Climate 25
Download
|
The Climate 25 is a digital media and television experience featuring interviews with the world's 25 most compelling voices on one of the most pressing issues of our time - the impact of climate disruption on human security.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Resources
|
Global |
|
2015/06/22
|
NTS Bulletin June 2014
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the sixth part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/06/18
|
Understanding ASEAN's Centrality: Bases and Prospects in an Evolving Regional Architecture (The Pacific Review)
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony
Download
|
There have been a number of articles about ASEAN's centrality in the regional security architecture of Asia. Yet, the notion of centrality remains undefined and under-operationalised. Implicit in the discourses of centrality is the idea of ASEAN's ...moreThere have been a number of articles about ASEAN's centrality in the regional security architecture of Asia. Yet, the notion of centrality remains undefined and under-operationalised. Implicit in the discourses of centrality is the idea of ASEAN's leadership, which in turn raises questions about ASEAN's ability to do so, given its limited capacity. This article defines ASEAN's centrality from the perspective of social network approach and argues that ASEAN's structural position in the density of networks that it has established and those that it has linkages with explains ASEAN's centrality. Despite its lack of material power, ASEAN has been able to claim centrality because of its position as a node in a cluster of networks, and this condition of 'high betweenness' allows ASEAN to exercise influence in regional processes with the tacit acceptance of major powers. However, while centrality may have been achieved, maintaining centrality in a rapidly changing regional environment compels ASEAN to address challenges to its centrality. This would necessarily include its ability to maintain consensus, carry out collective action and achieve its stated goals.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2014/06/13
|
There's an App for That: Human Traffickers Go Mobile(Anne Summers Report, ASR Issue 8, June 2014)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Caitriona H. Heinl
Download
|
With the explosion of internet users among Southeast Asia's 600 million people, human traffickers now exploit social media, mobile phones and other online technologies to conduct their evil trade. But, as Alistair D.B. Cook and Caitriona H. Heinl ...moreWith the explosion of internet users among Southeast Asia's 600 million people, human traffickers now exploit social media, mobile phones and other online technologies to conduct their evil trade. But, as Alistair D.B. Cook and Caitriona H. Heinl report, the fight against them is also going online.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/06/01
|
ASEAN Food Security: Towards a More Comprehensive Framework
Author(s): Barry Desker, Mely Caballero-Anthony and Paul Teng
Download
|
The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) aims to build a single market and production base; a highly competitive economic region; a region of equitable economic development; and a region fully integrated into the global economy from 2015 onwards.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2014/05/30
|
In conversation with Ton Nu Thi Ninh
Author(s): Ton Nu Thi Ninh
Download
|
In conversation with Ton Nu Thi Ninh
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/05/18
|
In conversation with Hans-Holger Rogner
Author(s): Hans-Holger Rogner
Download
|
In conversation with Hans-Holger Rogner
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/05/18
|
In conversation with Nicholas Fang
Author(s): Nicholas Fang
Download
|
In conversation with Nicholas Fang
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/05/18
|
In conversation with Kumiaki Moriya
Author(s): Kumiaki Moriya
Download
|
In conversation with Kumiaki Moriya
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/05/18
|
NTS Bulletin May 2014
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the fifth part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/05/16
|
Second MERS case discovered in US (Homeland Security News Wire)
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) has confirmed a second U.S. case of MERS, the Middle East respiratory virus which has been circulating on the Arabian Peninsula for the past few months. MERS does not transmit easily from person ...moreThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) has confirmed a second U.S. case of MERS, the Middle East respiratory virus which has been circulating on the Arabian Peninsula for the past few months. MERS does not transmit easily from person to person, but in the Middle East, it has infected those close to healthcare personnel taking care of victims. Roughly 539 confirmed cases have been reported to the World Health Organization (WHO); 145 have been fatal; 450 of the confirmed cases were in Saudi Arabia.
|
Health Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/14
|
Extreme Climate Change in Asia Seen (Malaya Business Insight by Paul Icamina)
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Extreme climate and disasters will increase much more in the coming years, a scientist warned yesterday. "The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Southeast Asia is likely to increase further," said Prof. Paul Teng, a Senior ...moreExtreme climate and disasters will increase much more in the coming years, a scientist warned yesterday. "The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Southeast Asia is likely to increase further," said Prof. Paul Teng, a Senior Fellow on Food Security at the Center for Non-Traditional Security Studies at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/14
|
Views on the News (ChannelNewsAsia)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Alistair D.B. Cook discusses a European Union court ruling that may force Google to remove personal information from search results as it backs an individual's right to privacy.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/14
|
MERS alert and polio redux: Greater vigilance critical (Eurasia Review)
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
The spread of the MERS and the re-emergence of the wild polio virus are troubling developments. These health risks should renew calls for closer regional and global cooperation on health security.
|
Health Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/13
|
MERS alert and polio redux: Greater vigilance critical
Author(s): Mely Caballero-
Download
|
The spread of the MERS and the re-emergence of the wild polio virus are troubling developments. These health
risks should renew calls for closer regional and global cooperation on health security.
|
Health Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/05/12
|
Human Trafficking in Asia Going Online (EastAsiaForum)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Caitrona H. Heinl
Download
|
Human traffickers have an increasing number of targets online in Southeast Asia. The ASEAN region has a growing population of over 600 million — and internet users have doubled. Technology-facilitated trafficking is more diffuse and adaptive than ...moreHuman traffickers have an increasing number of targets online in Southeast Asia. The ASEAN region has a growing population of over 600 million — and internet users have doubled. Technology-facilitated trafficking is more diffuse and adaptive than initially thought, but online tools can also be creatively employed to counter cross-border trafficking.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/03
|
ASEAN Countries Threaten Food Security by Not Working Closely Enough, An Expert Says (The Nation)
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Although the economies of its members are likely to expand after the Asean Economic Community is put in place next year, Asean food security still remains at risk, a food security expert suggests.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/05/02
|
Philippines-US Pact Shows a Human Face (Asia Times Online)
Author(s): Julius Cesar I. Trajano
Download
|
Non-traditional security issues now play a prominent role in the two sides' decades-old alliance and will continue to shape its contours in the future. Natural disasters have long posed threats to human security which the Philippine government has ...moreNon-traditional security issues now play a prominent role in the two sides' decades-old alliance and will continue to shape its contours in the future. Natural disasters have long posed threats to human security which the Philippine government has often failed to sufficiently address. At the same time, bilateral cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief issues will serve multiple strategic purposes.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/04/29
|
The Review and Evaluation of Industrial Policy Especially SMEs Development of CLMV Countries
Author(s): Nang Saw Nandar Hlaing
Download
|
The development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are a vital role of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, because it contributes more than 90 % of country's GDP and it can be found out both in the public and the private sector. The largest ...moreThe development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are a vital role of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, because it contributes more than 90 % of country's GDP and it can be found out both in the public and the private sector. The largest number of SMEs in Myanmar is the agriculture based food staffs manufacturing industries and more than 60%. About 300 enterprises surveyed in this study were randomly chosen from Yangon and Mandalay industrial zones area. Most enterprises in this study are mostly small and medium enterprises.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Cross Border Higher Education in ASEAN: Structures, Policies, Development and Integration
Author(s): Diane Lek
Download
|
This paper seeks to understand how cross border higher education is structured in ASEAN. It also asks how policies on cross border higher education have impacted development and social integration in the region. The first part of this paper ...moreThis paper seeks to understand how cross border higher education is structured in ASEAN. It also asks how policies on cross border higher education have impacted development and social integration in the region. The first part of this paper assesses joint initiatives by ASEAN to co-operate in cross border education. The second part of this paper analyses how higher education is structured in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. It examines the strategies that the three countries have relied on, to promote cross border education. It also investigates the experiences of ASEAN citizens who have undertaken cross border education in these three countries. The third part of this paper evaluates ASEAN's regional policy on cross border education, and analyses findings from Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The fourth and final part of this paper assesses how cross border education has impacted development and social integration in the region. It makes policy recommendations as to how cross border education policy can be refined, to facilitate development and social integration.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Towards an East Asian Financial Community: An Institutionalist Perspective
Author(s): Supanai Sookmark
Download
|
This paper seeks to understand the changing financial landscape in East Asia that resulted from ongoing regional financial cooperation among ASEAN+3 countries. It examines the development of the Chiang-Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), ...moreThis paper seeks to understand the changing financial landscape in East Asia that resulted from ongoing regional financial cooperation among ASEAN+3 countries. It examines the development of the Chiang-Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), which is aimed to provide regional financial safety nets in times of crisis, and the promotion of regional bond markets under the Asian Bond Market Initiative (ABMI), particularly the Credit Guarantee Investment Facility (CGIF), in order to explain the changes that occur to regional financial infrastructure and to evaluate their early implications, particularly with regard to the relationship with global financial governance and regional development goal of equitable and inclusive development. The main research questions are what kinds of rules are being put in place under these mechanisms and how they differ from the existing rules? What are the contributing factors or rationale behind the development of these mechanisms? And judging from their recent progress, what could be the implications of the CMIM and ABMI on existing global financial structures and regional development? Guided by an institutionalist approach, the paper argues that the CMIM and ABMI are designed to change the rules of the game in global finance in order to better serve regional and individual member's needs and interests. These rules themselves are largely shaped by the global political economy context, power relations among members, existing practices and models, and regional identity. While both the CMIM and ABMI contribute positively to the integration process, the results are mixed when measured against ASEAN's goal of equitable and inclusive development. Despite having laid down some infrastructure and decision-making procedures that are compatible with this objective, the differences in member countries' level of development and financial capacity, the pursuit of multiple objectives and the lack of substantive discussion on within-country inequality can be major obstacles toward equitable and inclusive growth.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Conflicts in the South China Sea and China-ASEAN Economic Interdependence: A Challenge to Cooperation
Author(s): Meidi Kosandi
Download
|
This paper analyzes the absence of correlation between China-ASEAN economic interdependence and dispute settlement in the South China Sea, against liberals' prediction. It argues that there are a few trends in the dispute settlement process that ...moreThis paper analyzes the absence of correlation between China-ASEAN economic interdependence and dispute settlement in the South China Sea, against liberals' prediction. It argues that there are a few trends in the dispute settlement process that reflects liberalist theory irrelevance, i.e. (1) the main feature of the dispute settlement is power politics; (2) the progress of multilateral arrangement for dispute settlement is constrained by unilateral policies; (3) the deepening economic integration and growing interdependence are intentionally maintained exclusive from and thus have little impact on the on-going disputes; and (4) the constrained multilateral arrangement through ASEAN invites further power politics between the claimants and actors from outside the region. It also argues that three factors have contributed to the trends: i.e. (1) power structure in the region; (2) divergence of each actor's geopolitical interests and strategies in the South China Sea; (3) weak regional coherence and institutional design.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Social and Cultural Development in the Development Triangle (CLV) and the Role of ASEAN in This Area
Author(s): Hoang Thi My Nhi
Download
|
In a period not longer than 10 years (2002 - to present), 13 provinces at the common border of Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV Development Triangle) have cooperated for common development and achieved a lot of successes in the socio-economic field. At ...moreIn a period not longer than 10 years (2002 - to present), 13 provinces at the common border of Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV Development Triangle) have cooperated for common development and achieved a lot of successes in the socio-economic field. At present, the socio-cultural field is being preferably promoted for development, aimed at integration and sustainable development. This success is not only due to efforts of the three countries and local authorities but also contributions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in backing, supporting the development of the Triangle. Achievements in social development of the Triangle area are expressed through education and training, health, labour-employment, hunger elimination and poverty reduction and culture. Whereby, we can see successes and limitations, opportunities and challenges of the development process as well as consider and orient development of the whole area in the near future. This paper mentions to social and cultural development in the Development Triangle (CLV) and the Role of ASEAN in this Area.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Hydropower Development, Economic Growth and Social Equality: Mekong Region
Author(s): Ly Kesa
Download
|
The Lower Mekong Basin has an estimated total hydropower generation potential of nearly 30,000 MW. However, it constitutes only about six to eight percent of the total estimated demand in the Lower Mekong Basin by 2030. According to high demand of ...moreThe Lower Mekong Basin has an estimated total hydropower generation potential of nearly 30,000 MW. However, it constitutes only about six to eight percent of the total estimated demand in the Lower Mekong Basin by 2030. According to high demand of electricity, the government of Cambodia, Vietnam and Loas has developed their hydropower potential for supplying in their country and exporting to neighbor countries. Through this hydropower development, the economic growth in countries is speeded up. Anyway, hydropower has negative impact on the natural resources and it services which will effect on the community who rely on these resources and services. In the case of Yali Falls, the Cambodian people lost their property, animal, crops and family member as a result of flood. The dam has also made them lose their income from fish and increase their spending to buy meat for domestic consumption.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/28
|
Nuclear Energy in Southeast Asia:
Public Engagement Before Policies
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
As nuclear power development plans in Southeast Asia increase it is necessary for governments to sustain
clear lines of public engagement to gain the confidence of their communities.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/04/23
|
Perspectives for Climate Diplomacy in Southeast Asia
Author(s): Stephan Wolters, Dennis Tanzler, adelphi/ Gianna Gayle Amul and Alistair D.B. Cook, RSIS-NTS
Download
|
Southeast Asia is a region highly vulnerable to near and long-term climatic changes. In order to jointly address emerging climate risks and to complement multilateral negotiations through enhanced regional cooperation, a more comprehensive climate ...moreSoutheast Asia is a region highly vulnerable to near and long-term climatic changes. In order to jointly address emerging climate risks and to complement multilateral negotiations through enhanced regional cooperation, a more comprehensive climate diplomacy approach is needed. On 29 November, more than 40 representatives from Southeast Asian Foreign Ministries and Think Tanks met in Singapore to discuss the potential next steps in this direction.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2014/04/23
|
Networked Resilience: Moving the Asia-Pacific Forward (reliefweb)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
As the United Nations moves towards cementing a Post-2015 agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, how can Asia-Pacific states best achieve these? It is time to recognise our resources from across society to build stronger communities and ...moreAs the United Nations moves towards cementing a Post-2015 agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, how can Asia-Pacific states best achieve these? It is time to recognise our resources from across society to build stronger communities and more resilient states.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/04/22
|
Networked Resilience:
Moving the Asia-Pacific Forward
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul and Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
As the United Nations moves towards cementing a Post-2015 agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, how can Asia-Pacific states best achieve these? It is time to recognise our resources from across society to build stronger communities and ...moreAs the United Nations moves towards cementing a Post-2015 agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, how can Asia-Pacific states best achieve these? It is time to recognise our resources from across society to build stronger communities and more resilient states.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/04/22
|
NTS Bulletin April 2014
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the fourth part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/04/16
|
New Avenues for Regional Cooperation: Tackling Human Trafficking in Asia (The Jakarta Post)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
With the current debate over domestic anti-human trafficking measures in Singapore, innovative responses from elsewhere can offer constructive policy options and inform dialogue at the regional level.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/04/11
|
Views on the News (ChannelNewsAsia)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Alistair D.B. Cook comments on what the Japan-Australia trade deal means for a bigger Pacific Rim pact and why it has upset the US. He also comments on the ongoing Oscar Pistorius trial.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/04/08
|
Food Security Robustness: A Driver of Enhanced Regional Cooperation?
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
Food security encompasses multiple, inter-connected dimensions, from production-related concerns, to market and price dynamics, environmental trends and policy approaches. Given this, 'robustness', the ability to withstand disruptions to the ...moreFood security encompasses multiple, inter-connected dimensions, from production-related concerns, to market and price dynamics, environmental trends and policy approaches. Given this, 'robustness', the ability to withstand disruptions to the various dimensions, is critical to food security. Yet, countries in Southeast Asia continue to be largely focused on domestic production alone, which is unsustainable in the long run. This Policy Brief suggests that, in order to increase food security robustness, countries could turn to regional-level action. Towards this end, an analysis using the Rice Bowl Index© is used to identify possible areas of cooperation and collaboration at the regional level.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2014/04/07
|
Disaster Risk Governance:
Strengthening Collaboration with Non-State Actors
Author(s): Jonatan A. Lassa
Download
|
The increasing use of disaster risk governance today suggests that there is a deeper problem with how disasters are being managed. It does not mean governments have been ineffective. But they do have to function better through strong collaboration ...moreThe increasing use of disaster risk governance today suggests that there is a deeper problem with how disasters are being managed. It does not mean governments have been ineffective. But they do have to function better through strong collaboration with the wider communities to reduce risks.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/04/07
|
New Avenues for Regional Cooperation: Tackling Human Trafficking in Asia
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Caitriona H. Heinl
Download
|
In Southeast Asia, rising population and technological advances mean that unfortunately human traffickers have a growing target base online and are making greater use of technology. Nevertheless, creatively employing online tools provides an ...moreIn Southeast Asia, rising population and technological advances mean that unfortunately human traffickers have a growing target base online and are making greater use of technology. Nevertheless, creatively employing online tools provides an opportunity to counter cross-border trafficking.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/04/03
|
Income Inequality in ASEAN:
Perceptions on Regional Stability from Indonesia and the Philippines
Author(s): Matthew J. Bock
Download
|
Income inequality has been a growing concern since Global Financial Crisis. But how do regional institutions contribute to the debate on income equality?
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output / Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/04/02
|
Myanmar's Growing Regional Role
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony et al.
Download
|
Myanmar's ongoing political and economic reforms have paved the way for expanded engagement with Southeast Asia and the world. In this new NBR Special Report, leading experts explore the issues surrounding Myanmar's re-emergence as a regional power ...moreMyanmar's ongoing political and economic reforms have paved the way for expanded engagement with Southeast Asia and the world. In this new NBR Special Report, leading experts explore the issues surrounding Myanmar's re-emergence as a regional power and outline implications for U.S. policy.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/03/31
|
Confronting China's Water Insecurity
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
With the emergence of water insecurity as a major threat to China's economic growth and social stability, preventive measures should start with reforms to the country's food security.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/03/27
|
ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium 2013: Reflections on an Inclusive and Equitable ASEAN Community in 2015
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
The ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership was launched in 2012 by the Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University and the Institute of Asian Research of ...moreThe ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership was launched in 2012 by the Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University and the Institute of Asian Research of the University of British Columbia (UBC) with the support of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada. The Research Partnership aims to facilitate cooperation in research among Canadian and Southeast Asian scholars and institutions on regional development issues using a Track Two approach.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2014/03/26
|
NTS Bulletin March 2014
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the third part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/03/20
|
Volcanoes Test Indonesia's Disaster Management
Author(s): Jonatan Lassa
Download
|
After about 400 years of silence, the Sinabung volcano in North Sumatra, Indonesia, has erupted twice in the last five years. The first time was on 27 August 2010. The eruptions lasted for two days, and resulted in no casualties. The second, ...moreAfter about 400 years of silence, the Sinabung volcano in North Sumatra, Indonesia, has erupted twice in the last five years. The first time was on 27 August 2010. The eruptions lasted for two days, and resulted in no casualties. The second, ongoing eruption period began on 15 September 2013. Since then, eruptions have caused the deaths of at least 45 people, 31 of whom were staying in poorly managed temporary shelters. About 30,000 people have been evacuated out of the danger zone. Yet the formal response system remains weak. LEARN (an NGO) reports that the shelters lack basic water and sanitation facilities, and provide little privacy.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/03/14
|
Views on the News (ChannelNewsAsia)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Alistair D.B. Cook gives his comments on the latest news affecting the region and the world in Views on the News by ChannelNewsAsia. This includes India's relations with Russia vis-a-vis the Ukraine issue, China and the death penalty and the ...moreAlistair D.B. Cook gives his comments on the latest news affecting the region and the world in Views on the News by ChannelNewsAsia. This includes India's relations with Russia vis-a-vis the Ukraine issue, China and the death penalty and the missing Malaysia airlines plane.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/03/11
|
Reducing Food Waste
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
As Singaporeans toss away more and more food each year - 703,200 tonnes in 2012 alone - nearly a billion people in the rest of the world are going hungry. What can we do to reduce food waste in our society?
