The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has caused immense suffering, with countless individuals displaced, harmed, and killed over the years. Tensions heightened on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, leading to Israeli retaliation and worsening the conflict. This escalation has created a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with 2.8 million people, including 1.2 million children, in need of assistance amidst airstrikes and bombings.

This moment demands our collective attention, solidarity, and action. As the global community bears witness to the unfolding tragedy, it is crucial to extend support where needed most. This can be done, for example, through donating to established and well-coordinated organisations that work on the frontlines to provide aid and relief. Below we have compiled a list of 14 well-established and trusted charities that help civilians in Palestine.

#1 UN Crisis Relief – Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund

The Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund, offers one of the quickest and most effective ways to provide urgent relief on the ground. The Fund consistently collects contributions, enabling it to swiftly aid a diverse range of partners in addressing the high priority humanitarian activities. Managed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on behalf of the Humanitarian Coordinator, your donation plays a crucial role in alleviating the immediate needs of those affected by crises in the region.

Donate here: UN Crisis Relief Donation

#2 United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

As the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA focuses on ensuring safe pregnancies and fulfilling the potential of young people. Expressing deep concern for women and girls in Gaza, of whom 50,000 are pregnant, UNFPA addresses the critical need for reproductive health supplies and services during the conflict. For every dollar contributed, 92 cents directly fund program and service delivery, while a modest 8 cents cover administrative costs—a testament to the organisation’s efficiency and impact.

Those wishing to support UNFPA’s efforts can contribute directly through their donation page.

#3 International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) 

Guided by the Geneva Convention of 1949, ICRC is a humanitarian organisation aiding those affected by global conflicts. Partnering with the Red Cross and Red Crescent chapters, ICRC facilitates neutral humanitarian work in Israel and Palestine. Having maintained a presence in Israel and the occupied territories since 1967, ICRC, as a neutral and independent humanitarian entity, conducts essential work by visiting detainees in Israeli and Palestinian places of detention. Beyond this, the organisation actively contributes to enhancing access to vital services such as water and electricity in Gaza, while simultaneously supporting livelihood projects throughout the occupied territories.

To contribute to ICRC’s impactful initiatives and support its humanitarian mission, donations can be made through its dedicated donation page.

#4 UNICEF (United Nations Children Educational Fund)

Founded to help children in the aftermath of World War II by the UN Relief Rehabilitation Administration, UNICEF has evolved into a global leader in social welfare. Their commitment to humanitarianism is demonstrated through the continuous delivery of medical supplies, fuel, water, and financial support to conflict-affected children and their families. UNICEF has been at the forefront of responding to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, distributing emergency family kits, medicines, and medical supplies to those in need. UNICEF received a 92% score from Charity Navigator and received four out of four possible stars.

Contributions can be made through the UNICEF website.

#5 Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF, Doctors Without Borders)

Internationally acclaimed for its proficiency in medical humanitarian aid, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, specialises in delivering immediate and impartial medical care to individuals confronted by conflicts and crises. The organisation’s humanitarian commitment is evident through its emphasis on addressing the most critical medical needs in challenging and high-risk environments. MSF has been actively operating in Gaza and the West Bank for two decades, focusing on regions where the health systems face significant challenges. MSF also extends its support to Israeli hospitals handling a substantial number of casualties. Recognized for its excellence, Doctors Without Borders received an impressive 98% score from the Charity Navigator evaluator, which affirms MSF’s efficacy as a highly impactful organisation.

For those keen on supporting MSF’s crucial medical interventions, donations can be made directly through their official website.

#6 Oxfam International 

Oxfam, a global organisation, works towards addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality. They implement various programs to bring about positive and sustainable change in affected communities. Operating on the ground in Gaza, Oxfam provides essential humanitarian aid, including clean water, food, and hygiene items to address immediate crisis impacts. Additionally, efforts are underway to repair critical water and wastewater systems damaged in recent bombings. Responding to the challenges of a 14-year Israeli blockade that has rendered Gaza “unlivable” per the UN, Oxfam’s interventions are crucial.

Support their ongoing efforts through donations, contributing to meaningful change in the region.

#7 Anera (The American Near East Refugee Aid)

Anera, with a history dating back to 1968, is a dedicated charity responding to critical needs in the Middle East. They focus on providing both emergency relief and long-term solutions to humanitarian crises in Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. In response to the current situation, they have distributed over 4 million meals, 19,850 hygiene kits, and 607,963 medical kits to Palestinian refugees.

Contributions can be made directly through the Anera website or the Palestine Emergency Fund.

#8 Direct Relief

Direct Relief, founded in the aftermath of World War II, specialises in providing targeted medical aid following major emergencies, such as the current war between Israel and Hamas. They collaborate with global agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to bring medical aid into conflict zones and financially support regional partners on the ground.

Individuals can contribute to Direct Relief’s ongoing efforts through their official website.

#9 Save the Children 

Save the Children is a global organisation committed to securing the rights of children—ensuring their survival, protection, development, and participation. With a particular emphasis on conflict zones, the organisation tailors its programs to address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of children. Since their founding after World War I, the organisation has provided aid for every major humanitarian crisis, helping 118 million children in 116 countries. Actively involved since 1953, Save the Children has been supporting Palestinian children affected by ongoing conflict. Right now, their teams are working on distributing essential supplies such as water, food, toiletries, and household essentials. Additionally, efforts include providing fuel and water infrastructure for hospitals, delivering mental health and psychosocial support services for children and caregivers, setting up temporary learning spaces, repairing damaged schools, and identifying the most at-risk children for child protection services.

Donations can be made through the Save the Children website.

#10 World Vision

World Vision, founded in 1950, is a Christian international non-governmental organisation committed to improving the lives of children and those in need globally. They respond to humanitarian crises by supporting vital needs in local communities. Operating in Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank since 1975, World Vision has created an extensive community-based presence. In 2023, they assisted more than 136,000 people in 150 villages across the West Bank, providing rapid emergency supplies to families who have lost their homes, creating safe spaces for community members to support each other by restoring spaces destroyed by conflict, as well as offering psychological services.

You can donate to World Vision via their website, or donate directly to the Middle East Crisis Response. You can also support the charity by sponsoring a child.

#11 Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS)

PRCS is the Palestinian affiliate of the Red Crescent movement, providing healthcare services, emergency medical response, and humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict in Palestine. As part of the Red Crescent movement, PRCS operates under the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality, instilling trust in its humanitarian mission.

To contribute, visit: PRCS Donation Page

#12 Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund – PCRF

PCRF is a non-political humanitarian relief organisation with 30 years of providing tens of thousands of children with free medical care and supplying necessities to those most in need. PCRF’s impactful initiatives include the establishment of two paediatric cancer departments in Palestine, a new Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), and a paediatric cardiology department in Ramallah, among other critical projects aimed at sustainably strengthening the region’s healthcare system. The foundation relies on grassroots efforts, supported by a global network of thousands of volunteers, to fulfil its humanitarian mission.

To contribute to their efforts, you can donate at PCRF Donation

#13 MECA – Middle East Children’s Alliance

As a non-profit organisation dedicated to the well-being and rights of children in the Middle East, MECA supports numerous community projects for Palestinian children and refugees from Syria. Since its inception in 1988, MECA has delivered $31 million in food and medical aid to Palestine, Iraq, and Lebanon. Amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the MECA team and its partners are actively engaged in providing emergency assistance to families displaced from their homes, seeking refuge with relatives. MECA is also involved in procuring emergency medical supplies for hospitals and clinics in the affected areas.

