Faculty

What is Happening in the South China Sea?

On the podcast show, The Shift, SPPGA Professor Paul Evans talks about the on-going dispute in the South China Sea and how that impacts the global economy, and why it should matter to Canada.

Problems with the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor

For two decades, the story of India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor is one of rising costs, delays and never-ending promises of commissioning. “Shouldn’t India then stop pursuing the breeder programme?” say Prof Ramana & MPPGA Student Nidhi Sharma.

Canada’s Parliament Vote to Name China’s Actions in Xinjiang Province a Genocide

What does it mean for Ottawa’s already fragile diplomatic relationship with China? Hear from SPPGA Professor Paul Evans.

EU Can Play Crucial Role In Restoring JCPOA By Bringing US, Iran Together

Nuclear expert Professor Ramana hopes that the proposed meeting by the EU for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) members can lead to a compromise, as both Tehran and the US face internal pressures to initiate the first step towards reconciliation in nuclear deals.

The Case for Universal Recognition of the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment

Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES), in his role as the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the Environment, co-authored a report on “The Case for Universal Recognition of the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment.”

Escalating Tensions in the South China Sea Could Have Major Implications to the Global Economy

Professor Paul Evans discusses what this could mean for trade, resources, and international relations.

Threats Against Dr. Bonnie Henry ‘Unacceptable,’ B.C. Health Minister Says

Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) notes that Bonnie Henry has taken on a uniquely prominent role during the pandemic. As a result, she has faced unacceptable levels of threats and criticisms from the public.

New White House Regime, New Asia Opportunities for Canada

There is hope for new Asia-pacific relationships, but Professor Yves Tiberghien (CJR Co-Director; UBC Political Science) says the economic implications for Canada in Asia remains unclear.

MPs to Vote on Whether to Declare Chinese Abuses Against Uyghur Muslims a Genocide

Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) was interviewed on a motion by Conservatives calling on Canada to formally declare crimes against Uyghur Muslims in China a genocide.

Human Rights Adviser Presses Trudeau to Call out China’s Actions in Xinjiang as Genocide

SPPGA Professor Paul Evans states that given the country’s history, Canada would be on firmer ground “to attract others to this cause if we labelled Chinese actions as ‘cultural genocide'”.

Incomplete Transitions to Clean Household Energy Reinforce Gender Inequality by Lowering Women’s Respiratory Health and Household Labour Productivity

Complete transition to cooking gas reduces gender inequality by improving women’s respiratory health. Professor Milind Kandlikar’s (SPPGA; IRES) co-written paper says that improving the affordability, supply and reliability of clean fuels should be a key focus.

Health Professionals Cautiously Optimistic as B.C.’s Covid-19 Vaccination Program Begins in Earnest

After a month of delays, the number of people vaccinated in B.C. is set to see a dramatic increase in the coming weeks. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) addresses vaccine hesitancy as vaccines roll out to the general population.

Canada’s China Problem

SPPGA Professor Paul Evans comments on the debate of whether China’s treatment of its Uighur minority meets the definition of genocide, as politicians call for a relocation of the 2022 Olympic Winter Games.

Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention (Cantonese)

Professor Paul Evans comments on the new Canadian-led international declaration denouncing state-sponsored arbitrary detention of foreign nationals for political purposes (Cantonese).

‘Let’s Go Learn’: Not for Canada to Tell China It’s Wrong, N.S. Premier Stephen Mcneil Says

“Outgoing Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil had some provocative advice recently.” Professor Paul Evans comments on what he calls Mcneil’s “textbook” China strategy.

Big Money, Nuclear Subsidies, and Systemic Corruption

In July, a $60 million bribery and corruption case came to light in Ohio. The guilty party—one of Ohio’s largest utility corporations. For years, the firm lobbied to continue operating its unprofitable nuclear plants, write Professor Ramana and MPPGA Alumna Cassandra Jeffery.

Mini Nuclear Reactors Offer Promise of Cheaper, Clean Power

As nuclear reactor makers pitch smaller, modular systems, SPPGA Professor Ramana says that the basic idea is flawed and that many of these expense reductions could ultimately increase their danger and create new safety risks.

This Black History Month, UBC Community is Hopeful for Change

For Black History Month, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) emphasizes how important it is for us to work together to address systemic racism. Find out more about UBC’s commitment to anti-racism and acknowledgement of the many achievements and struggles of Black people.

Research by Prof. Erin Baines and Justice and Reconciliation Project and the Conviction of Ongwen at the International Criminal Court

Previous research conducted by SPPGA Associate Professor Erin Baines and the Justice and Reconciliation Project in Uganda generated debate in Uganda and globally, and informed the defence of Dominic Ongwen at the International Criminal Court.