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/03/10
|
Indonesia to Ratify Haze Treaty
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Indonesia's Parliament on Monday moved a step closer to ratifying the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution. Indonesia is the only country that has yet to ratify the treaty signed in June 2002. Environment Minister, Balthasar Kambuaya, ...moreIndonesia's Parliament on Monday moved a step closer to ratifying the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution. Indonesia is the only country that has yet to ratify the treaty signed in June 2002. Environment Minister, Balthasar Kambuaya, expressed hope that the Bill will be ratified before the next ASEAN meeting on trans-boundary haze in April. 938LIVE's Reeta Raman spoke with Dr Alistair Cook, a Research Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in NTU, and asked him what could be the likely reasons for Indonesia's decision to ratify the treaty only now.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/03/04
|
Examining economic development, environmental policy and transboundary pollution: The case of Iskandar Malaysia and air quality
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring and J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
This NTS Insight explores the possible effects of rapid development in Iskandar Malaysia for air quality on both sides of the Straits of Johor. It unpacks relevant regulatory structures in Malaysia, and reveals challenges in promoting and realising ...moreThis NTS Insight explores the possible effects of rapid development in Iskandar Malaysia for air quality on both sides of the Straits of Johor. It unpacks relevant regulatory structures in Malaysia, and reveals challenges in promoting and realising environmental health in the face of economic development imperatives. It then investigates Iskandar Malaysia's air pollution concerns more directly, and examines the prospects for cooperation between Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore in areas such as managing their shared ecosystem and mitigating the risks of development-driven pollution.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2014/03/03
|
International Conference on Nuclear Governance Post-Fukushima
Download
|
Convened as part of Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2013, the Conference sought to examine emerging trends in energy security policies post-Fukushima, assess the impact of global nuclear energy developments on the security landscape in ...moreConvened as part of Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2013, the Conference sought to examine emerging trends in energy security policies post-Fukushima, assess the impact of global nuclear energy developments on the security landscape in Asia and recommend critical areas for future policy research. This report highlights key points from the robust exchange of ideas and experiences at the Conference.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2014/02/28
|
Peace in Mindanao: The challenge of disarming rebels
Author(s): Joseph Franco
Download
|
A military offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) reduced the threat of "spoilers" to
rekindle violence. However, failing to reintegrate BIFF communities can lead to the emergence of a new
generation of violent ...moreA military offensive against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) reduced the threat of "spoilers" to
rekindle violence. However, failing to reintegrate BIFF communities can lead to the emergence of a new
generation of violent militants, posing a threat to the wider region.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/02/27
|
NTS Bulletin February 2014
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the second part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/02/25
|
Quick Response to Volcanic Activity
Author(s): Jonatan Lassa
Download
|
The 1,731-meter Mount Kelud volcano in East Java erupted suddenly on Thursday night, releasing smoke and ash 12-17 kilometers into the air, and triggering pyroclastic flows and showers of gravel and ash, which travelled by wind to Surabaya (some ...moreThe 1,731-meter Mount Kelud volcano in East Java erupted suddenly on Thursday night, releasing smoke and ash 12-17 kilometers into the air, and triggering pyroclastic flows and showers of gravel and ash, which travelled by wind to Surabaya (some 100 km away), Pamekasan, Madura (300 km), all in East Java; Yogyakarta (400 km) and Bandung (+550km) in West Java. The disruption of flights and closure of seven airports lasted some 72 hours.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2014/02/20
|
The rise of Iskandar Malaysia: Implications for Singapore's marine and coastal environment
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo and Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Iskandar Malaysia, a major economic zone in the southern part of Malaysia, is experiencing meteoric growth. Given that the zone lies along the Straits of Johor, how will the increasing industrialisation and urbanisation seen in the area affect the ...moreIskandar Malaysia, a major economic zone in the southern part of Malaysia, is experiencing meteoric growth. Given that the zone lies along the Straits of Johor, how will the increasing industrialisation and urbanisation seen in the area affect the marine and coastal environment? Also, what are the implications of this growth for Singapore, whose northern coast lies on the other side of the Straits? This NTS Insight investigates these questions and suggests ways to mitigate the potential impacts of developments in Iskandar Malaysia on Singapore's marine and coastal environment.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2014/02/06
|
Food Security Post-Calamity: A Chronic Dilemma
Author(s): Jurise Athena Oliveros and Paul S. Teng
Download
|
Many Asian countries are highly susceptible to climate hazards, resulting in food insecurity. The magnitude of the devastation of typhoon Haiyan should serve as a clarion call for regional action to improve food security in the region.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/02/04
|
China is Marching West for Food
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
China's 'Marching West' strategy has gained international attention as a counter-response to the US pivot to Asia. But food could be an important driver behind China's westward advance.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/02/04
|
NTS Bulletin January 2014
Download
|
This year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: ...moreThis year is the 20th anniversary of the release of the 1994 United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Human Development Report, which defined the concept of human security and brought it to international attention. It is thus timely to ask: where is human security today? The following is the first part of a series exploring the evolution of the concept and its impact on security thinking and practice.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2014/01/26
|
Myanmar's ASEAN Chairmanship: Will it Lead to National Reconciliation?
Author(s): Eliane Coates
Download
|
Myanmar's 2014 ASEAN Chairmanship will boost Naypyidaw's courting of world opinion in favour of its reforms. However, Myanmar's road to reform remains long and winding. ASEAN should nudge Naypyidaw towards greater national reconciliation.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2014/01/20
|
Of Auxiliary Forces and Private Armies: Security Sector Governance (SSG) and Conflict Management in Maguindanao, Mindanao
Author(s): Maria Anna Rowena Luz G. Layador
Download
|
This paper focuses on the governance of the security sector in situations of armed conflict and the role of effective governance in conflict management. Specifically, it seeks to examine whether the security sector has helped to advance conflict ...moreThis paper focuses on the governance of the security sector in situations of armed conflict and the role of effective governance in conflict management. Specifically, it seeks to examine whether the security sector has helped to advance conflict management objectives in Mindanao, or whether their activities have aggravated the situation. It critically examines the role of the core security sector, namely, the armed forces, the police and the auxiliary forces, the use of which was expanded during the Arroyo administration. Beyond that, it highlights the impact of those elected politicians with authority and oversight over the armed units. The paper uses Maguindanao, a province in Mindanao in the southern Philippines, as a case study.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2014/01/16
|
In conversation with Aishah Bidin
Author(s): Aishah Bidin
Download
|
In conversation with Aishah Bidin
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/13
|
In conversation with Andrii Gritsevskyi
Author(s): Andrii Gritsevskyi
Download
|
In conversation with Andrii Gritsevskyi
|
Energy Security
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/13
|
In conversation with Matthew Bock
Author(s): Matthew Bock
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
In conversation with Danny Lee
Author(s): Danny Lee
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
In conversation with Kesa Ly
Author(s): Kesa Ly
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
In conversation with Makarim Wibisono
Author(s): Makarim Wibisono
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
In conversation with Mochammad Faisal Karim
Author(s): Mochammad Faisal Karim
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
In conversation with Supanai Sookmark
Author(s): Supanai Sookmark
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS ...moreThis interview was conducted on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in August 2013. The event forms part of activities of the 2012-15 ASEAN-Canada Research Partnership coordinated by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and supported by IDRC, Canada.
The views expressed in this video are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, nor IDRC or its Board of Governors.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2014/01/04
|
Singapore's Three 'Food Taps'
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Food security has been generally defined by the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in the broadest of terms. To the FAO, food security means "when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to ...moreFood security has been generally defined by the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in the broadest of terms. To the FAO, food security means "when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life".
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/12/28
|
China's Xinjiang Predicament:
Time to Look Out of the Box
Author(s): Nodirbek Soliyev
Download
|
In spite of China's sustained law enforcement response, its Xinjiang province continues to experience sporadic outbreaks of violence. The recent attacks in Xinjiang and Beijing question whether China's current approach is the most effective one to ...moreIn spite of China's sustained law enforcement response, its Xinjiang province continues to experience sporadic outbreaks of violence. The recent attacks in Xinjiang and Beijing question whether China's current approach is the most effective one to bring lasting peace to the province.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/19
|
RSIS Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Year In Review 2013
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
The year 2013 saw Asia's benign security landscape buffeted on several fronts. Strong headwinds came from rising tensions between the major powers, particularly the US and China. The much-hyped US 'pivot' to Asia heightened competition between the ...moreThe year 2013 saw Asia's benign security landscape buffeted on several fronts. Strong headwinds came from rising tensions between the major powers, particularly the US and China. The much-hyped US 'pivot' to Asia heightened competition between the two powers, and this was aggravated by Beijing's more aggressive stance towards her ASEAN neighbours over the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, and towards Japan over the Senkaku islands. Meanwhile, nuclear tensions in the Korean Peninsula remain, with no clear end in sight.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/12/17
|
Asian States in the Arctic: Opportunities and Environmental Changes
Author(s): Per Erik Solli
Download
|
Several Asian states recently became permanent observers to the Arctic Council. Asian states have an interest in commercial opportunities and resources in the Arctic. Environmental changes in the Arctic may cause extreme weather patterns and sea ...moreSeveral Asian states recently became permanent observers to the Arctic Council. Asian states have an interest in commercial opportunities and resources in the Arctic. Environmental changes in the Arctic may cause extreme weather patterns and sea level rise, including in Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/17
|
Energy Security: Would Vietnam's Ninh Thuan Nuclearise Southeast Asia?
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring
Download
|
Vietnam plans to construct its first nuclear power plant in 2014 despite the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Although Vietnam's initiative may act as a trailblazer, its nuclear-aspiring neighbours may see renewable energy as a better alternative to ...moreVietnam plans to construct its first nuclear power plant in 2014 despite the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Although Vietnam's initiative may act as a trailblazer, its nuclear-aspiring neighbours may see renewable energy as a better alternative to resolving the region's energy trilemma.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/16
|
Energy Security: Southeast Asia Revives Nuclear Power Plans
Author(s): Barry Desker
Download
|
Southeast Asian states are moving to push ahead with nuclear power plants in an about-turn from the focus on
safety risk in the search for energy security. For Singapore, having nuclear power plants close by would
represent a significant risk.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/11
|
Community resilience and critical urban infrastructure: Where adaptive capacities meet vulnerabilities
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
In many of Southeast Asia's cities, critical infrastructure development is concentrated in affluent areas; and poor communities, lacking access to basic services, often resort to alternatives that may be unsafe or more expensive. Crucially for ...moreIn many of Southeast Asia's cities, critical infrastructure development is concentrated in affluent areas; and poor communities, lacking access to basic services, often resort to alternatives that may be unsafe or more expensive. Crucially for policymakers, these options leave communities vulnerable to a range of threats that reduce not just their own long-term resilience, but also that of the city overall. An examination of the water infrastructure in Jakarta, Manila and Ho Chi Minh City amply illustrates this. The cases suggest that to bring about greater community resilience, and thus ensure security and sustainable development, governments must vigorously upgrade critical infrastructure not just to improve efficiency, but also to achieve equity among urban communities.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/12/09
|
Food Security: What it means for a Food-Importing Country
Author(s): Paul S. Teng
Download
|
Most countries depend on three "food taps" - imports, self-production, reserve stocks - to make food available. All countries import some amount of food to meet their increasingly diverse dietary demands. Binding agreements and a regional view of ...moreMost countries depend on three "food taps" - imports, self-production, reserve stocks - to make food available. All countries import some amount of food to meet their increasingly diverse dietary demands. Binding agreements and a regional view of food security are therefore critical.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/04
|
Buddhist Monks in Myanmar: Driving Religious Intolerance and Hindering Reform
Author(s): Eliane Coates
Download
|
Two hundred Buddhist monks took to the streets of Yangon on 12 November to protest the visit of a delegation of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Many Buddhist monks are re-igniting anti-Muslim animosity and Burman Buddhist ...moreTwo hundred Buddhist monks took to the streets of Yangon on 12 November to protest the visit of a delegation of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Many Buddhist monks are re-igniting anti-Muslim animosity and Burman Buddhist nationalism. Can Myanmar's ASEAN Chairmanship and structural reforms give an opportunity for the country to heal old wounds?
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/12/03
|
Supermarkets, Iron Buffalos and Agrarian Myths: Exploring the Drivers and Impediments to Food Systems Modernisation in Southeast Asia
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Southeast Asian food systems are changing rapidly. Populations are growing and urbanising, production and consumption choices are shifting, and food value chains are experiencing a myriad of ripple effects from rural hinterlands to city ...moreSoutheast Asian food systems are changing rapidly. Populations are growing and urbanising, production and consumption choices are shifting, and food value chains are experiencing a myriad of ripple effects from rural hinterlands to city marketplaces. These systemic changes are inconsistent, however, and variable challenges define key sectors. Distribution chains, wholesaling, food processing, retail and supermarkets, and other midstream and downstream segments of regional food systems are undergoing transformative and largely unhindered change. On-farm modernisation and trade liberalisation are occurring more haltingly. Previous advances in food production technology and methods have lost momentum, and much of the region faces confronting questions about how to produce adequate and appropriate food in light of shifting demographics, environmental stress, land scarcities, market manipulations and other defining regional characteristics. This paper juxtaposes these challenges with remarkable distribution chain evolutions, and focuses upon three impediments to further shifts in regional food systems: (1) the perpetuation of agrarian mythologies, (2) push-back against rice market integration, and (3) regulatory barriers to the adoption of genetically modified (GM) plants. These seemingly disparate dynamics actually have points of convergence, and are unified in their negative overall impacts on regional food security. This paper explores reasons behind the pervasiveness of these impediments and argues for supply-oriented improvements in the regional food systems.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2013/11/19
|
Typhoon Haiyan's Aftermath: Testing Resilience in Complex Emergencies
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Gianna Gayle Amul and Julius Trajano
Download
|
No one could have anticipated the devastating impact of super typhoon Haiyan that hit central Philippines a week ago. The country faces the herculean task of providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief on an unprecedented scale. National ...moreNo one could have anticipated the devastating impact of super typhoon Haiyan that hit central Philippines a week ago. The country faces the herculean task of providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief on an unprecedented scale. National authorities need to examine what has gone wrong to address the complex humanitarian challenges facing the survivors.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/11/15
|
Views on the News (ChannelNewsAsia)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
In this interview with CNA, Dr Alistair Cook shared his views on the riots in Myanmar, disaster relief in the Philippines and Macau's housing crisis.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/11/14
|
NTS Bulletin November 2013
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
Higher investment in the agricultural and food sectors, food price stability and regulatory barriers are among the key issues for Asia, according to experts at a recent meeting to discuss the region's food security priorities.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/11/12
|
Can Indonesia Advance Peace in Mindanao
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring
Download
|
Violence shook Zamboanga city in Mindanao, the Philippines, for weeks in September 2013, leading to renewed calls for peace. The Indonesian government through Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa expressed Indonesia's willingness to mediate peace in ...moreViolence shook Zamboanga city in Mindanao, the Philippines, for weeks in September 2013, leading to renewed calls for peace. The Indonesian government through Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa expressed Indonesia's willingness to mediate peace in that strife-torn region.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/11/07
|
Can Indonesia Advance the Mindanao Peace Process?
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring
Download
|
Jakarta has offered to broker talks in the southern Philippines, citing its role in the OIC and experience with mediating peace, but are those credentials enough?
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/10/31
|
The Mindanao Peace Process: Can Indonesia Advance It?
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring
Download
|
The recent violence in Zamboanga has prompted Indonesia to offer assistance in brokering peace in the southern Philippines, citing its role in the OIC and its experience with mediating peace. In view of the conflict's complexity, are those ...moreThe recent violence in Zamboanga has prompted Indonesia to offer assistance in brokering peace in the southern Philippines, citing its role in the OIC and its experience with mediating peace. In view of the conflict's complexity, are those credentials enough?
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/10/28
|
NTS Bulletin October 2013
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring
Download
|
In light of the recent violence that shook Zamboanga city in Mindanao in the southern Philippines, Indonesia's offer to act as a peace broker between Manila and the Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) deserves some attention. What can ...moreIn light of the recent violence that shook Zamboanga city in Mindanao in the southern Philippines, Indonesia's offer to act as a peace broker between Manila and the Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) deserves some attention. What can Indonesia contribute to the peace process in Mindanao?
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/10/10
|
Expert Group Meeting on the Impact of Climate Change on ASEAN Food Security
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This report outlines key action areas for Southeast Asia as highlighted by a cross-section of stakeholders from across the region at an Expert Group Meeting organised by the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies in June 2013. Among ...moreThis report outlines key action areas for Southeast Asia as highlighted by a cross-section of stakeholders from across the region at an Expert Group Meeting organised by the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies in June 2013. Among the points emphasised are the importance of downscaling climate projections to national and local levels, and the need to build resilient supply and value chains.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/10/08
|
Summary Report on 'Metro Agriculture and Urban Food Security: An Explicative Symposium with Global Innoversity'
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This is a summary report on discussions that took place at the 'Metro Agriculture and Urban Food Security: An Explicative Symposium' co-organised by the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies and Global Innoversity on 5 September 2013.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/10/04
|
Southeast Asia's Food Security Challenge: More than 'Stock' Solution Needed
Author(s): Belinda Chng
Download
|
Countries in Southeast Asia face a fresh challenge to their food security as food consumption patterns change, and reliance on imports increases to meet such shifts. Consequently, they may be left with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral ...moreCountries in Southeast Asia face a fresh challenge to their food security as food consumption patterns change, and reliance on imports increases to meet such shifts. Consequently, they may be left with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral options to complement their own food strategies.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/10/03
|
More than 'Stock' Solution Needed, for Food Security
Author(s): Belinda Chng
Download
|
Consumption patterns in Southeast Asia are changing rapidly. As the region becomes more affluent, demand for animal protein and wheat is expected to increase. Such shifts may leave countries with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral ...moreConsumption patterns in Southeast Asia are changing rapidly. As the region becomes more affluent, demand for animal protein and wheat is expected to increase. Such shifts may leave countries with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral options to complement their own food security strategies..