Support MECA in its mission by visiting the MECA Website

#14 Alliance for Middle East Peace (ALLMEP)

ALLMEP stands as a coalition of over 160 organisations, uniting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis in the pursuit of cooperation, justice, equality, shared society, mutual understanding, and lasting peace within their communities. Established in 2006 and headquartered in Washington, DC, ALLMEP envisions a Middle East where its community of Palestinian and Israeli peacebuilders takes the lead, guiding their societies toward and beyond sustainable peace. Operated by a diverse team of both Palestinians and Israelis, the Alliance for Middle East Peace is dedicated to assisting families affected by the ongoing conflict on either side. At present, they are actively mobilising emergency funds for NGOs to provide aid to those facing the hardships of the conflict.

Donate to support ALLMEP’s peacebuilding efforts: Donate here

The post 14 Trusted Charities Helping Civilians in Palestine appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

From the United Nations to non-governmental organizations like CARE International and Physicians for Human Rights, numerous institutions offer early-level programs and positions tailored to young professionals who are eager to make a difference. In the list below we outline 17 International Organizations that offer early career opportunities to recent graduates. Please note that entry requirements may change over time. Always check the official websites to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

#1 UN Young Professionals Programme

For those seeking to enter the UN system, the Young Professionals Programme is a great opportunity. Catered for early-career professionals, the programme provides entry-level positions within the United Nations and is accessible to individuals from countries considered unrepresented or underrepresented at the UN. Annually, the Office of the Secretariat releases a list of participating countries. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited university, be under 32 years of age, and possess fluency in either French or English. Successful candidates also need to pass a qualifying examination.

To learn more, see the UN YPP website.

#2 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

If you are an early-career professional, committed to sustainable development, passionate about democratic governance and peacebuilding, or interested in climate and disaster resilience, UNDP might be a place for you. This department of the United Nations offers numerous entry-level opportunities, as well as a Young Professional Officer (JPO) and Specialist Development Programme (SDP) –  young talent programmes. Experience requirements for entry-level positions range from 0 to 3 years depending on the education requirements. While not all positions require a Master’s degree, most necessitate a degree in international development, international affairs, social work, or a related field, unless the opportunity is specific to a job skill such as communications or human resources. Fluency in another language is often a requirement.

Read about the programme here.

#3 European Union (EU)

The European Union (EU), a political and economic union of 27 member states located primarily in Europe facilitates cooperation and coordination among its members in various areas, including trade, security and governance. The EU offers various programs for early-career professionals. Two notable programs are: Blue Book Traineeship: This program offers recent graduates the opportunity to intern in EU institutions and gain first-hand experience in their field of interest. The traineeship typically lasts for about five months. Junior Professional in Delegation (JPD) Program: Aimed at young professionals, this program offers placements in EU delegations worldwide. It provides an opportunity to work on EU development projects and gain insights into diplomatic and international cooperation activities. These programs are excellent entry points for those interested in contributing to the EU’s multifaceted initiatives.

For more information and application details, visit the Blue Book Traineeship and JPD Program websites.

#4 Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)

OSCE provides diverse opportunities for early-career professionals to engage in diplomatic, security, and cooperative efforts on the European stage. The OSCE, as an international organisation, operates across the realms of politics, military, economics, environment, human development, and other critical security and development issues. Spanning 57 participating member states from Europe, North America, and Asia, its primary focus lies in Southeastern Europe, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. For young professionals, the OSCE extends numerous entry-level opportunities, particularly in human security, communications, program development, and program monitoring. While some positions are on a contractual basis, the majority require a bachelor’s degree coupled with work experience or a Master’s degree with up to two years of relevant experience. Certain roles may require specific expertise in professions such as policing, travel coordination, or media. Accessibility to most positions is based on nationality, either to member states or specific countries. Fluency in additional languages is often a prerequisite. Job openings are regularly posted on the OSCE website through their dedicated employment portal.

Explore the OSCE Junior Professional Officer Programme

#5 International Organization for Migration (IOM)

As an intergovernmental organisation, IOM collaborates with governmental, inter-governmental, and non-governmental entities to address migration-related issues in countries and communities worldwide. The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) program is an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into international development and acquire practical experience in the realm of migration. JPO assignments can be fulfilled in IOM country offices worldwide or at the organisation’s headquarters in Geneva. The program serves a dual purpose: it provides international organisations with skilled personnel for two years, while also allowing young, qualified professionals to get valuable work experience enhancing their job prospects. Typically ranging between 28 and 35 years of age, JPOs are recruited as professional staff members at the P-2 level by their respective governments, which act as sponsors for their positions within the Organization.

Learn more about the JPO Program at the IOM Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program

#6 European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)

FRA is an independent centre of reference and excellence for promoting and protecting fundamental human rights in the EU. The traineeship scheme at FRA targets recent university graduates, aiming to provide them with practical experience and understanding of the agency’s role in upholding fundamental rights across the EU. It offers opportunities to work in a diverse environment, promoting mutual understanding and European values. Trainees are encouraged to apply their knowledge and skills acquired during their studies, introducing them to the professional world while contributing to the agency’s mission of ensuring fundamental rights for all in the EU. To be eligible for a traineeship, you must have completed your most recent studies no more than three years before the deadline for applications.

For more information, consult the FRA Traineeship page.

#7 World Health Organization (WHO)

The WHO provides internships and the Young Professionals Program for those interested in global health and development. The Young Professionals Program assigns individuals to regular WHO positions, offering immersion in technical work, career support, networking, mentoring, and tailored learning opportunities. The program aims to increase representation from Least Developed Countries, developing capacity through a structured curriculum.

Information about the programme is available on the WHO YPP website.

#8 African Development Bank (AfDB)

The African Development Bank (AfDB) aims to support sustainable economic development and social progress in African countries. Comprising the AfDB, the African Development Fund (ADF), and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF), the AfDB Group focuses on five strategic priorities: feeding Africa, electrifying and powering Africa, industrializing Africa, integrating Africa, and enhancing the quality of life for the continent’s people.AfDB’s Young Professionals Program and Internship Program cater to individuals passionate about driving development in Africa. Aspiring professionals interested in contributing to Africa’s development can explore the Young Professionals Program and Internship opportunities at the AfDB. These programs provide a platform for individuals committed to positive global change.

For detailed information and current opportunities, visit the AfDB YPP page.

#9 Amnesty International

Amnesty International, with its global and vocal presence in human rights advocacy, offers internships, entry-level positions, and volunteer opportunities. The organisation regularly employs human rights professionals in various capacities, such as campaigners, researchers, communication officers, or coordinators. Amnesty International’s job board categorises vacancies into Global Fundraising and Engagement, Global Operations, International Law and Policy, People and Services, and Research. Entry-level positions typically require a minimum of one or two years of professional experience.

Check the Amnesty International Careers page for the latest opportunities.

#10 Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch, known for its impactful human rights-related work, offers fellowship programs, internships, and entry-level positions. The organisation broadly categorises vacancies as Professional/Managerial, Early Career, Fellowship, and Internship/Volunteering. Entry-level positions typically require 1 to 2 years of related experience. Human Rights Watch also offers fellowship programs each year, providing hands-on experience and training for new human rights professionals.

