Biden’s Pick for Energy Secretary Could Mean Trouble for Alberta’s Oilpatch, Experts Say
Biden’s pick for energy secretary could mean trouble for Alberta’s oilpatch, experts say. SPPGA Prof George Hoberg weighs in.
Federal Nuclear Power Plan is a Pipe Dream
The recent announcement by the Canadian federal govt to launch a Small Modular Reactor Action Plan is not a viable solution to climate change, SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana warns. The goal of decarbonization by 2050 is possible despite what advocates say, he adds.
Why Humans Aren’t Hardwired to Respond Well to Crises
Understanding the cognitive biases that hampered our response to COVID-19 is necessary in tackling the parallel challenges regarding climate action, says SPPGA Adjunct Professor Andrea Reimer.
Book Chapter in Covid-19 in Asia
Read Professor Kai Ostwald (SPPGA; Political Science) & Tun Myint’s chapter contribution on Myanmar in “Covid-19 in Asia: Law and Policy Contexts” edited by Victor V. Ramraj. This book is the first collected volume on Covid-19 law and policy issues in Asia.
COVID-19 May Have Halted Massive Protests, but Youth Are Taking Their Fight for the Future to the Courts
Professor David Boyd (SPPGA & IRES) says that if the Canadian youth win this appeal over climate inaction, it will set a strong precedent for change in environmental law.
Ottawa Holds Back on New Funding for Small Nuclear Reactors
Holding back on new funding for small nuclear reactors (SMR) shows that the federal government is not seriously planning for SMR development, says SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana. Projects of this magnitude have shown to cost upwards of $1.5 billion, he adds.
Professor Paul Evans Appointed HSBC Chair in Asian Research
The School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA) and the Institute of Asian Research (IAR) at the University of British Columbia are pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Paul Evans as the HSBC Chair in Asian Research effective January 1, 2021.
‘2 Lost Decades’: How Some Experts View Last 20 Years of Canadian Climate Policy
Professor David Boyd (SPPGA & IRES) says that although the Trudeau government has made stronger commitments to climate action, Canada is still far behind from where it needs to be in reducing emissions.
Professor Kristen Hopewell Awarded SSHRC Tier 2 CRC in Global Policy
Professor Kristen Hopewell has been awarded the SSHRC Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Global Policy in the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, Faculty of Arts, University of British Columbia.
Canadian Agriculture Industry Looks to Add Muscle in Canada – U.K. Trade Talks
As agricultural trade talks between the UK and Canada arise, Professor Matias Margulis (SPPGA & LFS) says that there are potential benefits and new opportunities with a one-to-one negotiation rather than negotiating with the EU as a whole.
When You Live Next to an Autocracy
In an article discussing Beijing’s approach to Mongolia, SPPGA Prof Julian Dierkes argues that China’s softer approach is due to the potential for ethnic conflict and its own domestic Mongolian population.
‘I Haven’t Even Told My Wife’: Inside the Frantic and Secretive Sprint to Name the Covid-19 Vaccines
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) discusses how naming a vaccine involves more downside risk than upside potential.
Canada Needs Proactive Climate Change Strategies Now to Avoid Huge Disaster Bills Later
Our Global Policy Project team addressed the need for proactive strategies for adapting to climate change in Canada, particularly in supporting rural Indigenous communities with the lowest capacity to cover costs of disruption.
Success of Twin Metals Copper Mine Hinges on Holding Every Last Drop of Tainted Water
With the design of the proposed Twin Metals copper-nickel mine under review, Professor Nadja Kunz (SPPGA & UBC Mining Engineering) cautions of the difficulty of achieving an accurate “water balance” given its sensitivity.
Towards a Broadened View of Water Security in Mining Regions
With ore grade decline, mine closure concerns, and increased risks of flooding and water scarcity, the mining sector needs to focus their attention on the importance of water issues, writes Professor Nadja Kunz (SPPGA & UBC Mining).
MPPGA Students’ Global Policy Project Fieldwork Now Underway
The 2020-2021 Global Policy Projects are now underway, with UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) student teams conducting virtual fieldwork with clients on seven different projects in Canada, the United States, Singapore, and Nepal throughout December 2020. The fieldwork component is a defining piece of UBC’s professional MPPGA curriculum. Led by School […]
Questions Abound about New Brunswick’s Embrace of Small Nuclear Reactors
Professor Ramana critiques the business case for small modular reactors as politicians look to nuclear power as the future in New Brunswick.