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/10/03
|
NTS Bulletin September 2013
Author(s): Belinda Chng
Download
|
Consumption patterns in Southeast Asia are changing rapidly. As the region becomes more affluent, demand for protein and wheat is expected to increase. Such shifts may leave countries with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral options to ...moreConsumption patterns in Southeast Asia are changing rapidly. As the region becomes more affluent, demand for protein and wheat is expected to increase. Such shifts may leave countries with no choice but to seek regional or multilateral options to complement their own food security strategies.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/09/19
|
Expert Group Meeting on the ASEAN Economic Community 2015: Opportunities and Challenges for Food Security
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
Initiatives under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) to promote physical, institutional and people-to-people connectivity are expected to enhance the region's economic and physical access to food. However, challenges also exist. This report conveys ...moreInitiatives under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) to promote physical, institutional and people-to-people connectivity are expected to enhance the region's economic and physical access to food. However, challenges also exist. This report conveys the insights and experiences shared by a cross-section of stakeholders from across the region and from international organisations at an Expert Group Meeting organised by RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies in June 2013.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/09/19
|
Myanmar's Wirathu: The Social Influencer in Sectarian Violence
Author(s): Nadica Pavlovska
Download
|
The influence of Wirathu, the Buddhist monk and leader of the nationalist 969 movement, in inciting the sectarian violence in Myanmar has been undisputed and unchecked. Is the unchallenged role of Wirathu as an effective social influencer due to ...moreThe influence of Wirathu, the Buddhist monk and leader of the nationalist 969 movement, in inciting the sectarian violence in Myanmar has been undisputed and unchecked. Is the unchallenged role of Wirathu as an effective social influencer due to the implicit support of those in power?
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/09/18
|
Ceasefires sans peace process in Myanmar: The Shan State Army, 1989-2011
Author(s): Samara Yawnghwe and Tin Maung Maung Than
Download
|
Resolving the internal conflict between the central state and the ethnic nationalities in Myanmar is at the heart of the continued development of the country as a whole. However, a solution may require flexibility when it comes to defining the ...moreResolving the internal conflict between the central state and the ethnic nationalities in Myanmar is at the heart of the continued development of the country as a whole. However, a solution may require flexibility when it comes to defining the territorial integrity of the country and its national identity. This working paper examines the case of the Shan State Army - its origins, history and ceasefire agreements - in an effort to shed light on why the problem of lasting peace in Myanmar has seemed relatively intractable.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/09/17
|
The Zamboanga Standoff: Role of the Nur Misuari Group
Author(s): Joseph Franco
Download
|
Gunmen from the Moro National Liberation Front-Misuari Group (MNLF-MG) triggered a hostage crisis in Zamboanga City, Mindanao in the Southern Philippines. The complexity of dealing with an armed secessionist movement that has been able to meld ...moreGunmen from the Moro National Liberation Front-Misuari Group (MNLF-MG) triggered a hostage crisis in Zamboanga City, Mindanao in the Southern Philippines. The complexity of dealing with an armed secessionist movement that has been able to meld violent and non-violent activities can potentially destabilise the wider region.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/09/17
|
Containing spoilers: Civil-military relations and third parties in the post-Suharto Aceh peace initiatives
Author(s): Evan A. Laksmana
Download
|
This working paper seeks to explain why and how the Humanitarian Pause and the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) between the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Government of Indonesia broke down while the Helsinki rounds succeeded. It ...moreThis working paper seeks to explain why and how the Humanitarian Pause and the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) between the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Government of Indonesia broke down while the Helsinki rounds succeeded. It develops a theoretical model based on the presence of peace spoilers and their ability to derail the process, and applies the model to the post-Suharto peace initiatives in Aceh.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/09/12
|
China as the World's Largest Rice Importer: Regional Implications
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
After decades of near self-sufficiency, China is becoming the world's largest importer of rice. What does this mean for greater Asia?
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/09/12
|
China As The World's Largest Rice Importer: Regional Implications - Analysis (published in Eurasia Review)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
After decades of near self-sufficiency, China is becoming the world's largest importer of rice. What does this mean for greater Asia?
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/09/12
|
Rice Bowl Index (2012-2013 Full Year Update)
Download
|
The Rice Bowl Index aggregates data into four rubrics that together comprise the overall Index: Demand and Price, Policy and Trade, Environmental Factors and Farm-Level Factors.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2013/09/12
|
China As The World's Largest Rice Importer: Regional Implications - Analysis (published in ReliefWeb)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
After decades of near self-sufficiency, China is becoming the world's largest importer of rice. What does this mean for greater Asia?
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/09/12
|
In conversation with Ibrahim Gambari: The practice of peacemaking
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Lina Gong
Download
|
On 18 June 2013, Dr J. Jackson Ewing sat down with Professor Ibrahim Gambari to discuss his views on resolving conflicts and building sustainable peace in the 21st century.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2013/09/08
|
The shifting sands of the Malaysian political landscape and the impact on security sector governance (SSG)
Author(s): Tang Siew Mun
Download
|
The Malaysian security sector is undergoing a major transformation as the Najib administration implements a series of reforms that expand political space and discourse. This paper examines these changes, and argues that the net effect is to loosen ...moreThe Malaysian security sector is undergoing a major transformation as the Najib administration implements a series of reforms that expand political space and discourse. This paper examines these changes, and argues that the net effect is to loosen the government's grip on governance. It suggests that unless there is a corresponding development of political culture, namely, consolidation of the rule of the law and respect for political and legal processes, the polity may become increasingly unstable.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/09/05
|
Impact of climate change on ASEAN food security: Downscaling analysis and response
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This NTS Issues Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Group Meeting on the Impact of Climate Change on ASEAN Food Security held in June 2013. The Meeting called for higher priority to be given to research on climate shifts at national and ...moreThis NTS Issues Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Group Meeting on the Impact of Climate Change on ASEAN Food Security held in June 2013. The Meeting called for higher priority to be given to research on climate shifts at national and local scales, as well as greater focus on agricultural R&D. It also highlighted the need for resource and knowledge inputs from actors throughout food value chains in the region.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/09/03
|
The Rising Challenge of Food Security
Author(s): Barry Desker
Download
|
Demand for food is expected to increase, outpacing supply. As this situation worsens in the years ahead, the world will be burdened by the growing problem of food security. Expect more debate on this front in the years to come.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/08/29
|
Cracks, bumps, potholes and U-turns: Negotiating the road to peace in Mindanao
Author(s): Herman Joseph S. Kraft
Download
|
This working paper examines key developments in the peace talks between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine government, focusing in particular on the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) in 2008. It discusses ...moreThis working paper examines key developments in the peace talks between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine government, focusing in particular on the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) in 2008. It discusses the factors influencing the progress of peace talks, and examines prospects for the success of future talks. In a postscript to this paper, the author reviews the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed in October 2012, and its significance.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/08/27
|
Governing Environmentally-Related Migration in Bangladesh: Responsibilities, Security and the Causality Problem
Author(s): Benoit Mayer, Ingrid Boas, J. Jackson Ewing, et al.
Download
|
Asian Pacific and Migration Journal, Vol. 22, Issue 2: Environmentally-related migration is often cited as one of the human consequences of environmental stress, especially in the context of climate change. Nonetheless, there is a lack of effective ...moreAsian Pacific and Migration Journal, Vol. 22, Issue 2: Environmentally-related migration is often cited as one of the human consequences of environmental stress, especially in the context of climate change. Nonetheless, there is a lack of effective and appropriate governance strategies that address the issue due to the complex and multicausal character of environmentally-related migration and the tendency to discuss the issue through security-based discourses that favor alarmist narratives. This paper suggests alternative approaches in responding to environmentally-related migration that seek to avoid these pitfalls. Through the case of Bangladesh, this paper illustrates the need to form cross-sectoral governance policies that avoid oversimplifying environmentally-related migration. Specifically, the paper highlights the limits and dangers of the security-based framework to environmentally-related migration and calls for policy coordination as a potential pathway forward.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2013/08/27
|
Will rapid development in Johor impact water access, quality or price in Singapore?
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo and J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Johor's growth has been both rapid and encompassing, and includes evolving trends in demographic, industrial, transportation and social spheres. Such growth raises significant questions for Singapore, which currently relies on Johor for 40 per cent ...moreJohor's growth has been both rapid and encompassing, and includes evolving trends in demographic, industrial, transportation and social spheres. Such growth raises significant questions for Singapore, which currently relies on Johor for 40 per cent of its water needs. What is the impact of the transformation now underway in Johor on the future capacity and willingness of the state to continue supplying water to Singapore? This NTS Insight explores the stresses on water availability in Johor, and argues that these, together with increasing politicisation of water within Malaysia itself, could potentially be critical for Singapore-Johor water relations. This is part of a series exploring the changing Singapore-Johor relationship in the sectors of freshwater, air and maritime ecosystems.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/08/22
|
Integration, Implication, and Future Directions, the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Public Symposium Reflects on the ASEAN Community
Author(s): Danny Lee, ASEAN Secretariat
Download
|
This is a news release written by Mr Danny Lee (Director for Community Affairs at the ASEAN Secretariat) on the ASEAN-Canada Forum and Symposium held in Ho Chi Minh on 19-21 August 2013.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/08/21
|
A Tale of Two Farms: Agricultural Support in India and Thailand
Download
|
For agricultural subsidies to be efficient in improving farmers' incomes and eradicating hunger, holistic policy intervention is required. Complementary policies such as increased access to credit and information and improved farm infrastructure ...moreFor agricultural subsidies to be efficient in improving farmers' incomes and eradicating hunger, holistic policy intervention is required. Complementary policies such as increased access to credit and information and improved farm infrastructure are essential in realising the objectives of such programs.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/08/19
|
NTS Bulletin August 2013
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony
Download
|
A recent cover of the Economist magazine asked: 'Has the Arab Spring failed?' More questions along this line will certainly come as the international community follows closely the political developments in the Arab world. Already, many analysts and ...moreA recent cover of the Economist magazine asked: 'Has the Arab Spring failed?' More questions along this line will certainly come as the international community follows closely the political developments in the Arab world. Already, many analysts and pundits are wondering how the celebrated Arab Spring of 2011 that led to the breathtaking end of dictatorial regimes in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen could have gone awry.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/08/15
|
Plugging Cyber Warfare Governance: Asia Should Act Now
Author(s): Elina Noor
Download
|
While academics debate whether cyber warfare is even possible within the traditional notion of war, three realities need to be confronted. Thus far silent on the issue, Asia must now contribute to the evolution of laws to govern cyber warfare.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/08/15
|
Expert Working Group Meeting on Advancing Urban Resilience in the Face of Environmental Change
Author(s): RSIS Centre for NTS Studies
Download
|
In April 2013, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies held an Expert Working Group Meeting to examine the challenges building urban resilience within the context of environmental change. The meeting highlighted the costs, ...moreIn April 2013, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies held an Expert Working Group Meeting to examine the challenges building urban resilience within the context of environmental change. The meeting highlighted the costs, benefits and trade-offs associated with resilience building, and the financing and capacity gaps that require urgent attention from all stakeholders.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/08/15
|
Studying Southeast Asian Religious Conflicts: Bringing Back Religion
Author(s): Kumar Ramakrishna
Download
|
The study of Southeast Asian religious conflicts paradoxically downplays the role of religion in these struggles in favour of essentially nationalist grievances. New insights from the natural sciences suggest that religion should be brought back to ...moreThe study of Southeast Asian religious conflicts paradoxically downplays the role of religion in these struggles in favour of essentially nationalist grievances. New insights from the natural sciences suggest that religion should be brought back to the fore in such studies.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/08/15
|
Attacks in Central Mindanao: Overestimating the Bangsamoro Splinter Group
Author(s): Joseph Franco
Download
|
Attacks attributed to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Mindanao have raised concerns of possible implications on the negotiations between the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). A calibrated response to the ...moreAttacks attributed to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Mindanao have raised concerns of possible implications on the negotiations between the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). A calibrated response to the BIFF - an MILF splinter group - is necessary to protect the gains in the peace process.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/08/13
|
'Uncloaking the Haze': An Eye-opening Discussion
Author(s): Terry Xu (The Online Citizen)
Download
|
This article discusses the three talks delivered during a seminar organised at the NTUC Centre on 29 July 2013 on the haze issue in Singapore. One of the speakers was Dr J. Jackson Ewing, Research Fellow in the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/07/31
|
A new paradigm for food security: Robustness as an end goal
Author(s): Paul Teng and Maria C.S. Morales
Download
|
Food security at the national level is now recognised to be dependent on a complex set of factors which interact and collectively influence the availability of food, its supply chains, its affordability and its utilisation. Threats to one or more ...moreFood security at the national level is now recognised to be dependent on a complex set of factors which interact and collectively influence the availability of food, its supply chains, its affordability and its utilisation. Threats to one or more of these factors may exert effects on other factors such that the overall food security situation is jeopardised. Countries therefore need to have the means to stay robust so that the disrupting effects of some factors may be ameliorated by others. Achieving a high level of food security robustness ensures more stable and sustainable food access for current and future populations.
|
Food Security
|
Output
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/07/30
|
Hazed and Confused: A Transboundary Environmental Problem Run Amok
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
This is a video of Dr Jackson Ewing's talk on the haze problem on 29 July 2013 at the NTUC Centre. His talk explored the economic and social drivers of the haze, recent response efforts, reasons behind their shortcomings, and the prospects for ...moreThis is a video of Dr Jackson Ewing's talk on the haze problem on 29 July 2013 at the NTUC Centre. His talk explored the economic and social drivers of the haze, recent response efforts, reasons behind their shortcomings, and the prospects for future actions.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Activities / Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2013/07/29
|
ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2015: Opportunities and challenges for food security
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Paul Teng and Belinda Chng
Download
|
This NTS Policy Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Group Meeting on the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2015: Opportunities and Challenges for Food Security held in June 2013. A key message from the meeting was that food security has to ...moreThis NTS Policy Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Group Meeting on the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2015: Opportunities and Challenges for Food Security held in June 2013. A key message from the meeting was that food security has to be a priority agenda for the AEC, and several issues were flagged: (1) current impediments to agricultural trade and food production; (2) standardisation mechanisms and regulatory frameworks; (3) disjunctions between regional arrangements and domestic policies; and (4) public-private partnerships.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/07/25
|
Cyberwarfare: Logged and loaded, but wither Asia?
Author(s): Elina Noor
Download
|
Cyber operations could have as devastating an impact on populations as conventional military weapons. With militaries already in the process of developing cyberwarfare as a means of battle, there is an urgent need for policymakers to understand ...moreCyber operations could have as devastating an impact on populations as conventional military weapons. With militaries already in the process of developing cyberwarfare as a means of battle, there is an urgent need for policymakers to understand this new realm and develop norms and rules to govern it. In this respect, the developing world has lagged behind the developed world. With more and more countries wiring their infrastructure to cyberspace, however, the developing world cannot afford to be left out of the international discussion on cyberwarfare. This NTS Insight discusses how the developing world can build capacity in this area.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/07/23
|
Nuclear Energy Development in Southeast Asia (published in Engineering World)
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil and Lina Gong
Download
|
Southeast Asia is witnessing a revival of interest in civil nuclear energy development in the region. Behind this shift are factors such as political transition in Japan, the lure of economic benefits and incentives, and continuing efforts to ...moreSoutheast Asia is witnessing a revival of interest in civil nuclear energy development in the region. Behind this shift are factors such as political transition in Japan, the lure of economic benefits and incentives, and continuing efforts to promulgate the view that the nuclear option is safe. Enhancing nuclear safety must thus remain a priority, and the role of regional platforms must be strengthened towards this end.
|
Energy Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/07/22
|
ASEAN - A Warp of the Recent Talks (aired on 938LIVE)
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony
Download
|
The ASEAN ministerial meeting has wrapped up. And not surprisingly, the regional haze crisis and the establishment of a binding code of conduct in the South China Sea emerged as some of the central issues at the meetings. 938LIVE's Reeta Raman ...moreThe ASEAN ministerial meeting has wrapped up. And not surprisingly, the regional haze crisis and the establishment of a binding code of conduct in the South China Sea emerged as some of the central issues at the meetings. 938LIVE's Reeta Raman spoke with Dr Mely Caballero Anthony, former director of external relations at the ASEAN Secretariat, and asked her to give her analysis on the issues that transpired.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/07/22
|
ASEAN Haze Meet
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Dr J. Jackson Ewing, Research Fellow of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, speaks to 938Live on the issue of sharing of digitised land-use maps and concession maps of fire-prone areas that cause transboundary haze on a government-to-government basis. ...moreDr J. Jackson Ewing, Research Fellow of the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies, speaks to 938Live on the issue of sharing of digitised land-use maps and concession maps of fire-prone areas that cause transboundary haze on a government-to-government basis. ASEAN environment ministers have raised the issue of sharing this information following the recent haze problem.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/07/18
|
NTS Bulletin July 2013
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
The intensity of the recent haze came as a shock to many in Singapore, as the pollutant standards index (PSI) went beyond the level considered hazardous. The economic and health impacts from this episode could turn out to be the most acute ever ...moreThe intensity of the recent haze came as a shock to many in Singapore, as the pollutant standards index (PSI) went beyond the level considered hazardous. The economic and health impacts from this episode could turn out to be the most acute ever seen. Poor visibility impeded trade and tourism, and the productivity of workers declined in tandem with rising health concerns. Outdoor businesses such as cafes also experienced reduced economic activity.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/07/18
|
Conflict in Southern Thailand: Seed for security sector reform?
Author(s): Keokam Kraisoraphong
Download
|
This paper explores the prospects for security sector reform (SSR) in Thailand in light of the protracted violent conflict in its southern provinces. The central question is whether the Thai military, known for its past success in ending communist ...moreThis paper explores the prospects for security sector reform (SSR) in Thailand in light of the protracted violent conflict in its southern provinces. The central question is whether the Thai military, known for its past success in ending communist insurgency, has the adaptability and flexibility to cope with the current violent resistance to state authority in the country's south. To answer that, it would be necessary to first understand the context under which the military was successful in quelling the communist insurgency of the past, and the situation in the south today. As this paper shows, the two cases differ in fundamental ways; and the paper concludes with guarded optimism that the military would adjust its conflict management approach to address the challenges posed by the changed circumstances.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/07/17
|
A Haze-Free ASEAN: Will the Vision Go Up in Smoke?
Author(s): Yang Razali Kassim
Download
|
ASEAN ministers meet in Kuala Lumpur this week for urgent talks to tackle the latest haze problem in Indonesia that has choked neighbouring countries. Concrete plans must be made to work to prevent the vision of a haze-free ASEAN going up in smoke.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/07/16
|
Fuel Price Hike and Indonesia's Energy Insecurity
Author(s): Margareth Sembiring and Yoes C. Kenawas
Download
|
Fuel price hikes have always been unpopular in Indonesia, largely because of their wide-ranging impact on the population. Yet, it is undeniable that the current high subsidies are unsustainable. To move forward on this issue then, the government ...moreFuel price hikes have always been unpopular in Indonesia, largely because of their wide-ranging impact on the population. Yet, it is undeniable that the current high subsidies are unsustainable. To move forward on this issue then, the government would need to focus on comprehensive measures that carefully calibrate the impacts on the various stakeholders.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/07/11
|
Haze and Air Pollution: The Potential Health Crisis
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
The link between environmental health and health security has always been understated. The lack of multi-sectoral mechanisms to address the health consequences of air pollution caused by forest fires can have detrimental effects on the region's ...moreThe link between environmental health and health security has always been understated. The lack of multi-sectoral mechanisms to address the health consequences of air pollution caused by forest fires can have detrimental effects on the region's critical social infrastructure - its people.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/07/02
|
Porous borders in a changing world: What does this mean for security in Southeast Asia?
