Media Engagement

Cambodia’s Democracy and EU Trade Privileges: Taking a Long-Term View

Cambodia’s Democracy and EU Trade Privileges: Taking a Long-Term View

The EU recently announced that it would suspend the Everything but Arms trade scheme with Cambodia. MPPGA student Darren Touch argues that, while it is unclear how this would unfold, the EU should support Cambodia in the long-term.

Connecting Myanmar Researchers to Canadian Universities

Connecting Myanmar Researchers to Canadian Universities

UBC and Yangon University of Economics, Myanmar signed a memorandum of understanding that solidified their collaboration in support of evidence-based policy development in Myanmar. UBC was represented by SPPGA Professor Kai Ostwald at the signing.

The Widespread Corruption Brings Mongolian Folks to a Boil

The Widespread Corruption Brings Mongolian Folks to a Boil

Mongolia has seen an unhealthy mixture of frustration, corruption and a duopoly of two parties that have been dividing power for years, says SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes in an article for NZZ News.

Should Canada Follow Australia’s Lead on China?

The Australian government has been standing up to China’s demands. Should Canada follow suit?

Donald Trump’s Policy Intensifies against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Donald Trump’s Policy Intensifies against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Following the State of the Union address, UBC CSDI Director Maxwell Cameron talks Venezuelan-American relations, citing a possibility of military intervention and rejection of Nicolas Maduro’s presidency. 

2018 Faculty Research Awards: Rashid Sumaila

2018 Faculty Research Awards: Rashid Sumaila

Congratulations to SPPGA and Institute of Oceans and Fisheries Professor Rashid Sumaila, who recently won the UBC President’s Award for Public Education Through Media.

UBC China Expert: At Present, Sending Special Envoys to China Does Not Help Canada

Sending governmental envoys to China may not be the most productive way to repair Canada-China relations, in light of the Meng Wangzhou case. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans explains the situation to Fairchild Radio (Cantonese only).

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A Fraying Canada-China Relationship

Professor Wenran Jiang discusses the ongoing diplomatic crisis happening between Canada and China, as well as Meng Wangzhou’s arrest and upcoming extradition.

Frustrations Arise in Mongolia

Frustrations Arise in Mongolia

SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes penned an article in the East Asia Forum to outline the uncertainty that the country now faces.

Uneasy Year of the Pig Arrives for China-Dependent B.C. Companies

Uneasy Year of the Pig Arrives for China-Dependent B.C. Companies

“A large part of the nervousness among local players in the Chinese-Canadian field is a symptom of the lack of control Canada has over the situation.” SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien speaks on how Canada-China relations could affect local businesses with Business in Vancouver.

Temporary Ambassador to China Has the Ability to Repair Canada-China Relations

Temporary Ambassador to China Has the Ability to Repair Canada-China Relations

After the 68-year-old Canadian ambassador to China, John McCallum, was dismissed, his deputy, Jim Nickel, temporarily resigned as the ambassador to China. 

Mongolia Speaker Expelled Amid Ongoing Battle Against Corruption

Mongolia Speaker Expelled Amid Ongoing Battle Against Corruption

The Mongolian Parliament has been making notable efforts into fighting internal corruption. SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes comments on the political situation as it unfolds.

Michael Kovrig’s Employer Still Confident in Trudeau Government Post-McCallum Firing

Michael Kovrig’s Employer Still Confident in Trudeau Government Post-McCallum Firing

“McCallum’s firing complicates Canada’s efforts to win the early release of the detainees,” says SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien. Read more on the political implications of Ambassador John McCallum’s termination.

Weak Environmental Laws in Climate Change Crisis

Weak Environmental Laws in Climate Change Crisis

The efforts towards combating climate change are being undermined by weak enforcement of legislation by governments, says a newly released UN Environment report. SPPGA Professor David Boyd weighs in on these environmental threats.

Huawei Affair Continues, Sino-US Trade War Is in Full Swing

In the wake of the Huawei CFO scandal, SPPGA Professor Paul Evans outlines the potential impacts this could have on Canada-China relations.

