Environmental DNA (eDNA) comes from the traces of genetic material organisms shed as they go about their lives. Find out how our ability to analyze human eDNA samples is a mixed blessing for the fields of ecology and forensics.
Category: Rights
Current events related to political, civil, social and economic rights and human rights defenders worldwide
Amnesty International – State of World’s Human Rights
Amnesty International has just released its annual report on the state of the world’s human rights. Find out how it assesses human rights in 156 countries, including Canada.
Human Rights Watch Condemns “Litany of Human Rights Crises”
Human Rights Watch has released its“annual review of human rights around the globe.” Find out why Human Rights Watch described the year as a “litany of human rights crises.”
UN Report Cites “Serious Human Rights Violations” in China
A UN report holds China accountable for “serious human rights violations” in its Xinjiang province. Find out what the allegations entail and how China is responding to the findings.
Healthy Environment a Human Right, UN Declares
A healthy environment is a human right and vital to the enjoyment of other rights, according to a new UN General Assembly resolution. Find out why this is both a cause for celebration and a call to action.
UN Human Rights Council Condemns Fake News and Hate Speech
The UN Human Rights Council adopted a plan of action to combat disinformation last week. Find out why disinformation is more than just a nuisance, it's a threat to human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Truth and Reconciliation Day – “There Is No Try”
The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is a new holiday in Canada. Find out what prompted the holiday’s declaration and why I’m reflecting on the value of symbolic gestures versus practical action.
Indigenous Rights Debated While First Nations Lack Safe Water
Indigenous rights were the subject of new legislation in Canada’s parliament. Discover why practical steps to provide safe drinking water mean more to Canada’s First Nations communities. (4:30 min read)
The Origins of Totalitarianism – A Human Rights Day Book Review
International Human Rights Day is the perfect time to review a classic book. Find out why The Origins of Totalitarianism is rated one of the top non-fiction books of the 20th century. (5:30 min read)
Refugee Resettlement Hits Twenty Year Low
Refugee resettlement worldwide hit a twenty year low due to the pandemic. Find out why the UN says this has to change by the end of the year. (3:30 min read)