airport and his views on refugee policies, have garnered support and attention worldwide. A group of Canadian volunteers has offered help, and Al Kontar is now awaiting a decision from Canada's immigration minister on a temporary resident permit.

Hassan Al Kontar, a Syrian man, has been stranded at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for 91 days due to complications with international asylum systems and visa issues. Unable to return to Syria or the UAE, and rejected by Cambodia and Ecuador, he has turned to social media to share his plight and seek assistance. His Twitter videos, detailing his life at the airport and his views on refugee policies, have garnered support and attention worldwide. A group of Canadian volunteers has offered help, and Al Kontar is now awaiting a decision from Canada's immigration minister on a temporary resident permit.

The article discusses the surge of bot activity on Malaysian Twitter, particularly using the hashtag #pualangmengundi, which was meant to aid voters in returning home to vote in Malaysia's May 9 election. Joe Lee, a social media consultant, noticed the bot activity, which was flooding the timeline with pro-government messages, thereby disrupting the campaign. The bots were also spreading anti-opposition messages with hashtags like #SayNOtoPH and #KalahkanPakatan. The article mentions the involvement of the Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensic Research Lab in identifying the bot activity and the response from Malaysia’s Communications Minister and Twitter. It also touches on the broader issue of bot activity in Asia and the role of social media platforms like Facebook in spreading disinformation, as seen in other countries like Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The article suggests that unless decisive action is taken, the problem of bot activity in influencing elections could worsen.

The article discusses the public reaction to the announcement of Malaysia's general election date set for a weekday, which is unusual compared to the traditional weekend voting. This decision was seen as a hurdle for many, especially those living in cities far from their hometowns. In response, a social media campaign using the hashtag #PulangMengundi, initiated by Joe Lee, gained traction to assist voters in returning home to vote. The movement led to the creation of fundraising groups like Undi Rabu, which raised significant funds to help voters, particularly students and low-income individuals. The article also touches on the potential political implications of the midweek election date and the use of bots on social media to disrupt the voter assistance campaign. Despite these challenges, the efforts to mobilize voters have been met with a positive response, with many Malaysians coming together to support each other financially and logistically.

In Cambodia, the conservation of the endangered river tern involves locals like Meak Phoeurn, who are trained and paid to protect nests from predators. Despite the success of direct payment schemes in increasing bird populations, as evidenced by a study published in Bird Conservation International, the implementation of such programs is challenging. Nest protectors like Phoeurn and his family maintain vigilance over the nests, facing issues such as delayed payments, lack of support, and miscommunication with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which manages the program. The study's lead author, Andrea Claassen, has worked closely with the protectors, often mediating disputes and ensuring the program's success. While the WWF acknowledges the program's shortcomings, the nest protectors' dedication is driven by more than just financial incentives, with many expressing a desire to preserve the birds for future generations.

The article discusses the prevalent issue of child marriage in Nepal, particularly in remote villages like Potohr in the Dhanusha district. Despite the legal minimum age for marriage being 20, societal norms and pressures often lead to girls marrying as young as 15 or 16. The article highlights the story of Apsara Devi Sah, a 16-year-old girl who was married off despite being an academic achiever and her desire to continue education. The narrative explores the complex relationship between education, child marriage, and societal expectations. It also touches upon the impact of migration, as many Nepali men work abroad, sending remittances home, which sometimes helps in educating daughters but does not necessarily delay their marriage. The article underscores the challenges faced by young women in these communities, where honor and societal pressure dictate their futures, and education is seen both as a means to a better marriage and a threat to traditional values.

In Cambodia, ahead of the 2018 national elections, there has been a significant crackdown on independent media. Nearly a dozen radio stations have had their licenses suspended without notice, impacting popular US-funded broadcasters like Radio Free Asia and Voice of America, as well as local outlets such as Voice of Democracy and the opposition's Cambodia National Rescue Party. This has left a void in reliable, Khmer-language reporting, particularly affecting the country's poorest and most remote populations who rely on radio for independent news. The government's actions have been defended by the Ministry of Information, denying political motives. However, the closures coincide with increased pressure on media, NGOs, and the opposition, including the arrest of the opposition leader and the shutdown of The Cambodia Daily newspaper over a disputed tax bill. Despite the crackdown, some believe that the growing internet penetration in Cambodia may offer alternative platforms for news dissemination.

