The Blue Hour with Rashid Sumaila on Fisheries and Economies
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) discusses the significance of oceans to humans and the need to find creative means to protect them.
Canada’s First New Nuclear Reactor in Decades Is an American Design. Will It Prompt a Rethink of Government Support?
Professor M. V. Ramana shares why the use of an American design for Canada’s first new nuclear reactor is a bad sign for the Canadian nuclear industry, and why it may be cause for the government to rethink its support for SMR developers.
China Looms Behind Regional Trade Agreements
Professor Kristen Hopewell discusses how China’s growing participation in bilateral and mega-regional trade agreements will accelerate the shift in global economic power from the United States and Europe to China.
Three SPPGA Faculty Members Awarded SSHRC Grants
Three SPPGA faculty, Professors Tara Cookson, Kristen Hopewell, and Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History have been awarded funding as part of the Insite Development Grants and Partnership Engage Grants competition, offered by the SSHRC.
The Difficult Balance Between Sea Conservation and Fishing Exploitation
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) and other experts express concerns about global fisheries’ risk of facing economic collapse due to overfishing.
China Revives Abandoned HTGR Nuclear Technology in Safe Power Drive
As China plans to connect high-temperature gas-cooled reactors to the grid, Professor M.V. Ramana warns that accidents may arise from the technology.
Meet Our SPPGA Directors – Professor Kai Ostwald
In this interview with SPPGA, Professor and Director of the Institute of Asian Research Kai Ostwald sits down to talk with us about his expertise in development, public policy, and ethnic politics with a strong focus is Southeast Asia, and his leadership of the Institute of Asian Research.
Meet Our SPPGA Directors – Series Compilation
Meet our SPPGA directors in this leadership interview series and explore what drives our directors’ research, policy engagement, and teaching, and how you can connect with their work.
The Mysterious Case of Joe Biden and the Future of Drone Wars
Professor Hugh Gusterson (SPPGA; Anthropology) discusses how withdrawal from Afghanistan has played a role in the reported number of U.S. drone strikes plummeting under the Biden administration.
Shunned after Fukushima, Nuclear Industry Hopes Smaller Reactors Can Play Role in Energy Transition
While proponents claim small nuclear reactors are safe, many, including Professor Ramana, understand that “nuclear fission is inherently dangerous and it’s difficult to judge the safety of reactors that haven’t been licensed or produced yet.”
B.C. Food Prices in 2022 Forecast to be Above Already-High National Average
With the release of a news report detailing the 2022 national forecast for food prices, Professor Matias Margulis (SPPGA; LFS) examines why B.C. prices are estimated to be above the already high national average.
Ukraine Tensions Remain High After Putin-Biden Talk as Neither Side Likely to Give Ground
Professor M.V. Ramana warns about the rising tension between the USA and Russia over Russia’s alleged plans to invade Ukraine.
History Explains Why Global Content Moderation Cannot Work
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) analyzes the history of speech moderation and shares why social media platforms generating standards for acceptable speech is an all but impossible challenge.
Canada’s Year of Action on Democracy
Professor Maxwell Cameron (SPPGA; Political Science) co-authors this article discussing reasons why now may be the time for the Canadian government to fulfill commitments to democratic development.
Three Myths About Renewable Energy and the Grid, Debunked
Professor M. V Ramana co-authors this article debunking myths surrounding renewable energy, and the argument that solar cannot be the foundation of a dependable electricity grid.
Don’t Ignore Democracy’s Flaws
Approaching Biden’s Summit for Democracy and the Ninth Summit of the Americas, Professor Max Cameron (Former SPPGA Acting Director; Political Science) proposes three key steps to strengthen democracy.
You’ll See More Carbon Labels in the Grocery Store Next Year. Here’s What They Mean.
Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) discusses the best ways to approach climate solutions, and whether attaching carbon labels to products at the grocery store is an effective method.
A Nuclear-Weapons-Free-Zone in the Middle East— & the Elephant in the Room
After nations gathered to discuss establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zones in the Middle East, Professor Ramana reasons that such a zone will be a major challenge largely due to policies around Israel’s nuclear weapons program.
