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China and the Online Scam Industry in Southeast Asia: Lessons for Governance

This project challenges simplistic narratives that frame the online scam industry in Southeast Asia as a purely ‘Chinese’ phenomenon. Through mapping the diverse actors involved and analysing how the Chinese state has sought to rein in the industry, it aims to identify lessons for improving governance of ethnic Chinese transnational crime in the region.

Human Trafficking for Forced Criminality in Southeast Asia’s Online Scam Industry: Lessons from China and Indonesia

This comparative study examines the experiences of Chinese and Indonesian victims of human trafficking for forced criminality in Southeast Asia’s scam compounds. It focuses on media portrayals, recruitment mechanisms, the role of civil society in assisting survivors, and relations between workers of different nationalities within scam operations.

Diaspora Activism and Global China

This project examines diaspora activism in the context of Global China, with a focus on environmental issues, smuggling, and civil society dynamics. It aims to produce research for both academic and public audiences.

Censorship and Self-Censorship

This project investigates patterns of censorship and self-censorship, with connections to broader questions of governance, media freedom, and knowledge production in the Global South.

China’s Poverty Alleviation Demonstrations in Southeast Asia

This project examines how China’s domestic poverty reduction experience is being demonstrated in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Laos. It investigates which actors are involved, how projects are funded, and to what extent principles of gender empowerment and pro-poor participation are reflected in these initiatives.