China Is Not Seeking to Launch a New Cold War

The dispute over Huawei, involving the United States and Canada on the one side and China on the other, could lead to a new kind of Cold War according to this The Globe and Mail op-ed. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans is quoted in the discussion.

Canada-China Strategy in Disarray

Canada’s attempts to diffuse tensions with China deteriorates following the firing of Ambassador John McCallum, and is what SPPGA Professor Paul Evans calls the “most difficult and emotional moment in Canada-China relations in 30 years.”

Professor M.V. Ramana was Recently Featured on People of UBC!

Professor M.V. Ramana was Recently Featured on People of UBC!

Professor M.V. Ramana was recently featured on People of @UBC! He is the Simons Chair in Disarmament, Global and Human Security at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Check out this spotlight of our resident nuclear expert.

Can Ottawa and Beijing De-escalate?

Can Ottawa and Beijing De-escalate?

With the Meng Wangzhou affair, Canada-China relations have been tense. SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien shares his thoughts on the latest news, the death sentence of Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, with CBC News.

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Ambassador: Detained Chinese Executive has “Good Arguments”

Dr. Wenran Jiang recently spoke with CTV News about Canada’s slow movement to de-escalate tensions surrounding Canada-China relations, specifically following the arrest of Huawei Executive, Meng Wanzhou.

North Korea Missile Find

Twenty undeclared missile bases were recently found in North Korea. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans sits down with Voice of America’s Ira Mellman to discuss this issue. Listen to the interview here:

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Ambassador: Detained Chinese Execs Has “Good Arguments”

Wenran Jiang, adjunct professor at UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, joins us with his take on the latest in the diplomatic dispute between Canada and China after ambassador John McCallum outlined what he called “good arguments” for how Meng Wanzhou might be able to avoid extradition.

SPPGA Faculty as Leaders in Global Institutional Diplomacy

SPPGA Faculty as Leaders in Global Institutional Diplomacy

A recent article published by The Ubyssey highlights the role of UBC as a leader in international diplomacy and building connections in the global community. SPPGA faculty Yves Tiberghien, Knowledge Partnership Program (KPP) co-founders Paul Evans and Kyung Ae-Park, and Moura Quayle are among those featured as the forefront of this movement.

The Lies and Insults that China has Pointed at Canada

The Lies and Insults that China has Pointed at Canada

SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien clears up some misconceptions surrounding China’s accusations towards Canada since the arrest of a Huawei executive in Macleans Magazine.

PhD PhotoVoice Project Showcases Experiences of Displacement

PhD PhotoVoice Project Showcases Experiences of Displacement

UBC PhD Candidate Neila Miled’s photo gallery provides context for the lived experiences of young Muslim refugee women.

China Rejects Call for Clemency

With the recent death sentence of Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, China has denied Canadian officials’ call for clemency on his case. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans discussed the issue with CTV’s Don Martin (interview starts at 35:35). Dr. Evans also talks about the escalating turn of events in a BBC News article (Chinese only).

Schellenberg Sentence Suspected of Being Influenced by the Meng Case

Schellenberg Sentence Suspected of Being Influenced by the Meng Case

Is the death sentence of Canadian Robert Schellenberg influenced by the arrest of Meng Wanzhou?  SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien sits down with The Sing Tao Daily to explain the situation. (Chinese only) Canada is stuck in the middle of a trade war between the US and China. The arrest of Meng Wangzhou and the death sentence […]

Why China Isn’t Ready to Invade Taiwan – Yet

Why China Isn’t Ready to Invade Taiwan – Yet

A potential war between China and Taiwan would create tremendous losses on both sides, but China is more likely to use more nonviolent tactics to bring Taiwan in line with the “One China” policy. Professor Josephine Chiu-Duke, Director of the Centre for Chinese Research, discusses Taiwan-China relations with Global News.

Taking the National Temperature for #Elxn43

Taking the National Temperature for #Elxn43

With the federal election coming up later this year, Pique Magazine takes a look at how Canadians feel about the candidates running in #Elxn43.  CSDI Director and SPPGA Faculty Associate Max Cameron shares his insights. 