In Pandemic Communications, the Learning Curve Is Strangely Absent
Looking back at the last twenty months, our understanding of Covid has increased exponentially, yet pandemic communications have changed far less than we hoped. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) explores the idea of mütend, or helpless frustration, that many feel at this time.
Meet Our SPPGA Directors – Professor George Hoberg
In our SPPGA Faculty Leadership series, meet Dr. George Hoberg, Professor with the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA) and Graduate Program Director of the professional Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program at the University of British Columbia. In an interview with SPPGA, Professor Hoberg shares what drives his research, […]
Primary Care Physician Involvement During Hospitalisation: A Qualitative Analysis of Perspectives from Frequently Hospitalised Patients
Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) co-authored a study that examines frequently hospitalised patients’ preferences and experiences regarding primary care physician (PCP) involvement during hospitalisation.
SPPGA Engages with COP26
Several members of the SPPGA community and faculty speak on their participation or share their expertise on the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26).
Prof. Rashid Sumaila Receives Prestigious SSHRC 2021 Impact Award
Dr. Rashid Sumaila is the recipient of the 2021 Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Impact Award in the Partnership category. Dr. Sumaila will receive the Impact Award on behalf of the OceanCanada Partnership, a SSHRC-funded research initiative.
Key Takeaways from COP26 – Professor Rashid Sumaila
We spoke with Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) about his participation in the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) and his key takeaways.
All About Money with UBC’s Rashid Sumaila – Part 2
In part two of this interview with Hong Kong International Business Channel, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) discusses Hong Kong’s role in the fishing industry as a ‘disproportionately’ large consumer.
Modular Nuclear Reactors a ‘Long Shot’ Worth Studying, Says Yukon Gov’t
Professor M.V. Ramana argues that small modular reactors (SMRs) are not a practical and realistic approach to reducing emissions for Yukon and the rest of Canada.
All About Money with UBC’s Rashid Sumaila
In a discussion with Hong Kong International Business Channel, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) examines some of the main drivers of depleting commercial fish populations, including fish farms – and how they’re in fact contributing to overfishing.
Eliminating Harmful Fishing Subsidies: Lessons from Regional Trade Agreements
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) breaks down how eliminating harmful fishing subsidies could save the planet’s oceans and ocean economy.
Ways of Knowing S02E06: Naomi Klein on Climate Justice
Professor M.V. Ramana is joined by Professor Naomi Klein on the Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies’ Ways of Knowing podcast to discuss her intellectual journey with environmentalism, economics, social justice, and politics.
The ‘Penny Has Dropped’: Liberal Government Throne Speech Signals New Direction on China, Analysts Say
Professor Paul Evans analyzes the Liberal government’s usage of the term “Indo-Pacific” in their crown speech, and what it indicates about the future direction of Canada-China relations.
Local Procurement, Shared Value, and Sustainable Development: A Case Study from the Mining Sector in Mongolia
Professor Nadja Kunz (SPPGA; Norman B Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering) co-authors this article examining a case study in Mongolia to see the challenges confronting mining, traditional livelihoods, and sustainable development.
Instead of Shopping This Black Friday, Consider Curbing Your Consumption
As Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) urges consumers to make the connection between what they buy and what eventually ends up harming our ecosystems—and our health.
Report Shares Good and Bad News for Canada’s Fisheries
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) discusses the need for Fisheries and Oceans Canada to implement new fishing regulations to conserve and rebuild depleting fish stocks with Global News Canada.
What To Watch for as Biden, Trudeau, López Obrador Tackle Immigration, Supply Chain
With North American leaders, Biden, Trudeau, and López Obrador planning to meet face-to-face for the first time in four years, Professor Kristen Hopewell discusses regional friction over issues such as trade and immigration.
Nuclear Power and America’s Clean Energy Future
With US government funding lined up to put shovels in the ground for new nuclear test plants, SPPGA Director and Professor Allison Macfarlane discusses uncertainties surrounding the promise of nuclear power.
A Deliberate Pacific Power: Triangulating Canada and Its Strategy
In this virtual event, Professor Paul Evans was featured as a panellist to discuss the political and economic goalposts that anchor Ottawa’s strategy in East Asia and the Pacific, how it has or has not defined the means for achieving them, and where the demand is, if any, for Canada to step up and articulate its relevance.
