Thailand initiated aid deliveries to Myanmar to assist civilians affected by fighting, with the first eight-truck convoy crossing the Mae Sot-Myawaddy Friendship Bridge No. 2. The aid, consisting of four thousand packages, will benefit around 20,000 people in three villages of Kayin state. Thai Vice Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed hope for peace and reconciliation in Myanmar and emphasized the focus on people affected by the conflict. Renewed fighting has increased the need for aid, with civilians displaced and in need of food and medicine. The National Unity Government and ethnic armed groups have proposed an alternative aid delivery plan, but claim there has been no direct communication from Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Thai authorities have reportedly reached out to some ethnic armed groups, and a Thai government advisor sees the humanitarian corridor as a positive development.

The article by Kiana Duncan describes the dire situation in the 'red zones' of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where strict COVID-19 lockdowns have led to severe food shortages and human rights concerns. Residents, such as Somal Ratanak and Chhai Boramey, are struggling with the lack of consistent government aid and rising food prices, while being unable to work or leave their homes. The government's aid has been sporadic and insufficient, with NGOs barred from entering red zones to provide assistance. Protests against food shortages have been met with backlash from officials and media, and there are reports of intimidation against those speaking out. The article highlights the challenges faced by the 120,000 residents in these zones, as well as the criticism of the government's haphazard response to the crisis.

The article discusses the plight of sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, who have been forced to work on the streets due to the closure of KTVs and massage parlours amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift has increased their vulnerability to police harassment, violence, and financial instability. Organizations like FHI 360 and Cambodian Women for Peace and Development are providing assistance, but the workers face significant risks, including the threat of COVID-19 transmission. A study by the Women’s Network for Unity highlights the severe impact on their livelihoods, with many turning to freelance work and facing increased competition and lower wages. The pandemic has exacerbated their situation, with lockdowns and fear of the virus reducing their customer base.

Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand face significant barriers to voting in their home country's elections due to costs, border-crossing restrictions, and lack of absentee voting. Despite advocacy groups' efforts to push for overseas voting rights, there has been little progress. The ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) is perceived to be delaying changes to the voting process until they can secure more support from migrants abroad. The National Election Committee (NEC) cites concerns over postal voting fraud, while labor organizers and civil society organizations argue that the current system disenfranchises a large portion of the electorate, particularly those likely to support opposition parties.

Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, has imposed 'red zones' to control COVID-19, resulting in tens of thousands of residents facing food insecurity and harsh restrictions. Despite early praise for its COVID-19 response, Cambodia is now experiencing a surge in cases, with hospitals over capacity. The government's aid has been sporadic and insufficient, leading to protests in Stung Meanchey district, which were met with backlash from officials. Human rights organizations have expressed concern over potential abuses and the need for adequate food, healthcare, and social assistance.

Following the military coup in Myanmar on February 1, press freedom has significantly deteriorated, leading to the rise of underground media movements. Citizen journalists, often students and activists, have started publishing newsletters like 'The Voice of Spring' and 'Molotov' to circulate information amidst internet shutdowns and media censorship. These publications, distributed discreetly in markets and other crowded places, have gained substantial support and are seen as a continuation of Myanmar's long history of press activism. Despite the risks, including arrests and violence against journalists, these underground outlets continue to operate, inspired by historical figures like U Win Tin. The movement has also expanded to radio with 'Federal FM: Voice of the People' broadcasting news and updates. The resilience of these citizen journalists reflects the enduring struggle for press freedom in Myanmar.

The Rohingya Photography Competition, founded by British documentary filmmaker Shafiur Rahman, empowers Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh to tell their stories through photography. The competition received 1,600 submissions from the Rohingya diaspora, with many entries from Kutupalong camp, the world's largest refugee camp. Despite facing internet restrictions, photographers submitted their work, capturing both the hardships and the resilience of camp life. Winners like Mohammad Salim Khan gained recognition and financial benefits, while others like Zahangir Alam used the platform to share their culture and the persecution they faced. The competition and subsequent projects like the Doc Sabba zine and exhibitions at events like the Oxford Human Rights Festival aim to provide the Rohingya with opportunities to represent themselves and earn a fair wage for their work. The arrest of Rohingya photographer Abul Kalam by Bangladeshi police highlights the risks and the need for support and training for these photographers.