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
Uruguay Eyes $1.6 Billion Green Hydrogen Port
October 30, 2023
In an impressive effort for global green energy, the Uruguayan government aims to partner with international energy companies to construct a massive port on their Atlantic coast. This port will offer access to green hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and ammonia.
Colombia Helps Ecuador with Energy Crisis
October 29, 2023
As a result of a catastrophic energy crisis in Ecuador, leading to blackouts and a drought in the Amazon region, Colombian president Gustavo Petro has promised to send 450 megawatts to the Ecuadorian energy grid, the maximum amount of power that can be shared in a connected line.
At least 27 dead after Hurricane Otis hits Mexico’s Acapulco
October 27, 2023
Described by the World Meteorological Organization as “one of the most rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones in the world,” Hurricane Otis left a trail of destruction in the Pacific beach town Acapulco, Mexico.
Brazil drought reveals ancient rock carvings of human faces
October 24, 2023
In the city of Manaus, Brazil, recent water-level drops has revealed stone carvings of faces from over 1,000 years ago. They represent a glimpse into pre-colonial Brazilian culture, which is an important discovery amidst the brutal colonial legacy in Brazil which has lead to the destruction of many ancient cultural sites.
Venezuela: Machado claims victory in presidential primary vote
October 23, 2023
Former Venezuelan lawmaker Maria Machado walked away from the first presidential primary with an impressive 93% share of votes, announcing her as the clear challenger to the longstanding presidency of Nicholas Maduro.
Taiwanese ‘Red Dragon’ Crime Group Expands in Peru
October 12, 2023
Over 50 Malaysian nationals were discovered in Lima in shocking conditions, a crime organized by the human-trafficking Taiwanese Red Dragon group. This discovery helps show the recent increase in favorability for Peru as an international crime byway, as the domestic struggle with militants and cartels decreases.
Milei Plans Quick Dollarization in Argentina if Elected
October 12, 2023
Current leading presidential candidate in Argentina, Javier Milei, announces his plans for the Argentine economy following his election. His plans include dollarization, which would require huge international debt leveraging to acquire US dollars.
Guatemala’s Indigenous leaders take to the streets in nationwide protests
October 11, 2023
Nationwide protests have broken out in Guatemala to protest recent efforts to subvert the victory of Bernado Arevalo, a strong anti-corruption candidate. Many indigenous practices local to Guatemala appear during these protests, such as fire ceremonies.
Chile’s Stance on Human Rights Clashes with Israel
October 11, 2023
Chile’s Foreign Minister condemned Israel’s use of violence against civilians in Gaza, which has created a new series of tensions between Chile, the South American continent, and Israel. Israel vehemently argued for its right to self-defense, but this vindictiveness may work to decrease public perception about the validity of Israeli defense tactics.
Biden administration to extend US border wall, begin Venezuela deportations
October 6, 2023
As the Biden administration faces pressure from multiple sources to stem the flow of immigration over the Southern border, Washington announced that they would begin deporting Venezuelan undocumented migrants, as well as adding more sections to the border wall.
Africa
Chad’s first dengue fever outbreak: what you should know
October 27, 2023
Chad has reported its first ever outbreak of dengue fever, with 1,342 suspected cases across the country at the time this article was published. While the viral infection has no available treatment, the article goes over steps for prevention and awareness of the illness.
Sudan warring sides resume peace talks in Saudi Arabia
October 26, 2023
The warring factions of Sudan, led by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and deputy Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo respectively, are having continued peace talks in Saudi Arabia as the official death toll from the nation’s ongoing war exceeds 9,000.
'I wanted to scream': Growing conflict in Congo drives sexual assault against displaced women
October 25, 2023
Sexual violence in the eastern Congo is rapidly increasing as conflicts in the region continue to escalate. This is partially due to 130 active armed groups in the country, trying to acquire land and resources for their communities.
Tanzania signs a controversial port management deal with Dubai-based firm
October 23, 2023
Tanzania has signed a port management deal with DP World–a Dubai-based firm–that will operate four berths of their Dar es Salaam Port, despite civil society opposition to the deal.