Oil and the Islamic State: Revisiting “Resource Wars” Arguments in Light of ISIS Operations and State-Making Attempts

Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) reviews key scholarly arguments concerning the relationship between natural resources and armed groups, and examines the interrelationship between oil, armed conflict and ISIS.

Reconciling Violence: Policing the Politics of Recognition

Over the course of several months in 2018, more than 240 people were arrested in Burnaby, BC, Canada for disrupting the expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. Professor Philippe Le Billon (SPPGA; Geography) examines what the discrepancies in police tactics teach us about logics of settler colonial law, authority, and violence.

Trudeau’s Move

“The Canadian prime minister was using his father’s playbook when it came to China. But the game has changed.” Professors Paul Evans and Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) share their insights.

How Did Joe Biden’s First Days as President Impact Canada?

SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell gave comments on how the recent decisions made by the Biden Administration impact Canada, in regards to the cancellation of Keystone XL Pipeline, the ‘Buy American’ policy and the rejoining of the Paris Agreement.

Analysts See Hope in Biden Executive Order for B.C.-Washington Trade and Connections

SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell says that Biden’s commitments to a vaccination plan and executive orders to coordinate responses to the pandemic are positive steps towards warmer diplomatic relations with Canada.

With New PM, a New Generation Taking Charge in Mongolia

The recently elected Mongolia Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene could potentially lead to transformative generational change, SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes says in his co-authored piece, particularly in Vision 2050 and Mongolia’s e-governance model.

The Law Bytes Podcast, Episode 74: Heidi Tworek on the Challenges of Internet Platform Regulation

Tune in to the latest episode of Law Bytes Podcast featuring Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) on the role and responsibilities of Internet platforms, payments in the news sector, and insights on communication about COVID-19.

Lack of Transparency about Manitoba’s Vaccine Eligibility Plan Erodes Public Trust: Health Experts

Six weeks into Manitoba’s vaccination campaign, the province has yet to announce its plans for the wider community and many are concerned. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) weighs in.

Mongolians Are Chafing at the Government’s Anti-Covid Curbs

Mongolia’s success in curbing the pandemic has highlighted the wasted economic potential of its abundant livestock resources, which SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes says needs drastic branding and quality control improvements.

How Biden May Influence Canada’s Relationship with China

“As we start to co-operate with the U.S., it is crucial we don’t just do it bilaterally.” SPPGA Professor Paul Evans gave comments on the future of U.S.-Canada-China relations, particularly in human rights and democratic development affairs.

Recontextualizing Physicians Associations: Revisiting Context, Scope, Methodology

Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; School of Population and Public Health) co-authored and co-edited two research articles, Introduction to “Recontextualizing Physicians Associations: Revisiting Context, Scope, Methodology” and A Draconian Law: Examining the Navigation of Coalition Politics and Policy Reform by Health Provider Associations in Karnataka, India, in a special issue of the Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law.

For Trudeau, Life after Trump Is off to a Rocky Start

U.S. President Biden’s cancellation of the Keystone XL project will fuel the growing resentment Albertans feel towards the rest of Canada, SPPGA Professor George Hoberg says.

Does Deplatforming Trump Set a New Precedent for Content Moderation?

There is a problem of focusing on the U.S. in platform governance, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) warns. The difference in response to the U.S. and Myanmar Rohingya genocide shows the platform’s inconsistent principles, she adds.

Gorilla Radio with Chris Cook, Dimitri Lascaris, M.V. Ramana

Listen to Gorilla Radio’s podcast with SPPGA Prof. Ramana on how the Liberal government’s funding of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is a pipe dream. He cites the lengthy time, cost, and the economic disadvantage of switching to SMRs as the main reasons for its infeasibility.

Canada to Face New Pressures to Confront China as Biden Advocates for a More United Approach

SPPGA Professor Paul Evans is hopeful that the Biden administration can bring U.S. back into institutions, he says in response to Biden’s pledge on a “united front of friends and partners to challenge China’s abusive behaviour.” (paywall)

It’s Cold, It’s Dark, We’re Tired. Canada, Meet the Covid-19 Wall

Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) was quoted extensively on her team’s democratic health communications project in a story on Covid-fatigue.

Open Skies Treaty Could Still Be Saved if Biden Administration Reverses Withdrawal

SPPGA Professor Ramana says that, although it may take time, there are no obstacles to the US returning to the Open Skies Treaty under the Biden administration, which would enable signatories to exchange unarmed military surveillance flights.

UN Committee Rebukes Canada for Failing to Get Indigenous Peoples’ Consent for Industrial Projects

In response to a letter regarding Canada’s failure to comply with the UNDRIP, Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA & UBC Political Science) urges the federal government to take advice from the UN’s Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Former U.S. Regulator Questions Small Nuclear Reactor Technology

In an article about small nuclear reactor technology, SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane raises doubts about the feasibility of storage, alluding to the complexity of the shorter-term radioactivity of nuclear waste.

