From Red to Gold in the Philippines
Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz is being revered as the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist, but it has only been two years since she found her name “red-tagged,” or blacklisted, by the Duterte regime.
Category Archives: International
NDI Warns of Japan Risk from US-China War
New Diplomacy Initiative (NDI), Japan’s only progressive think tank, has issued its latest report on Japanese foreign and domestic affairs, and the challenges the world faces in the coming decades.
Japan Poised to Benefit From Restoration of Iran Nuclear Deal
Even during the Trump administration, when the United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions, Japan has maintained cordial relations with the Persian Gulf nation. Should the nuclear agreement be reestablished in the coming weeks or months, Japanese firms are particularly well-positioned for investments and other economic links in the new era.
European Union Sets Standard for Vaccination Passports
The European Union (EU) is preparing to launch its own vaccination passport system on July 1, while many other nations are considering similar initiatives.
Candidate Disqualifications Shape Iranian Presidential Race
The next Iranian presidential election is set to take place on June 18—this Friday—and more than ever, politicians and analysts have been expressing opinions about republicanism and the crucial role of people in the electoral process.
Playful Pup Prevents Pandemic Panic
Taiwan’s pandemic success is faltering, but the Health Ministry’s spokesdog can do no wrong.
Cash Incentives for Covid Tests
The government of Victoria, Australia, is offering a cash incentive of A$450 (US$348) for workers who undergo Covid testing. With my health and the money in mind, I went to get tested under this program.
Japan Offers Reputation Laundering to Rahm Emanuel
The list of moral and political reasons why Rahm Emanuel should not be appointed ambassador to Japan are more than a few, but at the very top of the list is that serving in Tokyo could offer him an excellent opportunity to rehabilitate his reputation, ensuring that this bad actor will return to more influential offices in the future.
Taiwan Ambassador Squeezed Over Fukushima Wastewater Comments
Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to Japan has been called a “traitor” back home after making controversial comments about the planned release of radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima plant.
Taiwan’s Authoritarian Past Relegated to Statue Graveyard
An hour’s drive from central Taipei lies a wasteland for Chiang Kai-shek statues, symbols of Taiwan’s authoritarian past.