Author(s): Carolina G. Hernandez
Download
|
The issue of borders, their porosity and the security challenges they create amid a rapidly changing regional and global strategic environment is indeed a serious one for Southeast Asia. The criticality of this issue was vividly illustrated by the ...moreThe issue of borders, their porosity and the security challenges they create amid a rapidly changing regional and global strategic environment is indeed a serious one for Southeast Asia. The criticality of this issue was vividly illustrated by the Sabah crisis in March 2013.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2013/07/02
|
The Haze and ASEAN: Environmental Politics, Diplomacy and Stability
Author(s): Yang Razali Kassim
Download
|
The haze problem that was threatening to worsen into a new regional crisis appears to have been somewhat defused for now. If diplomacy fails to overcome environmental politics in the longer run, will the region lose faith in its largest member ...moreThe haze problem that was threatening to worsen into a new regional crisis appears to have been somewhat defused for now. If diplomacy fails to overcome environmental politics in the longer run, will the region lose faith in its largest member Indonesia?
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/07/02
|
More Being Done to Fight Human Trafficking (published in The Straits Times)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
Over the past year, the Singapore authorities have intensified enforcement efforts to combat human trafficking, which local human rights advocates say remains a worrying problem, contributing to estimated annual profits in Asia of US$10 billion ...moreOver the past year, the Singapore authorities have intensified enforcement efforts to combat human trafficking, which local human rights advocates say remains a worrying problem, contributing to estimated annual profits in Asia of US$10 billion (S$12.9 billion).
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/30
|
Less Hunger, but More Health Hazards (published in Development and Corporation Magazine)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Human nutrition has improved markedly in the Asia-Pacific region in the past half century, thanks to green revolution technologies and the prioritisation of food production. Price volatility still hurts poor people however. Moreover, new health ...moreHuman nutrition has improved markedly in the Asia-Pacific region in the past half century, thanks to green revolution technologies and the prioritisation of food production. Price volatility still hurts poor people however. Moreover, new health concerns arise due to greater fat intake or hazardous pesticide levels for instance.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/30
|
Inter-Religious Violence in Myanmar: A Security Threat to Southeast Asia
Author(s): Eliane Coates
Download
|
Continuing inter-religious violence in Myanmar is spilling over into neighbouring countries as seen in recent attacks between groups within the Myanmar migrant community in Kuala Lumpur. If left unchecked, such spillovers will pose a threat to ...moreContinuing inter-religious violence in Myanmar is spilling over into neighbouring countries as seen in recent attacks between groups within the Myanmar migrant community in Kuala Lumpur. If left unchecked, such spillovers will pose a threat to Southeast Asian security and stability.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/06/28
|
NTS Bulletin June 2013
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Providing essential services to Asia's booming cities is becoming difficult.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/06/27
|
Transitional justice in South and Southeast Asia: Integrating judicial and non-judicial measures
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
Transitional justice redresses legacies of past gross violations of human rights, through mechanisms such as prosecutions, truth-finding, reparation and institutional reforms. As each mechanism has its limitations, transitional justice processes ...moreTransitional justice redresses legacies of past gross violations of human rights, through mechanisms such as prosecutions, truth-finding, reparation and institutional reforms. As each mechanism has its limitations, transitional justice processes that integrate different measures and constructively engage with stakeholders would be more effective in healing the wounds from past wrongdoings. Three factors are seen to be key: the capacity and political will of the government concerned, participation of local communities and civil society, and international involvement.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/06/25
|
Eating in the 'Little Red Dot': Singapore Searches for Food Security in the face of Land Scarcity
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Dr J. Jackson Ewing, Research Fellow in the Centre, presented on 'Eating in the "Little Red Dot": Singapore Searches for Food Security in the face of Land Scarcity' as part of the Global Innoversity programme hosted by Michigan State University and ...moreDr J. Jackson Ewing, Research Fellow in the Centre, presented on 'Eating in the "Little Red Dot": Singapore Searches for Food Security in the face of Land Scarcity' as part of the Global Innoversity programme hosted by Michigan State University and supported by Nanyang Technological University.
|
Food Security
|
Activities / Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2013/06/25
|
What Singapore and Indonesia Can Do to Fight the Haze
(published in The Straits Times)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
The unrelenting haze is back. A smoky fog began descending upon Singapore and parts of Malaysia on June 13 and by June 17, was readily observable by sight and smell across thousands of square kilometres.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/22
|
Singapore Smog Casts Diplomatic Cloud (published in Al Jazeera)
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Haze from burning palm oil plantations in Indonesia has left the two nations at loggerheads over pollution.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/22
|
Smog in Singapore from Indonesia fires Could Last for Weeks (quote in Reuters)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Haze from fires in Indonesia blanketing Singapore could persist for weeks or longer, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Thursday, as the smoke drove air quality to "hazardous" levels and disrupted business and travel in the region.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/20
|
Haze over Southeast Asia: Battling Transboundary Pollution Together
Author(s): J Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Transboundary haze originating from Indonesia is again polluting areas of Southeast Asia. Lamenting this situation and demonising Indonesia will do little to address the issue, however. More robust and pragmatic cooperation is needed, but Jakarta ...moreTransboundary haze originating from Indonesia is again polluting areas of Southeast Asia. Lamenting this situation and demonising Indonesia will do little to address the issue, however. More robust and pragmatic cooperation is needed, but Jakarta has to play its part.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/06/20
|
Rethinking Food Security:
Robustness as a Paradigm for Stability
Author(s): Paul P.S. Teng and Maria Carmencita S. Morales
Download
|
Food security depends on stability in the supply of affordable, safe and nutritious food. However, such stability depends on a robust system which balances a range of factors. Food security robustness needs to become the policy goal of governments.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/06/19
|
Singapore Pressures Indonesia to Identify Firms Behind Haze
(quote in TODAYonline)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Singapore's worst air pollution in 16 years sparked diplomatic tension today (June 18), as the city-state urged Indonesia to provide satellite data to enable it to act against plantation firms that allow slash-and-burn farming.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/06/18
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 36
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim and Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2013/06/14
|
The Arms Trade Treaty: Implications for Southeast Asia
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
The global Arms Trade Treaty, signed this month, offers an opportunity for countries in Southeast Asia to collectively address the longstanding issue of small arms and light weapons proliferation. The treaty could in the long run help reduce gun ...moreThe global Arms Trade Treaty, signed this month, offers an opportunity for countries in Southeast Asia to collectively address the longstanding issue of small arms and light weapons proliferation. The treaty could in the long run help reduce gun violence and improve prospects for negotiated settlements in protracted internal armed conflicts in the region.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/06/12
|
Roundtable on Managing Cross-border Movements of People: Promoting Capacity and Response for Irregular Migration
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
In November 2012, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies brought together researchers, policymakers and representatives of international and regional organisations as well as civil society from across the Asia-Pacific region ...moreIn November 2012, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies brought together researchers, policymakers and representatives of international and regional organisations as well as civil society from across the Asia-Pacific region with the aim of teasing out the critical issues in managing irregular migration. This report documents the presentations and discussions, which covered human trafficking, human smuggling and undocumented labour; asylum seekers and refugees; and climate change-induced refugees.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/06/11
|
Advancing urban resilience in the face of environmental change
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
This NTS Issues Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Working Group Meeting on Advancing Urban Resilience in the Face of Environmental Change held in April 2013. It highlights several issues that were flagged by meeting participants as ...moreThis NTS Issues Brief is based on the proceedings of the Expert Working Group Meeting on Advancing Urban Resilience in the Face of Environmental Change held in April 2013. It highlights several issues that were flagged by meeting participants as being of vital importance: (1) integrating resilience and development goals; (2) fostering governance systems that can balance competing urban interests; and (3) recognising and capitalising on the convergence of finance, technology and information management.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/06/04
|
Community Engagement and Environmental Management
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, J. Jackson Ewing, Alistair D.B. Cook, Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Community-level engagement is essential for responsible resource development. This chapter offers principles to guide resource development projects in ways that bring relevant communities into the fray and presents some essential characteristics of ...moreCommunity-level engagement is essential for responsible resource development. This chapter offers principles to guide resource development projects in ways that bring relevant communities into the fray and presents some essential characteristics of effective community engagement within multiple contexts. It concludes by exploring recent policies in Myanmar that speak to community engagement on resource development.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2013/06/01
|
In conversation with Bharat Dahiya
Author(s): Bharat Dahiya
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Advancing Urban Resilience in the face of Environmental Change' held on 22-23 April 2013.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2013/06/01
|
In conversation with Jingmin Huang
Author(s): Dr Jingmin Huang
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Advancing Urban Resilience in the face of Environmental Change' held on 22-23 April 2013.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2013/06/01
|
In conversation with Ratri Sutarto
Author(s): Ratri Sutarto
Download
|
This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Advancing Urban Resilience in the face of Environmental Change' held on 22-23 April 2013.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Activities / Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2013/06/01
|
Climate Change: Just as Dangerous for Southeast Asia
Author(s): Le Dinh Tinh
Download
|
Climate change as a topic of security has been under-discussed. While research has been made and action taken, a policy deficit would pose a real threat to Southeast Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/05/30
|
Financing climate adaptation in the Asia-Pacific: Avoiding flawed aid paradigms
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
The Asia-Pacific is highly vulnerable to the intertwined physical and social impacts of climate change, and effective adaptation measures are a regional imperative. Such climate adaptation plans are predicated in part on external assistance that is ...moreThe Asia-Pacific is highly vulnerable to the intertwined physical and social impacts of climate change, and effective adaptation measures are a regional imperative. Such climate adaptation plans are predicated in part on external assistance that is actuated through financial mechanisms. What is less clear is how these mechanisms actually operate, what problems they foment and what pitfalls need to avoided in future policies. In the course of addressing these points, this NTS Insight warns of a potential 'climate finance curse' akin to the 'aid curse' described in broader development literature, and identifies pathways for avoiding such risks.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/05/27
|
Multilevel approaches to human security and conflict management: The Rohingya case
Author(s): C.R. Abrar
Download
|
The Rohingyas in Rakhine state, Myanmar, have been categorised by the UN as the most persecuted minority of the world. This brief discusses the plight of the members of the Rohingya community since June 2012 in both Myanmar and neighbouring ...moreThe Rohingyas in Rakhine state, Myanmar, have been categorised by the UN as the most persecuted minority of the world. This brief discusses the plight of the members of the Rohingya community since June 2012 in both Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh, where they have been attempting to secure asylum. The case of the Rohingyas highlights the relevance of a widening of the security agenda. The two concepts currently in vogue in security studies - human security and the Responsibility to Protect (RtoP) - are operationalised when attempts to explain the turn of events affecting the Rohingyas are made and policy actions for the governments of Myanmar and Bangladesh as well as regional and international agencies are recommended.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/05/21
|
Is Region Ready for a New Pandemic? (published in The Edge Review)
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Ten years after South-east Asia's experience with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), the region's capacity to respond must be reassessed.
|
Health Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/05/20
|
SEA Must Take Better Shot at Gun Control
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
The world's first arms trade treaty could have major implications for our region.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/05/19
|
NTS Bulletin May 2013
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
After seven years of negotiations, the UN finally approved the first ever Arms Trade Treaty by an overwhelming majority. The treaty covers a range of conventional arms, from battle tanks to combat aircraft and small arms and light weapons (SALWs).
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/05/16
|
Re-emerging Infectious Diseases: Is ASEAN Prepared?
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
The recent H7N9 outbreak in China combined with the new SARS-related coronavirus in the Middle East has raised the urgency for ASEAN to prepare for a possible pandemic.
|
Health Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/05/15
|
Clearing the Air (pgs 16-19)
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Elizabeth McRae
Download
|
Dr J. Jackson Ewing and Ms Elizabeth McRae, Research Fellow and former Intern at the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies respectively, wrote an article titled 'Clearing the Air' that was published in the May-June edition of envision, a bi-monthly magazine ...moreDr J. Jackson Ewing and Ms Elizabeth McRae, Research Fellow and former Intern at the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies respectively, wrote an article titled 'Clearing the Air' that was published in the May-June edition of envision, a bi-monthly magazine of Singapore's National Environment Agency
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/05/03
|
Enhancing Global and Regional Mechanisms for Conflict Management and Resolution
Author(s): Professor Ibrahim Gambari
Download
|
In this paper, Prof Gambari provides an overview of the global perspectives on conflict management and conflict resolution and the international and regional efforts to address them. He begins with some general and theoretical observations followed ...moreIn this paper, Prof Gambari provides an overview of the global perspectives on conflict management and conflict resolution and the international and regional efforts to address them. He begins with some general and theoretical observations followed by a synopsis of three case studies (Cyprus, Darfur/Sudan and Myanmar), each one chosen from three regions (Europe, Africa and Asia), based on his direct involvement in helping to resolve them. He then made some concluding remarks and recommendations on enhancing the mechanisms for conflict management and resolution
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Experts / Resources
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/05/02
|
Emergency return of Bangladeshi migrants from Libya
Author(s): Tasneem Siddiqui and M. Rashed Alam Bhuiyan
Download
|
Few studies have been done on the vulnerabilities faced by migrants during events such as civil war, regime change or a global financial crisis. This NTS Working Paper presents the results of a research project that aims to address this gap. The ...moreFew studies have been done on the vulnerabilities faced by migrants during events such as civil war, regime change or a global financial crisis. This NTS Working Paper presents the results of a research project that aims to address this gap. The study examines the case of Bangladeshi migrant workers who were forced to return to the Bangladesh because of the turmoil in Libya in 2011. Using data from surveys and interviews, this study provides a picture of their entire migration experience, from point of preparing for migration to the specific threats and challenges they faced as a result of the crisis in Libya. Its findings suggest that the burden of such events fall disproportionately to migrants and their families. It therefore recommends that the global migration regime should be reviewed, with issues of sharing of burden and risks by destination countries and employers given greater priority.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/04/29
|
The Myanmar Government and Ethnic Minorities: An Unhappy Marriage
Author(s): Kaewkamol Pitakdumrongkit
Download
|
The recent communal rioting in Meiktila has led critics to doubt the Myanmar government's ability to cope with its ethnic issue. Although outside efforts have failed to pressure Myanmar to institute improvements, the government will be able to curb ...moreThe recent communal rioting in Meiktila has led critics to doubt the Myanmar government's ability to cope with its ethnic issue. Although outside efforts have failed to pressure Myanmar to institute improvements, the government will be able to curb its ethnic tensions and prevent them from spiraling out of control, making regional instability unlikely while continuing the relationship of an unhappy marriage.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/04/25
|
Will the resource tide lift all boats? Responsible development in Myanmar
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Political and economic reforms in Myanmar have brought a wide range of companies and state enterprises to its doorstep - all eager to tap the country's abundant natural resources and its growth potential. However, in the absence of strong ...morePolitical and economic reforms in Myanmar have brought a wide range of companies and state enterprises to its doorstep - all eager to tap the country's abundant natural resources and its growth potential. However, in the absence of strong regulatory frameworks, Myanmar could fall victim to its own resource abundance. What is required therefore are frameworks for responsible resource management founded on the principles of transparency, accountability and community engagement. Such frameworks are essential for ensuring that Myanmar's natural wealth leads to sustainable and widely beneficial development, and will only grow in importance as the country becomes more integrated into regional and global economic systems.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/04/23
|
NTS Bulletin April 2013
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Against the trends of increasing global travel, rapid urbanisation and growing population, the threat of infectious diseases looms large on the horizon. In Asia, the series of health crises brought on by SARS in 2003 and bird flu in 2005 remains a ...moreAgainst the trends of increasing global travel, rapid urbanisation and growing population, the threat of infectious diseases looms large on the horizon. In Asia, the series of health crises brought on by SARS in 2003 and bird flu in 2005 remains a constant reminder that infectious diseases bring about grave impacts that extend to the economy and political-security stability.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/04/18
|
Security implications of climate change: A case study of Bangladesh
Author(s): Major General A.N.M. Muniruzzaman (Retd)
Download
|
Climate change is a major non-traditional security (NTS) challenge for Bangladesh. Sea level rise, and the possible loss of land mass, represents an existential threat to the country. More immediately, thousands of people are directly and ...moreClimate change is a major non-traditional security (NTS) challenge for Bangladesh. Sea level rise, and the possible loss of land mass, represents an existential threat to the country. More immediately, thousands of people are directly and indirectly suffering from the impacts of climate events. This NTS Policy Brief highlights key climate change-related challenges facing Bangladesh. It goes on to provide policy recommendations for governmental as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs) dealing with the climate vulnerabilities experienced by Bangladesh.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/04/11
|
The ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR): Cooperation, commitment and contradictions
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
This NTS Working Paper examines the prospects for the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) launched in July 2012. It looks at whether the APTERR can overcome the limitations of past rice reserves, which include low stocks and ...moreThis NTS Working Paper examines the prospects for the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) launched in July 2012. It looks at whether the APTERR can overcome the limitations of past rice reserves, which include low stocks and inefficient supply processes, and thus contribute to improving the food security of ASEAN member states through a more stable rice sector. In particular, it highlights inconsistencies in the extent to which different countries are committed to the APTERR, a fundamental issue given that one of the scheme's objectives is to promote regional cooperation in the rice sector.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2013/03/26
|
NTS Bulletin March 2013
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
In February, when the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh sentenced two men for crimes committed during the independence war of 1971, deadly protests followed. The violence calls into question the effectiveness of 'transitional justice' - ...moreIn February, when the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh sentenced two men for crimes committed during the independence war of 1971, deadly protests followed. The violence calls into question the effectiveness of 'transitional justice' - or attempts to provide redress for past large-scale human rights abuses. Could transitional justice help heal bitter societal schisms rooted in those crimes?