Should Nuclear Have a Place in Canada’s Climate Strategy?
As Canada commits to new climate targets following COP26, Professor M. V. Ramana argues that Canada should focus on renewables, rather than nuclear energy sources as the answer for both climate and post-COVID economic woes.
Fishery Subsidy: India to Seek Fairer Deal at WTO
As India is pushing for a fair fishery subsidy deal at the WTO, this article shares a study led by Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) showing that the subsidy in India is billions of dollars lower than other countries.
Plenty of Fish in the Ocean? Not so Around China, Says Study Warning of Seafood Collapse
Fish stocks in the South China Sea are at risk of collapse if action is not taken in the next 10 years to reduce overfishing and the effects of climate change. Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) states that it is important to enforce sustainable fishing practices so that fisheries can continue to feed and nourish us.
Leaked Facebook Document Shows How Often the Company Restores Posts — And How the Rates Change Depending on Where You Live
With internal Facebook documents being leaked, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) examines why the appeal rate for post removal varies widely depending on where you live.
Is Nuclear Power the Way Forward to Combat the Climate Crisis?
As the United Nations Climate Change Conference wraps up, SPPGA Director and Professor Allison Macfarlane states that there is a definite need to move away from fossil fuels, and that nuclear power could potentially be the way forward.
For Local Fishers to Compete, African Leaders Must Urge WTO Members to End Harmful Subsidies
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) co-authors an article looking at harmful fisheries subsidies and threats to Africa’s fish stocks.
Xi Jinping Is in a Good Position to Break Norms and Continue to Lead China
Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; History) speaks on China’s Communist Party passing a historic resolution that will allow leader Xi Jinping to lead for an unprecedented third term.
The Good, the Bad and the Incongruous at the Rome G20
Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) discusses how the G20 disappointed at the Rome Summit, through failing to massively accelerate COVID-19 vaccine distributions or to generate critical acceleration to solve the climate emergency.
Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan Struggle with the Curse of Mineral Wealth
Professor Julian Dierkes comments on the daunting challenges facing Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan’s mining industry. (Subscription)
Scientists Urging Members to Reach MC12 Fishing Subsidies Agreement Present Letter to DG Okonjo-Iweala
As a lead co-author, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) presented a letter calling for the WTO to curb harmful fisheries subsidies to Director-General Okonjo-Iweala on behalf of nearly 400 ocean experts.
Power Analysis in Health Policy and Systems Research: A Guide to Research Conceptualisation
Research by Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) and others illuminate how power shapes health policy and systems and is critical to identifying underlying factors driving health disparities, systems challenges and inequities.
From Flies to File Storage: Policy Issues in the Life-Cycle of Explanatory Journalism
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) co-authors a report based on multi-disciplinary and multi-lingual research about the production, distribution, and impact of explanatory journalism in Canada.
Meet our SPPGA Directors – Professor and Director Allison Macfarlane
In our SPPGA Faculty Leadership series, meet Dr. Allison Macfarlane, Professor and Director of the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, who outlines her background and current research, her vision for the school, and the ways that students, faculty, and policymakers can engage with our work.
Going Nuclear on Climate Change
Director Allison Macfarlane enters the debate over the role of nuclear power in achieving net zero carbon emissions (Subscription).
Sink or Swim: The Future of Fisheries in the East and South China Seas
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) co-authors a report warning that Asia’s marine ecosystems are under serious threat and calls for immediate policy action.
AMS Turns Focus to Reducing Employee Carbon Emissions as Part of Net-zero Emissions Plan
Professor Milind Kandlikar (SPPGA; IRES) weighs in on the AMS plan to hit net-zero emissions and on the long-term impacts of offsetting carbon emissions.
What’s Known—and Not Known—About India’s Nuclear Weapons Budget
With India’s lack of transparency around nuclear weapon expenditures, Professor MV Ramana states that even government bureaucracies do not seem to have access to expenses relating to weapons facilities.
Joint Statement by UN human rights experts – Accelerate the end of the coal era to protect human rights
Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) makes a statement about the necessity to end the coal era in order to protect a range of human rights, including the rights to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment, to life, to health, and the rights of the child and the rights of Indigenous peoples.