Perennial Staple Crops: Yields, Distribution, and Nutrition in the Global Food System
Read the latest publication co-authored by Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) on perennial staple crops, particularly in how they can store carbon and produce nutrient-dense food to create a balance between food production and ecosystems.
Atomic Heat in Small Packages Gives Big Industry a Climate Option
Today, the nuclear industry is thinking small, but whether there will be a market after they foot the bill remains to be seen, asserts Professor Ramana.
COVID-19 in Myanmar
With modest COVID-19 numbers in mid-2020, a few months turned Myanmar into one of Southeast Asia’s infection hotspots. Professor Kai Ostwald (SPPGA & Political Science) delves into the country’s distinct pandemic challenges—and why it is especially vulnerable.
Pandemic Decision-making Requires Politics and Science Work ‘Hand in Glove:’ Expert
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC History) believes that a balance in politicians and scientific advice working hand in glove is the key to successfully dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, as seen in Taiwan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Senegal. More at CBC.
Understanding and Responding to the Environmental Human Rights Defenders Crisis: The Case for Conservation Action
With close to two thousand environmental human rights defenders have been killed in 57 countries since 2002, Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) calls for the conservation community to put the protection of defenders at the heart of its strategy to slow down and reverse the current onslaught on the environment.
Understanding and Responding to the Environmental Human Rights Defenders Crisis
Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; UBC Geography), David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) and others investigate the losses and risks faced by Indigenous and local communities who are involved in biodiversity conservation.
December 2020 UN Newsletter
Read Professor David Boyd’s (SPPGA; IRES) recap, as the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment, for December 2020, including reports, legal advocacy updates, press releases and compilations of recent online events.
China’s Monster Fishing Fleet
“Though not alone in its destructive practices, Beijing’s rapacious fleet causes humanitarian disasters and has a unique military mission.” Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) speaks on the vast amount of capital being pumped into China’s fishing subsidies.
Feds Need to Flex Creative Muscles in Pandemic Messaging
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments as infection cases escalate.
Calgary’s Pandas Head Back to China After Bamboo Issues
The Calgary Zoo says goodbye to its two pandas due to a shortage of bamboo. Prof. Paul Evans comments on the departure of the pair that symbolized the friendship between Canada and China as they return to Beijing.
Ocean Witness Season 2 Episode 1: Sanctuaries
Greenpeace’s documentary series, Ocean Witness, invites Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) to share “moments of magic and heartbreak from land and sea, investigating threats to our oceans, and sharing solutions for what we can do to help”.
No Time for Empty Promises: Europe Must Lead on Harmful Fisheries Subsidies
“The European Union (EU) claims to be a leader in sustainability and multilateral cooperation. But so far in the World Trade Organisation’s fisheries subsidies talks, the EU has failed to lead,” says Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) as deadline for talks loom.
Lessons from Nuclear Waste Management Could Help Us Move Beyond Shortsighted Climate Thinking
“Before we were worried about fossil fuels and plastic pollution, nuclear waste stretched our minds to think about our place in geological time.” Vincent Ialenti proposes that considering the magnitude of humanity’s impact on the planet is now our collective responsibility.
Trump & Trade: The Crisis in the Multilateral Trading System
Read the latest publication from SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell, who argues that the crisis in the multilateral trading system and the American hegemon’s turn away from the World Trade Organization (WTO) – including abandoning multilateral trade negotiations and blocking Appellate Body appointments – originated prior to Trump, and is likely to continue after he leaves office.
Movements Shaping Climate Futures: A Systematic Mapping of Protests Against Fossil Fuel and Low-carbon Energy Projects
In a comprehensive co-authored study, Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; UBC Geography) looks at a systematic mapping of 649 cases of resistance movements to energy-related projects.
Canadian Chamber Calls for More Nuclear Funding from Feds
The recent decision of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in supporting small modular reactors has SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana skeptical, as the new initiative can be a way for some nuclear companies to get government funding. Full article at Telegraph-Journal (paywall).