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/03/21
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 35
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim and Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2013/03/15
|
China's Food Security: From Self-Sufficiency to a Dual Strategy
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
As self-sufficiency is no longer an option for China, a dual food security strategy is emerging which aims to utilise both domestic and international resources.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/03/14
|
Nuclear energy development in Southeast Asia: Implications for Singapore
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil and Lina Gong
Download
|
Southeast Asia is witnessing a revival of interest in civil nuclear energy development in the region. Behind this shift are factors such as political transition in Japan, the lure of economic benefits and incentives, and continuing efforts to ...moreSoutheast Asia is witnessing a revival of interest in civil nuclear energy development in the region. Behind this shift are factors such as political transition in Japan, the lure of economic benefits and incentives, and continuing efforts to promulgate the view that the nuclear option is safe. Given the potential transboundary consequences of nuclear accidents, these developments have implications for the security and safety of Singapore's population. Enhancing nuclear safety must thus remain a priority, and the role of regional platforms must be strengthened towards this end.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2013/03/14
|
Non-Traditional Security in Asia: Issues, Challenges and Framework for Action
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
This book examines the critical security challenges faced by states and societies in Asia including health, food, water, natural disasters, internal conflict, forced migration, energy, transnational crime, and cyber security. Through the ...moreThis book examines the critical security challenges faced by states and societies in Asia including health, food, water, natural disasters, internal conflict, forced migration, energy, transnational crime, and cyber security. Through the development of a comprehensive analytical framework that establishes the key ingredients to policy evaluation, the editors draw on a wide variety of experts to collaborate in investigating these crucial issues. This inclusive framework ensures that all voices are heard including those oftentimes under-represented and marginalised in society to ensure that academic and policy debates are well-informed about the often complex and nuanced nature of these non-traditional security challenges.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2013/03/01
|
The Lancang-Mekong River Basin: Reflections on cooperation mechanisms pertaining to a shared watercourse
Author(s): Apichai Sunchindah
Download
|
The ambitious development plans for the Lancang-Mekong River Basin (LMRB) could have serious environmental, social, cultural and even geopolitical ramifications that could in turn destabilise the Mekong Subregion (MS). On the premise that ...moreThe ambitious development plans for the Lancang-Mekong River Basin (LMRB) could have serious environmental, social, cultural and even geopolitical ramifications that could in turn destabilise the Mekong Subregion (MS). On the premise that frameworks for regional cooperation offer a viable route through which to manage such complex issues in a sustainable and mutually satisfactory manner, this NTS Policy Brief discusses existing and potential arrangements, elaborating on how they can leverage on each other's strengths to contribute to durable cooperation and peace.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/02/28
|
NTS Bulletin February 2013
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Sally Trethewie
Download
|
January 2013 saw weather and environmental extremes across the globe pose severe threats to lives and livelihoods. Unprecedented hot weather and heavy flooding were seen in Australia. Abnormally cold weather hit China, western Russia and South ...moreJanuary 2013 saw weather and environmental extremes across the globe pose severe threats to lives and livelihoods. Unprecedented hot weather and heavy flooding were seen in Australia. Abnormally cold weather hit China, western Russia and South Asia. Areas of North and South America battled some of the worst droughts of the past century.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/02/21
|
Rohingya Boat People: A Challenge for Southeast Asia
Author(s): Eliane Coates
Download
|
The exodus of many Rohingya over the past year has brought increased international awareness to their plight, as well as Southeast Asia's inability to deal effectively with forced migration. A regional approach is needed to find a durable solution ...moreThe exodus of many Rohingya over the past year has brought increased international awareness to their plight, as well as Southeast Asia's inability to deal effectively with forced migration. A regional approach is needed to find a durable solution to the influx of Rohingya boat people.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/02/21
|
Will Extreme Weather Spur New Action?
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Sally Trethewie
Download
|
The month of January saw weather and environmental extremes across the globe pose severe threats to lives and livelihoods. In Australia, there was unprecedented hot weather and heavy flooding. Abnormally cold weather hit China, western Russia and ...moreThe month of January saw weather and environmental extremes across the globe pose severe threats to lives and livelihoods. In Australia, there was unprecedented hot weather and heavy flooding. Abnormally cold weather hit China, western Russia and South Asia. Areas of North and South America battled some of the worst droughts of the past century.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/02/19
|
Trading Swords for Ploughshares: How Sajahatra Bangsamoro could bring peace to Mindanao
Author(s): Joseph Chinyong Liow and Joseph Franco
Download
|
11 February 2013 marked another milestone in the peace process between the Philippines Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) with new initiatives to address the socio-economic roots of conflict. They underscore President ...more11 February 2013 marked another milestone in the peace process between the Philippines Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) with new initiatives to address the socio-economic roots of conflict. They underscore President Aquino's commitment and bode well for the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB).
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/02/18
|
Disasters in Southeast Asia's Megacities: Protecting the Informal Sector
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil and Mushahid Ali
Download
|
In the megacities of developing Southeast Asia, the important role of the informal sector in supporting economic development is often under-recognised. Cities seeking to address the economic risks and financial costs of natural hazards have to ...moreIn the megacities of developing Southeast Asia, the important role of the informal sector in supporting economic development is often under-recognised. Cities seeking to address the economic risks and financial costs of natural hazards have to improve the resilience of the informal sector many of whom are from the low-income groups.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/02/15
|
Managing cross-border movements of people in Southeast Asia: Promoting capacity and response for irregular migration in Southeast Asia
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This NTS Issues Brief outlines themes highlighted at the roundtable workshop on Managing Cross-Border Movements of People in Southeast Asia: Promoting Capacity and Response for Irregular Migration held in November 2012 (an event supported by the ...moreThis NTS Issues Brief outlines themes highlighted at the roundtable workshop on Managing Cross-Border Movements of People in Southeast Asia: Promoting Capacity and Response for Irregular Migration held in November 2012 (an event supported by the MacArthur Foundation). The limitations of state-centric, law enforcement-oriented approaches were a key area of concern, and alternative approaches were explored. Other prominent issues identified were climate change-induced migration and the need for stronger regional frameworks.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/02/14
|
Behind China's "Grain Miracle": More than Meets the Eye?
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
China reports remarkable increase in grain production every year. Besides concerns over the reliability of its statistics, China's "miraculous" grain production growth may not be sustainable.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2013/02/13
|
Is the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) the answer to Southeast Asia's food security challenges?
Download
|
The recently launched ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) aims to safeguard the region's food security in times of calamity, disaster, supply shock or extreme price spike. The region had previously implemented two regional rice ...moreThe recently launched ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) aims to safeguard the region's food security in times of calamity, disaster, supply shock or extreme price spike. The region had previously implemented two regional rice reserves, but these had struggled to meet the needs of countries experiencing food emergencies. To what extent has the APTERR addressed the shortcomings inherent in the earlier iterations, and is it likely to fare any better? This NTS Alert also notes that the APTERR continues to approach food security through a rice-focused and state-centric lens, and asks whether this is optimal given the increasing complexity of food production and distribution systems.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2013/02/07
|
Singapore Experience from Water Insecurity to Niche Expertise
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
An abridged version of an article on Singapore's water experience written by Prof. Mely Caballero-Anthony (Head of Centre) and PK Hangzo (Associate Research Fellow) was featured in the February/March 2013 edition of Engineering World.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Output
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/02/01
|
Singapore: Niche Diplomacy through Water Expertise
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Through strategic planning and investment in research and technology, strong political will, and effective governance, Singapore has emerged from water insecurity to become a global hydrohub.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/01/31
|
NTS Bulletin January 2013
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Reactions to December's UN climate change talks in Doha have been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the process. Exasperated and often derisive voices lament the vacuous extension of the international agreement to ...moreReactions to December's UN climate change talks in Doha have been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the process. Exasperated and often derisive voices lament the vacuous extension of the international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (the Kyoto Protocol), the pervasive uncertainties besetting funding for climate change efforts in developing countries and failures to heed increasingly clear scientific warnings.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2013/01/24
|
Is 2015 the New Copenhagen?
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Reactions to December's UN climate change talks in Doha have been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the process. Exasperated and often derisive voices lament the vacuous extension of the international agreement to ...moreReactions to December's UN climate change talks in Doha have been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the process. Exasperated and often derisive voices lament the vacuous extension of the international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (the Kyoto Protocol), the pervasive uncertainties besetting funding for climate change efforts in developing countries and failures to heed increasingly clear scientific warnings.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/01/22
|
Connecting the dots: The urban informal sector and climate vulnerabilities in Southeast Asia's megacities
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
In the megacities of developing Southeast Asia, the informal sector plays an important role in supporting economic development. Yet, in discussions of the ramifications of climate-related natural hazards, this sector is often under-recognised. This ...moreIn the megacities of developing Southeast Asia, the informal sector plays an important role in supporting economic development. Yet, in discussions of the ramifications of climate-related natural hazards, this sector is often under-recognised. This NTS Alert notes that the sector, and the people working within it, is often disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate hazards. As such, cities that seek to address the economic risks and financial costs of such hazards must also improve the adaptive capacity and resilience of those in the sector. With low-income groups making up a major part of the sector, this would mean addressing issues that transect with those related to poverty. To that end, this NTS Alert examines initiatives in the region that address the vulnerabilities of the urban poor.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2013/01/22
|
2015 the New Copenhagen? The UNFCCC Process Risks Falling into Faulty Patterns
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
The fallout from the 18th Conference of Parties (COP 18) in Doha, as with a litany of past climate change summits, has been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate ...moreThe fallout from the 18th Conference of Parties (COP 18) in Doha, as with a litany of past climate change summits, has been defined largely by frustration with the pace, scope and ambition of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) processes. Exasperated and often derisive voices lament the vacuous extension of the Kyoto Protocol, pervasive uncertainties on funding mitigation and adaptation efforts in developing countries, and failures to heed increasingly clear scientific warnings. At their core, these and other critiques are simply different versions of discontent over efforts that are seen not to be adequate responses to the climate challenge.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2013/01/19
|
Risk and resilience: Securing energy in insecure spaces
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This issues brief outlines key points brought up at an Energy Security Seminar on 'Risk and Resilience: Securing Energy in Insecure Spaces' held on 29-30 October 2012 in Singapore. Energy vulnerabilities faced by the Asia-Pacific were discussed, ...moreThis issues brief outlines key points brought up at an Energy Security Seminar on 'Risk and Resilience: Securing Energy in Insecure Spaces' held on 29-30 October 2012 in Singapore. Energy vulnerabilities faced by the Asia-Pacific were discussed, and the need for a new regional architecture based on cooperation emphasised. This seminar was jointly organised by the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies and the Singapore Ministry of Defence for government representatives from defence and security agencies in the Asia-Pacific region.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2013/01/08
|
Expert Working Group Meeting on Food Wastage in Southeast Asia
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
The implications of the estimated 30-50 per cent global food wastage for energy, soil, water and human resources are substantial. Recognising the need to pay greater attention to this issue, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) ...more The implications of the estimated 30-50 per cent global food wastage for energy, soil, water and human resources are substantial. Recognising the need to pay greater attention to this issue, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies convened an Expert Working Group Meeting on Food Wastage in Southeast Asia. The meeting, held in August 2012, brought together international and regional experts from diverse sectors. This report provides an overview of the gaps in research and interventions that were identified at the meeting.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/12/30
|
RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies Year in Review 2012
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
Non-traditional security (NTS) issues, which are often transboundary in nature, require strategies of cooperation and collaboration. Thus, the availability of effective platforms for dialogue and negotiations is of vital importance. In view of ...moreNon-traditional security (NTS) issues, which are often transboundary in nature, require strategies of cooperation and collaboration. Thus, the availability of effective platforms for dialogue and negotiations is of vital importance. In view of this, the NTS Year in Review 2012 focuses on assessing the role of regional and international institutions in tackling NTS issues in the climate, energy, food, health and water sectors. This NTS Year in Review also discusses the evolution of NTS over the past two decades: its emergence as a response to the need for new security paradigms to meet rising challenges, and its continuing relevance to the security challenges of today. In addition, there is a feature on Myanmar, which saw momentous political changes in the past year. We hope you will find this Year in Review informative and thought-provoking.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/12/22
|
Singapore a Global Hydrohub: From Water Insecurity to Niche Water Diplomacy
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Singapore's water-related diplomatic efforts have evolved from bilateral agreements with Malaysia in the early years to international pacts offering water-related expertise to water-stressed countries.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/12/06
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 34
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim and Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2012/12/06
|
China's Food Security: Sourcing from the Seas
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
Facing increasing difficulties to feed its growing population, China is turning to its "blue territories" and high seas for food. While this shift in the food system contributes to China's food security, it also has regional and global implications.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/11/29
|
From water insecurity to niche water diplomacy: The Singapore experience
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony and Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Singapore's water diplomacy has long centred on engaging Malaysia, which it has historically relied on for its freshwater supply. Singapore however recognised fairly early on the insecurity inherent in the asymmetrical dependence on Malaysia, with ...moreSingapore's water diplomacy has long centred on engaging Malaysia, which it has historically relied on for its freshwater supply. Singapore however recognised fairly early on the insecurity inherent in the asymmetrical dependence on Malaysia, with the result that it invested heavily in developing water technologies. This NTS Insight argues that its success in this area has in turn enabled it to develop its particular brand of niche water diplomacy, giving it the wherewithal to exercise considerable influence on international water issues and allowing it to contribute to global water security.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2012/11/27
|
ASEAN, the Rohingyas and Myanmar's Responsibility to Protect
Author(s): Noel Morada
Download
|
How can the central government in Myanmar be encouraged to do more in implementing its responsibility to protect the Rohingyas and affected communities in Rakhine state? What is the role of ASEAN and other international actors in preventing further ...moreHow can the central government in Myanmar be encouraged to do more in implementing its responsibility to protect the Rohingyas and affected communities in Rakhine state? What is the role of ASEAN and other international actors in preventing further escalation of the crisis between the Rohingyas and ethnic Rakhines? This policy brief identifies some recommendations on how Myanmar and ASEAN could work together with the rest of the international community in dealing with the crisis in Rakhine state following the renewed ethnic violence in the area.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Resources
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/11/27
|
In conversation with Nerlita Manalili (Managing Director, NEXUS Agribusiness Solutions)
Author(s): Nerlita Manalili
Download
|
In conversation with Nerlita Manalili (Managing Director, NEXUS Agribusiness Solutions). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Food Wastage in Southeast Asia' held on 23-24 August 2012.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/11/25
|
In conversation with Julian Parfitt (Principal Resource Analyst, Okadene Hollins)
Author(s): Julian Parfitt
Download
|
In conversation with Julian Parfitt (Principal Resource Analyst, Okadene Hollins). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Food Wastage in Southeast Asia' held on 23-24 August 2012.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/11/25
|
In conversation with Johnathan Bloom (Editor, Waste Food.com)
Author(s): Johnathan Bloom
Download
|
In conversation with Johnathan Bloom (Editor, Waste Food.com). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' Expert Working Group Meeting on 'Food Wastage in Southeast Asia' held on 23-24 August 2012.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/11/25
|
ASEAN Human Rights Declaration: A Pragmatic Compromise
Author(s): Joel Ng
Download
|
The ASEAN Human Rights Declaration is a historic document that sets out a common framework for protection of human rights in the region. While some clauses are controversial, the declaration represents the consensus of members with pragmatic ...moreThe ASEAN Human Rights Declaration is a historic document that sets out a common framework for protection of human rights in the region. While some clauses are controversial, the declaration represents the consensus of members with pragmatic concerns for their security.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/11/21
|
Policy Roundtable on Asian Non-Traditional Security
Download
|
This report presents the proceedings of a Policy Roundtable on Asian Non-Traditional Security held in Beijing on 30-31 July 2012. Attended by academics and policymakers from across the region, the Roundtable focused on the following themes: (1) ...moreThis report presents the proceedings of a Policy Roundtable on Asian Non-Traditional Security held in Beijing on 30-31 July 2012. Attended by academics and policymakers from across the region, the Roundtable focused on the following themes: (1) climate change, environmental security and natural disasters; (2) economic crises and human security; (3) energy and human security; and (4) multilevel approaches to human security and conflict management.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/11/20
|
Food Security: Gut Issue in Asia, Pacific (BusinessMirror)
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Professor Teng sounded a clarion call for government policy-makers in the Asia-Pacific region to give top priority to food security. This is an urgent matter that we could no longer afford to ignore, or else we are in for a hard landing as far as ...moreProfessor Teng sounded a clarion call for government policy-makers in the Asia-Pacific region to give top priority to food security. This is an urgent matter that we could no longer afford to ignore, or else we are in for a hard landing as far as food supply is concerned.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/11/17
|
Dynamism in Asian Food Systems
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Asia faces escalating food challenges. Environmental stresses and urbanization are the two primary factors shaping Asia's food security picture. The region is deeply endowed with natural resources that are valuable for agriculture, yet ...moreAsia faces escalating food challenges. Environmental stresses and urbanization are the two primary factors shaping Asia's food security picture. The region is deeply endowed with natural resources that are valuable for agriculture, yet environmental stresses continue to threaten many key environmental systems and, by extension, future food production. Increased constraints on natural resources in Asia, such as land degradation and water scarcity, put severe pressure on agricultural sustainability and food security in the region.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2012/11/16
|
The Green Climate Fund: An opportunity to rationalise climate finance?
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Is the new Green Climate Fund (GCF) set to be yet another unwieldy addition to the climate finance web? While the form of the GCF, and its functions, has yet to be fully determined, it has been framed in negotiations as an umbrella mechanism for ...moreIs the new Green Climate Fund (GCF) set to be yet another unwieldy addition to the climate finance web? While the form of the GCF, and its functions, has yet to be fully determined, it has been framed in negotiations as an umbrella mechanism for all climate funds. This NTS Alert argues that, as an overarching instrument, its promise lies in the possibility that it could help rationalise the overly complex climate finance architecture, and in the process tackle the critical problems seen in current funding arrangements.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/11/15
|
NTS Bulletin November 2012
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
In September, the Japanese government announced that it would phase out nuclear energy by 2040. Just one week later, it stepped back from specifying an explicit timeframe. The about-turn illustrates Japan's dilemma: should it prioritise safety, or ...moreIn September, the Japanese government announced that it would phase out nuclear energy by 2040. Just one week later, it stepped back from specifying an explicit timeframe. The about-turn illustrates Japan's dilemma: should it prioritise safety, or energy security? With energy demand rising in East Asia, other countries in the region are grappling with the self-same question.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/11/09
|
Chinese Role Critical to Keeping World from Brink of Hunger
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
There has been massive amount of focus on food production, but that is only one piece of the overall issue. There are rich countries and poor countries in the world, but they have similar income distributions in terms of the rich and the poor.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/11/08
|
Plight of the Rohingya: ASEAN Credibility Again at Stake
Author(s): Yang Razali Kassim
Download
|
The suffering of the Rohingya in Myanmar's Rakhine state is putting pressure on ASEAN to intervene. Coming just before their 21st Summit, the wisdom and stewardship of ASEAN leaders will be tested once again.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/11/06
|
Security sector governance (SSG) and conflict management in Indonesia: The Aceh case
Author(s): Rizal Sukma
Download
|
This paper examines the evolution of security sector governance (SSG) in Indonesia, focusing in particular on the effects of security sector reform (SSR) on the management of the secessionist conflicts in the country. It discusses the military's ...moreThis paper examines the evolution of security sector governance (SSG) in Indonesia, focusing in particular on the effects of security sector reform (SSR) on the management of the secessionist conflicts in the country. It discusses the military's use of force as an instrument of conflict management in the years immediately following Indonesia's Independence, arguing that while it is possible to suppress conflicts through military force, such a strategy brings about several problems. The underlying causes of the conflicts may remain unaddressed, and military impunity could increase. These could lead to rising resentment, and eventually escalation of conflicts, as occurred in Indonesia in the late 1990s. This paper argues that to resolve such conflicts, SSR is vital, and it illustrates this through the case of Aceh as an instance of successful resolution of conflict achieved against a backdrop of reform of the military sector.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2012/10/23
|
Panel Discussion with Frontier Strategy Group on Food Security
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
This is a panel discussion with the Frontier Strategy Group (FSG) on the near- and long-term outlook for food security in Asia, key findings of the rice bowl index, and opportunities for cross-sector and cross-border collaboration. Discussants ...moreThis is a panel discussion with the Frontier Strategy Group (FSG) on the near- and long-term outlook for food security in Asia, key findings of the rice bowl index, and opportunities for cross-sector and cross-border collaboration. Discussants include Prof. Paul Teng, Senior Advisor on Food Security in the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies; Dr Lourdes Adriano, Lead Agriculture Sector Specialist, Asian Development Bank (ADB); and Andrew McConville, Head of Corporate Affairs (Asia Pacific), Syngenta.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/10/23
|
The Bangsamoro Framework Agreement: Implications for ASEAN
Author(s): Ava Patricia C. Avila
Download
|
The signing of a Framework Agreement for Bangsamoro between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) may end a 40-year long insurgency. The Philippines may now attract new waves of foreign investment, strengthen ...moreThe signing of a Framework Agreement for Bangsamoro between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) may end a 40-year long insurgency. The Philippines may now attract new waves of foreign investment, strengthen cooperation, economic activity, and tourism among ASEAN nations.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/10/19
|
Transboundary haze in Southeast Asia: Challenges and pathways forward
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Elizabeth McRae
Download
|
Transboundary haze has had wide-ranging impacts in Southeast Asia, on public health, tourism, biodiversity and national economies. In tackling this problem, important questions exist about the trajectory of haze trends in the context of a changing ...moreTransboundary haze has had wide-ranging impacts in Southeast Asia, on public health, tourism, biodiversity and national economies. In tackling this problem, important questions exist about the trajectory of haze trends in the context of a changing climate and of shifting conditions on the ground in Indonesia. This NTS Alert reviews leading knowledge on these points, and explores pathways for tackling the haze issue in the face of the seeming ineffectiveness of ASEAN-level mechanisms.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/10/16
|
NTS Bulletin October 2012
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Singapore's innovative water solutions have been hailed as a success story. Equally impressive, however, is the transformation of its water diplomacy. It has gone from bilateral engagement with Malaysia on water supply, to sharing the benefits of ...moreSingapore's innovative water solutions have been hailed as a success story. Equally impressive, however, is the transformation of its water diplomacy. It has gone from bilateral engagement with Malaysia on water supply, to sharing the benefits of its water management experience with other countries.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/10/12
|
The 2012 Bangsamoro Framework Agreement: Lessons Learned?
