Useful reminder that despite its purported isolation, North Korea in many ways has a functional economy. How is that possible given the sanctions levied against it? Find out here.
The family corruption scandal threatening Singapore
In a country not known for political dissent, recent inflammatory statements from the younger siblings of the current prime minister, who happens to be the eldest son of the country’s founder, have stunned the country. Despite authoritarian tendencies, Singapore’s image has long been one of clean success, but with these new accusations, those facades may be crumbling.
Kazakhstan’s Fork in the Road
With China’s One Belt One Road policy ramping up and domestic politics in this Central Asian state changing a bit, Kazakhstan has some interesting potential opportunities opening up as it works to establish a unique post-Soviet identity. But maybe building a large round glittery building – easily compared to the Death Star – was not the way to start?
Surviving Boko Haram
Horrifyingly important profiles of four boys who managed to survive being taken in and trained by Boko Haram in Nigeria.
Sacked for good writing?
There’s been a bit of a shake-up in the research divisions of the World Bank, with the head of research being fired from his post. There’s a bit of confusion over why. Although internal streamlining of management was the official reason, there is reason to believe that it was the now-former head’s push for better written and especially more concise reports that got him the boot.
China’s involvement in South Sudan
Brilliantly done International Crisis Group report on China’s involvement in Sudan and South Sudan. Looks at the historical relationship as well as its current status, how politics, economics, and security mix, and what this case can tell us about China’s interests in becoming more involved in other places. A must-read for anyone interested in Chinese foreign policy.
Surviving the purge in Chechnya
Intimate and important accounts of men who fled a government-sanctioned purge of gay men in Chechnya. Even for the ones who could get out, it may only be a temporary solution.