WTO Aiming to Net Fishing Deal
As World Trade Organization fisheries negotiations and talk of eliminating subsidies ramp up, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) was quoted on global fisheries subsidy amounts and the portion used to build fishing fleets.
The Number of Small Fishing Vessels Smuggling Illegal Drugs Has Tripled
The growing number of small fishing vessels smuggling illegal drugs has Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) concerned about the impact this growing trend has on local fishing communities in poorer countries. More at Smithsonian Magazine.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Nathan Seef
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers, meet Nathan Seef who is now a Policy Analyst within the Trade and Investment team for the Low-Carbon Energy Sector at Natural Resources Canada in Ottawa.
Pipal Ko Bot Podcast: Jaat Ko Prashna
In a podcast about Nepali history and current affairs, Professor Sara Shneiderman (SPPGA; UBC Anthropology) discusses how Maoist agendas interacted with Dalit and Indigenous movements and recalls her personal interactions with women who have been negatively and positively impacted.
Meet Jessica Wood, SPPGA Policy Practitioner Fellow
Meet Jessica Wood, SPPGA Policy Practitioner Fellow and Assistant Deputy Minister for the Reconciliation Transformation and Strategies Division with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Chiamaka Mọgọ
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers, meet Chiamaka Mọgọ who is maintaining several roles: a Board Director with the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, the Executive Secretary and a Board Member of the African Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative, and the Founder and President of the Board of the Initiative for Inclusive Dialogue in Nigeria.
Media Mentions: Heidi Tworek Co-Authors Trolled on the Campaign Trail Report
“Social media are crucial for contemporary election campaigns, and the Covid-19 pandemic has only accelerated that trend. While online interactions during campaigns can be positive and productive, candidates also face insults, threats, hate speech, and other forms of incivility,” declares a new report from Heidi Tworek and Chris Tenove.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Sebastian Jarrin Grijalba
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Sebastian Jarrin Grijalba who is currently working as a Program Officer with the Supporting the Ministry of Mines Ethiopia project with the Canadian International Resources and Development Institute.
Media Mentions: SPPGA Speaks on B.C. Election Results
We bring you the latest news from our faculty after the provincial election results on Saturday, October 24, 2020.
MPPGA Student Association Announces New Executive and 2020-2021 Strategic Vision
UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs students recently elected their 2020-2021 Student Association executive members, a diverse group of nine students who are taking on various leadership roles on behalf of the MPPGA student body. Learn more.
Ocean Panel Launches Blue Paper on Ocean Finance
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) and others have published a Blue Paper on how we can transition towards a more sustainable ocean economy. The High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy report features 14 sitting heads of states and government, including Prime Minister Trudeau.
Media Mentions: David Boyd Presents on Right to Healthy Environment to UN
On October 27, David Boyd presented a report to the United Nations General Assembly. He looks at the link between human rights and a healthy environment, and how the right to a healthy environment can hold governments and businesses accountable.
SPPGA Welcomes Vincent Ialenti, Postdoctoral Research Fellow
The School of Public Policy and Global Affairs welcomes Vincent Ialenti as a MacArthur Foundation funded Postdoctoral Research Fellow working with SPPGA Director and Professor Allison Macfarlane.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Rafael Posada
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Rafael Posada who is the Co-Founder, COO & Managing Partner of Stratego Solutions.
Professor Navin Ramankutty Awarded the Wihuri International Prize
UBC Professor Navin Ramankutty (School of Public Policy and Global Affairs; Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability) has been awarded the prestigious Wihuri International Prize in recognition of his long-standing work on sustainable global food systems.
MPPGA Applications for September 2021: Now Open!
Applications for the Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program are now open. Apply by January 21 to join our program that will equip you with a profound understanding of policy-making processes through a foundation of rigorous knowledge acquisition, policy analysis, career development, and experiential learning.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Lauren Hamman
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Lauren Hamman who is working as an Intergovernmental Relations Advisor in the Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat, Office of the Premier, Government of British Columbia.
Call for Applications: 2020 Simons Award in Nuclear Disarmament and Global Security
The Liu Institute for Global Issues at SPPGA invites applications to the 2020 Simons Award from UBC students intending to undertake research on topics related to nuclear disarmament and global security. Deadline is October 15!