News: Opposition OLF accuses gov’t forces of killing dozens in Warra Jarso and Jaldu, Oromia region
October 19, 2023
Ethiopia’s Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) has accused the government of killing dozens of civilians in the North Shoa and West Shoa zones. These claims implicate the National Defense Forces in murdering civilians in the country.
Sudan: Hope fades as war enters sixth month
October 14, 2023
This article highlights how citizens of Sudan have been impacted six months into the ongoing war, listing over 9,000 dead and 5.6 million displaced or are taking refuge in neighboring countries.
Outbreak of diphtheria kills 600 in Nigeria
October 12, 2023
A massive outbreak of diphtheria has killed over 600 people, most of whom are children, in Nigeria since the start of 2023. Luckily, cases seem to be declining, but this has been the worst outbreak the country has suffered in recent history.
New treaty to protect the world’s oceans may hurt vulnerable African fisheries
October 11, 2023
A new UN Ocean Treaty for the conservation of biodiversity has been signed, but may harm African fisheries if they aren’t able to evolve to address the terms of these new rules for environmental protection.
October 10, 2023
As Ethiopia’s nationwide malaria cases rise above 2.4 million in 3 months, the Amhara Regional Public Health Institute has announced a plan for spraying antimalarial chemicals across the region.
Lack of safety nets hurt Ghana’s most vulnerable as economic woes deepen
October 5, 2023
The ongoing economic crisis in Ghana has resulted in a skyrocketing cost of living, made all the more difficult by a lack of government plans in place to address shortages of various resources.
Middle East
Israel-Palestine war: Gaza's doctors refuse to abandon patients as Israel pounds hospitals
October 26, 2023
Doctors in Gaza’s northern region are refusing to abandon their many patients, such as pregnant women and those with kidney failure, despite the threat of attacks from Israel.
Israel-Hamas war affecting regional economies, warns IMF head
October 25, 2023
International Monetary Fund director Kristalina Georgieva has warned the ongoing conflict in Gaza will impact countries in outlying regions economically, as there will be reduced spending as the fighting continues.
US destroyer shoots down cruise missiles by Iran-backed Houthis
October 19, 2023
The Pentagon has confirmed that a Navy destroyer shot down Iranian land-attack cruise missiles and drones in Yemen. This is a major response to escalating tensions in the region, stemming from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Lebanon, Hezbollah hold 'day of rage' as US Embassy ups travel alert
October 18, 2023
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have occurred outside multiple Western embassies in Lebanon, with many standing in solidarity with Hezbollah on their “Day of Rage.”
October 17, 2023
Over 500 people were killed in an airstrike against Gaza’s Baptist hospital, prompting a response from Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra.
October 12, 2023
Israel’s gas deliveries to Egypt were halted, resulting in a 20% drop of Egypt’s natural gas exports as the country must now rely on an alternative route through Jordan. This development is a result of the ongoing conflict in the Israeli region.
Turkey escalates airstrikes in Syria, but will it cross US, Russia red lines?
October 7, 2023
This article analyzes the increase in air strikes from Turkey in Syria as conflict between both nations continue. In particular, it focuses on the possibility of the US or Russia becoming directly involved in the conflict’s developments.
Iran's jailed women's activist Narges Mohammadi wins Nobel peace prize
October 6, 2023
Imprisoned Irani women’s activist Narges Mohammadi has won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work fighting for women’s rights in the nation.
Afghan resistance leader Ahmad Massoud says ‘needs help’ from Israel
October 4, 2023
Ahmed Massoud, the leader of Afghanistan’s armed resistance who was exiled following his actions, says he needs help from Israel in order to combat the current Taliban-run government in the country.
Turkey’s Ankara hit by suicide blast
October 1, 2023
A suicide bomber hit Ankara, Turkey, injuring two police officers. The two attackers were also killed. This article features images of the aftermath, underscoring the major military response from Turkey this attack faced.
