This is a roundup of news articles, reports, and other materials focusing on (in)security issues and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of Security in Context. The goal is to shed light on knowledge production on security-related issues of public interest from critical perspectives and from global south readings by highlighting media from four particular regions: Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, and developing Asia. Entries may include academic journal articles, think tank reports, non-governmental organizations releases, official documents or government-commissioned research, and regular news items. The material included covers SiC's key security issues: Climate Change, Security and International Relations, Migration and Displacement, Covid-19 and Capitalism, Technologies of Surveillance, Gender, Race, Ethnicity and Sexuality, Arms and the Military-industrial Complex, and Censorship.
You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each roundup to submissions@securityincontext.org.
Latin America and the Caribbean
First protests in Argentina against Milei's austerity plan
December 20, 2023
Thousands of Argentinians began to protest in response to the new President Javier Milei’s first steps towards libertarian economic reform, including spending cuts, deregulation, and a drastic currency devaluation.
Chile rejects conservative constitution
December 18, 2023
Polls reveal that the most recent conservative constitution draft was unsuccessful, and Chilean voters chose to keep the constitution written during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. The conservative constitution proposed limits on abortion and immigration.
Ecuador's Minimum Wage Rise to $460 in 2024
December 16, 2023
Ecuador will raise its minimum wage from $450 to $460 in the following year. This matches the current president’s policies for wealth redistribution, and considers both economic realities and the demands of labor.
Bolivia-Russia Lithium Project: A Milestone in Bilateral Ties
December 15, 2023
In an important stride for Bolivia’s economic growth, the nation agreed to build a $450 million lithium production center with Russia’s Uranium One Group. This is expected to greatly increase Bolivia’s oil endowment and exports.
UN warns of massive funding shortfall as global crises mount
December 11, 2023
Referencing the situations in Sudan, Ukraine, and Palestine, the UN has announced that it will only be able to extend aid to just under half of the 300 million people who require it.
UN's top court bars Venezuela from action in Guyana border dispute
December 1, 2023
The UN’s International Court of Justice has warned Venezuela against modifying the status quo in the disputed Essequibo region in Guyana. Venezuela plans to hold a referendum to annex the Guyanese state.
Africa
DR Congo’s Katumbi calls for election to be annulled as protests planned
December 27, 2023
Five opposition candidates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have questioned the legitimacy of the country’s recent election, while five more are urging protests against the results. Western governments are fearful of repeated violence as seen in previous elections that were questioned.
Many flee their homes after attacks kill 100s in central Nigeria
December 26, 2023
160 people were killed and over 300 were injured in recent attacks by armed forces in central Nigeria. These “bandits” as they are called have led to more measures by the government to stop large, armed group from murdering innocent people in the country.
News: Escalating military conflict in Sudan threatens displaced Ethiopians
December 22, 2023
The conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region began in 2020, forcing some to seek refuge in Sudan–where the ongoing war there now threatens their safety. The RSF’s occupation of Sudan’s Wad Madani now puts even more civilians in danger than ever before.
Talks resume in Cairo over Ethiopia’s disputed dam
December 18, 2023
Egypt has resumed negotiations with Ethiopia and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, with hopes of getting it fully operational within four months.
Trade rules and climate change: Africa stands to lose from proposed WTO policy tools
December 17, 2023
The World Trade Organization has introduced new tools to lessen climate change impacts on trade. This article analyzes the benefits and setbacks African trade will face once they implement these policies into their regular trading practices.
Sierra Leone’s attempted coup and a cost of living crisis put peace to the test
December 12, 2023
This article analyzes the failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone, highlighting the economic and political factors that led to it, especially inflation. The analysis also highlights the importance of democratization in the country following what transpired.
War-torn Sudan faces 'catastrophe' as UN runs out of funds
December 11, 2023
The UN’s humanitarian coordinator for Sudan Clementine Nkweta-Salami has described Sudan’s condition as a catastrophe as the UN announces they are out of funds to support the 25 million civilians still in need of humanitarian aid.
