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Check FAQAbout Michael
Michael Sullivan is a journalist based in Mueang Chiang Rai, Thailand. First and foremost radio journalist, also print. Rough work history: 2011-2017 Mostly freelance, frequent contributor from Southeast Asia for National Public Radio (NPR) U.S. Covering Thailand, Cambodia, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar and Bangladesh. Also contributor to Nikkei Asian Review and others 2003 to 2010 Senior Asia Correspondent, National Public Radio (NPR) based in Hanoi, Vietnam. Covering region with occasional trips to war zones and disaster areas in the Middle East and South Asia 1998-2003 Senior Asia Correspondent, National Public Radio (NPR) based in New Delhi, Islamabad and Kabul. Main responsibilities covering politics and conflict in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, also reported from Middle East and other areas as assigned 1995-2003 Senior Producer, Foreign Desk, National Public Radio (NPR). Reported and produced stories with reporters from around the globe at various NPR bureaus. Reported and produced stories from over 50 countries. 1993-1995 Executive Producer, All Things Considered, National Public Radio flagship evening news program based in Washington, D.C. 1991-1993 London reporter, National Public Radio 1986-1991 Producer, All Things Considered, National Public Radio flagship evening news program based in Washington, D.C. Three Overseas Press Club Awards for work in Bosnia, Haiti and Vietnam One Robert F. Kennedy Award for work in Bosnia. Three Peabody Awards (shared) for coverage of Gulf War and War in Afghanistan
English
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Fact Checking
War Reporter
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Tension rises between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila amidst escalating tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. A recent incident involved a collision and water cannon attack by Chinese coast guard vessels on Philippine resupply boats. The Philippines has increased its assertiveness in the region, conducting joint patrols with the U.S. and other allies, and seeking economic support to counter potential Chinese economic coercion. China criticizes U.S. involvement, while experts suggest neither China nor the U.S. desire a conflict, despite the risk of accidental escalation.
Tension rises between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila amidst escalating tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. A recent incident involved a Chinese coast guard vessel colliding with a Philippine resupply boat and another being hit by a water cannon. The Philippines has increased its assertiveness in the region, conducting joint patrols with the U.S. and Australia, and seeking partnerships with other nations like France. China accuses the U.S. of using the Philippines as a pawn, while Philippine experts emphasize the country's own strategic interests. The U.S. is obligated to defend the Philippines under a mutual defense treaty, but experts suggest neither China nor the U.S. desire a direct conflict, despite the risks of escalation with each encounter.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the ecosystem, including the migration to Tonle Sap Lake. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to conserve the river's unique species, such as the giant freshwater stingray. However, regional energy policies, particularly Laos's ambition to become the 'battery of Southeast Asia' and Thailand's power purchase agreements, pose significant risks to the river's health and the millions reliant on its resources.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the region's fishery and ecosystem. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development, is working to preserve the river's unique species, including a record-breaking giant stingray. Experts from the Stimson Center and International Rivers express concerns over the impact of hydropower development on the Mekong's biodiversity and the millions relying on it for food.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's recent cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but concerns remain over Laos' Phou Ngoy dam project, which could devastate the Mekong fishery and affect millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by University of Nevada's Zeb Hogan, is working to preserve the river's unique species, including the record-breaking 661-pound stingray caught by Moul Thon. Experts like Brian Eyler from the Stimson Center warn of the dire consequences of dam construction, while advocacy groups like International Rivers, represented by Pianporn Deetes, question the legitimacy of new power purchase agreements. The resilience of the Mekong is evident, but its future remains uncertain.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from dam construction and climate change. Cambodia's decision to cancel two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's plans for the Phou Ngoy dam could have devastating effects on the region's fishery and millions of people dependent on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to understand and preserve the river's unique ecosystem, recently saving and tracking a record-breaking giant stingray. However, the future of the Mekong and its communities remains uncertain as Laos continues to pursue hydropower projects, despite financial setbacks, and Thailand's energy surplus and power purchase agreements pose additional risks.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the ecosystem, including the migration to Tonle Sap Lake. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's unique species, evidenced by the recent release of a record-breaking giant stingray. However, Laos's hydropower ambitions and Thailand's energy purchases from Mekong dams pose ongoing risks.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River's biodiversity is at risk due to upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia has canceled plans for two new dams, but Laos's proposed Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the fishery and affect millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development, is working to preserve the river's unique species, including the giant freshwater stingray. Experts from the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Stimson Center warn of the severe impacts of dam construction near the Tonle Sap Lake. Advocacy groups like International Rivers are questioning the legitimacy of new power purchase agreements for Mekong hydropower dams.