World News

Pro-democracy activists increasingly vulnerable to authoritarian governments in Asia

Oct 2, 2026 · Shibani Mahtani

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

Pro-democracy activists increasingly vulnerable to authoritarian governments in Asia
A national flag of Thailand flutters in the wind with the city skyline in the background in Bangkok on September 9, 2026.
A national flag of Thailand flutters in the wind with the city skyline in the background in Bangkok on September 9, 2026.

Activists across Asia are being hunted down by authoritarian governments even across international borders. Human rights groups have been warning of a "swap market" of repression in Southeast Asia.

(Image credit: AMAURY PAUL)

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