Explore opportunities on the Human Rights Watch Jobs page.

#11 International Service for Human Rights (ISHR)

ISHR’s Human Rights Defender Advocacy Program, internships, and fellowships are designed for early-career professionals dedicated to human rights causes. ISHR offers programs that provide hands-on experience and advocacy opportunities for individuals passionate about human rights. Whether through internships, fellowships, or specific programs, ISHR’s initiatives aim to empower early-career professionals in the field of human rights.

Explore opportunities on the ISHR Human Rights Defender Advocacy Program page.

#12 CARE International

CARE International, working globally to save lives and achieve social justice, offers opportunities in human rights and humanitarian work. With a focus on defeating poverty and achieving social justice, CARE International provides a platform for individuals committed to positive global change.

Explore opportunities on the CARE International Job Search page for positions in human rights and humanitarian work.

#13 Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), operating for over 30 years, employs science and medicine to expose mass atrocities and severe human rights abuses. Recognized with a Nobel Peace Prize for its role in banning landmines, PHR believes health professionals possess unique skills to advocate against such violations. Through a network of forensic and public health experts, PHR documents atrocities, safeguards persecuted health workers and facilities, prevents torture, and holds perpetrators accountable. Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has been at the forefront of leveraging science and medicine for over 30 years to document and draw attention to mass atrocities and severe human rights violations.

PHR offers a range of opportunities, including internships, fellowships, and entry-level positions, for individuals with a background in health and human rights. To explore these opportunities, visit the PHR Jobs page.

#14 United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)

The United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation offers the Junior Professional Officer program for individuals who have recently graduated from college and for young professionals who wish to begin working in civil service. Participants receive contracts for 2 to 3 years to work at the headquarters of the United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation or in a regional office. To be considered for a position, individuals must be under 32 years of age and have at least a bachelor’s degree in education, culture, science, social and human sciences or communications. Fluency in English or French and being a resident of a donor country is also required.

Visit the Junior Professional Officer website.

The United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation offers the Young Professionals Program to allow individuals from non-United Nations member states and under-represented member states to gain entry-level employment in civil service. Every year, the UN publishes a list of qualifying countries. Applicants must be at most 32 years of age and hold a graduate-level degree in management, education, culture, science, social and human sciences or communication. Fluency in English or French is required. Individuals who have previous work experience and who are also fluent in Spanish, Russian, Arabic or Chinese will have an advantage.

Visit the Young Professionals Program website.

#15 United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees offers the Junior Professional Officer Program for individuals interested in working in civil service at the United Nations refugee agency. To be considered for a position, individuals must be between 25 and 35 years of age and have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field that relates to the specific opening for which they are applying. Those with a master’s degree must also have 2 years of relevant work experience. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree must have 4 years of related work experience. Fluency in English is required. Applicants who are also fluent in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish are preferred. Candidates must also be from one of the countries that donate to the agency.

Read more on the UNHCR JPO website.

#16 United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund offers the Junior Professional Officers program for young people who are interested in working in a non-profit. Initially, individuals in the program receive 1-to-2-year contracts with the chance for renewal. About half of all participants advance to other positions with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Most applicants accepted are between 28 and 35 years of age and have advanced university degrees. To be considered for a position, individuals must be from one of the fund’s donor countries.

See the UNICEF Junior Professional Officer website.

#17 World Food Program (WFP)

The World Food Program offers the Junior Professional Officer Program to allow young professionals the opportunity to gain work experience in civil service. Candidates must be less than 32 to 35 years of age, depending on what country they are from. A master’s degree in a relevant field and 3 to 4 years of professional work experience are also required. Applicants must also be fluent in English, Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish. A noteworthy outcome is that a significant number of JPO staff who serve with IOM continue their engagement with the organisation beyond the completion of their JPO assignment.

For more information consult the WFP Junior Professional Officer page.

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Between 1910 and 1970, around six million Black Americans moved from the Southern states to the Northern, Midwestern and Western parts of the country. According to experts, it’s one of the largest movements of people in the nation’s history. Why did so many people move? In this article, we’ll explore the history of this phenomenon, which is known as “The Great Migration.” We’ll also examine its causes and the most significant facts about this six-decade period.

The Great Migration refers to the period of 1910-1970 when around six million Black Americans moved from the South to the North, Midwest, and West. This movement was a response to the racial violence, discrimination and limited opportunities of the American South, and while the other parts of the country offered the hope of safety and better jobs, systemic racism remained a problem.

What’s the history of the First Great Migration?

Historians divide the Great Migration into two parts. World War I sparked the First Great Migration, which is believed to have lasted from 1910-1940. As fighting in Europe broke out, white men left to join the military, while immigration from Europe stalled. Factories, especially those in the North and Midwest, needed new workers, but thanks to bans on hiring people of color from other countries, recruiters didn’t have a lot of options. According to information from the National Archives, Black people began to move North in 1910 in search of job opportunities and freedom from the Jim Crow system of the South.

Things weren’t always safer in the North. In 1919, around 500,000 Black Americans had moved to Northern cities, but many of their white neighbors weren’t happy. When Black veterans returned home from WWI, they were often mistreated. Racist sentiments reached their peak during the Red Summer of 1919. Mobs of white people began attacking Black people. Some riots got so violent that President Woodrow Wilson had to send out troops. Washington D.C., Virginia and Chicago saw some of the worst violence, but Black people defended themselves and refused to be driven from their new homes.

What’s the history of the Second Great Migration?

According to the National Archives, the Second Great Migration began at the start of World War II and ended around 1970. Because of the war, the expanded defense industry needed more workers, and once again, many Black Americans from the South took the opportunity this presented. After the war ended, migration steadily continued. Millions of Black Americans moved North, as well as West into cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Portland

The biggest difference between the First and Second Migration is where people moved. During the First Migration, the vast majority of people moved to Northern and Midwestern cities. During the Second, a lot more people moved West to pursue jobs in the defense industry. California, which had just 50,200 Black Americans living in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland in 1930, experienced an increase to over 250,000 in just 20 years.

What caused the Great Migration?

At the dawn of the First Great Migration, life was very difficult for Black Americans living in the South. While the Civil War had ended slavery, the United States faced an uncertain future. According to the Library of Congress, the Reconstruction era (1866-1877) was meant to ease the South back into the Union and define how white and Black people could live together. While many worked to ensure full equality and freedom for the recently freed Black population, many Southerners and even Northern leaders resisted. While they couldn’t enslave Black people again, they searched for other ways to discriminate and erase the handful of gains in voting rights, land ownership and employment. The Jim Crow laws, which have origins as early as 1865, codified a system of racial apartheid that oppressed Black people. Here are some of the effects of the Jim Crow system:

• Made it much harder to vote thanks to “the grandfather clause,” which stated that men could only vote if their ancestors had been voters before 1867
• Required more difficult literacy tests only for Black voters
• Legalized racial discrimination in movie theaters, hotels, restaurants and other public spaces
• Segregated public schools and underfunded schools for Black students
• Restricted Black workers to certain professions
• Banned interracial marriage

Restricted economic opportunities and racial segregation weren’t the only causes of the Great Migration: racial violence was also prevalent. Between 1882 and 1968, the NAACP recorded 4,743 lynchings, although with no formal tracking system, it’s difficult to know just how many people were killed. Most lynchings occurred in Mississippi, while Georgia and Texas had high numbers, as well. While some Black people were lynched based on often false allegations of robbery, murder and other crimes, many weren’t even accused of doing anything illegal. Life in the South could be terrifying, so it only made sense to move North in hopes of a better life.

