Amnesty International's Thai office has been increasingly addressing domestic human rights issues, leading to significant backlash including threats to its staff and the organization's existence in Thailand. The shift in policy to tackle local issues has exposed the organization to state-sponsored violence, public hatred, and propaganda. Despite the risks, AI Thailand's Director Piyanut Kotsan believes it is worth it to work under the principle of human rights. The organization has faced challenges such as a halted report launch due to government intervention and campaigns to drive it out of the country. AI's stance as a global citizen remains, but the focus on local issues has led to the closure of offices in sensitive contexts like India and Hong Kong. Kotsan notes both positive and negative changes in the Thai society's engagement with human rights issues and expresses concerns over the safety of free expression. The upcoming APEC summit is seen as a critical moment for the Thai government's international recognition and its commitment to civil rights.

Amnesty International's Thai office has been increasingly addressing domestic human rights issues, leading to significant backlash including threats to its existence and staff. The organization's policy change to allow local offices to tackle domestic issues has resulted in heightened threats, particularly since the 2014 coup in Thailand. Piyanut Kotsan, Director of AI Thailand, discusses the challenges faced, including security measures and public scrutiny. Despite the risks, AI Thailand continues to advocate for human rights, with the support of a diverse new audience. The upcoming APEC summit is a concern for the organization, as it may lead to increased government repression. Kotsan emphasizes that shutting down AI Thailand would not silence the voice of the people or the international community's scrutiny.

An arrest warrant for Thai Senator Upakit was issued and then quickly retracted, with conflicting reports about its existence. Upakit has been summoned for questioning, potentially as a witness or suspect. His Thai-American son-in-law, Dean Gultula, and former business partner, Myanmar tycoon Tun Min Latt, are detained on charges of money laundering and conspiracy to commit drug-related offenses. The case involves a company founded by Upakit to run a casino in the Golden Triangle, known for drug trafficking. The investigation is seen as a test for Thailand's law enforcement and justice systems, with concerns about transparency and pressure from powerful figures. The Royal Thai Police have been tight-lipped about the investigation details, while the activist group Justice For Myanmar has revealed connections between the suspects and military-linked businesses.

Global rice prices are expected to remain high into 2024 due to geopolitical tensions, climate anomalies, and India's export restrictions. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations reports that while other grain prices have declined, rice prices have surged, impacting food security in Asia and Africa. India's export controls have removed significant quantities of rice from the market, affecting countries like the Philippines, Nigeria, and Vietnam. Experts predict that continued high prices could lead to increased food insecurity. Climate factors, such as El Niño, are also expected to affect rice production in major producing regions. Recommendations include greater private sector involvement in rice trading and sustainable farming practices to mitigate the impact.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched missile attacks on two cargo ships in the Red Sea's Bab el-Mandab Strait, causing damage and fires but no reported injuries. Houthi Military spokesman Yehia Sareea claimed responsibility, stating the attacks were due to the ships' crews not responding to Yemeni marine forces. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Germany's Defense Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the attacks, with Sullivan attributing responsibility to Iran for supporting the Houthis. The U.S. is working with international partners to address the threat to maritime security.

Thai diplomats and prominent Thai Muslims, including Lerpong Sayed, a political science lecturer in Iran, played crucial roles in negotiating the release of Thai hostages taken by Hamas during their attack on Israel. Lerpong, leveraging his connections in Iran, formed an informal group to reach out to Hamas leaders. Their efforts, alongside official diplomatic channels, led to the release of 23 Thai hostages. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other key figures, such as Wan Muhamad Noor Matha and Syed Sulaiman Husaini, were instrumental in these negotiations. Despite the success, challenges remain as more hostages are still held, and future employment in conflict zones is being reconsidered.

Thai diplomats and prominent Thai Muslims, including Lerpong Sayed, a political science lecturer in Iran, played crucial roles in negotiating the release of Thai hostages taken by Hamas during their attack on Israel. Lerpong leveraged his connections in Iran to establish an informal group that facilitated discussions with Hamas. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other officials also engaged in diplomatic efforts, leading to the release of 23 Thai hostages by late November. Despite the challenges posed by multiple captor groups, the negotiations were partially successful, although over 130 hostages remain in Gaza. The situation underscores the complexities of hostage negotiations and the potential need for Thai authorities to reconsider allowing workers in conflict zones.

Henry Kissinger, who passed away at age 100, is remembered for his foreign policy achievements, particularly opening China to the world and affecting the Cold War dynamics. However, in Southeast Asia, his legacy is viewed differently due to the devastating impact of his war strategies during the Vietnam War era. Kissinger's policies led to massive bombings in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and long-term consequences such as unexploded ordnance. His role in backing Indonesia's invasion of East Timor in 1975 is also criticized for contributing to a significant loss of life. The article reflects on the mixed legacy of Kissinger's actions in Asia.

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of Thailand's Move Forward Party, is on a political hiatus after his bid for prime minister was blocked by the military-appointed Senate and the Constitutional Court. Despite this setback, Pita remains active in political and international affairs, recently receiving recognition from Time magazine as a future leader. He emphasizes the importance of U.S.-Thai relations and shares insights from his recent visit to the U.S., including technological advancements and humanitarian concerns. Pita remains committed to achieving a full-fledged democracy in Thailand and is ready to cooperate with the Thai government on international issues such as the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Global rice prices are expected to remain high into 2024 due to geopolitical tensions, climate anomalies, and India's export restrictions. Despite a decline in other grain prices, rice prices have surged, impacting food security in regions heavily reliant on rice imports like Southeast Asia and West Africa. Experts suggest that private sector involvement and sustainable practices could help stabilize the market. The U.S. National Weather Service forecasts that El Niño will affect major rice-producing regions, further complicating the outlook. Policymakers are encouraged to adopt climate-friendly cultivation techniques to mitigate future risks.