Environmental Defenders Deadly Struggles for Life and Territory
This book, edited By Mary Menton and Philippe Le Billon, is about environmental defenders and the violence they face while seeking to protect their land and the environment.
Pragmatic Advocacy: Advancing Racial Equity in Physician Associations
Read Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) and Dr. Sorcha A. Brophy’s article that discusses the future of physician associations advocating for racial equity in the United States.
EU the New Kingpin in Global Trade Order
With the U.S. cutting off the WTO’s “entire mechanism for enforcing global trade rules and resolving disputes”, SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell remarks that the E.U. has stepped in to resolve this crisis.
Youth Unemployment in Ghana: What Isn’t Gov’ts Doing Right?
Read MPPGA alumni Solomon Atta’s op-ed where he analyzes the mechanisms behind Ghana’s high unemployment rate. A shift in government expenditure and bridging the wage gap in hourly wage rates is the key to solving this problem, he adds.
Bitcoin Mining Firm Compass Inks Deal With Nuclear Microreactor Company Oklo
“The cost of generating nuclear electricity today is roughly about four times the cost of generating solar or wind power.” Professor Ramana gave comments on the viability and sustainability of nuclear-powered bitcoin mining.
Metro Vancouver Saw 15 times More Heat Wave Deaths than Estimated During Unprecedented Alert
In light of the recent heat wave in British Columbia, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on how health communications could have been more effective to the public.
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou Loses Court Bid to Enter New Evidence
After a B.C. Supreme Court ruling last week stopped Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou from submitting new evidence in her own extradition case, SPPGA Professor Paul Evans says that more are recognizing that the current government approach is not working.
China’s 100-Year-Old Communist Party Has More Members than Most Countries Have People
The Chinese Communist Party celebrates its centenary this month. Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; History) speaks on the party’s growth into one the biggest political parties in the world–with more than 95 million members–and what China’s leader is doing about it.
Nuclear Energy Will Not Be the Solution to Climate Change
Read SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane’s op-ed on why nuclear energy cannot be a near- or medium-term solution to climate change, given the urgency needed to reduce carbon emissions, as well as economic and safety concerns.
Four New UBC SPPGA Faculty Projects Receive SSHRC Funding
SPPGA congratulates professors Philippe Le Billon, Rashid Sumaila, Sheryl Lightfoot, and Kristen Hopewell whose projects received SSHRC funding through Partnership Development and Insight Grants.
Stronger Together: A New Pandemic Agenda for South Asia
Read the latest publication Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) co-authored on a pragmatic ‘Stronger Together’ agenda that discusses critical areas of concern for Covid-19 response at multiple levels of leadership in South Asia.
Ethical Considerations for Research on Small-Scale Fisheries and Blue Crimes
Crimes at sea—blue crimes—can have devastating impacts on small-scale fishing communities. Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) discusses the risks and ethical challenges faced by a blue crimes research agenda to improve rather than worsen the plight of small-scale fishers.
SPPGA Congratulates Prof. Yves Tiberghien as Konwakai Chair in Japanese Research, Institute of Asian Research
Political Science Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate) has been appointed as Konwakai Chair in Japanese Research at the Institute of Asian Research. Professor Tiberghien will be supporting research in global lessons from Japan’s governance.
Announcement of Retirement: Professor Brian Job
We wish to thank Political Science Professor Brian Job (SPPGA Faculty Associate) for his many contributions that have shaped the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs and the wider UBC community over the years. We wish him well in his retirement.
Shelve Nuclear Power, Go for Cleaner Alternatives
Read MPPGA alumni Edwin Edou’s (Simons Award 2020 Recipient) op-ed on the future potential of nuclear energy in Kenya, and why he believes that investing in utility-scale solar and wind energy is more sustainable and cost-effective.
SPPGA Welcomes Wahid Palash, Postdoctoral Fellow
The School of Public Policy and Global Affairs welcomes Wahid Palash as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow. He will be working with Nadja Kunz, Assistant Professor and Canada Research Chair in Mine Water Management and Stewardship.
Nuclear Energy and the Climate Change Response
Catastrophic accidents, production of radioactive waste with no proper depository and politicization of nuclear technology is why Professor Ramana is skeptical about the viability of small modular reactors (SMRs) (32:34 mark).