The Jim Crow system is one of the clearest examples of systemic racism. While these laws no longer exist, systemic racism is still a problem in many places.

What facts should everyone know about the Great Migration?

The Great Migration covers 60 years of history, but here are five critical facts everyone should know:

#1. The North offered better, although still limited, economic opportunities

Many Black Americans left the South to flee racial violence, but they were also hoping for better job opportunities. Before WWI, jobs in the North were few and far between, which was why there wasn’t a larger migration earlier. However, the war changed things, which made the region more appealing. According to a 1987 article in Monthly Labor Review, many Americans who traveled North at this time remembered hearing about job availability from friends and family who’d already moved. The jobs weren’t always ideal as many Black Americans were only offered the jobs white people didn’t want to do. Many Black migrants worked as servants, janitors, cleaners and so on. While the jobs didn’t pay much and many unions didn’t allow Black members, the jobs were still better than what could be found in the Southern states.

People who moved during the Great Migration wanted their civil rights protected and respected. Check out our article on what civil rights are and why they matter.

#2. Finding good housing was a big challenge

While leaving the South gave Black people an escape from Jim Crow laws, the rest of the country wasn’t exactly welcoming. Housing could be especially hard to secure, and while segregation wasn’t the law of the land, many white neighborhoods did not want Black people. Black Americans were often forced to live in the worst parts of a neighborhood despite issues like overcrowding and deteriorating conditions. The practice of redlining, which denies people access to credit based on where they live, began in 1934. The group responsible for redlining, the Federal Housing Administration, decided that home loans couldn’t be “economically sound” if Black people were living in a neighborhood. Their reasoning, which was based on pure racism, was that property values would decline. The Fair Housing in 1968 banned discrimination in mortgage lending and real estate, but the legacy of redlining still reverberates to this day.

#3. The Great Migration changed the political landscape of the US

Millions of Black Americans moved out of the South during the Great Migration. A movement this large always has political ramifications. What were the effects of the Great Migration? The biggest is that while Black Americans were severely restricted from voting in the South, moving to the North gave them more voting rights. According to an article published online by Cambridge University Press, this led politicians to adapt their existing approaches and appeal specifically to Black voters. The article’s author, Keneshia N. Grant, argues that the increased presence of Black migrants made Black voters essential to presidential campaign strategies after WWII. This would mark a huge shift in electoral politics. While once the interests of Black people were ignored or actively fought against, they now had more power.

#4. The Great Migration and the Civil Rights Movement are closely linked

Many historians believe the Great Migration helped fuel the Civil Rights Movement, which was an intense period of civil rights activism that ran from 1954-1968. As Black people moved North and gained more rights, their influence on politics and culture on a national scale also expanded. The Harlem Renaissance is a key example. During this era (1918-1937), Harlem, New York became the center of Black culture, creativity and artistry. It was closely linked to civil rights organizations like the NAACP, Black labor unions and prominent activists. The Harlem Renaissance had a major impact on Black literature and thought around the world. While it was hardly the only spark for the Civil Rights movement, it played a key role made possible by the Great Migration.

#5. A new Great Migration is happening now

Something interesting has been happening in the United States. According to data from Brookings and other sources, many Black Americans are moving to the South in a reversed Great Migration. It began in the 1970s right at the end of the Second Great Migration, and increased in the 1990s as more Black people began leaving Northern and Western cities. Areas in Texas and Georgia grew. Why? The North changed. The jobs in industry that had once attracted Black Americans disappeared, while the impact of redlining and underfunded neighborhoods took its toll. The South was recovering, too, which made a return more economically advantageous. According to Pew Research, 56% of Black people lived in the South in 2021, while 17% lived in the Midwest/Northeast and 10% lived in the West. What will be the long-term impacts of the new Great Migration? It remains to be seen.

Learn more about racial justice and anti-racism with these online courses.

The post The Great Migration: History, Causes and Facts appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Women’s rights have improved over the years, but continued progress is not guaranteed. In a time of escalating conflicts, rising authoritarianism and devastating climate change impacts, women face many issues related to education, work, healthcare, legal rights, violence and much more. By understanding these issues, the world can work together to achieve gender equality, stronger human rights protections and safety for all people. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the most important issues affecting women and girls today.

#1. Unequal pay

For centuries, society has undervalued the work women perform. Women are even paid less than men for the same work. According to the International Labour Organization, there has been some progress, but gender wage gaps still exist and are widening in certain jobs. Gaps can’t be blamed on educational differences, which means that in most countries, men still earn more than women. Factors include gendered job segregation (women tend to dominate jobs with lower salaries) and unjust pay practices. According to data from Moody’s Analytics, the gender pay gap could be costing the economy as much as $7 trillion.

#2. Racial injustice

All women face discrimination, but women belonging to ethnic minorities face compounded inequalities. According to expert groups like the UN, race and gender intersect in employment, housing, poverty and more. As an example, while no group of women makes the same wage as non-Hispanic white men in the United States, the gender wage gap is significantly wider for most women of color. Over a 40-year career, Hispanic women lose over $1 million in earnings, while Native women lose $986,000 and Black women lose $964,000.

#3. Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to acts that cause (or are likely to cause) physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women. According to experts, over ⅓ of women and girls experience some kind of violence during their lifetimes. The risk increases during conflicts, natural disasters and other emergencies. Intimate partner violence is the most common form of GBV. Around 1 in 4 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner. While anyone can experience GBV, young people, older women, refugees, ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+ people are most vulnerable.

#4. Inadequate healthcare

Healthcare access is a human right, but women face unique stigmas and discrimination. According to the World Economic Forum, there are persistent gaps in research and treatment for things affecting women, such as maternal healthcare. This leads to worse health outcomes for conditions that should be treatable and preventable. Women are also undervalued in the healthcare profession. According to reporting from NPR, women hold just 25% of senior leadership roles despite making up 70% of the global healthcare workforce. The pandemic also increased burnout rates for women healthcare workers, added to their workloads and exacerbated gender biases.

#5. Threats to reproductive rights

According to the Center for Reproductive Rights, 40% of women live under restrictive laws, which represents over 750 million women of reproductive age. 6% of women live in countries where abortions are prohibited completely. Access to contraception increased from 900 million in 2000 to almost 1.1 billion in 2021, but barriers like misinformation about contraception, fear of side effects and access remain. According to the UN Populations Fund, around 257 million women who don’t want to become pregnant still aren’t using safe and modern contraception.

#6. Lack of education

All children deserve access to education, but girls have historically faced more discrimination. Progress has been made, but according to UNICEF, 129 million girls are still not in school. Reasons include poverty, gender-based violence, early marriage and a lack of safety, hygiene and sanitation resources. Low-income countries have the widest gaps, according to the World Bank. While the world average of girls enrolled in primary school is 88%, it’s 78% in low-income countries.

