Indian Farmers Protest Against Market Liberalisation
Discussions between New Delhi and agricultural interest groups are unlikely to achieve consensus. The market reforms are likely to be implemented and will assist in improving food security outcomes.
Covid-19 Worsens Food Security in South-East Asia
While most of the South-East Asian region has managed to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus and prevent a public health crisis, the regional economic downturn has resulted in weaker food security and a rise in poverty.
Food and Water Security on the Agenda as Israeli Delegation Visits Sudan
Improved relations with the United States and Israel could help Sudan repair its economy and improve food and water security. As that will help it gain access to international finance and assist it in expressing its interests in regional water sharing negotiations.
Increased Risk of “Day Zero” Droughts due to Climate Change
While there is uncertainty about future climate conditions, it is probable that South Africa, Australia and other regions with similar climate conditions will experience severe droughts that could deplete water sources, mainly as a result of climate change.
Iran: A Passion for Large-Scale Water Projects is Unlikely to Alleviate Complex Water Problems
As Iran inaugurates the first stage of a major water transfer project this month, history shows that similar projects failed to alleviate water insecurity as they did not address the root causes of water scarcity.
China Continues to Confront Steep Environmental Challenges
Beijing recognises that there are growing concerns within China about environmental conditions, especially in relation to air, water and soil pollution. In recent years it has introduced new laws and set a range of goals to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Chinese officials admit that while environmental conditions have improved in recent years, they fall short of public expectations. Beijing is expected to announce new environmental goals in the upcoming 14th Five-Year Plan. If they are as poorly implemented as those in the previous plan, they are also likely to fall short of public expectations.
Food Security in Peril as Crises Continue to Mount
Covid-19, severe weather events and pest outbreaks have meant that food security will continue to decline in the near future, with aid agencies increasingly unable to help.
Bangladesh a Winner in India-China Rivalry but Water Dispute Settlement is Still a Long Way Off
Although India is keen to grant concessions to Bangladesh to keep it from China’s sphere of influence, domestic politics have prevented New Delhi from solving the long-standing water-sharing dispute with Dhaka.
Too Many Eggs in the Dragon’s Basket? Part One: Australia’s Reliance on Exports to China
China is manifestly Australia’s principal two-way trading partner. Australian exports of goods and services to China were worth $153 billion and constituted 32.6 per cent of all exports. Over the past six months, the Chinese Government has either denied, or given indication of restricting, a range of Australian exports, including barley, meat, wine, cotton and services. Given that alternative or substitute markets either do not exist, or take time and market development to form, a strategic reappraisal of Australia’s export base is required.
Syrian Food Security in Decline as Wheat Shortages Loom
Unprecedented challenges to Syria’s food security may worsen as the government struggles to procure wheat.