‘Black Swan’ Heat Wave Brings Record-Breaking Power Demand
The consequences of extreme weather events on energy grids are long-term, warns Professor Milind Kandlikar (SPPGA; Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability). Utility providers will have to consider how to cope with high-energy usage in future extreme weather, he adds (paywall).
UBC Medicine Launches Response to TRC Call to Action, Apologizes for Harm Caused to Indigenous People
Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science) gave a sobering statement about the closeness of these residential schools and other colonial systems to modern times during a formal apology by UBC Medicine for the harm caused to Indigenous populations.
What’s Behind the U.S. War on Science?
In an op-ed for SAPIENS, Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti reflects on the progress the Biden administration has made on restoring American trust in science by comparing it with Finland’s approach in governance and trust.
Anti-China Sentiment Is Becoming Anti-Chinese Prejudice in Canada
“Criticism crosses a threshold when it sensationalizes Chinese actions and stigmatizes individuals or groups with connections to China.” Read the op-ed Professor Paul Evans co-authored on navigating tensions between Canada and China.
Whose Democracy Counts When Global Social Media Rules Are Set?
Read the latest op-ed Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) wrote on how governments, platforms, and civil society respond to how social media affects democracy in multiple countries.
In Japan, South Korea and China, It Is Clear That Aging Will Have a Negative Impact on Growth
Japan, Korea, and China must urgently adapt their economic and social model to address the implications of a rapidly aging population, warns Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) (paywall) (French).
Setting the Stage for Wars During a Global Pandemic
In these unprecedented times, military spending, armed conflicts, and modernizing of nuclear arsenals continue as usual. The handful of nations holding these weapons “buck the international desire for nuclear disarmament”, Professor Ramana says.
Reconciliation Requires More than Shock and Outrage — It Takes Action
After the discovery of 215 Indigenous children on the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School, Adjunct Professor Andrea Reimer writes a letter to those in elected office to say reconciliation requires more than words – it takes action.
Roundtable: The Latin American State, Pink Tide, and Future Challenges
Read the transcribed roundtable discussion Professor Max Cameron (SPPGA; Political Science) collaborated on, which centered on six themes and a broad range of topics pertaining to development, politics, and economics in Latin America.
Salad Will Survive Climate Change. But at What Cost?
Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) believes that finding a balance between nutritional value and widespread access is critical to solving food insecurity. Even if fewer people globally go hungry, nutrition deficiencies remain high, he adds.
Canada Must Recognize Our Right to a Healthy Environment
In an op-ed for the National Observer, Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) and others discuss Bill C-28, the first federal recognition that all people in Canada have the right to a healthy environment, as well as the bill’s limitations.
China Repackages Its History in Support of Xi’s National Vision
Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; History; IAR Director) gave comments on how the recent CCP campaign to repackage its history serves as a guide to how leaders, cadres, and ordinary citizens should act and talk in public (subscription).
China Nuclear Drama May Be Less Alarming than the Politics Behind It
Nuclear expert Professor Ramana gave comments regarding the Taishan Unit 1 reactor’s recent gas leak. The EDF’s decision to consult the U.S. government suggests concern with accessing critical information about the gas leak, he says (paywall).
Digital Technologies: Building Global Trust
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) was a featured as an expert panelist at the Digital Technologies: Building Global Trust as part lf the Thnk20 (T20) Spring Roundtables co-hosted by CIGI.
Developer Pulls Plug on Keystone XL Pipeline
SPPGA Professor George Hoberg discusses with Global News Morning BC what the cancellation of the contentious crude oil pipeline project means for hopes of a net-zero future.
Khurelsukh Cruises to Victory in Mongolian Presidential Race
In a co-authored piece for The Diplomat, SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes and others reflect on the tumultuous events that have led to Khurelsukh’s presidential victory.
Can Joe Biden Kick-Start Stalled Progress on Ocean Conservation?
With the WTO and Biden administration prioritizing environmental concerns, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) is optimistic that an agreement to ban harmful fisheries can be reached in the near future.
It’s Time for Canada to Reconcile Indigenous Ocean Issues
In a co-authored op-ed for The Globe and Mail, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) and others empathize how aligning ocean management partnership and Indigenous worldviews plays a crucial part in Canada achieving its UNDRIP responsibility.
