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Check FAQAbout Quan
Quan Le is a seasoned journalist and pro-democracy lawyer with a base in Hanoi, Vietnam, and currently operating from Washington DC. His extensive experience includes writing for prominent media outlets such as BBC Vietnamese and VOA Tieng Viet, where he has honed his expertise in analyzing the Vietnamese legal system and political environment. Le's articles are known for their critical examination of the discrepancies between legislation and its enforcement, with a particular focus on civil rights and freedom of speech issues. In his journalistic work, Le has tackled complex subjects ranging from Vietnam's economic policies and legal trials to constitutional amendments. He has provided in-depth coverage of significant cases, such as that of teacher Lê Thị Dung, highlighting the potential for misuse of the legal system, and the trial of Bùi Tuấn Lâm, a Catholic activist, where he questioned the balance between state security and individual rights. His economic commentary extends to Vietnam's GDP growth, foreign investment, and the implications of large mergers and acquisitions on national assets, advocating for financial transparency and cautioning against the culture of extravagance among officials. Beyond journalism, Le has applied his legal acumen as an independent legal consultant for various developmental projects in Vietnam, which has further enriched his understanding of Vietnamese society. His commitment to democratic development and social justice is evident in his advocacy for a constitution that genuinely reflects the will of the people and a legal system that steadfastly upholds human rights and freedom of expression.
Vietnamese
Risk Analysis
Fact Checking
Politics
Portfolio
Cambodian Funan Techo Canal project – issues, challenges, and solutions, discussed with Dr. Brian Eyler and Dr Vannarih Chheang about the newly funded Cannal in Cambodia.
Diplomacy between Vietnam and the Vatican
Vietnam and the Vatican, despite not having full diplomatic relations, have reached their highest level of engagement since 1975. Võ Văn Thưởng, representing the Vietnamese state, invited Pope Francis to visit Vietnam. The Vatican appointed Marek Zalewski as its non-resident representative in Vietnam, later upgrading his role to a permanent representative. This development is seen as a historic moment in bilateral relations. The article discusses the roles of Apostolic Delegates, Nuncios, and the technical terms used in the Vietnam-Vatican Joint Working Group. It also touches on the complexities of the relationship, the atheistic ideology of communism, and the control over religions, particularly Catholicism. The potential visit of Pope Francis to Vietnam is seen as beneficial for the country and the Catholic Church in Vietnam, potentially enhancing international perception and building trust among the populace, especially Catholics.
Is Mr. Vo Van Thuong caught in the 'Belt and Road'?
Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong attended the third Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, amidst concerns over the initiative's influence and the potential for a 'debt trap' diplomacy by China. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been signed by 152 countries and 32 international organizations, impacting two-thirds of the world's population and 40% of global GDP. Vietnam remains cautious, facing the risk of being caught between China's land and maritime routes. The digital space poses a significant risk with Chinese-produced surveillance and telecom equipment prevalent in Vietnam. BRI projects have faced criticism for corruption, environmental damage, and stalled progress in countries like Kenya and Tanzania. Vo Van Thuong's visit included meetings with various world leaders and discussions on Vietnam's future and its relationship with China, with the backdrop of a potential visit by Xi Jinping to Hanoi in December.
‘Rescue Flight Trial’: Justice and Remaining Questions
The 'rescue flight' corruption case concluded with three life sentences and no death penalties, leaving some corrupt funds unrecovered and fines deemed insufficient. The court did not address the rights of customers who purchased tickets from businesses organizing the flights, leaving them to seek redress independently. The case raised public concern over the potential normalization of 'sentence buying.' The article argues for harsher financial penalties for corruption and criticizes the judicial system for favoring officials with the power to mitigate their sentences. It highlights the fear among citizens to claim their rights and questions the fairness of the judicial process, suggesting that the ruling party's influence leads to injustice.
