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Freedom in the World This Week

This week's Freedom in the World report spotlights Southeast Asia, reflecting a surge of democracy-related developments in the region. While our coverage spans the globe, recent events have turned our attention eastward.

1. Bangladesh Inches Toward Democracy
2. China's Delicate Balance in Myanmar
3. China Arrests Dozens of Taiwanese "Spies"
4. No-Shows for Sudan Peace Talks
5. Thailand Elects Dynastic Daughter

1. Bangladesh

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, a democracy advocate, has been installed as the interim leader of Bangladesh, marking a hopeful turn for the nation's democratic future. Yunus, renowned for his work in social entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation, is now focused on rebuilding democratic institutions and ensuring fair governance. In his inaugural address, Yunus outlined the interim government's roadmap for a stable and democratic Bangladesh, starting with a free, fair, and participatory election. For champions of democracy worldwide, this development in Bangladesh stands as a beacon of hope and progress.

2. China and Myanmar

China finds itself in a delicate balancing act amid Myanmar's ongoing civil war. With $21 billion invested in Belt and Road initiatives, Beijing has historically backed the brutally oppressive military junta that seized power from a democratically elected government in 2021. This week, China's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, met with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, reaffirming support. However, China is also hedging its bets by engaging with the exiled National Unity Government and various ethnic factions. Beijing's complex strategy was further highlighted when, a day after Wang's visit, Chinese forces fired across the Myanmar border. This was reportedly a warning to Myanmar military aircraft attacking the Kachin Independence Army's headquarters in Kachin state, showcasing China's multifaceted approach to the conflict.

3. Taiwan

Chinese authorities have arrested dozens of Taiwanese nationals on charges of espionage, accusing them of building a spy network for Taiwan's intelligence agencies. This crackdown, which Beijing frames as a counterintelligence victory, is part of China's broader efforts to suppress alleged foreign influence and maintain control over national security. The arrests have escalated tensions between China and Taiwan, with Taiwanese officials denying the accusations and condemning China's actions as part of its ongoing intimidation tactics against Taiwan. This development adds to the growing strain in cross-strait relations.

4. Sudan

Hopes for democracy in Sudan continue to dim as the nation's journey towards civilian rule, which began with promise in 2019 following the ousting of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir, faced another setback this week. The civilian-led transitional government, established after the 2019 uprising, was overthrown in October 2021 by a military coup led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, derailing the democratic process.

The situation worsened in 2023 when conflict erupted between al-Burhan's Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. These former allies are now locked in a power struggle, plunging Sudan into chaos. This week, both factions failed to attend US-led peace talks, further dimming hopes for dialogue and a return to civilian rule.

5. Thailand

This week, Thailand’s Parliament elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year old daughter of a former pro-democracy leader, as Prime Minister, highlighting the ongoing influence of political dynasties. While her father led a populist pro-democracy movement, the recent ban on the progressive Move Forward party and its leader reflects a crackdown on democratic reforms. This duality raises concerns about the future of Thailand's democracy, as the establishment continues to suppress emerging pro-democracy forces while older political families regain power.

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Democracy in the U.S.

Third Party Harassment

The party campaigning to defend American democracy ironically sought to deny independent voters of choice last week. Clear Choice Action, a Democrat-aligned super PAC filed a lawsuit August 8th to keep Robert F. Kennedy Jr. off the ballot in Pennsylvania. Clear Choice Action has already filed similar suits in New York and Illinois.

Trump and the Fed

Former President Trump wants to increase presidential control over U.S. monetary policy. At a press conference, he said “I feel that the president should have at least a say” in interest rate decisions, a move that would significantly alter the balance of power. Trump's push for lower interest rates and a more compliant Fed has sparked concerns among economists and policymakers. This change would undermine the Federal Reserve's independence, a cornerstone of its ability to make decisions based on economic factors rather than political pressures.

Georgia Election Board Ruling

The Georgia State Election Board has passed a new rule allowing county election boards to delay certification of results for a "reasonable inquiry" into their accuracy. Republican supporters argue it ensures election integrity by allowing time to address discrepancies, while Democratic critics warn it could be exploited to block certification in key areas, potentially causing delays and undermining confidence in the electoral process

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Freedom Fighter of the Week

At just 16, Dr. Mahrang Baloch's world shattered when her father was abducted and murdered by Pakistani security forces. Now 30, she channels her pain into a fearless fight for justice in Balochistan, Pakistan's resource-rich yet impoverished province. Facing a brutal Pakistani military and Chinese economic exploitation, Dr. Baloch leads non-violent protests, giving voice to thousands of disappeared Baloch. Her powerful advocacy has sparked hope—and backlash. Despite death threats and multiple charges, including recent ones for organizing a sit-in, she persists. Dr. Baloch's courage reminds us: in the darkest times, one voice can illuminate the path to freedom. Watch our short biography on her on our YouTube channel, The Rebel Alliance.