ASEAN environmental issues worsened since 2009 - civil groups

16 Sept 06:01 Key points summarised by AI

Civil society groups, spearheaded by Project SEVANA South-East Asia, declare that environmental issues in ASEAN have severely deteriorated since 2009, despite their earlier calls for dialogue and action.
CSOs previously proposed an 'ASEAN-Civil Society Dialogue on Environment' and urged the creation of a 'fourth Strategic Pillar on the Environment' to embed sustainability into regional decision-making.
Critics contend that ASEAN's current economic development prioritizes businesses and states over community livelihoods, leading to environmental degradation and a failure to address local concerns.
A recent forum and the 'ASEAN We Want' statement by CSOs demand a 'people-centred ASEAN,' advocating for governments to protect human rights, uphold community livelihoods, and adopt sustainable, non-destructive development models.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.