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Wenran Jiang on the Schellenberg Arrest and China-Canada Relations

A Canadian national, Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, was recently sentenced to death over drug charges. Dr. Wenran Jiang was recently featured in two stories in the China Global Television Network about China’s verdict on the case. An opinion article, Justice Over Big Drug Deal Well Above Political Suspicion, was released on CGTN, and Dr. Jiang was also […]

Province to Partner with Post-secondary Schools on New Climate Action Plan

Province to Partner with Post-secondary Schools on New Climate Action Plan

The province is set to partner with several post-secondary institutions on a new climate action plan. However, SPPGA Professor George Hoberg asserts that the province will also have to put in work outside of this plan in order to meet emission reduction goals.

Canadian Officials Going Ahead with China Trip & China’s Presence on the World Stage

Canadian Officials Going Ahead with China Trip & China’s Presence on the World Stage

Despite the fact that Canada-China relations are rather tense at the moment, Canadian MPs and Senators are still going ahead with their upcoming visit to China. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans says that this is the right move, and that Ottawa should be openly communicating with China.

Cyberattacks on Russia Pose a Global Threat

SPPGA faculty M.V. Ramana and Mitacs summer research internship alumna Maria Kurando, recently published an article in The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists on the risks that cyber-attacks in Russia pose over the control of its nuclear weapons.

The Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project

The Indian government faces hurdles with the idea of importing six nuclear European Pressurized Reactors amidst opposition to the Jaitapur nuclear power project. SPPGA faculty, M.V. Ramana co-wrote an article in the Hindu on the topic.

Are BC Drivers Paying So Much at the Pumps that the Environment is Impacted in a Meaningful Way?

Are BC Drivers Paying So Much at the Pumps that the Environment is Impacted in a Meaningful Way?

With such high gas prices in BC, do we really need the carbon tax to go up in April? SPPGA Professor George Hoberg dispels some erroneous presumptions about the tax hike for Global News. Find out how the tax could actually put more money in consumer pockets.

Predicting the Direction of BC’s Political Stage in 2019

Predicting the Direction of BC’s Political Stage in 2019

Director of CSDI and SPPGA Faculty Associate, Maxwell Cameron, provided commentary in a Vancouver Star article predicting the direction of BC’s political stage in 2019 as shaped by global political trends. 

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Rising Tensions Between Canada and China

Wenran Jiang shares his perspective amidst tension in this New York Times article.

George Hoberg: Carbon Taxes Work

George Hoberg: Carbon Taxes Work

Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer recently claimed that carbon taxes are ineffective. SPPGA Professor and climate policy expert George Hoberg says otherwise in an interview with Lynda Steele.

China in the News: Chinese Rover on Far Side of the Moon & Reunification with Taiwan

China’s burgeoning space program has made history, by landing a rover on the far side of the moon. Professor Paul Evans talks about this incredible accomplishment for a latecomer to space exploration.

Canada-China Relations and the Huawei Affair

Canada-China Relations and the Huawei Affair

“China is known for using tit-for-tat retaliatory tactics.” What does this mean for China-Canada relations, in light of the arrest of Huawei executive, Meng Wanzhou? SPPGA Faculty Affiliate Yves Tiberghien explains on CBC’s The National.

UN Rights Expert Praises Fiji on Climate Change and Human Rights Leadership

UN Rights Expert Praises Fiji on Climate Change and Human Rights Leadership

Fiji has adopted many climate change mitigation measures like the Environment and Climate Adaptation Levy, investments in renewable energy, and an electrification program for rural and indigenous areas. UN Special Rapporteur and SPPGA Professor David Boyd praised the nation’s accomplishments and calls on wealthier nations to follow suit. This story was also featured in The Fiji Times.

It’s Time for French Museums to Return Cambodian Artifacts

It’s Time for French Museums to Return Cambodian Artifacts

A new report recommends returning artifacts seized from French colonies in Africa. MPPGA student Darren Touch says Cambodia should also be included. Read more about what this could mean for the Asian nation in The Diplomat.

