Stories about East Asia from December, 2015
Ringing in the New Year in Japan With Fresh Fish
Fish and seafood is an important part of New Year's celebrations in Japan. Here are some photos of shopping for fish.
Why Millions of Chinese Are Victimized by the Blooming Peer-to-Peer Lending Business
"We trusted China Central Television and have engaged in legal investments. We trusted the government and the deposit should be protected."
One of 2015's Biggest Political Scandals Ends in the Indonesian House Speaker's Resignation
"Indonesia’s public was able to witness, in fascinating and nauseating detail, the mechanics of rent seeking at the highest level."
32 Stories That Capture the Happiness, Heartache and Resilience of 2015
Global Voices’ community-driven newsroom worked hard this year to build understanding across borders. Take a look back at some of the people and places we learned about in 2015.
The Best Stories of 2015, Handpicked by the Global Voices Community
We asked our editors, authors and translators from around the world which stories published on our site in 2015 were their favorites. Here's what they said.
For Artists, the World Was a Canvas for Change in 2015
As 2016 approaches, revisit 16 stories from the Global Voices' archives of art with a powerful purpose.
Myanmar's Memorable Moments in 2015
The victory of Myanmar's opposition over the military-backed party was a significant milestone in the country's history. This and other events that made 2015 a particularly memorable year for Myanmar
Even Santa Can't Escape Toxic Smog in China
During Christmas toxic smog spread from the northern provinces to central China.
Christmas in Japan? Get Ready for Running Trees, Dazzling Lights, and Fried Chicken
Japan has its own unique approach to Christmas that includes amazing light displays, delicate cakes and delicious fried chicken.
Advox by the Numbers: 2015 in Digital Rights
In 2015, Turkey blocked 166 websites for publishing one controversial image, Thai activists knocked 5 government websites offline in a virtual "sit-in", and Mexico spent $6.3 million on surveillance software.
Is Christmas Really Banned in Brunei?
Yes and no. Non-Muslims can celebrate in their homes and places of worship. And as one netizen commented, "Why is the supposed Christmas 'ban' only reaching Western media now?"
On Taiwan, Facebook and the Politics of Trolling on the Chinese Internet
When Facebook became accessible in mainland China, trolls descended on a Taiwanese politician. What might happen if Facebook were to become permanently accessible in China?
One Kanji Character Captures a Year of Uncertainty in Japan
The character 安 has been named the official kanji of 2015. The character is supposed to represent 'peace', but not always...
Public Uproar in Cambodia After City Government ‘Whitewashes’ US Artist's Mural
"The Cambodian government is sending a clear message that public art will not be tolerated. Either that or they just spat out their dummy in the most fastidious way possible."
As Japan Refuses to Accept More Refugees, a Hateful Meme Goes Viral
Though Internet users only recently debunked a false English-language meme about Japan's alleged restrictions on Muslims, it's far from true that Japan necessarily welcomes immigrants and refugees with open arms.
Singapore Couple on Trial for Allegedly Starving Filipina Maid for 15 Months
"...migrant domestic workers in Singapore live and work under state regulations that place them squarely in the position of indentured slaves..."
Fears for Hong Kong's Press Freedom Follow Alibaba's Purchase of the South China Morning Post
Journalists in Hong Kong worry that the newspaper, which has already been criticized for a pro-Beijing stance in recent years, will become a mouthpiece for China's government.
Indonesia Mourns Scholar Benedict Anderson, Who Helped Expose the 1965 Anti-Communist Purge
Indonesians celebrate the life of Professor Benedict Anderson, author of the book "Imagined Communities" and an expert on Southeast Asia at Cornell University. Anderson died last week.
China's 2nd World Internet Conference Will Focus on ‘Rule of Law’, But Not Free Expression
"These conferences have had no credibility ever since the first one, whose real aim was to ensure that Internet companies wanting to operate in China fall into line."
Thai Worker Arrested for Mocking the King’s Dog on Facebook
Authorities will also file sedition charges against the Facebook user for 'liking' and 'sharing' an infographic which explains a corruption scandal involving the military.
The Wonderful World of Japan's ‘Okonomiyaki’
Which is better: Osaka-style or Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki? One Twitter account is hoping to help you make up your mind.
About our East Asia coverage
Oiwan Lam is the North East Asia editor. Email her story ideas or volunteer to write.
Nevin Thompson is the Japan editor. Email him story ideas or volunteer to write.