News: Gov’t obstruction hampers human rights investigations, says Ethiopian Human Rights Council
December 8, 2023
The Ethiopian Human Rights Council has revealed government obstruction is keeping them from investigating possible human rights violations across the country. The Council has been attempting to investigate specific violations in the Tigray region for two years, but have received little to no cooperation from government forces.
Burkina abandons French as an official language
December 7, 2023
The government of Burkina Faso has officially ratified the nation’s Constitution, changing the official language of the country from French to native languages. However, the bill must be passed by the Transitional Legislative Assembly before it becomes official.
Nigerian military drone attack kills 85 civilians in error
December 5, 2023
A military drone strike in Nigeria has left 85 civilians dead after a religious celebration was attacked in error. Amid the chaos, including armed groups in the northern part of the nation, President Bola Tinubu has ordered an investigation into how the accidental attack was able to happen.
Middle East
War on Gaza: Netanyahu looking for countries 'to absorb' ethnically cleansed Palestinians
December 26, 2023
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that he is looking into a “voluntary immigration” solution for Palestinians in Gaza. He is looking for countries willing to “absorb” any displaced Palestinians.
Lebanon PM: Beirut ready to implement resolution on border if Israel also complies
December 23, 2023
Lebanon announced that it is ready to work towards a diplomatic resolution to the cross-border attacks on Israel from the Lebanese Hezbollah group. In return, Israel is expected to comply with the demands of withdrawing from the disputed territory. Israeli officials have indicated that they are ready for a diplomatic resolution as well.
More than 90% of Gaza facing ‘crisis levels’ of hunger: UN-backed report
December 21, 2023
More than half a million people in Gaza are struggling through “catastrophic acute food insecurity conditions” (IPC Phase 5). Gaza is at risk of famine if these conditions continue.
No functional hospital left in northern Gaza, WHO says
December 21, 2023
Due to a lack of resources such as fuel, power, and medical supplies, all hospitals in northern Gaza have become non-functional with their mostly abandoned patients still inside. Nine hospitals remain partially functional in the southern half of Gaza as of the publication of this article.
Middle East transparency on carbon emissions lags behind rest of world
December 15, 2023
Despite doing more to disclose their emission levels, Middle Eastern countries are still lagging behind on greenhouse gas emission transparency when compared to the rest of the world. Meanwhile, emission levels from the Middle East continue to rise.
Israeli leaders: War to go on until Hamas defeated, ‘with or without’ world’s approval
December 13, 2023
Israel is holding fast on its stance for the remainder of the Israel-Hamas war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minster Eli Cohen made statements that despite international pressure, Israel would not give in to further demands for ceasefires and will continue “until the elimination of Hamas.”
Israel-Palestine war: Israeli army 'arbitrarily' detains Palestinian women and girls from Gaza
December 11, 2023
The Israeli army took away dozens of Palestinian women and their children as they fled from the Gaza Strip. Details such as the charges these individuals face or where they are being taken are being kept undisclosed.
As Egyptians head to the polls, Gaza war is helping Sisi secure a third term
December 9, 2023
Current president of Egypt Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has had his chances of winning a third term increased by the conflict in Gaza. His policy of barring Palestinians from entering the country has earned him popularity and the current atmosphere of the Gaza war serves as a distraction from the current state of the nation’s economy.
Egypt’s Defence Industry Soars: AOI Unveils Cutting-Edge Tech at EDEX 2023
December 8, 2023
The Arab Organization for Industrialization unveiled many new defense tech products at this year’s International Defense Exhibition. Some of the most noteworthy showcased products included a mobile command center, a riot control vehicle, and an unmanned drone.
December 4, 2023
Gas flows from Israel have returned to Egypt and are now back at standard levels prior to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The natural gas shortage in Egypt had been negatively effecting its economy alongside causing power outages within the country at a problematic frequency.
Developing Asia
Centre bans J&K Muslim League faction for 5 years under UAPA
December 28, 2023
The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has banned a faction of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir, led by separatist leader Masarat Alam Bhat, for five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for anti-national and secessionist activities. The ministry argued that the group's objectives were to gain independence from India, merge it with Pakistan, and establish Islamic rule.