Vietnam, the economy 'on the other side of the slope'
Vietnam's economy has seen high growth over the past 20 years, but now faces limited development space and is trending towards decline. Despite a reported 8.02% GDP growth in the previous year, skepticism surrounds the figure. The National Assembly has optimistically set a 6.5% growth target for 2023, ignoring the lingering effects of the pandemic. Significant asset sales to foreign entities have occurred, particularly in banking, real estate, and retail sectors. Major M&A deals have seen domestic assets transferred to foreign investors, including Malaysian and Warburg Pincus investments. The real estate sector has seen foreign takeovers, and domestic production industries are negligible. The banking system is experiencing serious issues, potentially leading to a crisis due to over-issuance of corporate bonds. The government system is stagnating due to a lack of informal 'grease' payments, and a new mindset is needed to avoid falling into the middle-income trap in 2023.
The trial of Peter Bui Tuan Lam - from a human and indictment perspective
Bùi Tuấn Lâm, also known as Peter Lâm Bùi, faces a preliminary trial in Đà Nẵng on May 25, 2023, for allegedly spreading anti-government propaganda on Facebook and YouTube. The prosecution claims he distorted and slandered the people's government, causing public alarm. Lâm asserts his posts and videos are truthful exercises of free speech. The article discusses the legal aspects of the case, highlighting the conflict between Vietnam's penal code and international human rights conventions. It also provides background on Lâm's activism and charitable work, questioning the motives behind the legal actions against him.
My perspective on life and other things, exists for years but not very updated. Thanks
Could the United States Default on Its Debt? The Reality and Consequences
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warns of a potential unprecedented event on June 1, where the government may not have sufficient funds to pay its bills. The debt ceiling, a legal limit on the amount the government can borrow, is close to being reached at $31.46 trillion. The U.S. currently borrows at 123% of its GDP, while other countries like Japan and Singapore have higher debt-to-GDP ratios. The U.S. and Denmark are unique in having an absolute debt ceiling number, but Denmark's is largely symbolic due to its high threshold. The U.S. Congress frequently debates and raises the debt ceiling, having done so 78 times since 1960. Vietnam has also faced debt concerns, with its government recalculating GDP in 2020 to technically reduce its debt-to-GDP ratio. The article discusses the potential consequences of a U.S. default, which could include global economic chaos. It also touches on the 14th Amendment as a possible tool for President Biden to address the debt ceiling unilaterally. The article concludes by reflecting on the resilience of the U.S. economy and labor force, suggesting that despite potential default, the country's economic drive may continue to lead the world.
'Justice' or 'personal reasoning' from the case of teacher Le Thi Dung
The case of teacher Le Thi Dung, who was sentenced to five years in prison for financial misconduct involving 44.7 million VND, has sparked public outcry and debate among legal experts. The Nghệ An Propaganda Department reported on the widespread media coverage and called for responsible reporting. The trial has been controversial, with accusations of bias and unfair treatment, including the expulsion of Dung's lawyers from court and the failure to consider collective responsibility. The case has raised questions about the fairness of the Vietnamese legal system, with concerns that it may be used for personal vendettas, as Dung had previously clashed with local officials. The upcoming appellate court session is eagerly awaited by the public, who hope for a just resolution.
Chinese Film Culture and History Series: ‘Daming Palace’ and Emperor Wu Zetian
The article discusses the documentary 'Daming Palace,' which provides a panoramic perspective on the Imperial Tang dynasty through the life of the Palace of Great Brightness. It highlights the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, and her significant contributions to the expansion and cultural flourishing of China. The text also delves into the historical context of the Tang and Zhou dynasties, the development of the printing press, and notable historical figures such as Bi Sheng and Di Renjie. The article recommends further reading and viewing materials for those interested in Chinese history and culture.
Reclaiming pragmatism in Japan’s energy policy
Japan faces unique energy challenges, including a lack of domestic resources, high dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports, elevated energy costs, and expensive greenhouse gas emission reductions. The country's energy policy, influenced by the 2011 disaster, has been polarized between nuclear and renewable sources. Japan's current energy strategy aims to balance energy self-sufficiency, cost reduction, and GHG emission cuts. Progress has been mixed, with renewable energy expanding but nuclear restarts lagging. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's 2050 carbon neutrality goal and the Green Growth Strategy outline a future energy mix. Japan's 6th Strategic Energy Plan is under revision, and a pragmatic approach that diversifies energy sources, including nuclear, is advocated to achieve decarbonization.