Developing Asia
Retired colonel gets 20-year term for spying
October 26, 2023
Retired air force colonel Liu Sheng-shu has been found guilty of operating an espionage network for China, resulting in a 20-year prison term. The verdict is subject to appeal. Five of Liu's six codefendants received sentences ranging from six months to 20 years and six months. The court found Liu had contravened the Classified National Security Information Act from 2013 to 2021.
India warns Pakistan for referring Kashmir on Israel-Gaza conflict; ‘will be treated with contempt’
October 25, 2023
During a UN Security Council meeting on 10/24, Pakistani UN envoy referred to the longstanding conflict between India and Pakistan’s claims over the Kashmir region while discussing the current violence in the Middle East. Indian officials say they will not “dignify” or respond to the statement.
US lawmakers support Biden's plan to increase joint patrols with PH
October 24, 2023
US lawmakers support the Philippines after a vessel collision with China, condemning Beijing's unlawful actions in the South China Sea. They support the Biden administration's plans to strengthen joint patrols and uphold the Mutual Defense Treaty commitment. National security advisors of the Philippines and the US have spoken by phone to address the incident.
China vows to keep striking illegal activities in distant-water fisheries white paper
October 24, 2023
The white paper, "Development of China's Distant-Water Fisheries," reveals China's efforts to control the industry, protect bycatch species, guarantee labor rights, and promote international cooperation. China has set up bilateral dialogue mechanisms with countries to combat illegal fishing and maintains a stable DWF sector.
China says willing to help Lanka without political conditions
October 22, 2023
President Wickremesinghe attended the 3rd Belt & Road Forum for International Cooperation. The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing says President Wickremesinghe and President Jinping have decided to strengthen and expand the relationship between China and Sri Lanka.
US and Vietnam launch $3.25 million activity to boost digital trade
October 13, 2023
The US Mission to Vietnam and the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) have launched a $3.25-million digital trade activity, supported by USAID. The activity, called Vietnam Digital Trade, aims to facilitate digital trade, promote e-commerce, and encourage small and medium enterprises. It supports business associations and the US Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity.
Suicide Attack Targets Worshipers in Pol-e-Khomri, Death Toll 7, 17 Injured
October 13, 2023
Suicide-bombing kills 7 and injures 11 at the Takiakhana Imam Zaman (place of worship) in Pol-e-Khomri, the center of Baghlan province.
‘Illegal’ Afghans to be housed in Karachi, Sukkur for deportation
October 13, 2023
The Sindh government plans to establish housing facilities in Karachi and Sukkur to house “illegal” Afghan immigrants before their deportation. A high-level committee will oversee repatriation, with data collected by the Special Branch of the Sindh police and intelligence agencies. Officials say “illegal” immigrants will be deported at all costs.
Court rules it's unconstitutional to require surgery for change of gender on documents
October 13, 2023
A central Japan court has ruled that it is unconstitutional for a transgender person to undergo surgery to change their gender without surgery. The ruling, upheld by the Shizuoka family court, is hailed as a landmark by LGBTQ+ advocates. The ruling comes amid increased awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in Japan, with activists pushing for anti-discrimination laws. A similar case is pending at the Supreme Court.
Indonesia Hosts Inaugural Summit of Island States
October 9, 2023
This month, Indonesia hosted the inaugural summit for 51 archipelagic and island states (AIS) on Bali Island, aiming to foster cooperation in the maritime sector, combat climate change, sustain maritime resources, and develop the “blue economy.”
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.
Domestic and Global Implications of China’s Digital Currency
2023
Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the exploration of CBDCs by other countries have increased interest in payment networks beyond traditional cash and bank deposit infrastructure. Concerns over the dollar's future are stemming from China's use of other settlement modes, such as e-CNY, which can be weaponized for the right reasons. This development raises questions about China's digital currency goals in 2023.
2023
The trade relationship between China and the EU is characterised by a far-reaching form of institutional proliferation, ranging from regular summits at the highest political level to the so-called high-level economic and trade dialogue, other sectoral dialogues, working groups, networks, platforms, etc.
Ten years of the Belt and Road
October 28, 2023
China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which now includes 44 African countries, got under way 10 years ago. He also made a commitment to raise the quality of development cooperation, and provided more details on people-to-people ties and on areas of policy dialogue especially.