Vietnamese, Japanese Communist Party officials hold talks
December 25, 2023
Vietnamese Politburo member Trương Thị Mai and Japanese Communist Party (JCP) Central Committee Chairman Shii Kazuo held talks in Việt Nam. Mai congratulated the JCP on its achievements and expressed hope for its 29th congress in early 2024. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation through high-level contacts and exchanges, promoting cooperation and creating favorable conditions for Vietnamese people to work and study in Japan.
Measles-rubella, typhoid vaccinations starts in seven Karnali districts today
December 21, 2023
Nepal has launched an immunization drive against measles-rubella and typhoid in seven districts of Karnali Province, including those affected by the earthquake of November 3. The vaccines will be administered in Jajarkot and Rukum West, the two districts worst-hit by the November earthquake. The typhoid vaccine will be administered in Surkhet, Jumla, Kalikot, Dailekh, and Salyan districts. The Health Ministry plans to launch a measles-rubella vaccination campaign in the rest of the districts in 2024.
Myanmar’s total displacement reaches 2.6m as over 660,000 flee since Oct 27: UNOCHA
December 20, 2023
Myanmar has seen a surge in armed conflict, with over 660,000 people displaced since October 27th. The conflict between Myanmar's military and various armed groups has led to civilian casualties and property destruction. The current displacement stands at 2.6 million people nationwide. The crisis has led to a scarcity of food, essential household items, and fuel.
Indonesia Maintains Trade Surplus for the 43rd Consecutive Month
December 15, 2023
Indonesia maintained its trade surplus in November, marking the 43rd consecutive month of positive trade, according to the Central Statistics Agency. The country's trade balance showed a surplus of $2.41 billion, but exports fell by 8.56 percent year-on-year to $22 billion. India was the third-largest recipient of Indonesian non-oil and gas exports, followed by China and the United States.
Addressing hunger, malnutrition key to improving PH education– Gatchalian
December 15, 2023
Senator Sherwin Gatchalaian emphasizes the need to tackle hunger and malnutrition among children to improve learners' performance. According to DOST-FNRI data, 20% of children aged 5-10 are stunted, 21% underweight, and 7% wasted.
Korea, Japan hold working-level talks on bilateral ties
December 5, 2023
Korea and Japan held working-level diplomatic consultations to discuss pending bilateral issues and ways to boost ties. South Korea's director general for Asia and Pacific affairs, Seo Min-jung, met with Japanese counterpart Hiroyuki Namazu to assess bilateral relations and exchange views on shared interests.
BNP is extreme violator of human rights: Hasan
December 5, 2023
Bangladesh's Information and Broadcasting Minister and Awami League Joint General Secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud has criticized the BNP party for its extreme human rights violations, stating that the party has continuously killed innocent people through arson.
Jokowi Denies Allegations of Asking KPK to Halt Setya Novanto's Graft Case
December 4, 2023
Indonesian President Joko Widodo denied allegations that he requested the Corruption Eradication Commission to stop investigating House of Representatives Speaker Setya Novanto in 2017. He refuted this and pointed to the fact that Novanto was convicted and received a 15-year prison sentence. Jokowi questioned the motive behind the allegations and confirmed that he had requested the State Secretariat to review his past schedules.
Afghan Opposition Leaders Meet for 2nd Day in Vienna
December 4, 2023
A meeting of opposition leaders and foreign diplomats in Vienna focused on extending cooperation, diplomatic movements, and a political roadmap for Afghanistan's future. The meeting, the third held by the Islamic Emirate's opposition, was attended by diplomats from the US, UK, Austria, Germany, Spain, and Norway. The Islamic Emirate urged host countries to prevent such meetings, citing hostility with the Afghan people.
China Trade
This section presents a selection of open access articles licensed under creative commons revolving around China trade. Security in Context is resharing them to offer readers fresh content and deeper perspectives on global news.
De-dollarization: 95% of trade between China and Russia is no longer done in US currency
December 19, 2023
Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov reported that the use of the Russian ruble and Chinese yuan in trade between Russia and China has reached 95% this year. The yuan has also been used in commercial transactions with other countries. The de-dollarization debate has accelerated in 2023, with over 17,000 sanctions imposed on Russia since the start of the Special Military Operation in Ukraine. Trade between Russia and Europe has fallen by 70%, while trade between Russia and Asia has increased by 70%
Canada should “de-risk” from China by updating its foreign investment screening
December 18, 2023
The West is considering “de-risking” to re-envision economic relations with China, while Canada is considering the National Security Review of Investments Modernization Act to strengthen requirements for approving foreign investments in strategic areas.