The uncertain future of online free speech in Indonesia
The article discusses the controversial ITE Law in Indonesia, highlighting concerns about its impact on free speech and the need for revisions. It details the government's defense of the law, the ambiguous provisions that threaten freedom of speech, and the lack of an independent regulatory body for internet oversight. The article emphasizes the importance of revising not only defamation and hate speech regulations but also the government's power to restrict internet access. It questions the effectiveness of proposed interpretation guidelines and calls for greater political accountability and the establishment of an independent regulatory body.
Biden rebuilds cybersecurity alliances but risks creating a techno-democratic clique
The Biden administration has placed seasoned cyber and technology experts at the core of the National Security Council to coordinate an interagency approach to cybersecurity. This marks a shift from the previous four years, with the creation of the Office of the National Cyber Director and a focus on Obama-era norms. The administration aims to strengthen techno-democratic alliances and respond to cyber-attacks, as seen with the SolarWinds breach. Efforts include the proposed T-12 alliance and quadrilateral cooperation with Australia, India, and Japan. However, the focus on democracies with high-tech capabilities risks creating a techno-democratic bloc, potentially alienating less-democratic and developing countries. The article suggests that the US should also engage with these countries to improve global cyber governance and security.
Indonesia plays hardball with its nickel
Indonesia is strategically positioning itself as a central player in the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain by leveraging its control over nickel resources. The country has seen significant foreign direct investment in nickel smelters and downstream processing, particularly in Morowali, leading to substantial GDP growth. Investments from major companies like Toyota, LG Group, CATL, and Hyundai in the auto and battery manufacturing sectors align with President Joko Widodo's economic development vision. Despite environmental concerns and regulatory challenges, Indonesia's approach to nickel exports and value-added manufacturing appears to be successful, positioning it to benefit from the anticipated growth in demand for EVs and lithium-ion batteries.
Dealing with a China that’s not like us
The article examines the evolving dynamics of US-China relations under the Biden administration, highlighting the strategic competition between the two nations. It contrasts the current administration's approach with that of the Trump era, noting a shift towards potentially more benign competition. The piece discusses China's assertiveness in its domestic and regional policies, the US's response, and the implications for global stability. It emphasizes the need for both countries to engage as equals and suggests that the US should focus on self-improvement and strategic investments in science and technology to foster a more constructive relationship.
Myanmar’s civil disobedience movement is built on decades of struggle
The civil disobedience movement in Myanmar is rooted in decades of activism aimed at building a multi-ethnic civil society and independent media under military rule. The movement leverages historical knowledge, international alliances, and digital platforms like Facebook and Twitter to coordinate and disseminate information. Despite the focus on new technologies, the movement's strength lies in its historical foundation and the support of civil society organizations. The current struggle against the Tatmadaw is bolstered by the experiences of past generations and the solidarity of transnational protest movements like the Milk Tea Alliance. Continued support for civil society and independent media is crucial for democratic change.
The complexities of China’s CPTPP entry
The Biden administration's shift from Trump's 'America First' policy to re-engaging with multilateral institutions could lead to the U.S. reconsidering entry into the CPTPP. The U.S. has lost credibility in Asia for safeguarding the liberal trade order after withdrawing from the TPP, which was salvaged by Japan and other key members. China's potential entry into the CPTPP is complex due to issues like state subsidies, intellectual property rights, and digital trade standards. The TPP was designed by the U.S. to counter China's rise, and China's enthusiasm for RCEP was seen as a counter to TPP. The U.S. and China's differing motivations for regional leadership make their joint participation in an expanded CPTPP unlikely. Experts suggest China's interest in the CPTPP may be driven by domestic reform agendas, but it's uncertain if China will meet the entry requirements. The economic downturn caused by COVID-19 in RCEP economies highlights the need for U.S.-China collaboration on global issues. Regional powers should advocate for a rule-based trade order and mutual trust is essential for any sustainable FTAAP in the Asia Pacific.