Author(s): Joseph Franco
Download
|
The conclusion of the "Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro" between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) brings the 16-year long negotiations to the threshold of a final peace pact. While details still need to be ...moreThe conclusion of the "Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro" between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) brings the 16-year long negotiations to the threshold of a final peace pact. While details still need to be thrashed out, the Framework defused the belligerent discourse of actors opposed to the peace process.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/10/09
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 33
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim, Elizabeth McRae and Sofiah Jamil.
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2012/10/09
|
Tackling urban and rural food wastage in Southeast Asia: Issues and interventions
Author(s): Paul Teng and Sally Trethewie
Download
|
Food wastage is prevalent in Southeast Asia and has significant implications for the region's food, environmental and economic security. It is likely that the region wastes approximately 33 per cent of food, but accurate estimates are not available ...moreFood wastage is prevalent in Southeast Asia and has significant implications for the region's food, environmental and economic security. It is likely that the region wastes approximately 33 per cent of food, but accurate estimates are not available due to a dearth of quantitative information. Wastage occurs at all stages of food supply chains, from the point of production to post-harvest, retail and consumption. Effective interventions to prevent and minimise food wastage exist but are not widely implemented in Southeast Asia. In the context of these issues, the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies hosted an Expert Working Group Meeting in August 2012 to discuss food wastage in Southeast Asia. This policy brief draws on the findings of the meeting and provides several policy recommendations for Southeast Asian governments to address urban and rural food wastage.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/10/04
|
Creating Ripples with Water Diplomacy
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Singapore's innovative water solutions have been hailed as a success story. Equally impressive, however, is the transformation of its water diplomacy. It has gone from bilateral engagement with Malaysia on water supply, to sharing the benefits of ...moreSingapore's innovative water solutions have been hailed as a success story. Equally impressive, however, is the transformation of its water diplomacy. It has gone from bilateral engagement with Malaysia on water supply, to sharing the benefits of its water management experience with other countries.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/09/27
|
Still Falling Short, In Preparing for Disaster
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Apart from being prone to seasonal floods and storms, most ASEAN member states straddle the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Compared to the relentless onslaught of natural calamities, however, the ...moreApart from being prone to seasonal floods and storms, most ASEAN member states straddle the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Compared to the relentless onslaught of natural calamities, however, the development of ASEAN's disaster mitigation mechanisms has been sluggish, if not long overdue.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/09/21
|
Traditional security as a source of non-traditional insecurities - The case of Okinawa
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
Tensions over the US military bases in Okinawa are rooted in the conception of the state as the only referent of security, with national security being defined in military terms. Under this traditional view of security, human security threats ...moreTensions over the US military bases in Okinawa are rooted in the conception of the state as the only referent of security, with national security being defined in military terms. Under this traditional view of security, human security threats arising from the presence of the bases were largely ignored, with the result that anger simmered among the local population, finally breaking out in the 1990s. This NTS Alert argues that the case of Okinawa illustrates the importance of moving away from viewing traditional security and non-traditional security as being mutually exclusive. Instead, the two should be regarded as mutually reinforcing; with traditional security laying the foundations for human security; and attention to non-traditional security issues perhaps allowing the population to understand and accommodate to the country's traditional security needs.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/09/21
|
Reducing Indonesia's Health Risks:
Filtering a Smoke-Free ASEAN?
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
Despite a tobacco control bill, the holding of a tobacco exposition in Jakarta this week 19-21 September thwarts the Indonesian government's smoke-free initiatives. The expo has the effect of making the bill appear to be a mere attempt at filtering ...moreDespite a tobacco control bill, the holding of a tobacco exposition in Jakarta this week 19-21 September thwarts the Indonesian government's smoke-free initiatives. The expo has the effect of making the bill appear to be a mere attempt at filtering the strong influence of the tobacco industry in the region.
|
Health Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/09/17
|
NTS Bulletin September 2012
Author(s): Gianna Gayle H. Amul
Download
|
Apart from being prone to seasonal floods and storms, most ASEAN member states straddle the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, compared to the relentless onslaught of natural calamities in the ...moreApart from being prone to seasonal floods and storms, most ASEAN member states straddle the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, compared to the relentless onslaught of natural calamities in the region, the development of ASEAN's disaster mitigation mechanisms has been sluggish, if not long overdue.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/09/14
|
Rice Bowl Index: Translating Complexity into an Opportunity for Action
Author(s): Paul Teng, Syngenta and Frontier Strategy Group
Download
|
The Rice Bowl Index is an initiative designed to facilitate positive productive dialogue, collaboration and action between governments, the private sector and other key stakeholders in the area of food security. It assesses how robust a country's ...moreThe Rice Bowl Index is an initiative designed to facilitate positive productive dialogue, collaboration and action between governments, the private sector and other key stakeholders in the area of food security. It assesses how robust a country's capacity is to address the challenges of food security. It is not a measure of a country's actual level of food security.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/09/13
|
Transboundary rivers in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya (HKH) region: Beyond the 'water as weapon' rhetoric
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Security analysts have often characterised the phenomenon of hydroelectric dam construction in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya (HKH) region as a zero-sum game. Most notably, they perceive China's dam-building to be part of a calculated strategy aimed at ...moreSecurity analysts have often characterised the phenomenon of hydroelectric dam construction in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya (HKH) region as a zero-sum game. Most notably, they perceive China's dam-building to be part of a calculated strategy aimed at exerting control over this resource at the expense of other riparian countries. This NTS Insight argues that this view is inaccurate. In the case of the transboundary rivers shared by China and South Asia, China's dam-building is, more than anything else, driven by the need to ensure economic growth, and thus its political and social stability. However, as its dams could affect water flows in neighbouring states, a multilateral forum where all stakeholders in China and South Asia can voice their concerns is needed.
|
Energy Security / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2012/09/07
|
Rethinking Energy Security in Asia: A Non-Traditional View of Human Security
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Youngho Chang and Nur Azha Putra
Download
|
Traditionally, the discourse on energy security has centred on the security of the state, in particular, on the security of energy supply and the concomitant preoccupation with geostrategic issues. The rise of non-traditional security (NTS) ...moreTraditionally, the discourse on energy security has centred on the security of the state, in particular, on the security of energy supply and the concomitant preoccupation with geostrategic issues. The rise of non-traditional security (NTS) threats, such as climate change and the impact of rising energy prices on populations, has however led to an awareness of the pressing need to broaden the framing of energy security. This volume thus re-visits energy security using the NTS lens, with a focus on the ways that governments and other actors have approached energy security challenges in some of Asia's fastest-growing states, namely, Indonesia, Singapore, India and China. The cases presented in this volume highlight the complex issues surrounding energy security, with environmental concerns and socioeconomic development inextricably linked to questions of energy sustainability and vulnerability.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/09/02
|
Expert Working Group Meeting on an 'Asian Rice Futures Market'
Download
|
On 22-23 March 2012, the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies hosted an Expert Working Group Meeting to discuss the call for Singapore to consider hosting an international rice futures market. Participants included major rice traders, heads of exchanges, ...moreOn 22-23 March 2012, the RSIS Centre for NTS Studies hosted an Expert Working Group Meeting to discuss the call for Singapore to consider hosting an international rice futures market. Participants included major rice traders, heads of exchanges, economists, researchers, and representatives of governments and international institutions.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/09/02
|
Hidden Hunger
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
Asia is home to two thirds of the world's undernourished people. Sally Trethewie examines why this is and what it means for Singapore.
|
Food Security
|
Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/08/27
|
Cities can be part of solution to food problem
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Since 2008, more people in the world are living in cities than in the countryside. In Asia, with an anticipated two-thirds of its people living in cities by 2050, fewer people will be left in the countryside to grow food, while the aged population ...moreSince 2008, more people in the world are living in cities than in the countryside. In Asia, with an anticipated two-thirds of its people living in cities by 2050, fewer people will be left in the countryside to grow food, while the aged population will be increasing.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/08/24
|
Peace pipeline to pipe dream and back: How the TAPI could change South Asian regionalism
Author(s): Tarun Gopalakrishnan
Download
|
The proposed Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline has been cited as a potential driver of greater regional integration in South Asia. It is argued that the common quest for energy security could motivate South Asian states to ...moreThe proposed Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline has been cited as a potential driver of greater regional integration in South Asia. It is argued that the common quest for energy security could motivate South Asian states to move beyond antiquated perspectives based on non-intervention, and encourage the development of negotiating positions and multilateral dispute resolution mechanisms. However, the construction of the TAPI also brings with it a host of non-traditional security concerns, from loss of land, to human rights issues and environmental risks. Nations involved must thus not merely commit to cooperation, but also coordinate regionally on a range of issues that have a human security impact.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/08/24
|
Nuclear Power and Energy Security in Asia
Author(s): Rajesh Basrur and Koh Swee Lean Collin
Download
|
The rising demand for energy, the higher costs of oil and gas, and the association of fossil fuels with adverse climate change have all brought a renewed interest in nuclear energy. Nuclear power, however, is itself controversial, because of its ...moreThe rising demand for energy, the higher costs of oil and gas, and the association of fossil fuels with adverse climate change have all brought a renewed interest in nuclear energy. Nuclear power, however, is itself controversial, because of its costs, its environmental effects and the security risks it poses. This book discusses these critical issues surrounding nuclear power in relation to Asia. It discusses also the politics of nuclear power and the activities of civil society organisations concerned about nuclear issues. Throughout the book the perspectives are included of both proponents and opponents of nuclear power on the key controversial issues.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/08/21
|
Rio+20 Incorporated? Assessing diplomatic outcomes and private sector actions on sustainable development
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Tarun Gopalakrishnan
Download
|
The May 2012 NTS Alert entitled 'Back to the future: Is Rio+20 a 1992 redux or is there cause for optimism?' explored the prospects for the June 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), arguing that negotiators would struggle to ...moreThe May 2012 NTS Alert entitled 'Back to the future: Is Rio+20 a 1992 redux or is there cause for optimism?' explored the prospects for the June 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), arguing that negotiators would struggle to reach consequential agreements but that the meeting would find value through non-state channels. This NTS Insight picks up where the NTS Alert left off. It highlights the emergence of the private sector as a significant driver of innovation and action on sustainability, but notes that optimism on this front must be tempered by caution, as the motivations of the private sector vary widely. Thus, robust official conference outcomes must still be considered relevant for sending signals to a range of stakeholders.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2012/08/17
|
Human Security and Climate Change in Southeast Asia: Managing Risk and Resilience
Author(s): Lorraine Elliott and Mely Caballero-Anthony
Download
|
This edited volume makes an important and timely contribution to debates about the relationship between climate change and security in Southeast Asia. It does so through a human security lens, drawing on local and regional expertise to discuss the ...moreThis edited volume makes an important and timely contribution to debates about the relationship between climate change and security in Southeast Asia. It does so through a human security lens, drawing on local and regional expertise to discuss the threats that climate change poses to human security in Southeast Asia and to show how a human security approach draws attention to the importance of adaptation and strategies for social resilience. In doing so, it exposes the consequences of climate change, the impact on community rights and access, the special problem of border areas, before going on to investigate local and regional strategies for addressing the human security challenges of climate change.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/08/15
|
NTS Bulletin August 2012
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
The US is currently experiencing its worst drought in half a century. The resulting crop destruction has raised fears of yet another rise in global food prices, what would be the third in five years. This raises larger questions of how to tackle ...moreThe US is currently experiencing its worst drought in half a century. The resulting crop destruction has raised fears of yet another rise in global food prices, what would be the third in five years. This raises larger questions of how to tackle rising instances of food supply shocks. It also underlines the clear need for food price stability to be moved up the global food-security agenda.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/08/10
|
Experts Warn of Future Asia-Pacific Food Vulnerability
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
BANGKOK - Drought in the United States and India is leading to higher food prices and has some experts warning Asia Pacific countries to step up investment in agriculture. Asia's shifting dietary habits require greater imports and are raising fears ...moreBANGKOK - Drought in the United States and India is leading to higher food prices and has some experts warning Asia Pacific countries to step up investment in agriculture. Asia's shifting dietary habits require greater imports and are raising fears over future food vulnerability.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/08/03
|
FOOD SECURITY: Cities as part of the solution and not the problem
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
As the world becomes increasingly urban, food demand will come mainly from people living in cities while there will be fewer rural farmers producing food on less land with less water. Cities can play a bigger role in food security. But to ...moreAs the world becomes increasingly urban, food demand will come mainly from people living in cities while there will be fewer rural farmers producing food on less land with less water. Cities can play a bigger role in food security. But to accomplish this requires new thinking and new policies by policy makers and politicians, and new technologies from R&D by scientists.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/08/03
|
Climate Change, Migration and Human Security in Southeast Asia
Author(s): Lorraine Elliott
Download
|
The proposition that migration as a result of climate change has consequences for regional and global security has become prominent in public discourse over the last few years. Yet much of that debate in the Southeast Asian context is not ...moreThe proposition that migration as a result of climate change has consequences for regional and global security has become prominent in public discourse over the last few years. Yet much of that debate in the Southeast Asian context is not sufficiently well informed by current knowledge on the demographics of migration and the kinds of choices that people and communities make about mobility; nor does it pay adequate attention to the human insecurities that result from climate change in general and climate change-induced migration in particular. This volume seeks to overcome some of those limitations, drawing on insights from international relations, international law, demography, public policy, geography, environmental studies and climate science. It shows how a human security approach can sustain the tactical attractions of a security discourse in bringing urgent attention to a problem such as climate change and migration, while also redirecting security policy to protecting and empowering those who are most vulnerable to the threats of climate change.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/07/25
|
A new political entity in Mindanao? Challenges of election-related dysfunction and violence
Author(s): Joseph Raymond S Franco
Download
|
The Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have expressed confidence over the establishment of a "new political entity" (NPE) as part of initiatives to achieve a peace settlement by yearend 2012. However, ...moreThe Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have expressed confidence over the establishment of a "new political entity" (NPE) as part of initiatives to achieve a peace settlement by yearend 2012. However, election-related violence and other dysfunctions in the electoral process in Mindanao illustrate the challenges facing political participation in a post-peace process scenario.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/07/23
|
Environmental change and ripples for water security in Southern Asia
Author(s): Dhanasree Jayaram
Download
|
Environmental change is regarded by many geopolitical experts as one of the biggest threats to international security in the coming years. In Southern Asia, its impact on rivers, and thus water security, is projected to be substantial. Such change, ...moreEnvironmental change is regarded by many geopolitical experts as one of the biggest threats to international security in the coming years. In Southern Asia, its impact on rivers, and thus water security, is projected to be substantial. Such change, exacerbated by China's water policies in the region that affect the flow of Tibetan rivers, could lead to increased socioeconomic, resource and political tensions. Against this background, this NTS Alert presents an overview of the impact of environmental change on the rivers of Southern Asia as well as on the existing river water sharing arrangements in the region; and argues that the future of these agreements could be imperilled by environmental change, particularly with the shifts being amplified by China's river water management policies.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/07/20
|
Western Myanmar unrest: Partisan portrayals risk extremist implications
Author(s): Kyaw San Wai
Download
|
The violence in Myanmar's western Rakhine State appears to have died down. However, partisan portrayals of the violence risks jeopardising the security of locals and Myanmar's reform process with extremist outcomes.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/07/18
|
NTS Bulletin July 2012
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo
Download
|
Water summits and forums are increasingly becoming fashionable. Global water forums, such as World Water Week (organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute) and the recently concluded Singapore International Water Week, are being held ...moreWater summits and forums are increasingly becoming fashionable. Global water forums, such as World Water Week (organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute) and the recently concluded Singapore International Water Week, are being held with increasing frequency. However, such water meetings have tended to focus on technological solutions, with political solutions having been given relatively little attention.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/07/13
|
Involving Indonesia in the Philippine Peace Process: Clearing Away "Inclement Weather"?
Author(s): Joseph Raymond S Franco
Download
|
An Indonesian contingent has joined the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) overseeing the ceasefire in Mindanao between forces of the Philippines Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The deployment will arguably ...moreAn Indonesian contingent has joined the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) overseeing the ceasefire in Mindanao between forces of the Philippines Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The deployment will arguably complement efforts to mediate between the two sides and address the socio-economic roots of the conflict.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/07/09
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 32
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim, Sofiah Jamil and Tarun Gopalakrishnan
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2012/07/06
|
MacArthur Asia Security Initiative Interim Report 2012
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
This interactive report summarises the third year (July 2011 - June 2012) of the Asia Security Initiative (ASI) project of the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies titled 'Responding to Internal Crises and their Cross Border ...moreThis interactive report summarises the third year (July 2011 - June 2012) of the Asia Security Initiative (ASI) project of the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies titled 'Responding to Internal Crises and their Cross Border Effects'. It provides an overview of the project, as well as an in-depth discussion of the project's achievements and research outcomes of key activities convened over the past three years under the research programmes supported by the ASI - Internal and Cross-Border Conflict Programme; Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters Programme; and Energy and Human Security Programme.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/07/04
|
The ASEAN Human Rights Declaration: Establishing a common framework
Author(s): Joel Ng
Download
|
The process of drafting the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration has illustrated the competing tensions between old and new norms in ASEAN. Resolving these issues need not be a zero-sum game, and can focus on a common framework of human security.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/07/03
|
Myanmar: Learning from the Philippines' democratic transition
Author(s): Julius Cesar I. Trajano
Download
|
In pursuing democratic reforms, Myanmar may take a leaf from the experience of the Philippines' difficult transition from authoritarianism to democracy. But as demonstrated by the Philippine case, democracy alone cannot address all the challenges ...moreIn pursuing democratic reforms, Myanmar may take a leaf from the experience of the Philippines' difficult transition from authoritarianism to democracy. But as demonstrated by the Philippine case, democracy alone cannot address all the challenges besetting Myanmar.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/06/27
|
Food Security 'Urgent' Issue for Policymakers
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
CNBC's Darren Connell reports how feeding the world's growing population is becoming one of the world's biggest challenges.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/06/25
|
Food Security - Discussion on Rice Bowl Index White Paper (Channel NewsAsia's 'Perspectives')
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
In this Channel NewsAsia interview, Prof. Paul Teng provides an overview of the global and regional food security situation and discusses the potential contribution of the Rice Bowl Index in addressing food security challenges.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/06/21
|
After Rio+20: What is 'The Future We Want'?