China-Africa relations in 2023: key moments and events to remember
December 12, 2023
China-Africa relations have been stable this year, with key events focusing on trade and promoting African exports. The China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha attracted 100,000 visitors and agreed on 120 projects worth $10.3 billion. The China-Africa Leader’s Dialogue aimed to promote African integration and regional organizations’ involvement in trade. China’s foreign minister visited Africa in January, and infrastructure improvements in Lagos, Nigeria marked milestones. In 2024, relations are expected to continue growing.
December 6, 2023
Trade wars, often involving tit-for-tat, have arisen between the US and China due to China’s industrial policies. Realists argue these disputes are not indicative of failed policies or unreasonable demands.
China Gains as U.S. Abandons Digital Policy Negotiations
November 15, 2023
The US Trade Representative (USTR) has withdrawn support for provisions protecting cross-border data flows, forcing data localization, and safeguarding source code in the World Trade Organization (WTO). This decision has sparked a bipartisan response, with many members of Congress, the Biden administration, and close trading and digital policy partners were surprised. The decision undermines the US’s long-standing support for a free and open global internet. The rationale behind the USTR decision reveals similarities with Beijing’s vision for cyber sovereignty, supporting China's restrictive approach to digital governance.
China Streamlines Reforms for Foreign Investment in Securities and Derivatives
November 11, 2023
China has introduced changes to its regulations for foreign institutional investors, aiming to boost foreign investment in its financial markets. The Futures and Derivatives Law (FDL) in August 2022 aims to reduce costs for investors and reduce exposure to Chinese counterparty credit risks. These changes are expected to enhance accessibility and efficiency in China's financial markets.
September 18, 2023
Chuck Schumer is set to lead a bipartisan group of U.S. senators to China this fall to improve relations amid growing tensions. The U.S. is also strengthening ties with Indo-Pacific countries to limit Beijing's influence. President Biden's trips to India and Vietnam focused on competition with China and making agreements in science, technology, and supply chain security. The new U.S.-led agreements could fill the gap as China grapples with a slowing domestic economy.
Trade networks and firm value: Evidence from the U.S.-China trade war
2023
The 2018-2019 U.S.-China trade war has significantly impacted global supply chains, causing declines in market value for U.S. firms reliant on China. This effect is primarily affecting firms selling to Chinese customers with low R&D intensity or outsourcing to Chinese suppliers.
Israel and Palestine
Iran, Syria agree on need to put stop to Israel slaughter in Gaza: FM
December 26, 2023
In a meeting, the Foreign Ministers of Iran and Syria expressed agreement on the stance that Israel’s slaughter in Gaza must be brought to an end. The two countries are aiding each other with regional issues and are looking to advance regional security and stability.
Egypt, Iran discuss Gaza situation
December 26, 2023
Iranian Foreign Minister Hussein Amir-Abdollahian gave Egyptian Foreign Minster Sameh Shoukry a phone call to discuss the happenings in the Gaza Strip. The two FMs expressed shared views and concerns on the worsening situation for security and humanitarianism in the region.
250 killed by Israeli airstrikes over 24-hour period, European Hospital struggles to respond
December 25, 2023
European Gaza Hospital is currently struggling after 250 Palestinians were killed by Israeli airstrikes early in the week. Homes were also destroyed as multiple civilians were injured during the attacks.
As Hezbollah clashes intensify, Israel pours cold water on Lebanon deal
December 22, 2023
Israel has denied the aid of both the United States and France in mediating fights against Hezbollah that have led to air strikes in Lebanon. The continued fighting has raised humanitarian concerns throughout the region.
War on Gaza: Besieged strip on the verge of 'famine', UN says
December 22, 2023
A new report from the UN reveals that, if Israel’s attacks in the region continue into February 2024, Gaza will face one of the largest cases of famine seen worldwide. They indicate 53 percent of the region will face “emergency” levels of food shortages by February 7 if Israel continues its attacks.