Tax Air Travel and Sea Shipping to Help Climate-Vulnerable Nations, UN Expert Tells COP-26 Leaders
In a message directed to world leaders gathering for COP-26, Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) states that new taxes on air travel and maritime shipping could raise the billions of dollars needed to help the countries suffering most from climate change.
Leadership One-on-One: Moura Quayle
Moura Quayle (UBC’s Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Academic Affairs; SPPGA Professor and founding Director) appears in a Q&A about her leadership experience and herself for the Leadership One-on-One series.
Nuclear Industry Has High Hopes for Net-Zero Future
Professor M. V. Ramana, Professor Nadja Kunz (SPPGA, Mining Engineering), and Sarah Froese (MPPGA Alum) were quoted about the future of nuclear power.
Can Nuclear Power Stay Relevant in a World Filled with Renewables?
Professor M. V. Ramana speaks with POWER Magazine as a contributor to Mycle Schneider Consulting’s World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2021 about the structural challenges of nuclear power.
The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant: The Long, Troubled, Costly and Dangerous Life and After-Life of a Very Old Idea
With Bangladesh on the way to having its first nuclear power plant, Professor M. V. Ramana co-authors this article discussing the costly, dangerous life and after life that constitute a nuclear-powered nation.
WTO Must Ban Harmful Fisheries Subsidies
This letter in SCIENCE signed by nearly 300 scientists, including Professors Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans), Kristen Hopewell, and Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography), urges the WTO to make the commitment to eliminate harmful fisheries subsidies.
Could E-courts Help Fix Facebook’s Inadequate Oversight Board?
Following the confidential papers known as the “Facebook Papers’ being shared, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) discusses the feasibility of taking some power over content moderation away from platforms.
Experts Are Trying to Convince WTO to Ban Harmful Fisheries
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) appeared on GB News to discuss why it is necessary for the WTO to eliminates subsidies for fuel, distant-water and destructive fishing fleets, and illegal and unregulated vessels.
Experts Are Trying to Convince WTO to Ban Harmful Fisheries
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) speaks with GB News as the lead author of an open letter written by nearly 300 experts that urges the WTO to ban fisheries subsidies.
South Korea’s Deepening Social Fractures Amid COVID-19 Success
While South Korea was well prepared and acted rapidly at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in a comparatively low death rate, Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) discusses how the pandemic has exposed deep social fragilities and worsened inequalities.
The ‘Glaring Gap’ in B.C.’s New Climate Plan
Professor George Hoberg states that the B.C. government’s new CleanBC plan has sent “an important signal” to the oil and gas industry, despite the lack of clarity around the industry’s emissions reductions.
Meet Our SPPGA Directors – Professor M.V. Ramana
In our SPPGA Faculty Leadership series, Professor Ramana, Simons Chair in Disarmament, Global and Human Security, discusses what drives him to address the risks posed by nuclear weapons and nuclear energy, his external collaborations, his goals in the classroom, and how students can connect with his work.
B.C. Lifting COVID-19 Capacity Restrictions, but Not Everyone Ready to Resume Usual Gatherings
With British Columbia set to lift capacity restrictions on gatherings across much of the province, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) argues that not everyone will be ready to resume regular gatherings and that the lack of regular contact with people after nearly two years will have affected some people’s mental health.
Under New Emissions Plan, B.C. Accelerates Phase-Out of Gas-Powered Cars
The B.C. government has released the new CleanBC Roadmap to 2030, outlining B.C.’s climate plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. SPPGA Professor George Hoberg commends the ambitions but criticizes the lack of clarity surrounding capping emissions on oil and gas utilities.
Canada-China: Where to Next?
Professor Paul Evans was featured as a panelist in this virtual Q&A Town Hall event hosted by the Munk School of Public Policy, questioning whats next for Canada-China relations following the return of the two Micheals.
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou & 2 Michaels Media Mentions
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on September 24, 2021 that Canada’s Michael Korvig and Michael Spavor, dubbed the 2 Michaels, were returning from detention in China shortly after Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou was released from house arrest in Canada.