#7. Food insecurity

Women face more food insecurity than men, Research from the World Food Programme identifies a few reasons why. The first is that women are more likely to live in extreme poverty. Globally, women earn just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. Women also face unequal treatment during times of crisis and are more vulnerable to malnutrition during pregnancy. All these factors contribute to a lack of food security, which in turn negatively impacts other areas of a woman’s life.

#8. Climate change

Research consistently shows that women are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. One reason is that women depend on natural resources, so during times of famine or other disasters, women face the added burden of trying to obtain food. In lower-income countries, women also make up a large percentage of the agriculture industry, which is hardest hit by climate change. Women also face increased risks of violence and sexual exploitation during climate-related emergencies.

#9. Unequal political representation

Society can’t achieve gender equality until there’s equal political representation. According to a survey conducted by Plan International, women still feel “consistently excluded” from politics. Half of the survey participants lived in communities where they felt like it wasn’t okay for girls and young women to be involved in politics. 19% said they had been actively discouraged from getting involved. The UN estimates that it will take 130 years for the world to reach gender equality in the highest positions of power.

#10. Discriminatory social institutions

Social institutions are the laws (formal and informal), norms and standards that determine how society functions. Unfortunately, gender inequality is embedded into just about every country’s social institutions in one way or another. According to the OECD, many countries have instituted legal reforms that untangle gender discrimination from their institutions, but 40% of women and girls still live in countries with “high or very high” discrimination. Social norms have progressed the best, but economic empowerment got worse between 2014 and 2022. Until discriminatory practices are eliminated, gender inequality will persist.

#11. Human trafficking

All genders can be victims of human trafficking, but women and girls are especially vulnerable. According to research from 2017, girls and women made up 71% of all victims of trafficking. They also make up 96% of the victims trafficked for sexual exploitation. Causes of gendered trafficking include poverty, a lack of employment opportunities for women, limited access to education and gender-based violence. Conflict also makes women more vulnerable.

#12. Limited freedom of movement

Freedom of movement is an individual’s right to live, travel and move within a country or between different countries. According to Human Rights Watch, many countries in the Middle East and North Africa still have laws requiring women to get permission from a male guardian before traveling abroad or even traveling within their own country. This violates a woman’s right to travel and increases her risk for exploitation and abuse. Activists had been fighting for more rights for years, and while some progress has been made, restrictive laws remain.

#13. Threats during migration

Migration – forced and voluntary – can be risky. Women face more threats than men due to discrimination, gender-based violence and sexual exploitation. According to the International Organization for Migration, more women are migrating independently, especially from the Caribbean and Central America. While moving can provide opportunities, it’s also dangerous. Displacement, which can be caused by conflict and climate change, is especially dangerous for women who are traveling alone, pregnant, heads of households, disabled, or older.

#14. Discrimination based on disability

Human Rights Watch estimates there are around 300 million women with mental and physical disabilities. In low and middle-income countries, women represent 75% of people with disabilities. Women are more likely than men to become disabled and face increased discrimination due to the intersection of their gender and disability. According to research, women with disabilities are more than 2.5 times more likely to experience sexual abuse by an intimate partner than women who don’t have disabilities.

#15. Poor mental health

The state of mental health can be difficult to measure, but according to data, more women are diagnosed with mental health conditions. In a 2017 report from the UK, women are three times more likely than men to experience common mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Young women are also more likely to experience anxiety-related conditions than any other population. This disparity could be due to stigma, as men may feel less comfortable seeking help. In the United States, while more men die by suicide, more women attempt to take their own lives.

#16. The digital divide

Access to technology increases a person’s opportunities for employment, education, public resources, and more. Women don’t get equal access. According to UNICEF, up to 90% of girls and young women in low-income countries can’t access the internet, compared to 78% of boys and young men. Girls also have weaker digital skills and less access to mobile phones. This inequality disadvantages women and costs the global economy billions of dollars in GDP every year, according to the World Economic Forum.

#17. Online harassment

Online harassment is hard to measure, but there’s little doubt it disproportionately affects women and girls. According to one study from Europe, women are 27 times more likely to experience online harassment than men. Online harassment has a terrorizing effect which damages a person’s mental health, discourages them from spending time online and frightens them away from other public spaces. Online harassment can also translate into real-life violence.

#18. Unpaid labor

Women aren’t only paid less than men in most places; they also take on more unpaid labor. Globally, women take on three times more unpaid work than men, while women in low and middle-income countries do more unpaid labor than their peers in high-income countries. Unpaid labor includes tasks like household chores and caring for family members. In Japan, women lose around $761 billion a year through unpaid tasks, while men take on less than a third of what women do. Consequences aren’t limited to the economy. According to research, the added burden of unpaid labor is associated with worse mental health in women.

#19. Inadequate maternal healthcare

Pregnancy and childbirth are inherently risky, but maternal healthcare is inadequate for many people. According to the WHO, almost 800 women died in 2020 from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. A striking 95% of these maternal deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries. 75% of deaths result from issues like severe bleeding, high blood pressure, infections and complications from delivery. These conditions are preventable and manageable with the proper care.

#20. Period poverty

Periods are a fact of life for many people, but about 500 million women and girls don’t have the supplies they need, according to the OHCHR. “Period poverty” is defined as a lack of access to products, hygienic spaces, education and other resources. Along with feeling ashamed or embarrassed, a girl may experience violations of her human rights when her period comes. Early marriage, sexual violence, unintended pregnancy and disrupted education are some of the more serious effects.

The post Top 20 Issues Women Are Facing Today appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

There are billions of children living in the world today, many of whom are vulnerable and disenfranchised. Because kids are physically smaller than adults and still developing mentally and emotionally, they face the most challenges from things like poverty, famine, war, climate change and exploitation. Many countries also don’t give children the human rights they deserve. In this article, we’ll go over 20 of the most urgent and serious issues facing kids today.

#1. Poverty

Poverty is one of the most significant issues facing children today. According to UNICEF, around 333 million children live in extreme poverty. While kids only make up ⅓ of the global population, they represent half of people living on less than $2.15 a day. Poverty affects every area of a child’s life, including their health, their access to basic services like clean water and food, their education and much more. Poverty also makes kids more vulnerable to death at a young age.

#2. Hunger

According to Save the Children, 153 million kids are facing food insecurity. While everyone needs food to live, kids are more likely to die from malnutrition and nutrition-related diseases. Around 1 in 5 deaths of kids under five can be traced back to a lack of nutritious food. For those who survive, hunger harms cognitive and physical development. Poverty, climate change, forced migration, and war and conflict are just a few of the drivers of hunger.

#3. Lack of access to clean water

According to 2021 data from UNICEF, around 450 million children live in areas with “high, or extremely high, water vulnerability.” Broken down, this means 1 in 5 kids lack the water they need. This can lead to serious issues, like water-borne illnesses. The World Health Organization lists many diseases spread by contaminated water, such as cholera, dysentery, polio and diarrhea. Children are especially at risk.

#4. Death by preventable illnesses

There’s been significant progress in reducing deaths of kids under five years old, but millions still die from illnesses. In 2021, UNICEF found that 5 million kids under five died, many from preventable conditions like malaria, pneumonia and diarrhea. Vaccines can save the lives of millions of kids, but in 2022, 20.5 million kids did not get life-saving vaccines. This represents a decline from 2019 as factors like the COVID pandemic, supply issues, misinformation and conflict made global vaccination more difficult.