December 13, 2023
A source from the Egyptian Red Crescent says Israeli inspection of aid supplies going from Egypt to Palestinians in Gaza are hindering the ability to deliver enough supplies to suffering citizens. Two checkpoints from Israel are in place now, having begun on Monday, December 11.
Arab leaders reject international force in post-war Gaza, but offer no alternative
December 12, 2023
Due to the protests in other Middle Eastern countries over the violence in Gaza, the leaders of said countries met and agreed that they do not wish to put international troops in Gaza as a form of post-war guardianship. However, by the end of the meeting no alternative had been offered either.
Israel-Palestine war: Shops shutter across Muslim-majority world as part of global 'strike for Gaza'
December 11, 2023
A largely-Palestinian movement went into effect in protest of the continued Israeli bombardment of Gaza. Businesses have closed in participation of the strike, observed in countries including Lebanon, Iraq, and Turkey.
Senior Iranian official warns about regional escalation of Gaza conflict
December 8, 2023
Head of Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations Kamal Kharrazi has warned that, if attempts to end the conflict in Gaza result in a stalemate between Israel and Palestine, violence could spread beyond the region’s borders.
Turkey threatens Israel with 'serious consequences' if it targets Hamas on territory
December 4, 2023
Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar recently made a remark about hunting down members of Hamas wherever they are hiding, with Turkey included in the list of prospective countries. This lead to Turkey responding with a warning against Israel carrying out any illegal operations within its borders.
Key Issues
This section includes the latest and most pressing news regarding SiC's key security issues.
US to provide Ukraine with up to $250m in arms and equipment
December 28, 2023
The last batch of weaponry still available for Ukraine under current authorization was disclosed by the US in the form of a $250 million (£196 million) military aid package for the country.
China accuses Taiwan of ‘hyping up’ military threat ahead of elections
December 28, 2023
Prior to the island's January elections, China has charged Taiwan with purposefully "hyping up" a military threat from Beijing in order to achieve political advantage.
US Bans Pentagon From Using Chinese Port Logistics Platform
December 21, 2023
A bill that would prohibit the Pentagon from utilizing any seaport worldwide that depends on the Chinese logistics network known as LOGINK has been enacted by the US Congress.
North Korea resumes missile launches in ‘threat to peace and stability’
December 17, 2023
Resuming its record-breaking year of missile testing, North Korea fired a short-range missile that was followed by a long-range ballistic missile that might strike the United States, acts that its neighbors denounced as endangering world peace.
Philippines and China accuse each other of South China Sea collisions
December 10, 2023
Amid growing tensions in the disputed seas, the Philippines and China have exchanged allegations about a collision of their warships near a shoal in the South China Sea.
NK activity increases at Panmunjom after inter-Korean military deal scrapped: NNSC generals
December 10, 2023
Following the effective cancellation of an agreement last month to reduce military tensions between the two Koreas, North Korea has ramped up activity in the truce town of Panmunjom, according to the Swedish and Swiss military generals in charge of the armistice.
Meloni: Italy can improve trade with China after Belt and Road departure
December 7, 2023
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that despite Rome's decision to withdraw from Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), trade and economic relations between Italy and China may still be improved.
US limits on Chinese vehicle firms', battery parts makers’ access to tax credits discriminatory
December 7, 2023
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) declared that US restrictions on Chinese companies' and battery component manufacturers' access to US electric vehicle (EV) tax credits discriminate against Chinese enterprises and breach WTO norms.
Fears grow for hundreds of Rohingya refugees adrift for two weeks
December 5, 2023
The UN has appealed to regional states to assist in the rescue of nearly 400 Rohingya refugees who have been stranded in two boats in the Andaman Sea for almost two weeks.
We must stop Myanmar’s descent into a failed state
December 1, 2023
Myanmar is deteriorating, and the governing junta is losing power. The various armed insurgency groups fighting the government look to be prevailing, threatening pandemonium. For a democratic and tolerant Myanmar, forces must unite. This procedure needs global support.