An ASEAN way to resolve the Myanmar crisis
ASEAN, historically protective of Myanmar, faces a dilemma in supporting the country under military rule. With over 200 killed in protests, ASEAN and international players must urgently strategize to secure a ceasefire. Informal meetings with stakeholders, including the military, NLD, and ethnic groups, are suggested. The US and China's meeting in Alaska could influence Myanmar's situation, aligning with the UN Security Council's stance. ASEAN's moral authority may pressure Myanmar to suspend its membership, as seen in 2006. The upcoming Armed Forces Day raises concerns about further military actions. ASEAN's handling of the crisis will test its unity and commitment to prioritizing people over brutality.
Has the Vatican lost its voice in China?
The article discusses the challenges faced by the Catholic Church in Hong Kong amid increasing pressure from Beijing, highlighting the Vatican's silence on China's human rights issues and the implications of the Sino-Vatican agreement. It critiques the Vatican's approach, suggesting that true dialogue with China should include criticism and calls for an international coalition to address religious and human rights concerns. The article emphasizes the need for the Vatican to play a central role in fostering genuine dialogue and cooperation.
Can Myanmar’s civil disobedience movement restore democracy?
The civil disobedience movement in Myanmar is gaining momentum, affecting key sectors like banking and healthcare, and leading to widespread protests. The military junta, led by Min Aung Hlaing, faces multiple crises and internal challenges. Several scenarios are possible, ranging from a return to absolute military rule to a new civilian-led government. The outcome depends on various factors, including the sustainability of the civil disobedience movement and international support. The article explores the complexities and potential paths forward for Myanmar's political future.
Domestic challenges could limit new US climate policy
The Biden administration faces significant domestic challenges in implementing ambitious climate policies, such as the new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite control of the Senate, legislative action is hindered by the filibuster rule and the 60-vote threshold. Regulatory approaches may be pursued, but these are likely to face challenges in federal courts, especially with the conservative majority in the Supreme Court. State-level actions may continue to play a key role in climate policy. The administration is expected to embrace scientific expertise in its policy design, contrasting with the previous administration.
Biden recalibrates Trump’s approach to East Asia
The article discusses President Biden's recalibration of US foreign policy towards East Asia, moving away from Trump's confrontational approach to a more pragmatic stance. Biden's team, including Antony Blinken and Jake Sullivan, aims to balance competition with cooperation with China, emphasizing the need for strong alliances in the region. The administration faces challenges in reversing Trump's policies and rebuilding trust with allies, while addressing domestic priorities and maintaining a firm stance on China's human rights issues.
China’s commercial space sector shoots for the stars
China's commercial space sector is experiencing growth, with investments projected to reach 30.6 billion RMB by 2025. Despite this, the sector faces challenges such as a lack of private capital, dominance by state-owned enterprises, legislative uncertainties, and a less competitive track record compared to US and European counterparts. Chinese commercial launch companies currently offer small, solid-fuel, single-use rockets at prices not competitive with global leaders like SpaceX. The state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) and China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation are expected to continue leading China's space efforts, with commercial firms playing a supplementary role.
Challenges in boosting Japan’s agricultural exports
Japan aims to significantly boost its agricultural exports by revising investment laws to include fishing, forestry, and food-processing sectors. The government is promoting exports through financial support, infrastructure investments, and international negotiations to reduce trade barriers. Despite achieving previous export goals ahead of schedule, Japan faces challenges such as high production costs, trade barriers, intellectual property rights violations, and lingering import bans from the Fukushima nuclear accident. The COVID-19 pandemic has also impacted demand. Addressing these issues is crucial for making Japanese agriculture more competitive and sustainable.