China is Engaging with local actors to secure its trade and investments in the Middle East
October 2023
China has significantly increased its diplomatic relations in the Middle East, backed by billion-dollar investment deals. The country’s security of trading routes is crucial, as demonstrated by its first overseas military base in Djibouti in 2017. China’s investments in the region have increased by 360% and construction commitments by 116%.
Pollution Haven Hypothesis and the Bilateral Trade Between India and China
September 12, 2023
The pollution haven hypothesis is studied from a bilateral trade perspective in this study, taking the reference of two Asian giants, namely, India and China. For this purpose, trade in pollution-intensive industries is analysed using data collected from the United Nations Comtrade dataset based on Standard Industrial Trade Classification codes for 1992–2019. The analysis helps us argue that between the two, China's demand is more pollution-intensive and India is the major supplier of pollution-intensive products. From an environmental perspective, this implies that China seems to be gaining from trade, and India is becoming a pollution haven in its trade with China.
The contentious U.S. – China Trade Relationship
September 2023
U.S. trade with China has grown significantly in recent decades, benefiting both countries. President Clinton believed integrating China into the global trading system would foster economic and democratic reform. This growth has helped millions escape poverty. However, Chinese officials have implemented WTO commitments, transforming the economy and legal system.
September 2023
Chuck Schumer is set to lead a bipartisan group of U.S. senators to China this fall, aiming to counter China's influence through international loans and addressing disputed claims over the Spratly Islands and global IUUF.
Why China and the Gulf's deepening economic ties are about more than just oil
August 2023
China and the Gulf Cooperation Council's economic ties benefit trade, but opportunities in technology, manufacturing, and gaming require trust and reciprocity from leaders.
Australia’s economic relationships with China
No Date
Dr Anne Holmes, Economics Key issue As the Chinese economy moves from a focus on investment in physical infrastructure to developing social infrastructure, and as it moves from export-driven growth to consumption-driven growth, there will be changes in what it imports from other countries. China as a market for our commodities As the drivers of China's growth change from urbanization and basic manufactured goods to domestic consumption and more complex goods and services, the growth in demand for Australia's resources will moderate.
Israel and Palestine
Turkey’s Erdogan hails Hamas as liberators, leaving détente with Israel in shreds
October 25, 2023
Turkey’s President Erdogan has referred to Hamas as a “patriotic liberation movement,” with Israel’s foreign ministry rejecting his speech. This has resulted in immediate setbacks with relations between the two countries as the war in the Israel-Palestine region continues.
Egypt sends third aid convoy to Gaza as Israeli aggression continues
October 24, 2023
Egypt has been offering convoys of aid to Gaza, however the government media office in Gaza says fuel has not entered the region since Israel began to attack.
Israel-Palestine war: Jordan's US-allied king faces 'nightmare scenario' as Gaza invasion looms
October 23, 2023
International pressure is increasing for Jordan’s King Abdullah II to move against Israel because of their attacks on Palestine. Additionally, protests in Jordan are calling for Abdullah II to sever ties with the US, claiming the ruler is controlled by the country because of his alliance with them.
With constraints on delivery, aid trickling into Gaza too slowly, say humanitarian agencies
October 23, 2023
Humanitarian workers say that aid in the Gaza region is coming in too slowly, despite multiple countries delivering goods to Egypt’s Arish International Airport in recent weeks.
Why the Gaza Hostage Crisis Is Different
October 17, 2023
On October 7, the 50th anniversary of the unexpected Yom Kippur War, Hamas launched an assault into Israel that shocked everyone due to claims of extreme violence and apparent intelligence failure. Hamas claimed almost 1,000 lives. One startling aspect of the attack was that Hamas also abducted over 150 individuals, primarily Israelis but also nationals of a few other nations, sparking a global hostage situation that is still going on.
Though Gaza kept under close watch, rescuing hostages there poses daunting task
October 13, 2023
Israel is currently dealing with the most complicated hostage situation it has ever seen due to Gaza's heavily populated topography, subterranean tunnel system, and the overwhelming number of men, women, and children held prisoner.