Want to Solve Climate Problem? Nuclear Isn’t the Answer

Will nuclear power be a panacea for the climate crisis? Despite the Polish Minister of Energy’s enthusiasm towards nuclear at COP 24, SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana points out the discrepancies behind Poland’s and other nation’s investment in nuclear plants.

B.C. Trade Mission to China Suspended Over Huawei Case

B.C. Trade Mission to China Suspended Over Huawei Case

The B.C. government is suspending a trade mission to China due to an ongoing court case against a Huawei CFO arrested in Vancouver earlier this month. SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien suggests that further action could have high costs for Canada.

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Huawei Executive Detained in Canada

Following the sensational case of Huawei CFO’s arrest, China is demanding that Canada release the telecom executive or face serious consequences. Dr. Wenran Jiang brings us an update on what this could mean for Canadian-Chinese relations.

Paris Peace Forum No-Shows Prove Liberal Global Order Is in ‘Crisis’

Paris Peace Forum No-Shows Prove Liberal Global Order Is in ‘Crisis’

The absence of the US and UK leaders was keenly felt at the Paris Peace Forum this month. MPPGA student, Tommy Koh, ‏and SPPGA Faculty Associate, Yves Tiberghien, call this trend of retreating from multilateralism a global order crisis. 

Trudeau Denies Political Involvement in Huawei Executive’s Arrest, as Canada Waits to See If China Will Retaliate

Huawei top executive Meng Wanzhou was recently arrested in Vancouver, and she may be facing extradition to the United States on suspicions of violating sanctions against Iran. SPPGA Professor Paul Evans posits that although China may understand Canada’s role as an ally to the US, they may see it as a “hostage-taking.” This story was ran in The Cochrane Times-Post.

Sweeping B.C. Climate Change Plan Targets Heavy Emitters with New Rules, Carbon Tax Incentives

Sweeping B.C. Climate Change Plan Targets Heavy Emitters with New Rules, Carbon Tax Incentives

The provincial government aims to cut B.C.’s emissions by 18.9 million tonnes over the next 12 years, while boosting the use of electricity and low carbon fuels. SPPGA Professor George Hoberg speaks optimistically about their new climate plan in the Star Vancouver.

State Takes Issue with Document Calling on Ireland to Rapidly Reduce Emissions

State Takes Issue with Document Calling on Ireland to Rapidly Reduce Emissions

SPPGA Professor David Boyd disputes Ireland’s climate plan, thought to be insufficient to reduce emissions. In a legal case challenging the State’s climate plan, some argue that his statement shouldn’t be admissible evidence. Get the scoop at GreenNews.ie.

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You Could Be Paying More for Potatoes in 2019. Is Climate Change to Blame?

Climate change will undoubtedly impact agriculture worldwide, and it may be tough for farmers to adapt to it. SPPGA Professor Navin Ramankutty explains the concept of ‘global weirding,’ and discusses how this could affect the agriculture industry with Global News

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Trump-Xi Summit Produced No Winners

Although US President Donald Trump tweeted that the G20 talks with China were going well, Dr. Wenran Jiang notes that, without reaching some kind of compromise with China, Trump’s G20 trip would appear a major failure.

Tackling U.S.-China Trade Relations

Tackling U.S.-China Trade Relations

Dr. Wenran Jiang sheds some light on the temporary trade truce between US and China negotiated on Saturday.

Should We Subsidize Nuclear Power to Fight Climate Change?

The cost and risks of nuclear power far outweigh those of renewable energies, yet people still advocate for nuclear power plants. SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana looks at the nuclear power debate for the Scientific American.

Canada Yet to Block 5G Technology from China’s Huawei

In an interview with Global National, Professor Paul Evans says that Canada needs to consider their position on Chinese technology, which depends on if Ottawa views China as an ally, a competitor or as an adversary.

4 Things to Know About the History of NAFTA, as Trump Takes Another Step Toward Replacing It

4 Things to Know About the History of NAFTA, as Trump Takes Another Step Toward Replacing It

As Trump continues to make steps towards ending NAFTA, Time Magazine interviewed CSDI Director, Maxwell Cameron, to review NAFTA’s history and to find out where people stand on the issue today.

