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Check FAQAbout David
A freelance political journalist, columnist, commentator and editor... David Hutt is a political journalist based between the Czech Republic and Britain. He focuses on European foreign policy, Central European politics, and relations between Europe and Asia. He is also an expert on Southeast Asian politics, having spent five years (2014-2019) reporting on the region from Cambodia. He is currently Southeast Asia Columnist for the Diplomat, and a correspondent for the Asia Times. Before his time in Asia, he reported on Central American affairs from Nicaragua. His writing has appeared in the South China Morning Post, Nikkei Asian Review, Forbes, World Politics Review, Visegrad Insight, among other international publications. David is also an experienced English-language editor and proof-reader. He was editor of a business magazine, Focus Asean, and has provided editing responsibilities for international think-tanks and business consultancies. He is skilled at editing in either British or American English, and prides himself on fast turnaround. Also, David is regular provider of political and economic risk reports to international consultancies.
Portfolio
Southeast Asia’s ‘narco-state’ and ‘scam-states’ undercut authoritarian rule boasts
In 2023, Southeast Asia faced disorder with ongoing war in Myanmar, a surge in crime, and the reemergence of Myanmar as the world's largest opium producer. The region also grappled with the proliferation of 'scam-states,' where illegal industries may be worth as much as half the national GDPs of countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. These developments, including the largest drug bust in Thailand and the uncovering of a massive corruption scandal in Vietnam, challenge the notion that authoritarian states ensure stability and order.
Malaysia, Indonesia seek allies in EU deforestation row
Malaysia and Indonesia are rallying support from other Southeast Asian countries against the EU's upcoming Deforestation-Free Regulation, set to ban imports of certain agricultural products from deforested land starting late 2024. The regulation is seen as discriminatory by the two nations, which dominate global palm oil production, and they argue it will unduly burden small-scale farmers with bureaucratic demands. Both countries have initiated WTO complaints, and while Thailand is a significant producer of affected goods, it is unlikely to join in legal action due to ongoing free-trade talks with the EU. Instead, Southeast Asian nations are engaging in negotiations with the EU, seeking to be classified as low-risk for deforestation and to align EU demands with existing international standards.
How Far the Rot of Corruption Has Spread In Vietnam
Vietnamese National Assembly delegate Luu Binh Nhuong was detained on corruption charges, surprising many who viewed him as a vocal and principled lawmaker. This arrest is part of the Communist Party of Vietnam's (CPV) anti-corruption campaign, which has targeted thousands since 2016. The campaign, led by CPV General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, aims to purge the party of non-ideological officials and restore socialist principles. However, the campaign may be inherently flawed, as it does not address the systemic issues of the one-party system but rather focuses on individual misconduct. Trong's efforts to reshape the CPV in his austere and ideological image may be idealistic and reactionary, potentially leading to authoritarianism. The article suggests that the CPV's approach to corruption may not be sustainable in the long term and that a more fundamental change may be necessary.
How Far the Rot of Corruption Has Spread In Vietnam
Vietnamese National Assembly delegate Luu Binh Nhuong was detained on corruption charges, sparking surprise due to his reputation as a vocal defender of justice. His arrest is seen in the context of the Communist Party of Vietnam's (CPV) anti-corruption campaign, which has targeted thousands since 2016. The campaign, led by CPV general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, aims to purge the party of non-ideological officials and restore socialist principles. However, the article suggests that the campaign may be failing to address the systemic nature of corruption inherent in the one-party system. Trong's approach is criticized as idealistic and authoritarian, with doubts about his ability to find a successor to continue his anti-corruption efforts.
In Hun Manet’s Cambodia, It Is the Perception of Change That Matters
Hun Manet's rise to Cambodia's prime ministerial position is seen as a continuation of his father Hun Sen's oppressive rule, with no significant policy changes despite the generational leadership shift within the Cambodian People’s Party. Critics argue that the transition is merely cosmetic, maintaining the status quo for international allies like China while offering a false sense of change to Western observers. Hun Manet's leadership is characterized as lacking individuality, being deeply embedded in the system created by his father, and not indicative of any genuine reformist intent. The article suggests that any change in Cambodia will likely result from economic or political pressures rather than the will of its new leader.
Is Vietnam's electric car maker VinFast hitting the brakes in Europe?
VinFast, a Vietnamese electric car maker, is reportedly slowing its European expansion due to regulatory complexities and increasing competition, particularly from Chinese manufacturers. Despite opening showrooms in Germany and expanding in the Netherlands and France, VinFast has faced setbacks, including withdrawing from the IAA Mobility show and delaying the launch of its VF 8 and VF 9 SUVs in Europe. The company has been criticized for its rapid expansion without establishing a strong market presence in Vietnam and for opting to build its own sales network in Europe. VinFast maintains that Europe is a key market and is working towards launching the VF 8 by late 2023, having recently completed compliance checks with the European Whole Vehicle Type-Approval System. However, the company faces stiff competition from Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD, which has already presented six models for the European market and surpassed its 2022 overseas sales figures.
