Local Voices
Just Security’s “Local Voices” section features perspectives and analysis from individuals directly affected by conflict, human rights abuses, and political crises around the world.
316 Articles
Beyond the Coup in Myanmar: A Northern View
A civil society leader from Myanmar's volatile northeast border reflects on the unthinkable challenges in her work since the coup - and the hidden blessings of life in a "conflict…
Beyond the Coup in Myanmar: Inside Karen State
The coup has been a "nightmare" for democracy supporters across Myanmar - but for those in Karen State, protests have brought cautious hope and unity. A view from the ground.
Beyond the Coup in Myanmar: “In Accordance with the Law” – How the Military Perverts Rule of Law to Oppress Civilians
The Tatmadaw have used the concept of "law" to justify both arbitrary violence against anti-coup protestors and the coup itself. But what would true "rule of law" mean in Myanmar?
Indian Supreme Court’s Stance on the Deportation of Rohingya Refugees Violates International Law
The Indian Supreme Court’s refusal to implement its international law obligations has dented the hopes of thousands of Rohingyas who continue to seek refuge in India.
High-Level US Attention Needed for a Backsliding Democracy in Central Asia
Voters in Kyrgyzstan approved a referendum on April 11 that expands the president’s powers and threatens the most vibrant civil society in the region.
Combating Transnational Authoritarian Kleptocracy: Cracking Down on Western Professional Enablers
Effectively battling corruption and human rights abuses requires the tools provided by the Global Magnitsky Act - including the ability to target those who aid money laundering.…
Amid Palestinian Election Plans, Time to Challenge Hamas?
A new approach to longstanding Quartet conditions for recognizing any Palestinian government might incentivize Hamas to move away from violence.
Corruption Is a National Security Threat. The CROOK Act Is a Smart Way to Fight It.
A surcharge on entities liable under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act could advance good governance abroad and help create a more stable world.
The Fight Against Kleptocracy Should Look Beyond the West
Efforts that help constrain the enabling environment for corruption in the West do not sufficiently tackle how foreign authoritarian actors turbocharge kleptocracy and the role…
In Haiti’s Political Crisis, US Should Support Democracy and Human Rights
Activists say the Biden administration should reverse its support of President Moïse's illegal, abusive rule and consult civil society on a way ahead.
International Consensus Needed for the Taliban’s “Non-Return Through Force”
With a May 1 deadline looming for the withdrawal of the remaining U.S. troops in Afghanistan, stalled intra-Afghan “peace talks” in Doha, and a dramatic rise in violence across…
Decolonizing the ICC: The Situation in Palestine and Beyond
On Feb. 5, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber ruled that the ICC has jurisdiction over the Palestine situation. Here's why the apparently narrow and formalistic ruling offers hope for decolonizing…