How China and the U.S. Could Upstage the G20

How China and the U.S. Could Upstage the G20

“We essentially are in the midst of a perfect storm.” SPPGA Faculty Associate Yves Tiberghien shares his thoughts on the upcoming G20 with CPAC TV, and discusses what the trade conflict between US and China might mean for the future of multilateral institutions.

Now Is the Time for a Global Pact for the Environment

Now Is the Time for a Global Pact for the Environment

SPPGA Faculty Associate, Yves Tiberghien, and MPPGA student Denby McDonnell say that Vancouver and Canada should embed local efforts for a global pact for the environment by 2022.

Mongolia Shaken by Widening Loan Scandal

Mongolia Shaken by Widening Loan Scandal

On November 14th, hundreds of Mongolians gathered to protest government corruption in Ulaanbaatar.

China Says Foreign Concerns over Muslim Rights Unwarranted

China Says Foreign Concerns over Muslim Rights Unwarranted

The Trudeau government stood firm against Chinese criticism Thursday after it expressed concern to Beijing over its jailing of thousands of its Muslim minority.

Trudeau Heads to ASEAN Summit to “Mend Relations’ a Year After Thorny Trade Talks

Trudeau Heads to ASEAN Summit to “Mend Relations’ a Year After Thorny Trade Talks

SPPGA Faculty Associate, Yves Tiberghien, was interviewed on CBC News looking at Canada’s participation in ASEAN.

The Argument from Cyberspace for Eliminating Nuclear Weapons

The Argument from Cyberspace for Eliminating Nuclear Weapons

With the advancement of computer technology, SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana and SPPGA Postdoctoral fellow Lauren Borja warn that nuclear technology may be prone to cyberattacks, posing a new set of risks to American nuclear infrastructure and global safety.

Are Thousands of New Nuclear Generators in Canada’s Future?

Could the Canadian government’s backing of Small Modular Reactors as the substitute for fossil fuels be premature? SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana recently wrote an article in The Tyee concerning Canada’s worrying shift towards nuclear energy.

Small- and Medium-Sized Outrage Building Over Corruption in Mongolia

Small- and Medium-Sized Outrage Building Over Corruption in Mongolia

SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes and PhD Candidate Mendee Jargalsaikhan published an article in The Diplomat this morning reporting on a brewing SME Fund embezzlement scandal in Mongolia.

The Hazards of Going Nuclear

The Hazards of Going Nuclear

Nuclear reactors might not be inherently safe, or the most cost-efficient way to produce energy. SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana weighs in on the Ottawa Citizen editorial board about the hazards and costs of nuclear power.

Mongolian Education Ministry Restricts Halloween Celebrations in Schools Marketplace

Mongolian Education Ministry Restricts Halloween Celebrations in Schools Marketplace

SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes was interviewed by Marketplace to examine Mongolia’s restriction on the celebrating Halloween in school. He discusses Mongolia’s desire to preserve cultural tradition at a crucial time in its economic development. Listen at 4:21

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Report Release: Child Tracing in Post-Conflict Northern Uganda

SPPGA & the Women’s Advocacy Network in Uganda have released a report, “Child Tracing in post-conflict northern Uganda” and highlights from their advocacy trip to the UN.

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UN Urged to Recognize Healthy Climate As a Human Right

On October 25th, David Boyd addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.

Why India Wants to Turn Its Beaches into Nuclear Fuel

Why India Wants to Turn Its Beaches into Nuclear Fuel

Is the Indian government’s desire to harness thorium from their beaches and turn it into nuclear energy the most economically viable way to power the country? SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana shares his insights with the BBC.

Prediction of New Arms Race Following US Withdrawal from INF Treaty

SPPGA Professor M.V. Ramana was recently featured in a Sputnik article analyzing the recent decision of the United States to step away from the INF treaty with Russia. Professor Ramana implied the possibility of a new arms race between the two opposing powers.

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What Japan Can Teach China About the American Art of (Trade) War

The trade battle between the US and Japan is being expanded and taken across Asia. SPPGA faculty associate, Yves Tiberghien, examines the trends in the Japanese economy and how the Japanese have dealt with the US in the past in this new South China Morning Post article.