#5. Lack of education

Education access is a human right, but many children don’t get the schooling they deserve. In 2022, the UN estimated that 244 million children between 6-18 years old were not in school. Sub-Saharan Africa struggles the most as it has the most kids and youth out of school. Central and Southern Asia has the second-highest out-of-school population. In better news, the gender gap in education is resolving, though there are still regional differences that need to be addressed.

#6. Child labor

All over the world, children are forced to work in industries like agriculture, mining, domestic work and more. Child labor is a violation of a child’s human rights as it threatens a child’s well-being and health, as well as their access to education. According to UNICEF, more than 1 in 5 kids ages 5-17 years old are forced into labor in the world’s poorest countries. Causes of child labor vary, but poverty is the most common driver. When families and communities live in extreme poverty, everyone – including very young kids – must contribute to the household by working.

#7. Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) affects boys and girls, but in different ways. According to Save the Children, violence against girls includes sexual violence, harassment, female genital mutilation, abuse and intimate partner violence. Boys are often targeted for labor trafficking and detention, as they’re seen as violent or a threat to security because of their gender. GBV gets worse during times of conflict.

#8. Child marriage

When a child is forced to marry before age 18, it’s a violation of their rights. For girls, early marriage can lead to social isolation, a disruption of education, career limitations and an increased risk for domestic violence. The impact on boys is less studied, but they face negative effects such as increased career pressure, an increased risk for exploitation and disrupted education. More girls than boys are forced into early marriage; UNICEF estimates that in West and Central Africa, around 4 in 10 girls are married before age 18.

#9. Early pregnancy

In 2022, about 13% of adolescent girls gave birth before they turned 18. Pregnancy before age 18 has a variety of negative impacts. The disruption to education is a major one, as it can limit future economic prospects. Girls who become pregnant young may also face social stigma, violence by family members, forced marriage and serious health issues. The causes of early pregnancy include childhood sexual abuse and early marriage. The social pressure to become a mother can also influence the age at which a girl gets pregnant. In certain societies, early marriage and pregnancy may be the best and only option for a young woman.

#10. Effects of war and conflict

During times of war and violent conflict, children are the most vulnerable. According to UNICEF, over 400 million kids live in countries affected by war and violence. Children also make up half of the civilians killed by landmines and explosives. In many places, violent conflict is escalating. In Ukraine, children are affected by death, injuries, mass displacement and an increased risk of abuse, abduction, human trafficking and sexual exploitation. In the Gaza Strip, half of the 1.9 million displaced people are children, while thousands have been killed or injured.

#11. Exploitation of kids in war

Children aren’t only killed, injured and displaced during war; they can be forced to participate in violence. According to UNICEF, over 105,000 kids were recruited and exploited for conflict between 2005 and 2022. Boys and girls are both targeted for fighting, scouting, cooking, sending messages and sexual exploitation. Armed groups often kidnap kids from their homes and force them to fight, but some join groups to try and earn money for their families. Child soldiers endure both physical and psychological wounds.

#12. Climate change

Climate change harms everyone, but children are especially vulnerable. The United States Environmental Protection Agency lists a few reasons why, such as the fact that developing bodies are more susceptible to things like heat and waterborne illnesses. Kids are also dependent on adults during extreme events, so without an adult’s help, they are very vulnerable during floods, hurricanes, tsunamis and other disasters. UNICEF estimates that around 1 billion kids (which is nearly half of the world’s 2.2 billion children) live in one of the 33 countries considered “extremely high-risk” for climate change impacts.

#13. Air pollution

Air pollution damages everyone’s health, but children are especially vulnerable. The World Health Organization lists six main reasons, including the fact that children’s brains are still developing, their bodies are less effective at managing toxins and they breathe in more air per unit of body weight than adults. According to data, air pollution could be causing over 1,200 deaths of kids under 18 in EEA member and collaborating countries every year. Things like traffic, heating and industry cause the most air pollution. Because children can’t vote on air pollution policies, adults must take steps to reduce air pollution and protect kids.

#14. Family separation

A variety of things can separate families: natural disasters, trafficking, war, poverty and migration. It’s difficult to know exactly how many kids experience separations, but at mid-2023, 110 million people were displaced. Many of those individuals are kids, and family separation is often a result of displacement. Kids separated from their families suffer severe psychological and emotional effects that can follow them the rest of their lives. According to a PBS interview with developmental psychologist Hirokazu Yoshikawa, family separations can even cause impaired memory, reduced auditory processing and an increased risk of physical disease.

#15. Human trafficking

Human trafficking is an illicit practice and therefore hard to track accurately, but data suggests kids make up 27% of all trafficking victims. Both boys and girls are targeted, but boys are less likely to be identified. They’re also more likely to be forced into labor or recruitment by armed groups, while girls are more likely to be sexually exploited and forced into marriage. Children who are trafficked endure physical, sexual, emotional and psychological injuries, many of which extend into adulthood.

#16. Increased risks for LGBTQ+ kids

LGBTQ+ kids face the same vulnerabilities as kids who aren’t LGBTQ+, but their risks are often increased. According to the CDC in the United States, LGBTQ+ young people face higher health and suicide risks than their peers. Around 43% of transgender youth were bullied at school, while 29% attempted suicide. Expanding out to the rest of the world, about 64 countries still have laws criminalizing homosexuality, while discrimination can affect a person’s ability to access healthcare, get a job, get housing and so on. LGBTQ+ kids can see how people like them are treated and face significant mental health challenges.

#17. Racism

Racism places extreme stress on the human body, while racial discrimination also affects a person’s access to good healthcare, housing, food, education, work and so on. According to Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child, Black, indigenous, and other people of color have worse health issues and shorter lifespans than white people across all income levels. This affects every member of a family or community, including children. One study even found that childhood stress caused by traumas like poverty and racism can change the structure of a child’s developing brain. To protect children’s rights, societies need to address racism.

#18. Lack of mental health treatment

Children go through a lot of changes in their adolescent years, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health struggles. According to UNICEF, about 1 in 7 kids experienced a mental disorder in 2019. Depression is very common for kids aged 10-19 years old, while self-harm is among the top causes of death. Without proper treatment, kids can experience serious issues that affect adulthood, including their job opportunities and health.

#19. Lack of access to justice

Children deserve legal rights, but many countries fail in their duty to provide kids with access to justice. According to UNICEF, law enforcement officials deprive over 1 million kids of their rights to liberty. Once in the justice system, kids are often not given the education or resources they need to contact a lawyer, access money for legal fees or get other necessary support. Kids who witness crimes or who are victims of crimes like trafficking are often oppressed, as well. As human beings, kids should be treated equally under the law.

#20. Lack of birth registration

Birth registration is an official record of a child’s birth. It is a human rights matter because birth registration proves the existence of a child, establishes who their parents are and helps ensure a child’s other rights are respected. According to UNICEF, birth registration has increased over the years, but around 1 in 4 kids worldwide are not registered. Reasons include expensive fees, penalties for late registration, long journeys to registration facilities and a lack of knowledge about how to register a birth. Affordable, accessible birth registration is a vital part of protecting the rights of all children.

