Land, environment laws diluted as Asia-Pacific nations eye growth

Indonesia has issued a law that makes it easier to take over community land, including those of indigenous groups, and for forests to be cleared for industry. - AFP

BANGKOK (Reuters): Asia-Pacific nations are speeding up project approvals and removing environmental protections to spur economic growth dented by the coronavirus, moves that will hurt rural and indigenous communities, analysts say.

Indonesia has issued a law that makes it easier to take over community land, including those of indigenous groups, and for forests to be cleared for industry.