New Government in Cambodia: What Does It Mean for the EU?
Cambodia's long-time ruler Hun Sen announced his resignation in July 2023, succeeded by his son Hun Manet. The EU, critical of Cambodia's weakening democracy since 2017, is closely watching the transition. The EU imposed trade sanctions in 2020 due to democratic backsliding, affecting a quarter of Cambodia's exports. Relations improved slightly when Cambodia chaired ASEAN, but domestic repression has clouded the outlook. The EU Parliament called for tougher sanctions, but targeted measures are unlikely. France has improved ties with Cambodia, and the EU may adopt a wait-and-see approach, expecting concessions from the new government. Hun Manet's rise, along with other politicians' sons, could signal changes, but experts doubt significant opposition will be allowed. The EU is considering a new strategy focusing on corruption, seeking influence amid US-China competition. The effectiveness of the EU's approach may become clearer at the 12th EU-Cambodia Joint Committee meeting in Brussels later this year.
Why ‘ironclad friend’ Cambodia might just be China’s model ally
Cambodia stands out as a stable and beneficial ally for China amidst the domestic troubles faced by other Chinese partners. The relationship is transactional, lacking ideological ties, which could be advantageous for regional cooperation. Cambodia's manageable national debt, profitable trade with the West, and stable dictatorial government make it an attractive partner for China. However, Cambodia's diversified relations, including increased trade with the US and Vietnam, suggest it could pivot away from China if necessary. The article also touches on the potential for a peaceful power transfer from Prime Minister Hun Sen to his son, Hun Manet.
Southeast Asia appears stuck in a history trap
By the late 1990s, Southeast Asia had largely freed itself from colonialism and appeared to have settled national borders and governance issues. However, the 2021 military coup in Myanmar highlighted unresolved pre-Cold War elements, particularly the question of self-determination for Myanmar's ethnic minorities. The National Unity Government proposes a revolutionary federal state, while the military junta offers devolution based on central authority. ASEAN's approach to Myanmar's crisis is criticized for attempting to return to a past status quo and failing to recognize the need for a historical reckoning. Additionally, Southeast Asia's leaders are seen as trapped in nostalgia for the post-Cold War era's stability and prosperity, which is now over, leaving the region in an unstable and unpredictable world.
Cambodia’s Hun Sen has ruled for 35 years – is he looking to shore up his dynasty?
Hun Sen, Cambodia's Prime Minister, has maintained power for over three decades and is speculated to be preparing for a dynastic succession. His rule has been characterized by political maneuvering and suppression of opposition, particularly the Cambodia National Rescue Party. Despite economic growth, his government faces potential sanctions from the European Union and relies on support from China. Hun Sen's eldest son, Hun Manet, is being positioned for leadership, raising questions about the future of governance in Cambodia.
China influence aggravates Czech Republic's political war
In the Czech Republic, the political landscape is experiencing a divide due to deepening relations with China. This divide was highlighted by a recent incident at Charles University in Prague, one of the oldest universities in Europe. The university was compelled to shut down its Czech-Chinese Center after it was discovered that staff members had not disclosed receiving payments from the Chinese embassy. This event is part of a broader series of political disagreements that have surfaced among Czech political parties.
Fear of no-deal Brexit leaves Japanese firms considering a UK exit
The article discusses the concerns of Japanese companies in the UK over the potential impact of a no-deal Brexit. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other officials have expressed their worries about the UK leaving the EU without a deal, which would affect Japanese investments made in the UK since the 1980s. Japanese carmakers like Nissan, Toyota, and Honda, which have significant manufacturing operations in the UK, could face new tariffs and customs checks. The article also mentions the relocation of Japanese companies' operations and headquarters from the UK to other European countries, such as Sony and Panasonic moving to the Netherlands. Financial institutions like Norinchukin Bank are also preparing for Brexit by setting up subsidiaries in EU countries. Despite the risks, some Japanese firms are still planning to expand their business in the UK, while others are making contingency plans for a no-deal scenario.
Cambodia is drowning in debt
The article discusses the growing concern over Cambodia's increasing dependency on credit, with outstanding loans from the banking and microfinance sectors surpassing 100 percent of GDP. The National Bank of Cambodia has raised alarms about the destabilizing effects of rising individual debt. The rapid growth of domestic credit, especially in real estate, is highlighted as a potential risk, with a significant portion of investment coming from China. The article also touches on the government's intervention in capping microfinance loan interest rates and the socioeconomic impact of over-indebtedness on the poorer segments of the population. It warns of the potential for a financial crash, similar to an earthquake, where the timing is unpredictable but the fault lines, such as over-reliance on foreign investment and speculative real estate activities, are evident. The article concludes by emphasizing the vulnerability of Cambodia's financial sector to external economic forces and the stark divide between the wealthy and the indebted poor.
