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Disinformation in BARMM’s Fragile Post-Conflict Democracy

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Disinformation is a potential trigger of instability, particularly during critical periods like elections. In this regard, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which will hold its first parliamentary elections, is especially vulnerable to the destabilizing effects of disinformation on democratic elections in light of the region’s unique and fragile socio-political landscape and security context, characterized by weak institutions and sporadic violence. Moreover, the rapid increase in social media usage, limited literacy, and the absence of comprehensive disinformation policies exacerbate the BARMM region’s susceptibility. Unfortunately, existing interventions and measures have been insufficient in combating the sophisticated and pervasive nature of election-related disinformation. In this context, this policy paper suggests a multi-pronged approach, including voter education, peace covenants, civic education and digital citizenship, continuous investment, and th...
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Anyam Hablun 2023: Showcasing the Artistry and Ingenuity of Women of Sulu

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Makati City, May 23, 2023 - The women entrepreneurs of Accelerate Sulu are proud to announce their upcoming second national expo of cultural products, showcasing the diverse skills of women in the Province of Sulu. The exhibition, titled "Anyam Hablun 2023", will take place at The Gallery, 2 nd floor, Greenbelt Mall 5, Makati City on May 25-27, 2023, and will feature an array of cultural products, including traditional weaves, handmade crafts, and delicious food, all created by the women entrepreneurs. This event provides an opportunity for women from Sulu to come together and celebrate and promote their beautiful cultural heritage. It also serves as a platform for them to showcase their talent and ingenuity to a broader market. "We are thrilled to be able to share our cultural products with the larger audience in Metro Manila," said Ms. Rosemain Abduraji, Executive Director of Tumikang Sama-Sama Inc., who is working directly with Accelerate Sulu women. "We ho...
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The Salience and Politicization of Identity in the Ukraine Crisis

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This academic essay was written for a school paper assignment in grad school.  Analyzing the Ukraine Crisis           The Ukraine Crisis is one of the contemporary conflicts that threaten regional and global security. With over thirteen thousand deaths since 2014, the fighting continues which destroyed properties and killed innocent lives (DW, Several killed amid surge in violence in Ukraine, 2018; UN News, 2019) . Currently, some 1.5 million persons have been displaced and left their homes for safety (UNHCR, n.d.) . This major humanitarian crisis is caused by a volatile power struggle between Ukrainian groups aligning with the European Union against a separatist ethnic and pro-Russia. Since 2014, the exchange of fire between Ukrainian soldiers and Russian-supported separatists have ensued persistently. The Ukrainian side is resolved to defend its position and protect its population against internal and external threats. It seeks ...
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“The Protracted Crisis in Mindanao: Japan’s Cooperation and Human Security”: Revisited

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This academic essay was written for a school paper assignment in grad school.  The conflict in Mindanao has caused much devastation to the lives of the people (Heydarian 2015) . To help alleviate the suffering of Mindanaons and support the conflict resolution among the parties, several international organizations have extended assistance. Of these major international third parties, Japan has taken an active part in many aspects. In the article entitled “The protracted crisis in Mindanao: Japan’s cooperation and human security”, Sachiko Ishikawa and Dennis Quilala illustrated the involvement and comprehensive assistance of Japan to Mindanao and the Philippine Government. The authors examined the various roles played by Japan with a special focus on human security. The obstacles to assistance and how Japan endured them were also highlighted. It is no doubt that this article has an important contribution to the scant literature on peacebuilding and human security in Mindanao. However,...
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“South Korea’s Refugee Policies: National and Human Security Perspectives”: A Review and Analysis

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This academic essay was written for a school paper assignment in grad school.  Introduction             The global refugee crisis has been more prevalent over the past years. With the continuous outbreak of conflict in certain parts of the world, it has been reported that over 26 million people are displaced and seeking refuge in other countries (UNHCR 2020) . Among the host countries in Asia-Pacific, South Korea has the lowest acceptance rate according to World Data. Controversies have emerged regarding this East Asian country’s half-baked commitment to refugee response. The case of North Korean refuge seekers (defectors), however, is an exemption. In the article, “South Korea’s Refugee Policies: National and Human Security Perspectives”, Shin-wa Lee demonstrated the refugee policies of South Korea and its challenges of balancing national and human security. She explained how different administrations responded with incons...
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