Bangladesh
Myanmar: The junta’s forced conscription of Rohingyas
Six years ago, a calculated “cleansing operation” conducted by the Myanmar Armed Forces and aided by local militias resulted in the expulsion of more than 750,000 Rohingyas from…
A ring-fence around the Rohingya can’t last – Australia’s policy needs to change
Last year, I wrote in The Interpreter about the nightmare scenario unfolding for the Rohingya living in refugee camps in Bangladesh, where dwindling aid, a dependent population,…
Democracy is struggling in South Asia
Democracy in South Asia is experiencing a troubling decline. Indicators point towards a consistent backsliding. Recent unfair elections held in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Maldives…
The squeeze on Bangladesh’s garment industry
An economically struggling Bangladesh could do without a stumbling ready-made garments sector – its largest export industry. However, the domestic and global political…
Bangladesh: An election like no other
With elections in established democracies India, the United States, Indonesia and Britain, among others, 2024 will likely see the largest exercise in voting in history. Some will…
Australia must work with Bangladesh to stop the Rohingya boats
Foreign Minister Penny Wong pledged additional assistance to Rohingya refugees this week, an important step in alleviating some push factors that are driving many people out…
Crunch time on Rohingya refugees
The Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh have long been seen as a major potential source of maritime arrivals for Australia. In recent weeks, there has been an uptick in departures as…
“Egregious stupidity”: The story of when Australia split with Kissinger over South Asia
Australian appraisals of Henry Kissinger and his statecraft have quickly recalled how his secret visit to Beijing in July 1971 embarrassed the government of Billy McMahon in…
Australia’s chance to show global leadership on Rohingya displacement
The Rohingya – the world’s largest stateless population – have faced decades of systematic persecution, including mass displacement following targeted violence in Rakhine State in…
Australia’s support for Bangladesh will bolster regional stability
Australia is in the process of enhancing partnerships in the Indian Ocean region, including with non-traditional partners such as Bangladesh. Australia has a significant stake in…