Pipeline Workers Are Scaring Indigenous Elders Away from Their Own Lands
Indigenous people are experiencing a rise in harassment and intimidation cases amid pipeline battles, but Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science; FNIS) notes that tensions caused by lack of consultation between residents and governments is nothing new.
Professor Veena Sriram Joins PLOS Global Public Health Editorial Board
Veena Sriram, Assistant Professor has recently joined the PLOS Global Public Health Editorial Board as an Academic Editor.
Covid-19 Variant of Concern B.1.1.7 Has a New Name: Alpha. Will It Stick?
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) applauds the WHO’s decision to rename the emerging variants of COVID-19 using the Greek alphabet, but still wonders if place-based naming will continue to be used with variants of concern.
Mongolia’s Economic Prospects: Resource-Rich and Landlocked between Two Giants
Read the latest book chapter Professor Julian Dierkes authored for “Mongolia’s Economic Prospects: Resource-Rich and Landlocked between Two Giants.”
Statement on the Missing Children of the Kamloops Indian Residential School
With heavy hearts, we come together as a school and wider community to mourn the deaths of the 215 children found in a mass grave at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.
Canada’s Nuclear Ambitions — Linchpin of a Carbon-Free Future or a Path to ‘Greenwash’ Tar Sands?
Alberta’s push to build small modular reactors (SMRs) is a ‘greenwashing’ solution for the tar sands, says SPPGA Professor Ramana. He cites rising costs, long approval periods and unknown risks as reasons why SMRs are not viable solutions to reduce emissions.
Committee Witnesses Call for B.C.’s Per-vote Subsidy to Be Preserved past 2022
Professor Gerald Baier (SPPGA Faculty Associate; CSDI; Political Science) testified that public financing for political parties supports the role they play in the political process. Professor Baier backed increasing the per-vote subsidy over time but expressed concern over the effect a steady flow of effortless cash could have on the way parties operate.
B.C. Couple Books 3rd Wedding Date, in Spite of New Covid-19 Restart Plan
In response to B.C. easing restrictions, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) suggests that mental health resources should also be included. This can help people who struggle with social interaction after a year of quarantine, she adds.
U.S. Experts to Trudeau: Your Nuclear Dream May Turn Nightmare
Canada’s investment in new nuclear technology has experts SPPGA Professor Ramana and SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane concerned. Both professors cite unknown costs, lack of transparency, and toxic waste as key reasons for their reservations.
Stories, Statistics, and Authenticity in Health Communications
In a piece for the Social Science Research Council, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) explains the fixation on statistics during Covid-19. While used as a main tool of health communication, statistics can also obscure the inequitable effects on racialized populations.
Alberta Calls for National Security Rules for Academics to Prevent Intellectual Property Transfer to China
SPPGA Professor Paul Evans gave comments on the Albertan government’s decision to suspend its four major universities from pursuing partnerships with people or organizations linked to Beijing or the Chinese Communist Party (paywall).
Conflict Minerals and Battery Materials Supply Chains: A Mapping Review of Responsible Sourcing Initiatives
Responsible mineral sourcing is a major issue on the global sustainability agenda. Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) co-authors this article, discussing the approaches that responsible minerals sourcing initiatives have taken, focusing on conflict minerals as well as metals and minerals needed for renewable energy technologies in a transition to a low carbon economy.
The Time and Space for Earthly Reckoning Is Here and Now
“This book provides a convincing case that future thinking, time-literacy, and an engagement with deep-time is highly important.” Read the latest book review by Martin Gren on SPPGA Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti’s “Deep Time Reckoning.”
Chickpea of the Sea
With heavy carbon-intensive practices impacting the fishing industry, plant-based alternatives could be the future of seafood. Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) warns that we need to take responsibility now lest ocean biodiversity disappears.
SPPGA Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti Joins as Berggruen Fellow
Congratulations to SPPGA Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti, who will be joining the Berggruen Institute community of thinkers as a Fellow this fall. The 2021-2022 Class of Fellows focuses on reimagining society through interdisciplinary research.
What Can Canadian Law Makers Draw from the New UK Online Safety Bill?
