A Malaysian court convicted news outlet Malaysiakini on contempt of court charges in a decision that marks a setback to media freedom.
Asia articles on Democracy Chronicles
View news about the struggle for democracy on the continent of Asia where giants of China and India hover large. Asia represents a huge portion of the human race where both some of the best and worst governments coexist. Also see our World Democracy section!
Clubhouse App Lets Thai Pro-Democracy Protesters Speak Freely
Clubhouse is an invite-only audio app that is surging in popularity in Thailand as a protest movement continues.
Myanmar’s Pro-Democracy Protest Movement Is Strengthening
The Feb 1, 2021 Coup in Myanmar has instead sparked growing democracy protests calling for an end to the military take over.
Cambodia expands internet censorship and control
Cambodia’s National Internet Gateway will enable increased state online surveillance, censorship, and control of the internet.
Free Speech Under Threat in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan’s parliament is considering a draft new law that may undermine free speech. HRW proposed its publication and review.
China steps up online controls with new rule for bloggers
China is ever creative when it comes to repression. Chinese online influencers now need government approved credentials to post.
Afghanistan: 65 media workers, rights defenders killed since 2018
In Afghanistan, at least 65 workers, rights defenders have been killed since 2018. It is a trend that creates fear in the population.
Pakistan: Professor Muhammad Ismail denied bail
CIVICUS called for the release of Pakistani human rights defender Prof. Muhammad Ismail following refusal of bail today by a Peshawar anti-terrorism court.
Hong Kong: Two activists plead guilty to illegal assembly
Two Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty on Tuesday to organizing or participating in an illegal assembly in 2019.
China Urged to Release 7 Journalists Who Reported on COVID-19
Reporters without Borders called on Chinese authorities to release seven journalists arrested for reporting on the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan a year ago.