The post Top 20 Issues Children Are Facing Today appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

“NGO” stands for “nongovernmental organization.” The United Nations Charter, written in 1945, was the first document to include the term. While vague, the text established NGOs as nonprofit groups independent from governments. Today, the term NGO has an even more flexible meaning, but nongovernmental organizations play a vital role in today’s world. They’re dedicated to causes like fighting poverty, achieving gender equality, preserving natural habitats and much more. In this article, we’ll describe 15 of the biggest NGOs in the UK, which is home to some of the world’s oldest and largest charities.

#1. Amnesty International

Headquartered in London, Amnesty International is a global nongovernmental advocacy organization. It was founded in 1961 to support political prisoners, but it has since expanded to promote awareness of all human rights. Areas of focus include armed conflict, child rights, the death penalty, torture and police brutality. The NGO works through research, advocacy and lobbying, and campaigns and action. As an international organization, Amnesty International works in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and Central Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa. Information on current campaigns, donations, volunteer opportunities and careers can be found on the website.

#2. Anti-Slavery International

Founded in 1839, Anti-Slavery International (then called the Anti-Slavery Society) was the project of abolitionists committed to ending slavery worldwide. While the Transatlantic slave trade is over, modern slavery remains a persistent problem. Anti-Slavery International works to free everyone from slavery by raising awareness, acting as an ally to survivors and those at risk of slavery, and working on laws, policies and practices that keep everyone safe from slavery. Its 5-year priority areas include ending child and youth slavery, responsible business, migration and trafficking, and slavery and the environment. The NGO focuses on capacity building, collaboration, learning and influencing. You can find more information on impact, accountability and ways to take action on the website.

#3. British Heart Foundation

The British Heart Foundation is a cardiovascular research charity. It funds around £100 million in research every year, making it the largest independent funder of research in this field. Its goal is to reduce deaths caused by heart and circulatory diseases by more than half. By 2030, the NGO hopes to see advances across diseases, including better prevention and better, longer lives for those with existing conditions. To learn more about the foundation’s work, visit its website for resources on donations, careers and other ways to take action.

NGOs address issues like poverty, gender inequality, climate change and more. Here are 15 examples of the social issues facing the UK.

#4. British Red Cross

The British Red Cross Society is the UK’s branch of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In the UK, the NGO offers mobility support, cost of living support, refugee services, UK emergencies and international services. It also conducts research, advocacy and education. The Red Cross also operates charity shops and an online store. Visit the NGO’s website to learn more about donations, fundraising, volunteering and jobs.

#5. ChildHope

Established in 1989, ChildHope works toward a world where children are free from abuse and injustice. Priorities include street-connected children, child labor, modern slavery, early marriage, gender equality and so on. Its projects focus on improving math education, harnessing community action to fight against trafficking, and providing water sanitation and hygiene. The NGO’s approach is based in local partnerships and collaboration. To learn more about ChildHope’s work, leadership and finances, visit the website.

#6. Equal Rights Trust

Established in 2007, The Equal Rights Trust fights discrimination and promotes equality as a basic human right and principle of social justice. In 2008, the NGO worked with 128 experts from over 40 countries to launch the Declaration of Principles on Equality. Since then, the NGO has conducted research and established projects that support civil society movements. According to its website, the Equal Rights Trust is the only international organization focused exclusively on the right to equality. It has identified four gaps in protection, implementation, application and practice that must be addressed. You can find information on donations, partners and opportunities on the NGO’s website, as well as reports and a copy of the Declaration of Principles on Equality.

Check out our article on 10 online courses on fighting inequality and discrimination.

#7. Macmillan Cancer Support

In 1911, after his father died of cancer, Douglas Macmillan founded the Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer. The organization has changed its name a few times – it became Macmillan Cancer Support in 2006 – but its mission has remained consistent. It provides practical, emotional, physical and financial support, raises money, runs advocacy campaigns, performs research and much more. In 2022, the NGO reached around 2 million people living with cancer and raised more than £221. The website offers reports, resources and information on jobs.

#8. National Alliance of Women’s Organisatons

The National Alliance of Women’s Organisatons (NAWO) was founded in 1989. It’s an umbrella organization under which 100 organizations and individuals work to ensure women’s access to their human rights. Membership includes specialist organizations, faith groups, health centers, arts organizations and more. The group uses a Four Nations approach, performs research on the best strategies, builds alliances and works with young women to develop a Young Women’s Alliance. Information on the group’s members, campaigns and reports can be found on the website.

#9. Oxfam UK

Established in 1942, Oxfam is a British-founded confederation of 21 independent charities focused on ending global poverty. Priority areas include climate change, women’s rights, water, food and emergencies. Oxfam UK was also home to many charity shops, though many have closed following a sexual abuse scandal. The shops have traditionally offered a variety of goods like clothing and books. Its current campaigns focus on climate justice, a call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, and equality. Information on donations, Oxfam’s work and impact can be found on the charity’s website.

Check out our article in 5 essays about poverty.

#10. Save the Children

Established in 1919, the UK-founded Save the Children Fund works to improve the lives of children around the world. It operates around the world on priorities like education, health, hunger, children’s rights and emergencies. Through its programs and over 600,000 supporters, it’s helped 45 million kids across the 115 countries it works in. The organization also has general consultative status in the United Nations Economic and Social Council. You can visit the website to learn more about the NGO’s impact, finances and donation opportunities.

#11. SolarAid

Founded in 2006, SolarAid is a London-based international charity working to fight poverty and climate change. Through its social enterprise, SunnyMoney, it provides access to solar lights in Zambia and Malawi. The charity also has partner organizations in Uganda and Senegal. Because of this approach, the money is reinvested back into SolarAid’s work and the local economy. Agents reach rural communities with safe, affordable, and clean solar lights, which can replace candles and kerosene lamps. SolarAid has distributed 2.3 million worldwide, reached 12 million people with light and averted 2.4M tonnes of C02 from the atmosphere. Learn more about the charity’s impact, partnerships and careers on the website.

#12. The Aegis Trust

The Aegis Trust campaigns to prevent genocides around the world. It’s based at the UK’s National Holocaust Centre but has its largest presence in Rwanda, where it established the Kigali Genocide Memorial. In the UK, the trust provides the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Genocide Prevention. Other activities include research, evidence-based policy and advocacy, genocide remembrance, education and more. Its website offers educational resources and ways to get involved.

#13. The Refugee Council

The UK-based Refugee Council works with asylum seekers and refugees. Every year, the NGO works with over 13,000 women, men and children seeking safety in the UK. Its services include crisis advice, mental health counseling and practical support. The Refugee Council also advocates on behalf of asylum seekers and refugees. Its research examines emerging issues, provides evidence for change and works with decision-makers to influence policy. Supporters can participate in campaigns, donate money, organize fundraisers and so on. The charity’s website also offers information for those seeking assistance.

#14. WaterAid

Established in 1981, WaterAid is a UK-based international nonprofit working to make clean water, good toilets and good hygiene accessible to everyone. With supporters and partners, the NGO has reached almost 30 million people with clean water, 30 million with decent toilets, and over 20 million with good hygiene. Water, sanitation and hygiene affect – and are affected by – issues like climate change and gender inequality, so WaterAid also works on climate justice and empowering women and girls. Visit WaterAid’s website to learn more about how to get involved.