The article discusses the significant role of migrant labour in Nepal's economy. It highlights that a large number of Nepalis, approximately 10 percent of the population, are working abroad, particularly in the Gulf states, Europe, and East Asia. The UN report cited states that remittances constitute 32 percent of Nepal's GDP, making it the most remittance-reliant country in the world. Despite the risks associated with migrant labour, such as worksite deaths, exploitation, and debt, the narrative also touches on the positive impact of these sacrifices. Migrant workers have been able to provide better educational opportunities for their children, and there is a general sense of opportunity and improvement in the quality of life for their families back home.

The World Economic Forum on ASEAN gathered delegates to discuss youth, technology, and growth within Southeast Asia. Experts highlighted ASEAN's struggle to define its role due to disparities among member states and non-interference principles. The forum in Phnom Penh addressed infrastructure, governance, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution's impact on the region. Concerns were raised about China's role amid U.S. protectionism, the need for educational reform to address job risks from automation, and the importance of inclusive growth. Discussions also touched on the potential for an EU-style union to facilitate trade and development, and the risks of anti-globalization sentiment. Private sector investment was emphasized as crucial for future infrastructure development and economic stability.

The article discusses the changing demographics in the United States and other developed countries, where an increasing number of older individuals are continuing to work past traditional retirement age. This shift is seen as a potential economic boon rather than a burden, with older Americans contributing significantly to economic activity and new business creation. The article suggests that the aging population could help support the economy through their extended work and tax contributions, challenging the notion that an aging society is solely a financial liability.

Andrei Gerasimov, head of the FSB’s Information Security Center since 2009, may soon be dismissed according to an unnamed source at the bureau, as reported by Kommersant. The center is under investigation for its relationship with commercial companies. Speculation about the true cause of Gerasimov's potential dismissal includes possible retaliation for the publication of a dossier alleging Russian officials had compromising material on Donald Trump. The situation is further complicated by the recent extension of house arrest for Russian Economy Minister Alexei Ulyukayev, who is on trial for an alleged bribe involving state-owned oil company Rosneft.

Phra Apichart Punnajanto, a Buddhist monk from Bangkok's Marble Temple, has gained notoriety for his incendiary comments on social media, advocating for revenge against Muslims by suggesting the burning of mosques in response to violence against Buddhist monks in Thailand's deep south. Despite government efforts to silence him, his popularity has grown, tapping into a vein of Buddhist ultranationalism. The article discusses the broader context of rising Buddhist extremism in Thailand, paralleling trends in Sri Lanka and Myanmar, and the concerns it raises among both Buddhists and Muslims. Security experts and community leaders express fears of escalating religious conflict, while Buddhist scholars condemn the violence-inciting rhetoric. Apichart's statements reflect a disturbing trend of religious intolerance and the potential for violent escalation, as he hints at preparing for further provocative actions.

Delegates from Myanmar, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and other countries met in Bangkok to discuss the regional boat people crisis, with over 3,500 boat people, mostly Rohingya, arriving in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia recently. Myanmar's delegation, led by Htin Lynn, downplayed the country's role and warned against finger-pointing. Malaysia's Ibrahim bin Abdullah highlighted the need to address root causes of human trafficking and illegal migration. UNHCR's Volker Turk urged Myanmar to issue citizenship papers to the Rohingya, who live in poverty and are denied basic services. The term 'Rohingya' was notably avoided during the meeting, with Myanmar referring to the minority as Bengalis.

Thirty years ago, the UK and China negotiated Hong Kong's return to Chinese sovereignty, promising to maintain its way of life and autonomy. However, the reality has been different, with business leaders and journalists facing pressure and attacks, and the local government's autonomy being undermined. The article highlights a critical decision made by then British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who, through the British Nationality Act of 1981, rescinded the right of abode in the UK for most Hong Kong citizens, significantly weakening Britain's leverage in ensuring China's adherence to promises. This decision has had lasting impacts, as seen in the current protests in Hong Kong, where demonstrators are demanding democratic reforms not fully guaranteed by the Basic Law, Hong Kong's mini-constitution.