In an op-ed for CIGI regarding what Canadian lawmakers can learn from the U.K.’s new Online Safety Bill, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) believes that transparency reports and their metrics should not create perverse incentives to silence the very communities whom the legislation is designed to help.
Countries Are Scrambling for Vaccines. Mongolia Has Plenty
At a time when vaccine supply is uncertain, Mongolia now has enough for its entire adult population thanks to deals with Russia and China. China’s shipment of 4 million Covid-19 vaccines could be part of a longer game, says SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes (subscription).
MPPGA Alumni Feature: John Ede on Graduate and Postdoctoral
Read MPPGA Alumni (’19) John Ede’s interview with UBC Grad School on his experience with the MPPGA program and his career journey that resulted in him becoming a procurement partner at the University of British Columbia.
The Right to Breathe: Landmark Legal Case a Fight for South African Children Harmed by Coal’s Deadly Air
“The pollution in Mpumalanga is just one example of the devastating impact of air pollution on children.” Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) intervenes in a landmark legal case in South Africa as a friend of the court.
Citizen Lawsuit Seeks Court’s Help in Battle for Clean Air in Jakarta
Jakartans are joining a citizen lawsuit against the government to force officials to address the city’s grave air pollution. Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) submits a brief in support, pointing out that air pollution is responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths in Indonesia each year (Subscription).
Can Better Communication Curb Vaccine Hesitancy?
On the latest episode of Capital Daily, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History), shares how rethinking vaccine hesitancy, institutionalizing health communications and understanding accessibility is key to moving forward in Covid-19. (24:38 mark)
Plastics Manufacturers Seek to Quash Toxic Designation in Court
Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) comments on plastics manufacturers taking the federal government to court after Ottawa designated their products as toxic (Subscription).
How Ashish Jha Became Network TV’s Everyman Expert on Covid
“Once you’re a fixture on TV, the odds of getting invited back for something beyond your expertise are quite good.” Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on Ashish Jha’s presence as an everyman expert in the media.
InvestigateWest: Can Oregon Democrats Learn From British Columbia’s Carbon Tax?
Professor George Hoberg gave comments on the appeal of the B.C. carbon tax, especially how it benefitted the business sector and individuals.
Avi Lewis to Run for Federal NDP in West Vancouver-Area Riding
The federal riding of West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky country is a ‘Liberal sweet spot.’ Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) comments on the political trends of Avi Lewis’ chosen riding.
Covid-19: Fraser Health Becomes “Flexible, Agile and Adaptable” To Cool Hot Spots
Distinguishing between vaccine hesitancy and lack of access is important, notes Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Communication to explain the process of registering for a vaccine and booking a shot could ease confusion, she adds.
Land-Use Change Has Affected ‘Almost a Third’ of World’s Terrain Since 1960
“Land-cover change is really, really dynamic,” Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) gave comments on new estimates of how much humans have changed the Earth’s land surface.
Covid-19: B.C. Pushes Vaccine Registration as Only 260,000 Are Signed up Who Haven’t Had Jab
Data on age groups that have been vaccinated could encourage people to register for their vaccine, says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Yet, the B.C. government continues to be criticized for its lack of transparency of Covid-19 data.
Covid-19 Gender Gap: B.C. Women Are Getting Vaccinated at Higher Rates than Men
Gender disparity in B.C. vaccination rates may not be due to vaccine hesitancy or anti-vaccine attitudes, says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Figuring out if the disparity is about access to information is crucial, she adds.
‘There Is Nothing More Deeply Colonial’: No Indigenous People Were Consulted for UBC’s 2021/22 Budget
Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science) expressed her disappointment that the UBC Finance Committee finalized its 2021/2022 budget without consulting any Indigenous persons. This should be the last UBC budget that does its business this way, she adds.
Peru’s Upcoming Presidential Election Is Really a Referendum on Its Troubled Constitution
In an op-ed for The Washington Post, Professor Max Cameron (UBC CSDI Director on leave; Political Science) and doctoral student Paolo Sosa Villagarcia analyze the upcoming election for Peru. While a Venezuelan-style authoritarianism is not likely, democracy can still be undermined.