Clash of Powers: US-China Rivalry in Global Trade Governance

SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell discusses her book, “Clash of Powers; US-China Rivalry in Global Trade Governance”, and comments on the potential implications of the Biden administration on economic relations with China.

Mini-Nukes, Big Bucks: The Interests Behind the SMR Push

“The problem is that he is lobbying hard for government investment.” SPPGA Professor Ramana speaks on Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Coalition and how his investment on small modular reactors is lacking to satisfy any reasonable nuclear safety regulator.

Mongolia Weathers the Storms of 2020

SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes reflects on Mongolia’s effective COVID-19 response, which helped to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic and led to a successful electoral process.

Small Modular Reactors, the Future of Nuclear Energy?

Nuclear expert & SPPGA Professor Ramana gave comments about Canada’s action plan for small modular reactors. (Article in French)

The Dangerous Inconsistencies of Digital Platform Policies

Recent events concerning “political violence, voting and vaccines” have exposed the inconsistencies in social media platform policies and the harm they can wreak, writes Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History.)

Beleaguered Small Nuclear Project Signs New Agreements

The $1.36 billion U.S. Energy Department cost-share award is not guaranteed for SMRs, SPPGA Professor Ramana cautions. The award faces uncertainty as nuclear power becomes less economically competitive with renewables & storage.

How Canadian Officials Can Communicate More Effectively During the Covid-19 Endgame

As we begin a new year, it may be time to reboot our COVID messaging for 2021, says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) in this co-authored piece.

The Return of Oligarchy? Threats to Representative Democracy in Latin America

Cameron outlines the classical theory of oligarchy, examines the use of the concept in contemporary theories of comparative politics, describes oligarchic modes of rule in Latin America’s hierarchical market economies, offers an account of the dynamics of populist mobilisation and oligarchic modes of rule in Peru, and draws lessons from the Odebrecht corruption scandal.

New Small Modular Reactor Action Plan a Key Step for New Technology’s Growth amid ‘Incredible Demand,’ Says Industry Group

Canada’s new Small Modular Nuclear Reactor Action Plan has UBC experts doubtful that paper designs will be economical or environmentally viable in the long run. More from Prof. Ramana, Prof. Nadja Kunz (SPPGA & UBC Mining) and MPPGA Alumna Sarah Froese.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Media Mentions: Professor Ramana Publishes Eyes Wide Shut, a Report on Problems with Small-Scale Nuclear Plants

Professor Ramana, a leading world expert on small modular reactors (SMRs), issued a report warning that more than 30 municipalities in Utah, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and California participating in the Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) small modular nuclear project promoted by Oregon-based NuScale Power could end up being left holding the bag due […]

Meng Wanzhou Back in Court as Observers Ponder Influence of Biden Presidency

The Biden administration may take a less confrontational approach with China as a rival and strategic competitor, SPPGA Professor Paul Evans says, in relation to the testimony and extradition case of the Huawei Executive, Meng Wenzhou. Read more at CBC.

Ramana and Schacherl: Why the Liberals’ Nuclear Power Plan is a Pipe Dream

SPPGA Professor Ramana discusses the economic and environmental feasibility of the federal government’s plan for small modular nuclear reactors in Canada and argues that SMRs have no place in the plan to mitigate climate change. Read more at The Ottawa Citizen.

15 Countries Just Signed the World’s Largest Trade Pact. The U.S. Isn’t One of Them.

SPPGA Professor Kristen Hopewell discusses the newly signed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the threat it poses to US trade, and how the subsequent US administration may respond to counter China’s growing influence. Read more at The Washington Post.

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.

Rolls-Royce Plans 16 Mini-Nuclear Plants for UK

The consortium led by Rolls-Royce on 16 mini-nuclear plants in the UK could have significant limitations, says SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana. Issues such as cost savings, rigorous safety standards and delays will be key questions in the development of UK small modular reactors. More at BBC News.

7 Ways to Bridge the Blue Finance Gap to Protect the Oceans

Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) discusses the benefits of investing into sustainable ocean economy initiatives to reduce the ocean-specific biodiversity finance gaps and identifies 7 key actions to strengthen the SOE. Read more at GreenBiz.

How Climate Change Has Put Nuclear Energy Back on the Table

SPPGA Prof Ramana participates in What On Earth with Laura Lynch’s lively debate on whether nuclear energy, particularly small modular reactors, are a viable replacement for fossil fuels. He starts at the 11:00 mark.

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.

Media Mentions: SPPGA on the U.S. Election

SPPGA professors weigh in with their expertise on the 2020 U.S. presidential election as updates come in.

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.

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.