CPTPP Members Must Be Wary of China’s Attempt to Join Trade Pact
Since China’s announcement last month about its application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Singapore and Malaysia have indicated their approval. In her authored article, Professor Kristen Hopewell exhorts the CPTPP members to be cautious of China’s attempt of entry because of their history of economic coercion and disregard for global trade rules.
Doubling of Global Demand for Aquatic Foods Calls for a ‘Blue Food Revolution’ to Tackle Climate Change and Malnutrition
In this podcast episode with Kelly Cutrara, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) discusses how the increasing global demand for aquatic foods calls for a ‘blue food revolution’ to help combat climate change and malnutrition.
New Book: Infinity Fish
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; IOF) authors a new book titled Infinity Fish, a science-based reference that explains the economic and ecological benefits of restoring marine ecosystems and sustaining ocean resources.
Analysts Say China on Track to Meet Carbon Targets Despite Challenges
In anticipation for the COP26 United Nations Climate Change Conference, the world is following China closely as they are the largest global polluter. Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) discusses China’s accomplishments in sustainability and states that they are on track to meet carbon targets despite current challenges.
Half of Canadian Parents Plan to Get Their Young Kids Vaccinated Against COVID-19
A new survey shows that half of Canadian parents intend to vaccinate their children ages 5 to 11 as soon as the vaccine is available to the age group. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) urges for more information about COVID vaccinations in children to be provided to parents.
Ramana, Makhijani: Look Before You Leap on Nuclear
Professor Ramana explains why the proposal to build a Natrium nuclear reactor in Wyoming is unlikely to be commercially viable, taking into account the long history of failed sodium cooled reactor projects around the world (Paywall).
‘I Hope You Die’: How the COVID Pandemic Unleashed Attacks on Scientists
Dozens of scientists say they have received death threats and other forms of harassment after media interviews on Covid-19. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments on this phenomenon.
Canada: British Submarines Fiasco Has Left Its Mark (French)
SPPGA Professor Paul Evans is quoted on a story about four submersibles from the U.K. and Ottawa’s choices to strengthen its fleet in the Pacific.
2021 David Barclay Book Prize
The annual David Barclay Book Prize from the German Studies Association is awarded to the best monograph on the social, cultural, economic, political, or labor history of 19th and 20th century Germany or central Europe. Congratulations to Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History), the 2021 inaugural winner with her book, News from Germany: The Competition to Control World Communications, 1900-1945.
Will Parents Line Up to Get Their Kids Vaccinated?
With the age of eligibility to register for COVID-19 vaccines lowering, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) speaks to CBC Early Edition about how officials can persuade hesitant parents to get their kids vaccinated.
Chromatic: Ten Meditations on Crisis in Art and Letters
Read this new collection of essays and illustrations from the Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies, offering 10 illustrated meditations on crisis from the 2020 Wall Scholars. Professor Ramana writes on the nuclear crisis in Japan at a time of global upheaval.
Canada Urged to Join Allies in Tougher China Stance After Kovrig, Spavor Release
Following Canada’s long fight with China over the imprisonment of the Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig, Professor Paul Evans argues that Canada’s recent usage of the label “Indo-Pacific” rather than “Asia-Pacific” signifies Canada taking a tougher stance towards future relations with China.
UN Recognition of Human Right to Healthy Environment Gives Hope for Planet’s Future
A historic milestone was achieved today when the Human Rights Council’s recognized the human right to a healthy environment. This has the potential to improve the life of everyone on the planet, says Prof. David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES), UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and environment.
Research Network on Women, Peace and Security Launches New Website
The Research Network on Women, Peace and Security has launched a new website. Working together with the Government of Canada’s Mobilizing Insights in Defence and Security program, the RN-WPS is a network of leading scholars and practitioners, co-led by Professor Erin Baines, that will investigate the gendered impacts of defence.
Canada Must Oppose China’s Entry to Trans-Pacific Trade Pact
China officially applied to be a part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in September 2021 and is awaiting the members’ approval. In her authored article, Professor Kristen Hopewell advises Canada to deny China’s entry due to their history of global trade rules violations under President Xi Jinping.
UBC Sending Delegation of Eight to COP26
UBC President Santa J. Ono announced the successful applicants that will represent UBC as official observers at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow this November. Among the eight delegates selected is Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans).
