The legacies of coercion and the challenges of contingency: Mozambican unions in difficult times

Although insecure work may be found everywhere, the general lack of secure work in emerging economies is a particularly striking feature of the contemporary condition, undermining the continued viability of the labour movement in such countries. Yet, this topic is rarely tackled directly in African studies or business history journals. The two key questions addressed in this paper are, first, to what extent does the labour movement’s past define their present and future, and second, what are the challenges and opportunities affecting their ability to mobilise workers, influence government and effectively tackle employment security? This article details how in Mozambique, unions’ ability to mobilise has been affected by: the post-colonial, post-conflict and post-socialist historical context; the resulting legacies of regional and racial discrimination; international imperatives for liberalisation and privatisation; challenging relationships with the country’s African neighbours; and high levels of informal sector work. In order to remain viable, key imperatives include: effectively influencing national government, engaging internationally and working with organisations representing informal sector workers

Young and wild : Timor-Leste's troubled military

On 8 february 2006, some 350 officers and soldiers from Timor-Leste's small defence force abandoned their posts and marched to the presidential palace. The unarmed soldiers protested against ill treatment, discriminatory practices and poor conditions within the Timorese Defence Forces (FDTL)

Timor-Leste: finally getting it right?

Following the July 2012 elections Timor-Leste formed one of the largest governments in the region made up of 57 cabinet members. This has led to serious mismanagement, corruption and a state of near anarchy. A year later, the country’s leadership is addressing its predicament

Looking to the future: Timor-Leste and Indonesia 10 years after separation

Timor Leste and Indonesia have had a troubled past in their bilateral relations. Both are however determined to build a shared future without the baggage of history. Can this new chapter in ties be based on their own unique approach to relations

Timor Leste : coping well, except on unity

Despite its many challenges Timor Leste has managed the COVID-19 pandemic reasonably well. Significant investments in health and education have created a fairly competent health service and a small, but dedicated pool of technocrats and scientists. The investment in human capital has been worthwhile.Published versio

War with China?

The admiral in charge of the US Indo-Pacific Command recently told Congress that China could invade Taiwan in the next six years. However, there is little evidence that China has the intention or even the capabilities to attack Taiwan. Exaggerating the likelihood of war could lead to bad policy planning and a self-fulfilling prophecy.Published versio

Can the US play a major role in Central Asia?

In late February, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to strengthen relations with Central Asia. With Russia facing increasing economic difficulties as a result of its ongoing war in Ukraine, Washington hopes to shore up its position in Moscow’s backyard. On the other hand, China’s influence among Central Asian elites has increased noticeably and this will complicate US diplomacy in the region.Published versio

China in the South Pacific: a view from Timor Leste

In recent months, major media outlets have given extensive cover to China’s growing presence amongst the small island nations of the South Pacific. Some of these reports are rather alarmist. The situation on the ground is not straight forward and requires a better understanding of the political, economic and security dynamics involving Australia, China, and the United States of America.Published versio