UK Is Endangering People’s Health by Denying Their Right to Clean Air, Says UN

UK Is Endangering People’s Health by Denying Their Right to Clean Air, Says UN

The ongoing climate crisis has been responsible for up to 50,000 deaths – and devastating the lives of “many millions” more in towns and cities across the United Kingdom. In a recent Guardian article, UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the Environment and SPPGA Professor David Boyd calls on the UK to introduce clean […]

The Role of Litigation in Climate Change

The Role of Litigation in Climate Change

David Boyd, a professor at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, was recently interviewed by CBC Radio to contribute to the conversation about litigation as a tool worth using in the fight against climate change.

Is Canada Delivering on Foreign Policy Promises, Promotion of Human Rights and Global Order?

Is Canada Delivering on Foreign Policy Promises, Promotion of Human Rights and Global Order?

MPPGA students Tommy Koh, Ali Bajwa and Alexander Ash are featured in an interview to speak on how well Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has kept his campaign promises, especially in light of the Xinjiang and Rohingya crisis, Canada’s attempt to get a seat on the UN security council, and more. Watch the episode and […]

Promises of the “Book of Hope”: Influences on the New Malaysian Government

Promises of the “Book of Hope”: Influences on the New Malaysian Government

Reflecting on the state of change that Malaysia’s government is in, MPPGA student Tommy Koh recently wrote an article in the Asia Pacific Bulletin.

Indo-US Nuke Deal Gave India Access to Critical Technologies

Experts say that the Indo-US nuclear deal signed back in Oct. 2008 gave India access to critical technologies, but the promise to set up foreign-built reactors never materialized.

Climate Change Report Draws Call for Action from UN Rights Expert

Climate Change Report Draws Call for Action from UN Rights Expert

An IPCC report estimates that a temperature increase of 1.5°C will be reached between 2030 and 2052. UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment, and SPPGA Professor David Boyd calls on countries to exceed their Paris Agreement obligations. Read about its devastating impact on the world’s climate.

Sustainable Energy for the Future of India

Professor MV Ramana was recently featured in The Sustainability Times to discuss the necessity for a sustainable source of power for India’s growing energy needs. Ramana speaks on the exploration of sustainable options other than nuclear power that would match the mass quantity and financial affordability for India in the future.

Hun Sen at the UN: A Strategic Appearance

Hun Sen at the UN: A Strategic Appearance

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen spoke last week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. MPPGA student Darren Touch calls his appearance a highly strategic move following the country’s recent general election, which saw his party, the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) secure its mandate for another five years.

Real-Time Rituals of Elite Male Privilege

Real-Time Rituals of Elite Male Privilege

In late September 2018, the US Senate Judiciary Committee gave the world an opportunity to observe the real-time production of elite white male privilege within the US political system. SPPGA Professor Sara Shneiderman dissects the Kavanaugh case in Allegra Lab.

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VISION20 Fellows at T20 Argentina

UBC MPPGA students Susanne Beilmann and Tommy Koh participated in the T20 Argentina Summit in Buenos Aires as VISION20 (V20) Fellows. Learn about their experience.

Under USMCA, Canada is Neither Strong Nor Free

The Globe and Mail | October 3, 2018 | Written by: Dr. Wenran Jiang

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How Will the Malaysian Surprise Election Affect Singaporean Politics?

SPPGA professor Kai Ostwald reflects upon the state of Singaporean and Malaysian politics for the East Asia Forum. He surmises that there will be relatively little effects on Singaporean politics, even though their regimes are fairly similar.

Making China Marxist Again

Dissent Magazine | Fall 2018 | Co-written by: Dr. Timothy Cheek

Civic Leaders in the Digital Age

Assistant Professor Taylor Owen explores how UBC’s Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program seeks to prepare the next generation of civic leaders with expertise in digital communication.

Nothing new about Indonesia’s foreign worker language regulations

East Asia Forum | July 18, 2018 | Featuring: Tommy Koh

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Julian Dierkes on New Developments in Mongolia

SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes discusses Mongolia with MNB World.