Reflections from MPPGA Alumna Chiamaka Mọgọ’s Internship at the United Nations Migration Agency
Learn more about MPPGA alumna Chiamaka Mọgọ’s experiences in the program while working with the International Organization for Migration in Accra, Ghana as part of the United Nations Association of Canada International Development and Diplomacy Internship program.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Alfonso Hernandez
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Alfonso Hernandez (’19) who is working as a Public Management Consultant with the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean in Santiago, Chile.
The Launch of The Xinjiang Documentation Project
We are pleased to announce the launch of The Xinjiang Documentation Project. Based at the Institute of Asian Research in UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, this multi-disciplinary research project aims to document and highlight the detention of Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang.
Global Policy Engagement: A Look Back at the 2019-2020 MPPGA Global Policy Projects
Eight second year student teams completed their immersive Global Policy Projects in various regions around the world throughout 2019 and culminating in spring 2020. The Global Policy Project is a core component of UBC’s professional Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program.
Democratic Health Communications during Covid-19: A RAPID Response
How do we put health communications at the heart of democracies’ response to COVID-19? Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA/History), Dr. Ian Beacock & MPPGA alumni Eseohe Ojo launch their report on introducing the RAPID principles and how more effective communications could save lives.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Hyun Ju Lee
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Hyun Ju Lee (’18) who is now working as a Research & Evaluation Officer for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in Ottawa.
Meet Tamara Baldwin, Director of the Office of Regional and International Community Engagement (ORICE)
Meet Tamara Baldwin, Director of the Office of Regional and International Community Engagement (ORICE) and learn of her proudest accomplishments, how she incorporates community engagement into coursework, and what opportunities she is excited about with ORICE having joined UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers – Meet Bo Wang
As part of our Spotlight on MPPGA Alumni Careers series, meet Bo Wang (’18) who is employed as an Associate, China for Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) in Beijing, China.
Celebrating Achievements: CIRDI’s Year in Review 2019/20 Launched
The Canadian International Resources and Development Institute has announced the release of its Year in Review, highlighting the Institute’s biggest achievements and initiatives from 2019-2020.
Closing the Gap: Financing the Transition Towards an Inclusive Blue Economy IIED Webinar
Timed to coincide with World Oceans Day 2020, this online event that featured Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; The Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) asked how flows can be maximised and complementary in meeting the financing gap? What are the advantages and risks? And how might the coronavirus pandemic impact the transition?
MPPGA Student Jessika Woroniak Awarded James Robert Thompson Fellowship
MPPGA student, Jessika Woroniak, has received the James Robert Thompson Fellowship, an award made to students planning a career related to preservation of the natural environment. Learn more about what this award means to her.
How Can the Debates Commission Contribute to Canadian Democracy?
Over the last year, the Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions provided advice to Canada’s Leaders’ Debates Commission and organized a workshop that brought together experts to discuss the Commission’s experience in 2019. In this blog post, CSDI Research Associate Spencer McKay looks ahead to the future of the Commission.
SPPGA Professor Moura Quayle Appointed UBC Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Academic Affairs
Moura Quayle, Professor and founding Director of the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, has been appointed as Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Academic Affairs at UBC for a five-year term commencing August 1, 2020.
Follow SPPGA On Social Media
Are you currently following the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs on social media? Some changes are happening this month, so be sure to follow our SPPGA accounts to stay up to date on our school, faculty, and Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs students.
Struggles for Land: Comparing Resistance Movements Against Agro-Industrial and Mining Investment Projects
Investments in large-scale land-based projects have increased over the past two decades, with a concomitant rise in community-level resistance. Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) co-authors this paper comparing movements resisting either agro-industrial or mining projects.
Reflections from Hazel Hollingdale, UBC-Yale Fox International Fellow
Learn about the experiences of Hazel Hollingdale who attended Yale as a UBC-Yale Fox International Fellow in 2018-2019. She recently graduated with her doctorate from the UBC Department of Sociology.