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but concerns remain over Laos' Phou Ngoy dam, which could devastate the Mekong fishery and affect millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development, is involved in conservation efforts, including the release of a record-breaking giant stingray. Experts from the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Stimson Center warn of the severe impacts of dam construction near the Tonle Sap Lake, crucial for fish migration. Advocacy groups like International Rivers are questioning the legitimacy of new power purchase agreements for Mekong hydropower dams.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the region's fishery and ecosystem. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to conserve the river's biodiversity, including endangered species like the giant freshwater stingray. Despite the challenges, the river's resilience is evident, with locals reporting sightings of even larger stingrays than the record-breaking one recently caught.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's recent cancellation of two proposed dams is a significant step towards preserving the river's biodiversity, which includes endangered species like the giant freshwater stingray. However, Laos' plans for the Phou Ngoy dam could spell disaster for the Mekong fishery and the millions reliant on it. Despite Laos' aim to become the 'battery of Southeast Asia' through hydropower, the country is incurring debt, and the dam's benefits are questionable. Advocacy groups and experts are raising concerns, and the resilience of the Mekong is evident in the recent capture and release of a record-breaking stingray, suggesting the river's vitality persists for the moment.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the fishery and affect millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's unique species, including a record-breaking giant stingray named Boramey. Despite Laos's aim to use hydropower for economic growth, the strategy is leading to increased debt without alleviating poverty. Advocacy groups and experts are questioning the legitimacy of new power agreements, and there is hope that the Mekong's resilience will continue to support its diverse ecosystem.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the ecosystem, including the migration to Tonle Sap Lake, the world's largest animal migration. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's biodiversity, evidenced by the recent rescue and release of a record-breaking giant stingray. However, the dam's construction, driven by Laos's goal to become the 'battery of Southeast Asia' and Thailand's energy purchase agreements, could lead to a rapid collapse of the fishery, affecting millions who depend on the river for food.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could be catastrophic for the region's fishery and millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by University of Nevada's Zeb Hogan, is actively researching and advocating for the river's conservation. Despite Laos's ambition to use hydropower for economic growth, the strategy is leading to increased debt without alleviating poverty. International Rivers and other experts are questioning the legitimacy of new power agreements, especially as Thailand, a major power purchaser, already has an energy surplus. The resilience of the Mekong is evident in the recent catch of a record-breaking giant stingray, but the river's future remains uncertain.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's recent cancellation of two proposed dams is a significant step for conservation, but Laos's plans for the Phou Ngoy dam could spell disaster for the region's fishery and millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's biodiversity, as evidenced by the recent rescue and release of a record-breaking giant stingray. However, the future of the Mekong and its unique ecosystem remains uncertain, with ongoing dam construction and energy agreements threatening its survival.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia has canceled plans for two new dams, but Laos's Phou Ngoy dam project raises concerns about the impact on fish migration and regional food security. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's biodiversity, including tracking a record-breaking giant stingray named Boramey. Experts like Brian Eyler from the Stimson Center warn that the Phou Ngoy dam could lead to a rapid collapse of the Mekong fishery, affecting millions. Advocacy groups and regional stakeholders are questioning the legitimacy of new power purchase agreements for Mekong hydropower dams.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's recent cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step, but Laos's planned Phou Ngoy dam could be catastrophic for the region's fishery and millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development, is involved in conservation efforts, including the release of a record-breaking giant stingray back into the river. Experts from the Stimson Center and International Rivers express concerns over the impact of hydropower development on the Mekong's ecosystem and communities.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, vital for Southeast Asian communities, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia canceled plans for two new dams, but Laos's Phou Ngoy Dam could devastate the river's biodiversity, including endangered species like the giant freshwater stingray. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, funded by USAID and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is tracking these species. Experts like Brian Eyler from the Stimson Center warn that the dam could collapse the Mekong fishery, affecting millions. Advocacy groups and regional stakeholders are questioning the legitimacy of new power purchase agreements for Mekong hydropower dams.
Mekong River communities rely on it for food — new dams threaten resources
The Mekong River, crucial for Southeast Asia's biodiversity and local livelihoods, faces threats from upstream Chinese dams, climate change, and potential new dams. Cambodia's cancellation of two proposed dams is a positive step for conservation, but Laos' plans for the Phou Ngoy dam could devastate the Mekong fishery and affect millions reliant on the river. The Wonders of the Mekong Project, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and led by Zeb Hogan from the University of Nevada, Reno, is working to preserve the river's unique species, including the record-breaking giant stingray caught by local fisherman Moul Thon. Regional experts and advocacy groups like International Rivers are raising concerns about the impact of hydropower development on the Mekong's ecosystem and communities.
