Posts From Margaux Schreurs

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Asia Pacific Natural resources and energy

Laos’ Mekong dam construction threatens food security

With a reported 60 million people dependent on the Mekong River’s ecological environment, the Lao government’s decision to build a new dam in the Don Sahong area is ringing alarm bells throughout

Security South and Central Asia

Opium poppy cultivation blocks Afghan development

Opium cultivation continues to flourish in Afghanistan, jeopardizing stability, development and health. The UN reported record high opium cultivation in Afghanistan this year, according to a survey released by the

Economics Sub-Saharan Africa

Ethiopia’s economy grows with Chinese investment

Ethiopia’s growth rates surprise, as political and economic cooperation with China proves to be beneficial for both nations. However, some have voiced concerns about persistently high levels of Chinese investment

Asia Pacific Security

Does Tiananmen attack indicate political volatility?

On Sunday, October 27, a car crashed into a crowd and exploded at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, right underneath the symbolic portrait of Mao Zedong. The attack killed five people and

Economics Europe

Will Chinese investment boost British economy?

British Chancellor George Osborne’s recent visit to China was aimed at promoting Chinese investment in the United Kingdom and he promised to reduce financial trade barriers. The Chancellor hopes that

Asia Pacific Economics

Will Abe finally lead Japan towards labour reform?

During an interview with the Financial Times last week, the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe warned that labour reforms in Japan might be delayed due to fears of strong opposition

Asia Pacific Economics

Shanghai’s Free-Trade Zone Unclear on Key Details

Last Sunday, China’s newest free-trade zone was officially launched in Shanghai. This development demonstrates the government’s willingness to open up the financial system, internationalize its currency and ease restrictions to

Asia Pacific Economics

Is China’s Housing Bubble About to Burst?

In the past few months, the debate surrounding China’s housing bubble has become increasingly controversial. Many fear that the housing bubble is about to burst, and some argue that this

Economics South and Central Asia

Mongolia Reverses Foreign Investment Law to Revive Economy

The Parliament of Mongolia held an emergency session between September 2 and September 6. The main issue discussed during this session was legislation governing Mongolian foreign investment. Due to a

Asia Pacific Security

Kaesong Industrial Complex key to Inter-Korea relations

On the 15th of August, talks between North and South Korea reached a deal to reopen Kaesong Industrial Complex (KIC), which has been closed since April this year. Operations will