If South Asia’s Pandemic Isn’t Addressed as a Whole, India’s Covid-19 Crisis Could Be Just the Beginning
Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) and Professor Sara Shneiderman (SPPGA; Anthropology) release an article to address the escalating crisis in South Asia and how there is a need for Canada and its South Asian community to build on existing efforts to present a united fight against the pandemic.
Oil, Fisheries and Coastal Communities: A Review of Impacts on the Environment, Livelihoods, Space and Governance
Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) co-authors this article, providing a review of the effects of oil development in relation to the environment, small-scale fisheries and coastal disputes over territory and infrastructure, and ocean and coastal governance processes.
WTO Deal ‘Doable’ to Stop Subsidies That Lead to Over-Fishing
A study by Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) was cited in a piece about how a deal by the WTO could be in reach to curb over-fishing.
More Seats Likely as B.C. NDP Proposes Changes to Electoral Riding Rules
The Liberals respond to a proposed bill by the B.C. NDP that would allow the creation and elimination of ridings across the province. Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director) comments at The Vancouver Sun.
UBC Policy Professor Calls for Politicians to Take Accountability for B.C.’s COVID Data Leak
News 1130 turns to Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) days after the province’s leaked COVID reports made the rounds. It may be good, she says, for politicians to be more transparent in their communications.
Political and Legal Anthropology Review: Wild Policy
Read MPPGA students Claire Ross and Alexander Howes’ book review on “Wild Policy” by Tess Lea, a book on Indigeneity and state-led development in Australia. This review emerged from a graduate course taught by SPPGA Professor Sara Shneiderman.
Plan to Import Nuclear Waste Raises Larger Questions about Plans to Deal with Domestic Nuclear Waste
Following news that former prime minister Jean Chrétien was part of a secret project to set up a radioactive nuclear waste repository, officials have declared that the proposal is dead. But Professor Ramana and Kerrie Blaise say that the proposal raises ethical questions about moving nuclear waste or producing it in the first place (Subscription).
Covid-19: B.C. Physicians Say Vaccine Is Safe for Pregnant Women, Young Teens
“Vaccine hesitancy can be combated through education and a two-way conversation between health officials and the public.” Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on the importance of communication to alleviate vaccine hesitancy.
Vaccine Hesitancy in a Time of the Second Dose
Following Health Canada’s announcement that Pfizer vaccines are safe for young people between 12- 15, CBC Radio interviews Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) on vaccine hesitancy.
Women Suffer Most When Disaster Strikes
“Women are up to 14 times more likely to die or be injured following a disaster.” MPPGA students Brayden Pelham, Erica Steele, Stephen Patenaude and Victoria Ker raise the question: What should we be doing differently in Canada to reduce the gender imbalance when future disasters strike? (Subscription).
Alberta Vows to Curb University’s Research Ties to China
Professor Paul Evans says although Canadian security agencies have identified some concerns, research collaboration arrangements with China are widely valued and facilitate advanced research and training.
Student Led Advocacy and the ‘Scholars in Prison’ Project
MPPGA student William Shelling co-authored a chapter in “Project: Experiential Learning and Critical Knowledge(s) in International Relations,” using a case study to discuss impacts on emotional labour involved in experiential learning in International Relations teaching.
Fighting Hate with Speech Law: Media and German Visions of Democracy
Read the latest publication by Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) on why German politicians turned to law as a way to combat the rise of the far-right.
Paul Evans in Special Committee on Canada-China Relations
Professor Paul Evans appeared in a Special Committee on Canada-China Relations hosted this week by the House of Commons. He spoke on Canadian universities being a foundation of engagement between the two nations. Segment starts at 19:30.
SPPGA Adjunct Professor of Practice Andrea Reimer Resumes AMA
Andrea Reimer, SPPGA Adjunct Professor of Practice, is hosting an AMA on Twitter over the lunch hour on Wednesdays. Engage on topics of power and practice, and the practical challenges of policy-making using #AMASPPGA.
Do Not Book: British Columbians Asked Not to Double up on First Dose of Covid-19 Vaccine
In a glitch of the B.C. vaccine registration system, many of the 200,000 B.C. residents who received an AstraZeneca jab are receiving invites through the central registry to book a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments on this story.