Japan’s Leadership in the Liberal International Order: Impact and Policy Opportunities for Partners
Since 2016, Japan has shown remarkable leadership on several dimensions of global and regional economic governance, including trade governance, economic and data governance, regional rules-based order, and environmental governance. How significant is this new phase of Japanese international leadership in historical perspective? What factors are driving this new global leadership? What are implications for Japan’s partners, including Canada, and the US?
Statement on Academic Freedom
In light of the recent developments in Hong Kong and elsewhere in Asia, the Institute of Asian Research within the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia is reaffirming our support of UBC’s commitment to advancing academic freedom in line with UBC policy.
MPPGA Alumna Christiana Onabola Recipient of 2020 Vanier Canada Doctoral Scholarship
Congratulations to Christiana Onabola, a graduate of the Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program, for receiving a 2020 Vanier Canada Doctoral Scholarship.
Unrooted Responses: Addressing Violence Against Environmental and Land Defenders
Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) co-authors this study considering how participants in community forestry and development organizations respond to forest-related violence.
The Office of Regional and International Community Engagement (ORICE) Joins SPPGA
The Office of Regional and International Community Engagement (ORICE) has joined the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA) as a Partner of the school.
SPPGA Welcomes Professor Heidi Tworek
UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA) welcomes Dr. Heidi Tworek as a joint appointment with the Department of History. We spoke to Professor Tworek to learn more about her work and her engagement with MPPGA students and the school.
SPPGA 2019-2020 Annual Report
Learn more about the unique strengths and activities of UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs and our Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program in our 2019-2020 Annual Report.
MPPGA Graduates Ready to Influence Policy Change on Global Issues
Our Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs students don’t have to wait until graduation to make their mark on the world. Hear from several graduates on their most memorable program moments, their policy career plans after graduation, as well as their advice for our current and future students.
SPPGA Statement of Support – Together against Racism and Injustice
The School of Public Policy and Global Affairs fully supports the position taken by UBC President Santa Ono and we stand in solidarity with Black, Indigenous, Asian and all racialized communities. Learn more.
Masculinities + WPS: Forward-Looking Strategies in the Women, Peace and Security Agenda
The Conjugal Slavery in War partnership has published a policy brief titled “Masculinities + WPS,” as part of the series, Forward-Looking Strategies in the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.
Ododo Wa: Stories of Girls in War, an exhibit at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Ododo Wa: Stories of Girls in War is an exhibit at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights that traces the journey of two girls from Uganda – Evelyn Amony and Grace Acan – who were abducted and held captive for years by a rebel group, the Lord’s Resistance Army.
UBC Ranks Seventh Globally in Impact: Times Higher Education
UBC placed first in Canada and seventh globally out of more than 850 participating institutions from 89 countries in the 2020 Times Higher Education subject rankings, which assesses universities against the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more about how SPPGA’s research connects to action on climate change and protecting our land and water environments.
Working Towards Change: MPPGA Alumni Confront the COVID-19 Crisis
MPPGA alumni are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with policies, recommendations, and actions in professional roles that span the public and private sectors, and non-governmental agencies. We heard from twelve alumni about what their current policy work entails and how is it impacting their organization and key stakeholders.
What Constitutes “Local”? Exploring How to Create Local Value from Mining in Rural Mongolia
In the remote areas, such as southwestern Mongolia, with very few local businesses, what constitutes “local” procurement? Now in its third year, this research partnership provides a unique opportunity to learn about effective approaches to public engagement when designing a mine. Stay tuned for details.
Media Mentions: Professor Heidi Tworek Co-Authors Report on Democratic Health Communications During Covid-19
Dr. Heidi Tworek (History; SPPGA) issued a report recommending how to put health communications at the heart of democracies’ response to Covid-19.
In Conversation with Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister – A Day in the Life of The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
SPPGA was pleased to host “In Conversation with Canada’s Foreign Minister – A Day in the Life of The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne,” a webinar moderated by Boyd Hayes, a MPPGA student. Watch the recording and learn more.
UBC & Governmental Resources on COVID-19
The following list of resources related to COVID-19 for students, staff, faculty and community members was compiled by UBC, the MPPGA Program, and the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
Status of SPPGA Buildings & Events in Relation to COVID-19
Given the recent B.C. Provincial Advisory in relation to COVID-19, SPPGA has taken the difficult decision to cancel all upcoming events and to close the Liu Institute for Global Issues and C.K. Choi buildings until further notice.