Facebook’s America-Centrism Is Now Plain for All To See
In her first piece as new columnist for The Centre for International Governance Innovation, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) discusses Facebook’s blatant America-centrism, and how while the vast majority of Facebook users live outside the United States, almost 90% of content moderation efforts are devoted to American posts.
Stakeholder Perspectives on Proposed Policies To Improve Distribution and Retention of Doctors in Rural Areas of Uttar Pradesh, India
Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) co-authored a paper for BMC Health Services Research, arguing that issues in retention and distribution of biomedical doctors in rural parts of India is negatively impacted by governance challenges and fragmentation within and outside of the health care sector.
Crisis Conservation and Green Extraction: Biodiversity Offsets as Spaces of Double Exception
Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) discusses the politics of affinity and enmity shaping the extraction-conservation nexus and suggests that convergence of extraction and conservation reflects common politics of enmity directed at local communities that legitimize exclusionary practices rather than solve capitalisms contradictions.
On the Politics of Waste, Race, and Disposability
Professor Ramana, Professor Arefin (Geography), and Professor Troeung (English) discuss the overlooked topic of waste, in a fascinating conversation about the ethics of waste surveillance and how waste is a product of a broader system of power, politics and inequality.
Would China’s Move To Join This Transpacific Trade Pact Push the U.S. To Rejoin?
With China’s announcement that the country has officially applied to join one of the world’s largest free trade agreements, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Professor Kristen Hopewell discusses whether the move will push the US to rejoin in order to counter China’s growing influence.
A US-UK Submarine Deal Triggers Nuclear Fears Down Under
The US, UK, and Australia agreed on a tripartite deal (AUKUS) to supply a nuclear-powered submarine to Australia. Professor M. V. Ramana raises concerns about the partnership as it will increase tensions with China and can escalate the ongoing arms race.
Did Mongolia Give up on Winning a UN Security Council Seat?
In the co-authored article for The Diplomat, Professor Julian Dierkes discusses how Mongolian President Khurelsukh’s speech to the UN General Assembly suggests Mongolia’s intent to cede the seat on the Security Council to Japan.
Renewed WTO Talks on Subsidies Zero in on Overcapacity, Overfishing
The World Trade Organization is again negotiating an agreement to end harmful fishery subsidies after more than two decades on the matter. Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; UBC Oceans) stresses that it is crucial for negotiators to continue working on the issues holding up the agreement.
Taiwan’s COVID-19 Vaccine Struggles
Taiwan was effective in containing the spread of COVID-19; however, their measures eroded over time due to inadequate vaccine deployment, complacency, and fatigue. Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) analyzes Taiwan’s preventative measures against COVID-19 as well as the controversy surrounding vaccines.
AUKUS May Trigger Nuclear Arms Race in Indo-Pacific, France to Stay in NATO
Professor Ramana states that the nuclear issue brought forward by new AUKUS defense deal is disturbing at two levels, as it further escalates tensions with China, and the decision to share military technology blows a hole in the nuclear non-proliferation regime.
Canada Federal Election Media Mentions
As the country ramps up for the Canadian federal election taking place on September 20, 2021, our SPPGA faculty are observing closely as political fervor sweeps the nation.
Indonesian Court Rules President Negligent over Pollution
The Central Jakarta District Court orders President Widodo and six other officials to strengthen air quality standards after finding them guilty of neglecting citizens’ right to clean air. Professor David Boyd (SPPGA & UBC IRES) emphasizes the constitutional and legislative duty of the Indonesian government to protect its people from the dire consequences of air pollution.
N. Korea’s Cruise Missile Test Aimed to Draw US Attention, Resumption of Talks Unlikely
Following North Korea conducting a cruise missile test aiming to draw U.S attention, prospects of future denuclearization talks remain dim. Professor Ramana states that he doesn’t believe the test will result in significant changes in U.S policy.
Trudeaus Agreed to Father’s Book Being Published by Chinese Communist-Run Company in 2005
Experts are discussing the motives behind a Chinese Communist-run company publishing book co-authored by Pierre Trudeau. Professor Paul Evans argues that it is doubtful the offer to translate and publish the book had anything to do with attempting to influence the Trudeau sons.