Indonesia’s job creation law a blow to labour
Indonesia's job creation law represents a significant setback for labor unions, reversing a series of victories they had achieved through democratic politics. President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo's administration has allied with capital interests, enacting policies like Government Regulation no. 78/2015 and the Omnibus Law, which undermine labor's bargaining power and favor employers. Despite protests and attempts to challenge these laws, Jokowi's control over his coalition and the judiciary suggests that labor's current strategies are unlikely to succeed. The labor movement is now considering broader political alliances and a unified front to contest the oligarchic forces in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Supply chains critical to Taiwan’s security
The United States needs a long-term strategy to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait, leveraging its dependence on Taiwan's microelectronics supply chain as a strategic asset. Taiwan's semiconductor industry, led by TSMC, is crucial for technologies like 5G and autonomous vehicles. The US is concerned about the implications of Taiwan falling under Chinese control, prompting TSMC to build a plant in Arizona. Geoeconomic trends enhance deterrence without the risks of strategic clarity. The US can maintain its one-China policy while adapting to new conditions, as evidenced by recent US-Taiwan economic dialogues and potential free trade agreements. Taiwan's government, under President Tsai Ing-wen, is prioritizing strategic industries to secure its role in global supply chains.
South Asia deftly navigates China–India tensions
South Asian countries are strategically navigating the tensions between China and India, leveraging their positions to gain economic and diplomatic advantages. China's Belt and Road Initiative has seen significant investment in the region, but India offers a credible alternative, limiting China's influence. Smaller states like Nepal and Sri Lanka have sought to balance their relationships with both powers, while the Maldives has shifted towards closer ties with India. Despite the competition, smaller states often hold leverage due to their ability to play both sides. The region's dynamics are complex, with countries like Nepal occasionally challenging India's territorial claims, but generally, a strategy of non-alignment with either China or India is preferred.
No quick fix from Biden for Australia’s China trade woes
Despite the Biden administration's expressions of solidarity with Australia, an economic coalition to counter China's trade coercion faces challenges. Strategic allies can also be competitors, as seen when the US did not discourage Californian winemakers from capitalizing on China's tariffs on Australian wine. Australia's smaller market status weakens its bargaining power, and the US's sensitivity to China's rise is evident in tariffs and sanctions. Australia should focus on managing economic coercion, enhancing supply chain resilience, and not panicking as its exports to China only fell by 2% last year. Reconceiving the relationship with China and diversifying trade are suggested, along with a serious innovation agenda to expand competitive product offerings.
A general approach to composites containing nonmetallic fillers and liquid gallium
A versatile method to create liquid metal composites by mixing gallium with non-metallic particles such as graphene oxide, graphite, diamond, and silicon carbide, resulting in materials with paste or putty-like behavior. These composites can be manipulated in various ways, including kneading and rolling, and exhibit properties like electromagnetic interference shielding and thermal conductivity. The study highlights the potential applications of these composites in flexible electronics, thermal management, and EMI shielding, emphasizing the importance of particle size and the role of the gallium oxide layer in the formation of stable composites.
Handling COVID-19 isn’t a trade-off between health and economy
Stewart Nixon argues that the perceived trade-off between public health and the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic is a misconception. Data shows that countries with higher fatality rates often experience larger GDP contractions. Using the value of a statistical life (VSL) to quantify the cost of premature deaths, Nixon demonstrates that regions like East and Southeast Asia, which avoided mass casualties, have fared better economically. He criticizes the Global Health Security index for failing to predict pandemic response effectiveness and highlights the success of countries with less resources but effective public health interventions. Nixon suggests that countries should adopt sustainable health measures and look to Asia for strategies to foster healthy economies.
Using Information Technology in Online Teaching and Learning at Secondary Schools
The Đống Đa Department of Education and Training organized a course to enhance the professional skills of school administrators and teachers, focusing on the urgent need for online education during the COVID-19 pandemic. The course, led by experts from the ITT Inspirational Teachers Group, covers various aspects of IT application in schools, including the use of Office 365 tools for management and teaching, creating online classes, and using Microsoft Teams for collaborative work.
Constitution or Utility Contract?
The author, a pro-democracy lawyer living in Hanoi, expresses concern over the process of constitutional reform in Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of a constitution that reflects the will of the people and protects citizens' rights. The article criticizes the Communist Party of Vietnam for maintaining Article 4, which asserts the party's leadership over the nation, and argues that the National Assembly should not be influenced by the party's narrow interests. The author highlights the role of a constitution in balancing power and fostering development, and calls for a careful drafting process to ensure the constitution can adapt to future challenges.
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