Student Reflections from the 2020 UBC Women in House Program
Ten UBC participated in the second year of UBC’s Women in House program in Ottawa. Learn more from the students’ inside look into the working lives of female politicians in Canada.
MPPGA Students Reflect on UNAC’s Think Global, Link Local 2020 Networking Breakfast
Several UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs students attended the Think Global, Link Local 2020 Networking Breakfast, hosted by the Vancouver Branch of the United Nations Association Canada. Explore their reflections.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – A Public Health Statement from SPPGA
Read a coronavirus (COVID-19) public health statement from SPPGA.
CIRDI Releases Strategy for Promoting Gender Equality in Natural Resource Governance
UBC’s Canadian International Resources and Development Institute (CIRDI) announces the release of its gender equality strategy, a guiding document for ensuring the Institute’s project work reinforces its foundational value of empowering women and girls through sustainable natural resource governance. Learn more.
Ensuring academic freedom and a respectful environment – statement from SPPGA faculty
Ensuring academic freedom and a respectful environment, a statement from SPPGA faculty members.
Global Policy Project: Developing an Equity Lens with the City of Vancouver
As part of their second year Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program, a team of six students has begun their Global Policy Project (GPP 590B) with a domestic focus, consulting with the City of Vancouver to apply an equity lens to their Climate Emergency Response Plan. Team Members: Schyler Edmundson, Shivangi Khanna, Alexandra […]
Meet Andrea Reimer, SPPGA’s First Policy Practitioner Fellow
Meet Andrea Reimer SPPGA’s first Policy Practitioner Fellow. Andrea was elected to four terms in municipal government including a term on the Vancouver School Board and three terms on Vancouver City Councillor. Learn more about what she’s looking forward to as a SPPGA Fellow.
MPPGA Alumni Spotlight on Jiaxin Li
Name: Jiaxin Li Hometown: Shanghai, China Current Location: Vancouver, B.C. Job Title: Analyst Employer: Pembina Institute Graduation Year: May 2019 MPPGA Course Stream: Resources, Energy and Sustainability Visit her LinkedIn Profile In this alumni spotlight, we hear from Jiaxin Li, a UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs alumna, regarding how her experiences during […]
Hong Kong Contextualized: Exploring Conflict Through Students’ Lens
Pro-democracy versus pro-China rhetoric has fostered a climate of anxiety on one of Canada’s largest universities; this series, written by MPPGA student Cassandra Jeffery, explores the effects, and potential solutions of, deepening ideological polarization by showcasing the diverse perspectives surrounding the Hong Kong conflict.
Global Policy Project: Barriers to Effective Teaching and Education Practices in Nepal
The fieldwork component for the 2019-2020 Global Policy Projects has now been completed by seven UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) student teams who worked with clients organizations on a policy problem in ten different countries throughout December 2019. Find below a reflection from students whose project focused on developing policy to […]
Global Policy Project: Implementing a Roadmap for Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of Ethiopia’s Mining Sector
The fieldwork component for the 2019-2020 Global Policy Projects has now been completed by seven UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) student teams who worked with clients organizations on a policy problem in ten different countries throughout December 2019. Find below a reflection from students whose project focused on improving resource governance […]
MPPGA Alumni Spotlight on Darren Touch
In this alumni spotlight, we hear from Darren Touch, a UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs alumnus, regarding how his experiences as a Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua University in China have impacted him. “The last five months studying at Tsinghua University as a Schwarzman Scholar has been a transformative experience for me. The […]
SPPGA Welcomes Faculty Members Dr. Kristen Hopewell and Dr. Matias Margulis
SPPGA welcomes Associate Professor Kristen Hopewell, Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Global Policy, as well as Assistant Professor Matias Margulis, who is jointly appointed with the Food, Nutrition, and Health Program at the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, to our academic community.
Global Policy Project: Youth Civic Engagement in Nalaikh, Mongolia
The fieldwork component for the 2019-2020 Global Policy Projects has now been completed by seven UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) student teams who worked with clients organizations on a policy problem in ten different countries throughout December 2019. Find below a reflection from students whose project focused on youth civic engagement […]