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LGBTQ activists condemn Japan’s ‘meaningless’ equality bill
Critics argue that a new equality bill submitted to Japan’s parliament is a “meaningless gesture” as lawmakers diluted its language. LGBTQ activists claim the bill fails to address discrimination adequately, while conservative politicians fear it could deepen divisions or lead to malicious lawsuits.
The bill’s revisions, including changes regarding transgender discrimination, have faced significant opposition, raising doubts about its eventual debate and passage. Japan remains the only G7 country without recognition of same-sex unions and lacks specific anti-LGBTQ discrimination laws.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has faced pressure to enhance legal protections ahead of the G7 summit.
Library books should not have ‘unhealthy ideas’: Hong Kong leader
Hong Kong’s leader, John Lee, stated that the city should not recommend books with “unhealthy ideas” following the removal of library books on politically sensitive topics.
The move is seen as part of the broader crackdown on dissent after the imposition of the national security law. Hong Kong’s autonomy has diminished, and expressions of political differences have been stifled, including the banning of the annual Tiananmen Square vigil.
Lee did not clarify what constitutes “unhealthy ideas.”
Thailand’s Move Forward Party takes on biggest political taboo
Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP) aims to challenge the nation’s taboo on insulting the monarchy, but MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s stance on modifying lese-majeste laws could hinder his path to power.
The law, protecting the king, carries severe penalties and is viewed by critics as a tool to suppress dissent. Despite the challenges, the issue is now part of the political debate, and rejecting a prime minister chosen by a coalition government could trigger fresh unrest in the country.
The MFP’s electoral success signifies a shift in the political landscape.
Thai opposition leader confident of forming government
The leader of Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP) expressed confidence in becoming prime minister despite opposition from junta-appointed senators. The MFP, emerging as the largest party after a record-turnout election, formed a coalition with two other parties, securing a majority in the lower house.
However, the appointment requires majority support across both houses, including the Senate. The MFP’s intention to amend laws against insulting the king has alarmed the conservative establishment.
While facing challenges, the MFP remains optimistic about setting up the government and finding middle ground on lese-majeste reform, a previously forbidden topic.
Montana becomes first US state to ban TikTok
Montana has become the first U.S. state to ban TikTok, with the law set to take effect next year. The ban, signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte, will be a test for a potential national ban on the Chinese-owned app. The move is expected to face legal challenges and has been criticized for infringing on free speech rights.
TikTok has been accused of being a tool for Chinese espionage, allegations the company denies.
Thai parties meet for coalition talks to form government
Thai opposition parties, led by the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP), held coalition talks after a decisive election victory. MFP, aiming to ally with the dominant Pheu Thai party and four smaller groups, needs over 300 seats in the lower house and a majority in the Senate to secure the prime minister’s position.
Some junta-appointed senators are opposed to MFP’s leader, particularly due to his anti-establishment stance and plans to amend royal insult laws.
The Bhumjaithai party also refused to support MFP over its stance on lese-majeste laws.
Case filed against French fashion groups over Uyghur labour
Rights groups in France, including Sherpa and the Ethique sur l’etiquette collective, have filed a new complaint against clothing giants Uniqlo and Inditex, alleging that they profited from the forced labor of the Uyghur minority in China.
The complaint includes charges of crimes against humanity, genocide, and human trafficking. The groups aim to shed light on the responsibility of multinational clothing companies that benefit from Uyghur forced labor, particularly in the production of cotton items.
Previous accusations against Uniqlo France, Inditex, and other brands were dropped in April.
Thai govt should ‘reflect people’s will’: poll observers
Thailand’s regional poll observers from the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) called for a government that reflects the will of the people as the opposition’s bid to take power faces resistance from junta-appointed senators.
The progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) emerged as the biggest party, and ANFREL praised the high voter turnout and transparency of the election.
The MFP and its allies are working on a coalition but need to secure a majority across both houses, including the Senate, to secure the prime minister’s job. Some senators have expressed opposition to MFP’s leader, raising concerns about proposed lese-majeste reforms.
Taiwan’s Main Opposition Party Picks Popular Mayor As Presidential Candidate
The Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party in Taiwan nominated popular mayor Hou Yu-ih as its presidential candidate, setting the stage for a referendum on President Tsai-Ing-wen’s handling of China-Taiwan relations.
Tsai rejects China’s territorial claim and has faced increased pressure, while the KMT seeks warmer ties. Hou emphasized safeguarding Taiwan and prosperity if elected, opposing Taiwan’s independence and the “one country, two systems” model.
He was chosen over tech billionaire Terry Gou and will face Vice President William Lai, who supports Taiwan’s independence, in the election.