Author(s): Ong Suan Ee
Download
|
The world's biggest summit on environment and development in 20 years wrapped up last Friday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Has the outcome of Rio+20 managed to meet its promise?
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/06/20
|
S'pore Can Use Research to Boost Food Security: Don (Published in The Business Times)
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Singapore, as a major food importer, has much to gain from helping other countries grow more food for export, said a leading researcher on food security.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/06/19
|
The Military Along the Security-Development Frontier: Implications for Non-traditional Security in the Philippines and Thailand
Author(s): Aries A. Arugay
Download
|
The militaries of developing countries have often gone beyond the mission of external defence, to perform unconventional roles ranging from disaster relief and economic management to law enforcement and internal security. This paper focuses on ...moreThe militaries of developing countries have often gone beyond the mission of external defence, to perform unconventional roles ranging from disaster relief and economic management to law enforcement and internal security. This paper focuses on development missions carried out by the armed forces of the Philippines and Thailand in and out of conflict zones, and provides an analysis of the causes behind the re-emergence of such missions in recent years. Based on a comparison of the two countries' experience, this paper argues that the military's renewed involvement in development work stems from two factors: their significant role in political succession; and the increasing salience of concepts linking security and development, in particular, the notion of non-traditional security. The effectiveness of such projects could, however, be hampered by the lack of a clear, well-implemented national development framework and by systemic weaknesses in security sector governance. This paper thus argues that, in order to address the various non-traditional security threats in the two countries, security sector reform would have to be implemented and civilian oversight over security institutions improved.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2012/06/18
|
Governance - Defusing or fuelling land disputes in China?
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
The imbalance of power inherent in China's land management model has been the root cause of land disputes in rural and suburban areas. These land issues increasingly threaten social stability, which in turn could have an impact on economic ...moreThe imbalance of power inherent in China's land management model has been the root cause of land disputes in rural and suburban areas. These land issues increasingly threaten social stability, which in turn could have an impact on economic development and human security. The country's land management problems are exacerbated by governance weaknesses such as policy implementation difficulties and corruption. Given that land reform in China will continue to be difficult to achieve, at least in the short term, improvements to land governance should be prioritised, as better governance could ease the rising tensions that stem from inequities related to land rights.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/06/15
|
Rethinking Energy Security in Asia: A Non-Traditional View of Human Security
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Chang Youngho and Nur Azha Putra (Eds)
Download
|
Traditional notions of security are premised on the primacy of state security. In relation to energy security, traditional policy thinking has focused on ensuring supply without much emphasis on socioeconomic and environmental impacts. ...moreTraditional notions of security are premised on the primacy of state security. In relation to energy security, traditional policy thinking has focused on ensuring supply without much emphasis on socioeconomic and environmental impacts. Non-traditional security (NTS) scholars argue that threats to human security have become increasingly prominent since the end of the Cold War, and that it is thus critical to adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach in addressing rising energy needs. This volume represents the perspectives of scholars from across Asia, looking at diverse aspects of energy security through a non-traditional security lens. The issues covered include environmental and socioeconomic impacts, the role of the market, the role of civil society, energy sustainability and policy trends in the ASEAN region.
|
Energy Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/06/12
|
Energy and Non-Traditional Security (NTS) in Asia
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Chang Youngho and Nur Azha Putra (Eds)
Download
|
Traditional notions of security are premised on the primacy of state security. In relation to energy security, traditional policy thinking has focused on ensuring supply without much emphasis on socioeconomic and environmental impacts. ...moreTraditional notions of security are premised on the primacy of state security. In relation to energy security, traditional policy thinking has focused on ensuring supply without much emphasis on socioeconomic and environmental impacts. Non-traditional security (NTS) scholars argue that threats to human security have become increasingly prominent since the end of the Cold War, and that it is thus critical to adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach in addressing rising energy needs. This volume represents the perspectives of scholars from across Asia, looking at diverse aspects of energy security through a non-traditional security lens. The issues covered include environmental and socioeconomic impacts, the role of the market, the role of civil society, energy sustainability and policy trends in the ASEAN region.
|
Energy Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/06/12
|
Syria & Responsibility to Protect: Time for a Middle Ground
Author(s): Yang Razali Kassim
Download
|
As the crisis in Syria edges towards civil war, the international community is locked in a stalemate over whether and how to intervene to stop the carnage. There is an urgent need for a middle ground to unblock the diplomatic ...moreAs the crisis in Syria edges towards civil war, the international community is locked in a stalemate over whether and how to intervene to stop the carnage. There is an urgent need for a middle ground to unblock the diplomatic quagmire.CommentaryFRUSTRATED. IMPATIENT. Those were the two words Kofi Annan used last week to express anguish over his apparent helplessness to push through a ceasefire in the blood-letting in Syria. As a joint special envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League, Annan's frustration reflected that of the international community. It seems the world can only look on as the Assad regime rages on with impunity in its bloody crushing of the people's uprising.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/06/08
|
NTS Bulletin June 2012
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
In what appears to be a major step forward for cooperation on food security at the multilateral level, the G8 launched the multi-billion dollar New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition on 18 May 2012. However, while the efforts of the G8 ...moreIn what appears to be a major step forward for cooperation on food security at the multilateral level, the G8 launched the multi-billion dollar New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition on 18 May 2012. However, while the efforts of the G8 countries to prioritise food security have been praised, criticisms have emerged - particularly in non-governmental organisation (NGO) circles - about several aspects of the initiative.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/06/08
|
In conversation with Kensuke Kanekiyo (Research Advisor, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan)
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
In conversation with Kensuke Kanekiyo (Research Advisor, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security ...moreIn conversation with Kensuke Kanekiyo (Research Advisor, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security Cooperation on 28-29 November 2011.
|
Energy Security
|
Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/06/07
|
Burmese Refugee Women and the Gendered Politics of Exile, Reconstruction and Human Rights
Author(s): Sheena Kumari
Download
|
This research paper examines the predicament of Burmese women refugees in India and explores the complexities of the female refugee experience. Combining theoretical perspectives with personal narratives and oral histories, this paper provides a ...moreThis research paper examines the predicament of Burmese women refugees in India and explores the complexities of the female refugee experience. Combining theoretical perspectives with personal narratives and oral histories, this paper provides a view of the struggles faced by refugee women as both victims of circumstance and agents of regeneration. More significantly, the case of Burmese refugee women challenges traditional stereotypes and gendered binary constructions of victimhood associated with the refugee experience. Their participation in community based refugee organisations and the larger women's rights movement has provided refugee women with new scope for action, activism, social interconnectedness, cultural nationalism, transnational linkages, and economic and political mobilisation.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2012/05/31
|
Would a Southeast Asian rice futures market be feasible, and what of food security?
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
In 2010, it was proposed that Singapore consider hosting an international rice futures market, with cited benefits being enhanced price discovery and price stabilisation. The RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies hosted an Expert ...moreIn 2010, it was proposed that Singapore consider hosting an international rice futures market, with cited benefits being enhanced price discovery and price stabilisation. The RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies hosted an Expert Working Group Meeting in Singapore in March 2012 to discuss the feasibility of this proposal. The market conditions of the Southeast Asian rice sector are seen as an impediment to the operation of an international futures contract, although opinion is divided as to the degree that these conditions would affect a contract. Whether feasible or not, the proposal for a rice futures market raises several issues related to the region's food security, in particular, the potential impact of futures trading on rice price volatility and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. This NTS Policy Brief provides a summary of these issues and presents considerations for Southeast Asian policymakers.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/05/30
|
Build It and They Will Come: Commitment to the Association of Southeast Asian Nation's Rice Policy Mechanisms
Author(s): Sally Trethewie and J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Rice is the most politicized agricultural commodity in Southeast Asia. States throughout the region view maintaining security in rice supplies as a strategic imperative, while political actors within these states see opportunities to galvanize ...moreRice is the most politicized agricultural commodity in Southeast Asia. States throughout the region view maintaining security in rice supplies as a strategic imperative, while political actors within these states see opportunities to galvanize support by promising consistently available and affordable rice. An increasingly binding characteristic of rice management systems throughout the region is a focus on domestic policies and trepidation about being overly vulnerable to external events and decisions. These trends have become more pronounced since the rice price volatilities of 2007-2008, which, despite leading to calls for more open rice trading approaches, have driven countries towards more insular rice policy strategies.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/05/28
|
Back to the future: Is Rio+20 a 1992 redux or is there cause for optimism?
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
Rio+20, set for June 2012, offers an opportunity to review the current state of global environmental summitry. What can be expected of this latest round of global dialogue on sustainable development? The experiences of 1992 may prove telling on ...moreRio+20, set for June 2012, offers an opportunity to review the current state of global environmental summitry. What can be expected of this latest round of global dialogue on sustainable development? The experiences of 1992 may prove telling on this question, as many impediments to paradigmatic development shifts remain entrenched. This NTS Alert notes the striking similarities between the discussions in the run-up to Rio+20 and that of the 1992 Earth Summit, and suggests that Rio+20's greatest contributions may lie in multi-sector collaborations at national and subnational levels facilitated by the broad-ranging participation of governmental, non-governmental as well as private sector actors.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/05/25
|
A Position Paper on World Rice Futures
Author(s): Milo Hamilton
Download
|
There is a widespread belief that rice futures are not necessary for the Asian rice markets because these markets are not "broken." In any case, it is not clear to many why a rice farmer would benefit from such a risk management tool. Some believe ...moreThere is a widespread belief that rice futures are not necessary for the Asian rice markets because these markets are not "broken." In any case, it is not clear to many why a rice farmer would benefit from such a risk management tool. Some believe that futures encourage price volatility and speculation. All these concerns are valid and need to be addressed in addition to concerns about type of rice traded, financial integrity of an exchange and delivery mechanisms.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/05/23
|
Harvesting the benefits of a rice futures market
Author(s): Bob Zeigler
Download
|
Rice farmers across Asia work hard to produce rice for Singapore and other countries that depend on rice imports to meet national demand for the grain. Most of Singapore's rice comes from Thailand - the world's biggest exporter of rice and home of ...moreRice farmers across Asia work hard to produce rice for Singapore and other countries that depend on rice imports to meet national demand for the grain. Most of Singapore's rice comes from Thailand - the world's biggest exporter of rice and home of Singapore's favorite rice - Thai Jasmine rice.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/05/18
|
In conversation with Tin Maung Maung Than (Senior Fellow, Institute of Southeast Asian Studies)
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
In conversation with Tin Maung Maung Than (Senior Fellow, Institute of Southeast Asian Studies). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security ...moreIn conversation with Tin Maung Maung Than (Senior Fellow, Institute of Southeast Asian Studies). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security Cooperation on 28-29 November 2011.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/05/13
|
In conversation with Ramesh Thakur (Director, Centre for Nuclear Nonprofileration and Disarmament Asia-Pacific College of Diplomacy)
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
In conversation with Ramesh Thakur (Director, Centre for Nuclear Nonprofileration and Disarmament Asia-Pacific College of Diplomacy). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on ...moreIn conversation with Ramesh Thakur (Director, Centre for Nuclear Nonprofileration and Disarmament Asia-Pacific College of Diplomacy). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security Cooperation on 28-29 November 2011.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/05/13
|
In conversation with Dewi Fortuna Anwar (Deputy Secretary for Politics to the Vice President)
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studie
Download
|
In conversation with Dewi Fortuna Anwar (Deputy Secretary for Politics to the Vice President). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security ...moreIn conversation with Dewi Fortuna Anwar (Deputy Secretary for Politics to the Vice President). Interview conducted on sidelines of RSIS Centre for NTS Studies' MacArthur Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security and Regional Security Cooperation on 28-29 November 2011.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/05/13
|
NTS Bulletin May 2012
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
The past decade has seen economic links between the Gulf Arab region and Southeast Asia increase considerably - from just USD20 billion in 2002 to about USD100 billion in 2010. Notable factors driving this trend include increased Middle East ...moreThe past decade has seen economic links between the Gulf Arab region and Southeast Asia increase considerably - from just USD20 billion in 2002 to about USD100 billion in 2010. Notable factors driving this trend include increased Middle East interest in East Asian markets after the 2001 Sept 11 attacks and the 2008 global food crisis. The latter, in particular, was significant in highlighting the interdependence of the two regions. The Gulf Arab states look to Southeast Asian farmlands for food, and Southeast Asia to the Gulf Arab states for fuel.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/05/11
|
The Domestic Workers Convention 2011: Implications for migrant domestic workers in Southeast Asia
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo and Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
The recent International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers (Domestic Workers Convention 2011) offers an opportunity to finally address the longstanding issue of the protection of the human and labour ...moreThe recent International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers (Domestic Workers Convention 2011) offers an opportunity to finally address the longstanding issue of the protection of the human and labour rights of migrant domestic workers. This NTS Insight evaluates the responses of four Southeast Asian states - Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore - to the Convention. It highlights continuing differences between labour sending and labour receiving countries in terms of their responses, and suggests that ASEAN could play a significant role in bridging that gap and promoting the adoption of universal standards and practices.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2012/04/30
|
Feeding the Asian: Agricultural R&D and Food Security
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
Investing in agricultural R&D is certainly critical to safeguarding regional food security, but focusing on small farmers, preserving Asian diet, and cutting food loss and waste are equally, if not more, important.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/04/26
|
Building Trust in Rice Trade
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
Rice availability has been considered a key indicator of food security in Asia for many years. Thus, rice continues to command unrivalled political attention in Southeast Asia, drawing a heavy-handed approach to the rice economy from governments of ...moreRice availability has been considered a key indicator of food security in Asia for many years. Thus, rice continues to command unrivalled political attention in Southeast Asia, drawing a heavy-handed approach to the rice economy from governments of exporting and importing countries. One recent policy that has been a subject of constant argumentation is the rice self-sufficiency programme of two top importing countries—the Philippines and Indonesia.
|
Food Security
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/04/24
|
Trafficking in persons: Singapore's evolving responses
Author(s): Pau Khan Khup Hangzo and Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
For a long time, sending countries have been the focus of efforts to combat trafficking in persons (TIP). However, in recent years, destination countries such as Singapore have also stepped up their efforts. This is timely because improved ...moreFor a long time, sending countries have been the focus of efforts to combat trafficking in persons (TIP). However, in recent years, destination countries such as Singapore have also stepped up their efforts. This is timely because improved recognition and management of the threat and challenges of TIP will do much to prevent the abuse and commercial exploitation of adults and children. This NTS Alert discusses the TIP phenomenon, focusing on Singapore and the significant new developments in Singapore's policies on the issue. In particular, it highlights the establishment of Singapore's Inter-Agency Taskforce on TIP and the development of its National Plan of Action.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/04/20
|
Encouraging Myanmar's Reforms:
Engage Beyond Sanctions
Author(s): Kyaw San Wai
Download
|
The West is responding to Myanmar's reforms by suspending sanctions in stages. Engagement beyond sanctions is crucial to shore up the nascent reform process.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/04/19
|
Dams, power and security in the Mekong: A non-traditional security assessment of hydro-development in the Mekong River Basin
Author(s): Christopher G. Baker.
Download
|
The rapid hydropower development in the Mekong River Basin brings with it a growing number of security challenges for state and regional policymakers. While the interrelated challenges range from local, human security issues, to regional-level ...moreThe rapid hydropower development in the Mekong River Basin brings with it a growing number of security challenges for state and regional policymakers. While the interrelated challenges range from local, human security issues, to regional-level concerns, all stem from the externalities brought about by hydro-development. This paper analyses the ramifications of the current 'hydropower gold-rush' on and around the Mekong. By specifically examining the non-traditional security concerns of food and water security and how these threaten to drive human insecurity, migration and instability within the region, it is able to challenge the dominant development and economic mindset that continues to encourage development at the cost of livelihoods. Instead of an economic hydro-boom as anticipated by many, continued dam building on the Mekong and its tributaries could result in a non-traditional security disaster characterised by severe food shortages, destruction of livelihoods and large irregular movements of people.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2012/04/19
|
Joint civil society statement regarding National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons
Author(s): Inter-agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons (the Taskforce) of the National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons 2012-2015 (the NPA)
Download
|
We welcome the publication by the Inter-agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons (the Taskforce) of the National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons 2012-2015 (the NPA). We see this as an encouraging indication of the government's ...moreWe welcome the publication by the Inter-agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons (the Taskforce) of the National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons 2012-2015 (the NPA). We see this as an encouraging indication of the government's commitment to combat human trafficking in Singapore. It is also a positive first step towards establishing a system which endeavours to prevent human trafficking in Singapore, guarantees comprehensive protection of trafficked and potentially trafficked persons and prosecutes those responsible.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/04/17
|
NTS Bulletin April 2012
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
International political economy (IPE) is a highly complex discipline, drawing not only from the fields of politics and economics, but also those as varied as philosophy, history and anthropology. Now widely accepted as a key dimension to ...moreInternational political economy (IPE) is a highly complex discipline, drawing not only from the fields of politics and economics, but also those as varied as philosophy, history and anthropology. Now widely accepted as a key dimension to contemporary world affairs, it is no longer possible to talk about international relations without talking about production and distribution, finance and investment, as well as consumption and trade. To ensure that our understanding of these topics is relevant to today's world, there is a constant need to revisit and challenge what is known about these topics.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/04/12
|
'Human Trafficking and Human Rights in Asia: Trends, Issues and Challenges' in G. Shabbir Cheema, Christopher A. McNally and Vesselin Popovski (eds), Cross-Border Governance in Asia: Regional Issues and Mechanisms
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony
Download
|
This chapter discusses the current trends of human trafficking and institutional responses to address problems of human trafficking in Asia. It assesses the effectiveness of regional mechanisms at the state or inter-state level and the roles of ...moreThis chapter discusses the current trends of human trafficking and institutional responses to address problems of human trafficking in Asia. It assesses the effectiveness of regional mechanisms at the state or inter-state level and the roles of non-state actors in addressing human trafficking. It argues that, while the Asian region does not have a dominant regional organisation to combat transnational coordination, the region has developed formal and informal legal frameworks to manage trafficking, leading to greater awareness of the problem among the governance actors including civil society, media and governments.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/04/01
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 31
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim and Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
A quarterly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2012/03/30
|
Myths and Reality of Human Trafficking: A View from Southeast Asia
Author(s): Zbigniew Dumienski
Download
|
Human trafficking is commonly seen as a heinous transnational crime affecting millions of migrants from all parts of the globe. According to the US government there are as many as 12.3 million victims of human trafficking world-wide and trafficking ...moreHuman trafficking is commonly seen as a heinous transnational crime affecting millions of migrants from all parts of the globe. According to the US government there are as many as 12.3 million victims of human trafficking world-wide and trafficking is a tremendous, multi-billion-dollar business run by both small networks of traffickers and, increasingly, by 'large polycrime international criminal organizations'.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2012/03/27
|
In search of food security: Addressing opacity and price volatility in ASEAN's rice sector
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
The availability of rice has long been considered a key indicator of food security in Southeast Asia. However, for largely strategic reasons, there is a paucity of information in the public domain on rice availability, particularly figures on ...moreThe availability of rice has long been considered a key indicator of food security in Southeast Asia. However, for largely strategic reasons, there is a paucity of information in the public domain on rice availability, particularly figures on production, storage and trade. As a consequence, households, producers, mills and traders participating in the market have been doing so based on opaque information, and this has had significant impact on rice price formation. When price shocks and volatility occur, the ramifications of trading with insufficient data are magnified. This NTS Policy Brief recommends four measures that Southeast Asian governments might take to increase transparency, and thus address the continuing problem of price volatility.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/03/22
|
Feeding Asia in the 21st century: building urban-rural alliances: summary of the main findings of the international conference on Asian food security held in Singapore on 10-12 August 2011
Author(s): Paul Teng, Mercedita A. Sombilla, J. Jackson Ewing and Margarita Escaler
Download
|
This report provides the summary of the main findings of the International Conference on Asian Food Security which was convened and organised by the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) and ...moreThis report provides the summary of the main findings of the International Conference on Asian Food Security which was convened and organised by the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) in Singapore on 10-12 August 2011. The meeting brought together experts from the public, private, civil society and academic sectors. The Conference programme was purposely based around the four basic dimensions of food security: food availability, physical access, economic access and utilisation with the added driver of investment. The aim was to present and examine a broader view of the range of issues involved in ensuring food security in the region, with a particular emphasis on the dependencies between rural and urban environments and to provide policy recommendations. The conference culminated with the 'ICAFS Statement on Feeding Asia in the 21st Century', which is summarised at the end of this report.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/03/20
|
Regional implications of national reconciliation in Myanmar
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
This NTS Alert examines the implications of Myanmar's recent reforms for its neighbours - China, India, Thailand and Bangladesh. Issues of major concern to the four countries include energy, humanitarian consequences and other non-traditional ...moreThis NTS Alert examines the implications of Myanmar's recent reforms for its neighbours - China, India, Thailand and Bangladesh. Issues of major concern to the four countries include energy, humanitarian consequences and other non-traditional insecurities resulting from Myanmar's internal challenges. The recent reforms, which advance democracy and national reconciliation, are seen to address these long-standing issues and are universally encouraged by Myanmar's neighbours. Nevertheless, they represent just small steps forward, and more efforts are needed to achieve national reconciliation.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/03/16
|
Domestic Security in China: The Xinjiang Quagmire
Author(s): Arabinda Acharya and Wang Zhihao
Download
|
Enhancement of domestic security spending may not be the panacea that Beijing is looking for to stabilise its restive Xinjiang province. There is a need for a calibrated response with due sensitivity to Uighur identity and concerns.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/03/15
|
Legal Reform in China: Quelling Tibetan Unrest?