Managing the Ocean with Prof. Rashid Sumaila

Managing the Ocean with Prof. Rashid Sumaila

How can we protect our oceans, while maintaining a vibrant resource economy in Canada’s coastal regions? SPPGA Professor Rashid Sumaila recommends that governments should further subsidize small scale fisheries, as large scale fisheries contribute more to the over-fishing crisis.

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When Will the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Get Built?

The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion timeline may be up in the air, as the Liberals announced plans to redo its environmental review. SPPGA professor George Hoberg thinks that any real chances of progress in the next six months are slim.

How Much of the Ocean Is Actually Fished?

How Much of the Ocean Is Actually Fished?

Based on two separate studies, scientists found that industrial fishing could impact anywhere from 55% to 4% of the world’s oceans.  SPPGA Professor Rashid Sumaila weighs in with The Atlantic and says he believes that the actual impact on ecosystems is likely closer to the higher end of that spectrum.

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George Hoberg on Trans Mountain Ruling

School of Public Policy and Global Affairs Professor George Hoberg was recently quoted in an article about economic and political concerns surrounding the Trans Mountain court decision.

Environmental Rights Initiative – David Boyd Video Message

Environmental Rights Initiative – David Boyd Video Message

SPPGA Professor and UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Environment David Boyd recently delivered a video message for the Environmental Rights Initiative in Brazil.

Professor Navin Ramankutty, Master of Public Policy & Global Affairs professional program, UBC

Temperature Rise, Insect Activity and Global Crop Yields

How will a two degree increase in temperature affect insect activity and what does that mean for global crop yields? SPPGA Professor Navin Ramankutty predicts that the temperature rise could impact both pests and their predators.

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Court Ruling Quashes Approval of Trans Mountain

A court has overturned Ottawa’s approval of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. SPPGA Professor George Hoberg states that the courts will be watchful as the government goes back to the review phase and consults more deeply with First Nations.

How the U.N. Should Regulate High-Seas Fishing

How the U.N. Should Regulate High-Seas Fishing

As the United Nations tries to regulate high seas fishing, SPPGA Professor Rashid Sumaila agrees that closing all high seas to commercial fishing would be beneficial, boosting catches in exclusive economic zones by about 18%.

Critical Legal Decision on Trans Mountain Expansion Due Thursday

Critical Legal Decision on Trans Mountain Expansion Due Thursday

The BC Supreme Court prepares to make a decision on the controversial Trans Mountain oil pipeline this Thursday. SPPGA Professor George Hoberg tells the Vancouver Sun what the court’s decision will mean for the future of the Trans Mountain oil pipeline.

Environmental Racism: Considerations for Infrastructure and the Built Environment

Environmental Racism: Considerations for Infrastructure and the Built Environment

MPPGA student Hadis Siadat wrote a research paper on environmental racism as part of her UBC Arts co-op term with the federal government in Ottawa.  

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Mitigating Canadian Election Interference

Professor Taylor Owen co-authors report on combating digital manipulation in politics.

Protecting Democracy in the Age of Digital Media

Protecting Democracy in the Age of Digital Media

The spread of disinformation and hate speech on digital platforms could pose a risk to the integrity of democratic institutions.  In an article he co-wrote for the Globe and Mail, SPPGA Professor Taylor Owen calls for government regulation to combat the weaponization of information.

Malaysia’s Mahathir Blames Previous Government for Debt to Beijing

Malaysia’s Mahathir Blames Previous Government for Debt to Beijing

Malaysia Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad pins the blame for the country’s large debt to China on his predecessor, Najib Razak. SPPGA Professor Kai Ostwald says that Mahathir’s actions jibe with economic realities associated with heavy Chinese investment.

Are Wealthy Nations Hoarding the World’s Fish Supply?

Are Wealthy Nations Hoarding the World’s Fish Supply?

A recent paper finds that international fishing stocks are dominated by high-income nations. School of Public Policy and Global Affairs Professor Rashid Sumaila discusses the inequity in the distribution of seafood and denounces government handouts that encourage overfishing.