Gabriel Yiu: Why Are Chinese Canadians Divided on the Uyghur Genocide?
The ‘Xinjiang Documentation Project,’ a collaborative resource by SPPGA and Simon Fraser University’s Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies was mentioned in a piece for the Georgia Straight on the divergence of opinions on the Uyghur genocide.
Avoid Shaming, Build Trust to Combat Vaccine Hesitancy, Southern Manitoban Pastor Says
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on the importance of going local when fighting vaccine hesitancy. People are more likely to trust their community members than an authority figure who they don’t know, she says.
CTV National News for May 1: Critical Capacity
As hospitals in Canada reach their limits, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments on the need for patching the gaps in provincial I.T. and vaccination booking systems (segment starts at 4:50).
Discussion Brief Series On The Right to a Healthy Environment In Southeast Asia
Claudia Ituarte-Lima co-edited two discussion briefs that synthesize findings and recommendations from a study entitled, ‘Prosperous and green in the Anthropocene: The human right to a healthy environment in Southeast Asia (2020)’.
Prosperous and green in the Anthropocene: The human right to a healthy environment in Southeast Asia
Claudia Ituarte-Lima (SPPGA Visiting Scholar) and her team translated the executive summary, introductory and concluding chapters of a 2020 study into Burmese, Thai, and Vietnamese.
The Trans-Formative with Trans-Parency: Untapping Ground-up Environmental Information and New Technologies for Sustainability
Claudia Ituarte-Lima (SPPGA Visiting Scholar) co-authored a new chapter titled, The Trans-Formative with Trans-Parency: Untapping Ground-up Environmental Information and New Technologies for Sustainability.
When Might the Wait Time Between Shots of Two-dose Covid-19 Vaccines Be Reduced?
As Canada’s vaccine supply is set to increase in coming weeks, some experts, including Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History), discuss the possibility of shorter intervals between shots.
B.C.’s ‘New and Innovative’ Pop-up Vaccine Clinics Halted amid Backlash and Mea Culpas
After an incident involving pop-up vaccine clinics that left hundreds of people without vaccines, B.C. health authorities are facing backlash. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) comments on the province’s bungled communications strategy.
Le Canada Mise sur le Nucléaire pour Réduire les GES
To meet its goal of climate neutrality by 2050, Canada has invested more than $75 million into the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). Professor Ramana weighs in on the conversation (French).
The Latest on the Cullen Commission
It’s been a week of high-profile appearances by senior BC politicians at the Cullen Commission that’s looking into money laundering in the province. We hear from Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) on the proceedings.
She Was Nervous to Get Vaccinated, but Winnipeg Woman Is Now Encouraging Others to Get Their Shot
After a woman shares why she got vaccinated despite her initial hesitancy, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) emphasizes the importance of showing people that vaccinations are about protecting the community as a whole.
Learning During the Pandemic in Nepal
With limited access to reliable internet and devices in Nepal, MPPGA students Boyd Hayes, Nabila Farid, and Riya Sirkhell, and UBC Research Assistant Ujjwal Neupane discuss programs that teach parents about technologies for remote learning.
Doug Ford Apologizes
After Doug Ford’s apology and some of Ontario’s new restrictions rolled back, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) discusses how the provincial government can change its approach to pandemic communications. (13:10 mark)
Expertise, Labour, and Mobility in Nepal’s Post-Conflict, Post-Disaster Reconstruction
The SSHRC-funded Partnership Development Grant ‘Expertise, Labour, and Mobility in Nepal’s Post-Conflict, Post-Disaster Reconstruction’ released two policy briefs on reconstructing Nepal regarding finance and law following the 2015 earthquake. Each brief was produced by a team led by Principal Investigator, Professor Sara Shneiderman (SPPGA; Anthropology).
Mongolia’s President Tries to Ban Its Ruling Party
The Mongolian president’s recent decision to outlaw the Mongolian’s People’s Party (MPP) for allegedly militarizing the state to entrench power is an overblown claim, says SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes.
What’s Gone Wrong in Canada
“A year ago, Justin Giovannetti left Canada to join his fiancée (and The Spinoff) in New Zealand. Today, his home country is confronting another debilitating wave of Covid-19.” He speaks to Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) about the lack of a national response from Canada.