How to Choose Your Flatware
Selecting flatware is a significant decision given that Americans typically purchase only three sets in their lifetime. Over 100 hours of research suggest considering the number of settings, budget, and material durability, with stainless steel being a recommended choice. Flatware can be bought piece by piece, in box sets, or as individual place settings, with a quality stainless steel setting costing between $20 and $45. Durability varies by handle material, with resin being the most durable non-metal option. Finish preference is subjective, with satin being preferred by testers for its aesthetics and grip. Weight and balance are also personal preferences, and classic, versatile designs are advised over trendy ones.
Teaching Kids In Vietnam To Avoid A Deadly, Everyday Legacy Of War
The article discusses the ongoing issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Quang Tri province, Vietnam, a legacy of the Vietnam War. It highlights the efforts of Project Renew and the Mine Action Visitor Center in educating local children on how to identify and avoid UXOs. The article features Nguyen Thanh Phu, who teaches children about the dangers of UXOs, and Chuck Searcy of Project Renew, who has been working on UXO disposal and awareness for over 20 years. The article also mentions the recent increase in U.S. government funding for UXO clearance in Vietnam and touches on the broader issue of Agent Orange. The dangers of UXOs are underscored by the recent death of Ngo Thien Khiet, a Project Renew team leader, while disposing of a cluster bomb.
In Cambodia, Rats Are Being Trained To Sniff Out Land Mines And Save Lives
In Siem Reap, Cambodia, African giant pouched rats are being trained to detect land mines, potentially saving lives and aiding in clearing the countryside of explosives. These rats, provided by the Belgian nonprofit Apopo in partnership with the Cambodian Mine Action Center, are capable of clearing a 200-square-meter area in about 30 minutes, a task that would take a human with a metal detector days. The rats are trained to detect TNT and ignore other scents, and they are rewarded with food for successful detection. Apopo's program, which also includes rats trained to detect tuberculosis, has been successful in other post-conflict countries. The rats work early in the morning to avoid the heat and are well cared for, living in air-conditioned quarters. Skepticism remains among some in the demining community, but the rats have proven to be an efficient tool in detecting certain types of mines that are difficult for metal detectors to find. The rats are expected to be deployed in real minefields by the end of the year.
How to Clean Your Toaster
To clean a toaster, brush away crumbs from the heating elements and slots with a soft-bristle pastry brush, use a thin paint brush to reach crumbs along the bottom rim, and empty the crumb tray. Wash the tray with warm soapy water if needed. To clean the outside, use a damp cloth with a drop of dish soap for stains. Avoid flipping the toaster or banging it to remove crumbs, as this can damage it according to research by The Ohio State University.
Hackers leak private data of thousands of children to the dark web
A cyber gang named Vice Society leaked private data of British school pupils, including sensitive information such as photocopies of passports and disciplinary records. The data breach affected five schools and a sixth form college, with the gang uploading the stolen data to the dark web after ransom demands were refused. Experts warn this could expose children to risks such as grooming by criminal gangs. The schools affected include Pilton Community College, The De Montfort School, St Paul’s Catholic College, Carmel College, and Mossbourne Federation. The same gang previously targeted the supermarket chain Spar. Affected schools have reported the incident to the police and are working to strengthen their security systems.
In Danang, Where U.S. Troops First Landed, Memories Of War Have Faded
The article reflects on the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the first American combat troops in Danang, Vietnam, and the subsequent war that lasted a decade. It shares personal accounts from Vietnamese individuals like Nguyen Tien and Vo Cao Loi, who witnessed the arrival of U.S. Marines and the horrors of the My Lai massacre. The piece also tells the story of Larry Vetter, a U.S. veteran who served multiple tours in Vietnam and later returned to Danang to aid victims of Agent Orange. The article notes the transformation of Danang, where memories of the war have faded among the younger generation, and the city now welcomes Americans as friends, highlighted by a recent concert by an American band from the USS Fort Worth. The narrative captures the passage of time and the healing that has occurred, yet acknowledges the deep scars left by the war.
Philippine President Duterte's First Year In Office Is Marked By Bloody War On Drugs
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's first year in office is characterized by a controversial war on drugs, resulting in over 7,000 deaths from extrajudicial killings and police encounters. Despite international condemnation and the human rights calamity described by Human Rights Watch, Duterte's popularity has soared, with approval ratings between 75 and 80 percent. The article presents various perspectives from Manila residents, some of whom support Duterte's harsh methods, while others fear the police and grieve for lost family members. Human rights activists and legal experts express concern over the weak legal system and the unrecorded killings. The financial burden on poor families to recover bodies of relatives is also highlighted. Duterte's focus on the drug war is seen as neglecting other important issues such as corruption, infrastructure, and job creation. The ongoing battle against ISIS-linked militants in Mindanao is mentioned as another significant challenge for Duterte.
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