Cambodia at the center of a new Cold War
The article discusses China's strategic interest in establishing a naval base in Cambodia, specifically in the Koh Kong province, which could potentially serve as a deep-water port for Chinese naval vessels. The development, led by Tianjin Union Development Group (UDG), is officially a tourism project but has raised concerns due to its potential dual-use capabilities. The US, particularly through Vice President Mike Pence, is expected to address the issue in upcoming Asean and Apec summits. The article highlights Cambodia's growing dependence on China for loans, aid, and military cooperation, which has led to strained relations with the US and the EU, especially after Cambodia's controversial general election. The potential Chinese naval base could alter regional strategic dynamics, impact Vietnam's defense planning, and contribute to China's goal of protecting its maritime trade routes, particularly in light of the so-called 'Malacca dilemma'. The article also touches on the implications of Chinese investment in Cambodia and the possible geopolitical shifts in Southeast Asia.
Trump’s Vietnam Syndrome: Lobbyists, the Pentagon, and the US Presidency
The article discusses the legal and lobbying connections between the Trump administration and Viettel Group, a Vietnamese military-run telecoms provider. McDermott Will & Emery, a Washington-based law firm, and Dowell Pham Harrison were hired by Viettel to promote defense ties between Vietnam and the US. Stephen Ryan, a partner at McDermott Will & Emery, is also the personal lawyer for Michael Cohen, Trump's personal attorney, who is accused of various financial crimes. Jeff Miller, another associate at the firm, is expected to be named as Trump’s next Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The article raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and ethical issues due to the overlapping roles and relationships. It also touches on the broader implications for US-Vietnam relations, defense trade, and human rights concerns related to Viettel's operations.
Vladimir Putin Is Also Heading To Vietnam, But With Little To Offer
World leaders, including Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, and Xi Jinping, are attending the APEC summit in Danang, Vietnam. Despite historic ties, Russia's influence in Southeast Asia is waning, with Vietnam now one of America's closest allies in the region. Russia and Vietnam aim to increase bilateral trade, but face competition from the US and other Eurasian nations. Russia's involvement in Vietnam's energy and munitions industries is significant, but its non-interference stance on the South China Sea issue shows a reluctance to engage deeply in Southeast Asian affairs.
Why The EU Is Dallying Over Possible Cambodia Sanctions
A delegation of European Union parliamentarians, led by Werner Langen, visited Cambodia and warned of potential implications for development assistance and trade preferences due to the country's deteriorating political situation. The Cambodian government is accused of assaulting democracy, with the opposition CNRP facing dissolution and its leader Kem Sokha arrested for treason. The EU is considering sanctions, including removing tariff-free trade or imposing targeted sanctions on government officials. However, the effectiveness of such sanctions is debated, with Cambodia less reliant on Western aid due to Chinese investment. The EU's response is still pending, as is America's, with the situation in Cambodia being compared to other Southeast Asian nations.
Cambodia's secret Khmer Rouge resistance
The article discusses the various forms of resistance employed by Cambodians during the Khmer Rouge regime, which claimed the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people. Youk Chhang, the executive director of the Documentation Centre of Cambodia (DC-Cam), reflects on the importance of hope and emotional resistance as a means of survival. The article highlights that while physical acts of resistance were rare due to the regime's brutal suppression, many Cambodians engaged in passive resistance, such as maintaining personal identities, emotional connections, and small acts of defiance. The article also critiques the tendency of historians and writers to overlook these forms of resistance, focusing instead on more overt physical rebellions. Survivor stories and memoirs are cited to illustrate the various ways Cambodians resisted the regime's dehumanizing policies, emphasizing that the history of the Khmer Rouge is far from fully understood or documented.
Sexual abuse of males in Cambodia
The article discusses the issue of male sexual abuse in Cambodia, highlighting the stigma and lack of support for male victims. Alastair Hilton, a social work consultant, and Jarrett Davis, a research consultant, have documented cases and conducted research on this topic. Despite evidence of widespread abuse, many NGOs and UN programs focus primarily on female victims. The article explores the challenges in changing the narrative that males are perpetrators and females are victims, and the difficulties in obtaining funding for organizations that support male victims. It also touches on the role of gender politics and the media in shaping public perception and policy. The article suggests that there is a need for more inclusive support and resources for all victims of sexual abuse, regardless of gender.
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