Development Archives - Is anybody listening?

Reshaping Perceptions: A Journey through Art Activism with Shamsia Hassani

Mila November 5, 2023 November 10, 2023 Activism / Development

In the bustling streets of Kabul, amidst the vibrant chaos of everyday life, the graffiti works of Shamsia Hassani serve as a window into the unspoken struggles and unyielding strength of Afghan women in a male dominant society. Shamsia Hassani is one of several emerging female artists who have garnered global attention in recent years by embracing graffiti as a means to advocate for women’s rights and to bring forth truths in a country that has long been plagued by conflict.

Localization in Myanmar – From Buzzword to Imperative

Phil November 4, 2023 November 10, 2023 Development

Local humanitarian actors in Myanmar have become humanitarian leaders who demand greater support, respect and decision power in the humanitarian response. They communicate these demands with much authority and urgency, as they are the backbone and the forefront of the humanitarian response in Myanmar, which is utterly dependent on what is referred to as localization.

Is Our World Falling Apart? The patriots have come and they are determined.

Markel November 4, 2023 November 10, 2023 Development / New Media

As digital technologies become increasingly pervasive, the authoritarian governments of the region face the danger of descending into totalitarianism as they pursue absolute security. This situation is exacerbated by political structures that prioritize regime security over individual privacy.

Art for activism: how cartoonist Yves Kulondwa draws his way to a better future

Mila October 20, 2023 October 25, 2023 Activism / Development

Throughout human history, art has always functioned as an instrument for social activism. From ancient cave paintings illustrating battles between different communities to modern graffiti echoing societal unrest, art has been a timeless conduit for expressing dissent, hope, and calls for change. Thanks to the rise of social media platforms, people nowadays have the opportunity to share their work with global audiences, transcending geographic boundaries and creating an interconnected artistic community.

Mother Nature Cambodia, the Right Livelihood Award and why Facebook still matters

Phil October 17, 2023 October 26, 2023 Activism / Development / New Media

Since 2013, Mother Nature Cambodia has systematically and relentlessly exposed environmental damages caused by economic projects and the sellout of natural resources, often linked to the highest level of the Cambodian government. Through viral campaigns on Facebook, the organization galvanized and educated a broad base of young supporters. Mother Nature Cambodia’s investigative activism made the organization a target of intimidation, surveillance and persecution by the Cambodian regime.

The shrinking and embattled digital space in post-coup Myanmar

Phil October 9, 2023 October 25, 2023 Activism / Development / New Media

Today, Myanmar ranks second after China in the list of the most repressive countries concerning internet freedom. But the digital development that already took place cannot be reversed, just like the drive, anger and creativity of a young generation deprived of freedom and aspirations cannot be broken.