Philippines ranks world’s 2nd most dangerous country for environmentalists

23 Sept 04:10 Key points summarised by AI

The Philippines became the world’s second most dangerous country for environmental activists in 2017, with 48 green advocates killed, trailing only Brazil.
Globally, 2017 marked the deadliest year on record for environmentalists, with over 200 activists murdered, primarily due to government-sponsored killings linked to lucrative projects by vast agriculture multinationals.
Activists were largely targeted for protesting land development for consumer staples like coffee and palm oil, with indigenous peoples disproportionately affected by the violence.
The year saw multiple massacres, including one in the Philippines where eight villagers protesting a coffee plantation were killed by soldiers, alongside other threats such as death threats, intimidation, and arrests.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.