Author(s): Irene Chan
Download
|
With rising incidence of ethnic minority violence, China's incoming leaders are faced with a serious challenge to domestic stability in the Tibetan-dominant south-western provinces. There is an urgent need for genuine legal reform, but will the ...moreWith rising incidence of ethnic minority violence, China's incoming leaders are faced with a serious challenge to domestic stability in the Tibetan-dominant south-western provinces. There is an urgent need for genuine legal reform, but will the revised criminal procedure code help quell Tibetan unrest?
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/03/15
|
NTS Bulletin March 2012
Author(s): Lina Gong
Download
|
Myanmar's national reconciliation process: A positive for the region?
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/03/12
|
Populism Blinding US to Asia's Reality
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/03/10
|
Roadmap for the Responsibility to Protect (RtoP) in Asia: Personalities, Institutions and Processes
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
It is over six years since the 2005 UN World Summit endorsed the Responsibility to Protect (RtoP), thus recognising an individual state's responsibility to protect its citizens from four mass atrocities - genocide, war crimes, crimes against ...moreIt is over six years since the 2005 UN World Summit endorsed the Responsibility to Protect (RtoP), thus recognising an individual state's responsibility to protect its citizens from four mass atrocities - genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing. While the 2005 World Summit Outcome document passed by consensus, regional differences have emerged as individual states and regional organisations sought to translate word into deed. This NTS Perspectives investigates the RtoP's traction in Asia (focusing on Southeast Asia), identifies key stakeholders in the region and offers pathways forward.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
NTS Perspectives |
|
2012/02/29
|
MacArthur Asia Security Initiative Dissemination Meeting on Non-Traditional Security
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
The MacArthur Asia Security Initiative Dissemination Meeting 2011 showcased the work and research outcomes of the MacArthur Asia Security Initiative projects conducted from 2009 to 2011 by two centres at the S. Rajaratnam School of International ...moreThe MacArthur Asia Security Initiative Dissemination Meeting 2011 showcased the work and research outcomes of the MacArthur Asia Security Initiative projects conducted from 2009 to 2011 by two centres at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) - the RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies and the RSIS Centre for Multilateralism Studies (CMS).
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2012/02/24
|
Xinjiang: Defusing Tensions through Development
Author(s): Gianna Gayle Amul
Download
|
For the past decade, development efforts in the predominantly Muslim region of Xinjiang have been eclipsed by an anti-terrorism drive. China needs to balance its policy of dealing with extremism with a stronger push for economic development in the ...moreFor the past decade, development efforts in the predominantly Muslim region of Xinjiang have been eclipsed by an anti-terrorism drive. China needs to balance its policy of dealing with extremism with a stronger push for economic development in the country's Western region.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/02/24
|
Climate Change and Migration in Southeast Asia: Responding to a New Security Challenge
Author(s): Lorraine Elliott
Download
|
Migration and displacement are among the range of pressures on people and their communities likely to arise from the economic, social and environmental consequences of climate change. Despite fragmented data, the climate security literature has ...moreMigration and displacement are among the range of pressures on people and their communities likely to arise from the economic, social and environmental consequences of climate change. Despite fragmented data, the climate security literature has focused on the potential for climate change-induced migration to trigger social tensions and conflicts within states and across borders. A human security approach seeks to ensure that people are placed at the centre of concerns about mobility and migration in response to climate change. This requires more than identifying those that are vulnerable to migration pressures. It necessitates an understanding of how migration and mobility choices are made, how vulnerabilities can be managed in ways that are participatory and responsive to local needs and circumstances,and how local, national and regional policy responses can strengthen the knowledge base and improve collaborative platforms for action.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
Research Papers |
|
2012/02/24
|
China's Food Security:
Threats from Conflicts of Interest
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
Conflicts of interest among the central government, local governments and farmers are threatening China's food security. The key to resolving them is to revive agriculture as a productive cash earner and contributor to the local economy.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/02/22
|
Beyond Ceasefires: Myanmar's Precarious Peace Process
Author(s): Kyaw San Wai
Download
|
Ceasefires between the Myanmar government and national minorities will not in themselves solve their ethnic problems. Deep seated grievances and other encumbrances would have to be overcome for an inclusive Myanmar.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/02/21
|
Public Consultation on Trafficking in Persons National Plan of Action
Author(s): Singapore Inter-Agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons
Download
|
The Inter-agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) is seeking feedback on the proposed National Plan of Action which will guide Singapore's response to TIP from 2012-2015.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications / Resources
|
Manuals and Handbooks |
|
2012/02/21
|
Politics and distrust in the rice trade: Implications of the shift towards self-sufficiency in the Philippines and Indonesia
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
The volatility and instability in the rice market during the 2007-2008 food price crisis prompted two key rice importers, the Philippines and Indonesia, to pursue rice self-sufficiency with the aim of stabilising domestic rice supply and prices. ...moreThe volatility and instability in the rice market during the 2007-2008 food price crisis prompted two key rice importers, the Philippines and Indonesia, to pursue rice self-sufficiency with the aim of stabilising domestic rice supply and prices. This NTS Alert examines the impact of these actions for domestic and regional food security in terms of rice supply. It argues that the two countries' measures to increase production could improve stability and trust in the rice trade if, in their new-found positions of confidence as producers, they spearhead efforts for deeper, more open engagement in the world rice market.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/02/17
|
The Road to Rio+20: Ambitious Goals for Sustainable Development?
Author(s): Ong Suan Ee
Download
|
The world's biggest summit on environment and development in 20 years will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June this year. What are the opportunities and challenges for this global multilateral effort towards cultivating a green economy?
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/02/17
|
The Rio+20 Summit and ASEAN: Towards a Green Economy
Author(s): Paul Teng
Download
|
Rio de Janeiro will host the third Earth Summit, or "Rio+20", in June this year - 20 years after the first Earth Summit in 1992. At Rio+20 all governments will be asked to re-dedicate themselves to the goal of a "green economy". How will ASEAN ...moreRio de Janeiro will host the third Earth Summit, or "Rio+20", in June this year - 20 years after the first Earth Summit in 1992. At Rio+20 all governments will be asked to re-dedicate themselves to the goal of a "green economy". How will ASEAN respond to this significant event and its challenges?
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/02/16
|
Traditional and Non-Traditional Security: Exploring Conceptual and Practical Challenges
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Activities / Resources
|
Multimedia |
|
2012/02/13
|
From Kyoto to Durban: The Fits and Starts of Global Climate Change Negotiations
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing
Download
|
The 2011 outcomes from the UN's annual climate change meetings have again been met with both cautious optimism and charges that the process shows few signs of effectively addressing global climate challenges. The 17th Conference of the Parties ...moreThe 2011 outcomes from the UN's annual climate change meetings have again been met with both cautious optimism and charges that the process shows few signs of effectively addressing global climate challenges. The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) in Durban, South Africa, saw this dichotomy take on amplified relevance in the shadow of an expiring Kyoto Protocol. This NTS Insight takes this as an opportunity to review some of the fundamental structures that define climate change mitigation efforts at the international level, and to illuminate some of the primary points of contention that have dogged international negotiations from their inception. It argues that, while the COP17 did take steps to address some important foundational fracture points, the divisions that have long defined climate change diplomacy will not dissipate quickly. Policymakers would do well to consider this likelihood when accounting for the trajectory of future climatic changes.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Insight |
|
2012/02/06
|
NTS Bulletin February 2012
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
In recent weeks, Indonesia experienced a series of demonstrations over land rights in various parts of the country. While land rights controversies are not uncommon in Indonesia, the new wave of discontent has brought about high levels of tension ...moreIn recent weeks, Indonesia experienced a series of demonstrations over land rights in various parts of the country. While land rights controversies are not uncommon in Indonesia, the new wave of discontent has brought about high levels of tension â€" as well as instances of violence â€" between community groups and the authorities.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/02/06
|
Myanmar President Pledges Commitment to Reform (published in The Straits Times)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook
Download
|
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/01/31
|
Recalibrating Intervention in Southeast Asia
Author(s): Alistair D. B. Cook
Download
|
Southeast Asia is home to many diverse cultures across and within national borders. The vast majority of these borders evolved out of those created during the colonial period in the region. While the Westphalian state system was imposed in the ...moreSoutheast Asia is home to many diverse cultures across and within national borders. The vast majority of these borders evolved out of those created during the colonial period in the region. While the Westphalian state system was imposed in the region, the post-independence period has illustrated traditional understandings of sovereignty are rhetorically prevalent in Southeast Asia. This is noticeable in the 1976 Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, which was a founding document of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This treaty bound its signatories not to interfere in another's domestic affairs yet there remain several high profile interventions which have trumped the noninterference norm - what explains this? Examples range from the 1975 Indonesian invasion of East Timor to the 1978 Vietnamese invasion of Cambodia, and to a more contemporary example of ASEAN member states' anticipation in United Nations peace operations in East Timor from the early 2000s onwards.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2012/01/25
|
ENGOs' Bitter Pill: Adapting to Incremental Climate (Governance) Change
Author(s): Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
Environmental non-governmental organisations (ENGOs) have often been depicted as a section of civil society that is highly critical of the lack of political will in addressing environmental issues. This was again evident during the proceedings of ...moreEnvironmental non-governmental organisations (ENGOs) have often been depicted as a section of civil society that is highly critical of the lack of political will in addressing environmental issues. This was again evident during the proceedings of the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Durban in December 2011. This NTS Alert will, however, discuss the limitations faced by ENGOs in influencing the UNFCCC process, as well as suggest options that ENGOs ought to consider in effecting change within and beyond the UNFCCC process.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2012/01/24
|
Myanmar's Reforms: The Challenges Ahead
Author(s): Kyaw San Wai
Download
|
The release of many high-profile political prisoners by Myanmar's government has been applauded by the international community. However many obstacles to reform still exist, but they are not the usual suspects.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/01/18
|
Myanmar's Road to Democracy (published in The Straits Times)
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Bridget Walsh
Download
|
Last week's release of more than 600 political prisoners and the signing of the peace agreeement with the Karen National Union are markers of transformative ongoing processes of national reconciliation and democratisation taking place in Myanmar.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Experts / Output / Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/01/17
|
India's Food Security Bill: A Waste or Win for the Hungry?
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
Home to over 25 per cent of the world's hungry poor, India faces major food security challenges and the situation has barely improved in two decades. Will the National Food Security Bill that the Indian Parliament is expected to pass this month ...moreHome to over 25 per cent of the world's hungry poor, India faces major food security challenges and the situation has barely improved in two decades. Will the National Food Security Bill that the Indian Parliament is expected to pass this month alleviate the country's food insecurity?
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/01/16
|
India's Food Security Bill: A Waste or Win for the Hungry?
Author(s): Sally Trethewie
Download
|
Home to over 25 per cent of the world's hungry poor, India faces major food security challenges and the situation has barely improved in two decades. Will the National Food Security Bill that the Indian Parliament is expected to pass this month ...moreHome to over 25 per cent of the world's hungry poor, India faces major food security challenges and the situation has barely improved in two decades. Will the National Food Security Bill that the Indian Parliament is expected to pass this month alleviate the country's food insecurity?
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
Media Reports |
|
2012/01/16
|
NTS Bulletin January 2012
Author(s): RSIS Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies
Download
|
The Indian Parliament is expected to soon pass a bold but polarising National Food Security Bill which pledges to deliver the 'right to food' to its people. Undertaking to provide subsidised grains and food assistance to 64 per cent of its ...moreThe Indian Parliament is expected to soon pass a bold but polarising National Food Security Bill which pledges to deliver the 'right to food' to its people. Undertaking to provide subsidised grains and food assistance to 64 per cent of its population, the 'Food Bill' is expected to be popular with voters ahead of a key election year, but critics argue that it will do little to address food insecurity and may even exacerbate the country's food woes..
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Bulletin |
|
2012/01/13
|
Ending the Displacement Cycle: Finding Durable Solutions through Return and Resettlement Regional Centre
Author(s): Nadeeka Withana (Ed)
Download
|
This publication is the result of a workshop that was organizedby the Regional Centre for Strategic Studies (RCSS) in January2011 with the support of the Consortium of Non-Traditional Security Studies in Asia (NTS-Asia). RCSS has a long history of ...moreThis publication is the result of a workshop that was organizedby the Regional Centre for Strategic Studies (RCSS) in January2011 with the support of the Consortium of Non-Traditional Security Studies in Asia (NTS-Asia). RCSS has a long history of focusing on an array of non-traditional security issues such as
terrorism, refugees, migration, climate changes, and internalconflicts in South Asia. It is also a founding member of the Consortium.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Books and Monographs |
|
2012/01/10
|
Malaysia-Singapore Energy Cooperation:
Prospects and Challenges
Author(s): Alvin Chew
Download
|
Singapore and Malaysia are considering sharing electricity. Will this pave the way for an ASEAN-wide electricity grid, or even cooperation in the supply of nuclear energy?
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2012/01/10
|
Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies Year in Review 2011
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook, Zbigniew Dumienski, J. Jackson Ewing, Pau Khan Khup Hangzo, Sofiah Jamil, Ong Suan Ee and Sally Trethewie
Download
|
The Year in Review 2011 examines the dynamics and relationships between each of the sectors of climate, energy, food, health and conflict, with the hope that this will contribute to the maturation of the field of non-traditional security in 2012.
|
Climate Change, Environmental Security and Natural Disasters / Energy Security / Food Security / Health Security / Internal and Cross-Border Conflict / Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
Policy Briefs and Conference Reports |
|
2011/12/15
|
China's Food Conundrum: Insecurity of the Rural Abandoned
Author(s): Zhang Hongzhou
Download
|
The 130 million people who are left behind in China's rural areas are posing a severe challenge to the country's food security - for the food producers as much as consumers. The conundrum of the abandoned farmers and farmland may have global ...moreThe 130 million people who are left behind in China's rural areas are posing a severe challenge to the country's food security - for the food producers as much as consumers. The conundrum of the abandoned farmers and farmland may have global implications.
|
Food Security
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2011/12/12
|
NTS-Asia Newsletter No. 30
Author(s): Mely Caballero-Anthony, Cheryl Lim and Sofiah Jamil
Download
|
A bi-monthly compilation of the latest activities and publications in NTS-Asia
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
NTS Newsletter |
|
2011/12/08
|
Cambodia's Legacy and the Responsibility to Protect in Asia
Author(s): Alistair D.B. Cook and Lina Gong
Download
|
Nearly a quarter of Cambodia's population died from the mass atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. After the full picture of the atrocities was revealed, the international community responded with deep sympathy. Efforts to ...moreNearly a quarter of Cambodia's population died from the mass atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. After the full picture of the atrocities was revealed, the international community responded with deep sympathy. Efforts to return justice to victims and their families, however, have been protracted. It was not until the establishment of the UN-backed tribunal, the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), that the legitimate judicial proceedings to hold the Khmer Rouge accountable for their crimes began. The joint effort of the Cambodian government and the UN converges with the ethos of the Responsibility to Protect.
|
Internal and Cross-Border Conflict
|
Publications
|
Journal Articles |
|
2011/12/05
|
US and Myanmar: Need for Rapprochement
Author(s): J. Jackson Ewing and Kyaw San Wai
Download
|
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's ground-breaking visit to Myanmar signals a shift in US attitude towards that country. Quicker rapprochement could benefit both countries as well as Southeast Asia.
|
Other NTS Issues
|
Publications
|
RSIS Commentaries |
|
2011/12/02
|
On the Fast Train to Nuclear Disaster? Bias and Phobia as Challenges to China's Pursuit of Nuclear Energy
Author(s): Zbigniew Dumienski
Download
|
In 2011, China's nuclear power ambitions were shaken, first by the Fukushima disaster which undermined public trust in nuclear energy worldwide, then by the spectacular crash of China's flagship transportation project - the high-speed rail. This ...moreIn 2011, China's nuclear power ambitions were shaken, first by the Fukushima disaster which undermined public trust in nuclear energy worldwide, then by the spectacular crash of China's flagship transportation project - the high-speed rail. This issue of the NTS Alert looks critically at the negative comments in the media, and in academic publications, on China's development and its nuclear energy programme, and offers a wider and more optimistic perspective on both China's progress and the safety of nuclear energy.
|
Energy Security
|
Publications
|
NTS Alert |
|
2011/11/25
|