Egyptians have ignored calls for a nationwide strike on Sunday. This has been attributed to heavy security with threats of harsh punishment against striking employees and the pre-emptive 30 per cent increase in wages by President Mubarak four days ago. Inside Story asks if Egyptians tend to stay out of politics as long as there is food on the table or if they feel intimidated by the state.
Thailand’s rice prices have nearly tripled since January - from about $380 a tonne, to more than $1,000
Despite international opposition, Thailand wants to create an Opec-style cartel to control prices and keep them high.
As Selina Downes explains - rice is Thailand’s new cash crop.
Inside Iraq examines a resurgence of Shia politics in Iraq and the region.
Inside Iraq examines a resurgence of Shia politics in Iraq and the region.
Pressure is intensifying in Bangladesh for the interim government to end its state of emergency and release Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia, the country’s top leaders.
Added to the political strife are the natural disasters that continue to plague the region.
Last November, Cyclone Sidr devastated the southern coast of the country, killing at least 3,000 people.
Tony Birtley reports on the problems facing the country.