What is Hamas, the militant group that rules Gaza?
October 12, 2023
Originally known as the Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas, was established in 1987 as a breakaway group from the Muslim Brotherhood with three main objectives: fighting Israel, charity, and religion. However, it is possible that Fatah, Yasser Arafat's rival Palestinian organization, was Hamas' first adversary.
Analysis: Why did Hamas attack now and what is next?
October 11, 2023
A huge Hamas military offensive entered Israel on October 7. Fighters entered Israeli territory after hundreds of rockets were fired into Israel. Military stations and communities were assaulted and occupied. Above 1,200 Israelis have died, including 120 troops, and dozens of captives have been carried into Gaza.
IAF hits Gaza on ‘unprecedented scale’; Strip’s power plant shuts down
October 11, 2023
After Israel cut off supplies, Gaza's sole power plant had to close in the afternoon of October 11 due to a lack of fuel. The sole remaining option for powering the area is to use generators, but even these require scarce fuel.
In Gaza, jubilation for Hamas over unprecedented attack against Israel
October 7, 2023
On October 7 at 6 a.m. local time, Hamas' Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades fired a barrage of rockets from various Gaza Strip locations toward Israel while infiltrating southern Israel and Gaza envelope settlements. After months of warnings by Hamas officials against Israeli residents in the West Bank and Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, the unexpected attack was unprecedented.
Israeli army declares ‘state of readiness’ for war
October 7, 2023
According to Israel Broadcasting Authority, after Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip launched a fierce barrage of rockets into Israel early on October 7, the Israeli army has proclaimed a "state of readiness" for war.
Key Issues
This section includes the latest and most pressing news regarding SiC's key security issues.
South Korean and U.S. Forces Stage Drills for Potential ‘Hamas-Style’ Attack by North Korea
October 27, 2023
South Korea's military has been engaging in live-fire drills with U.S. soldiers to prepare for “Hamas-style surprise artillery attacks” by North Korea.
The future of warfare: A $400 drone killing a $2M tank
October 26, 2023
Against an opponent with greater numbers of men and armor, the Ukrainian defenders are clinging on with small drones piloted by operators like Firsov that can kill a $2 million Russian tank for a few hundred dollars.
With deadline looming, govt finalises plan for repatriation of illegal immigrants
October 26, 2023
The government of Pakistan said that it had established "holding centers" around the nation and completed a plan to expel unauthorized immigrants—including an estimated 1.7 million Afghans—by the deadline of November 1.
US orders immediate halt to some AI chip exports to China, says Nvidia
October 25, 2023
As officials extended the deadline, Nvidia said the US directed it to immediately stop exporting high-end artificial intelligence processors to China.
Bangladesh to import 1.5 million tons crude oil from Saudi Aramco, UAE’s Adnoc
October 25, 2023
In 2024, Bangladesh would import 1.5 million tons of crude oil from Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
China adds Belarus as partner for ILRS moon base
October 23, 2023
Belarus joined China's International Lunar Research Station initiative after a video meeting with the CNSA.
China, Philippines escalate rhetoric in South China Sea collision row
October 23, 2023
As part of a resupply operation in a disputed area of the South China Sea, the Philippines has accused Chinese coastguard warships of "intentionally" colliding with its vessels, accusing Beijing of "obfuscating the truth."
October 21, 2023
According to the Chinese Ministry of Defense, up to six Chinese warships have been operating in the Middle East for the last week during the conflict between Israel and the Islamist Hamas organization in the Gaza Strip.
Taiwan, US, Japan, Australia, St. Lucia stage GCTF workshop on maritime disaster measures
October 19, 2023
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan, a workshop on strategies for handling marine catastrophes organized by Taiwan, the United States, Japan, Australia, and St. Lucia under the Global Cooperation and Training Framework concluded in Taipei City on October 19.
The challenges ahead for Armenia after the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh
October 2, 2023
Tens of thousands of suddenly homeless individuals from Azerbaijan's strengthened foe, Nagorno-Karabakh, a rebel territory, have flooded into Armenia.