#15. The World Wide Fund for Nature

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which is a Swiss-based environmental charity, works to preserve nature and reduce the human impact on the environment. For more than 60 years, WWF has worked with communities, governments, companies and individuals to tackle climate change, create a sustainable food system and restore threatened habitats. In the UK, the WWF has the Living Planet Centre, which its website says is one of the greenest buildings in the nation. You can learn more about the charity’s work, impact, leadership and careers on its website.

Interested in learning more about environmental issues? Here’s our article on 20 of the most important ones.

The post The Biggest 15 NGOs in the UK appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Deserts, which are found on every continent, stretch across more than ⅕ of the globe’s total land area. While many think of deserts as barren wastelands devoid of life, deserts are home to some of the most specialized organisms on the planet. Around 1 billion humans also live in deserts. Plants, animals and humans have adapted to these harsh environments, but that doesn’t mean they can survive anything. As human activities like agriculture and mining cause land degradation, deserts are getting dryer while lusher, greener areas are transforming into deserts through a process called desertification. In this article, we’ll define what desertification is, its different types, its causes and its effects.

Desertification is a type of land degradation where once-productive and thriving land transforms into dry, desert landscapes. Features include a loss of plant life, soil erosion, degraded soil quality, water scarcity and so on. The effects on plants, animals and humans can be devastating.

How is desertification defined?

Deserts are extremely dry areas of land that, according to data from National Geographic, get no more than 10 inches of rain every year. Because deserts are so dry, living things like plants and animals must adapt to the area’s harsh conditions. During long stretches without rain, many plant seeds can lie dormant until a light sprinkle of rain triggers fast growth. Animals, which can include camels, foxes, snakes, lizards, rabbits and rats, tend to be nocturnal, which helps them avoid the hot sun. Humans can adapt, as well. In fact, around 6% of the human population lives in deserts. Life in the desert can be very difficult as food, water and shelter are hard to come by. Heat, desert dust and dehydration can also harm human health.

Desertification may sound like it refers to the expansion of existing deserts, but it also means land degradation that causes harm to soil, water, plants, wildlife and so on. Desertification has happened throughout time, but in 1994, the United Nations recognized it as a serious issue. They established the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, which is the only legally binding international treaty that connects environment and development to sustainable land management. The treaty defines desertification as “land degradation in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas resulting from various factors, including climatic variations and human activities.” The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which is the UN body focused on climate change research, uses the same definition. Their 2019 special report on climate and land found with high confidence that desertification has increased in some drylands, while climate change will increase the risks from desertification.

Check out this online course on understanding and protecting the environment. 

What are the types of desertification?

There are two main types of desertification: desertification as a natural process and desertification as a result of human activity. Because humans have such a significant impact on the climate, the types of desertification often v. Let’s explore both:

Natural desertification

According to Britannica, most deserts form on the eastern sides of big subtropical high-pressure cells. These are wheels of wind that move clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the South. When moist air rises near the Equator and cools down, it turns into clouds and rain. As this air moves toward the pole, it releases its rain, but when it starts wheeling back to the Equator, the air starts descending. The air becomes warmer and more compressed, which does not allow for cloud and rain formation. Without much rain, the areas below become deserts. The world’s oldest desert is likely the Sahara Desert, whose origins remain a mystery. At its youngest, this North African desert could be thousands of years old, but many believe it’s around 5 million years old.

Human-driven desertification

Humans are responsible for the second type of desertification. Without activities like poor land management, overconsumption, agricultural land expansion and so on, this type of desertification would not be as severe. According to Britannica, desertification affects four main areas: irrigated croplands, rain-fed croplands, grazing lands and dry woodlands. We’ll discuss specific causes and effects of human-driven desertification in the next section of this article.

Desertification is just one environmental issue we need to address. Here’s our article on 20 other issues.

What causes desertification?

Desertification has many causes that play off one another. As an example, experts talk about climate change and desertification as a hand-in-hand relationship. Climate change makes desertification worse, while desertification also exacerbates the effects of climate change. That means most of the factors causing desertification are driving – and reinforcing – climate change. Here are five specific causes:

Overgrazing

When plants are exposed to grazing for too long or without rest periods, the land starts to degrade. This became clear in Mongolia in 2013. Known for its large grasslands, Mongolia has depended on animals like sheep and goats. Overgrazing has led to serious issues. In a study published by Global Change Biology, researchers discovered that overgrazing by sheep and goats degraded about 70% of the grasslands in the Mongolian Steppe. That meant overgrazing was responsible for 80% of the vegetation loss, while the remaining 20% was lost because of a decrease in rain. Desertification is making the Gobi Desert, a desert larger than France and Germany combined, grow.

Mining

Mining is the extraction of valuable materials and minerals like coal, gold and cobalt from within the Earth. According to research, around 40 million people are involved in large-scale mining, while 13 million work in “artisanal” mining. While mining has been essential to the economy, especially the economies of developing countries, it’s causing desertification. Specific consequences include deforestation, water and air pollution, soil erosion, increased dust, greenhouse gas emissions and so on. The impacts don’t stop even when mines are abandoned, which makes mining a complex and persistent problem.

Water extraction

Water extraction is when water is taken from a source for purposes like irrigation, flood control, drinking water and so on. Water is essential to life, but it’s possible to extract too much and cause serious issues. The over-extraction of groundwater, which is the world’s largest supply of fresh water, is one example. According to the Groundwater Foundation, groundwater depletion leads to issues like water scarcity, soil collapse and contamination from saltwater. All these issues have a severe impact on plants, wildlife and the land as a whole.

Deforestation

Deforestation is the clearing of forests to turn the land into something else, like farms, ranches, cities, grazing land and so on. When too many trees are destroyed, it affects the soil quality and soil erosion. Forests provide vital nutrients to soil, while their roots help hold the land together. When those trees are suddenly gone, the soil suffers. Forests, especially tropical forests, are also vital to the water cycle. According to Carbon Brief, clearing forests could lead to a dryer, more desert-like climate.

Want to learn more about deforestation? Here’s our article on its negative effects.

Wildfires

Wildfires can be frightening, but fire is part of the natural world. Vegetation has adapted to fires as part of their normal routines, but when patterns are disrupted, plants can’t adapt quickly enough. What disrupts fire? Climate change is one of the big culprits. According to research, climate change leads to warmer, drier conditions and higher temperatures, which extends normal fire seasons and makes forests and grasslands easier to burn. According to the IPCC, wildfires drive desertification because they destroy vegetation cover, increase soil erosion and degrade soil quality.

What are the effects of desertification?

Desertification has serious consequences for things like the environment, the economy and human health. Here are five effects:

Reduced biodiversity

One of the clearest effects of desertification is the loss of plant and animal life. When once-thriving habitats like forests and grasslands become deserts, the organisms that live there suffer. Places like the Amazon Rainforest are home to millions of species, some of which are only found there, while existing deserts also protect thousands of plants and animals. Desertification, which also makes deserts more hostile, threatens everything in a habitat.

Food and water scarcity

Deserts are famous for not having much food or water, so when these areas start spreading, it threatens the food and water security of even more places. Expert groups like the IPCC pay close attention to desertification’s effects on food and water scarcity, and the data is grim. In a 2023 policy brief, the OHCHR reported that between 2015 and 2019, at least 100 million hectares of land were lost, impacting food and water around the world. If desertification isn’t seriously addressed, 95% of the world’s land area could be degraded by 2050.

Poverty

Desertification and poverty have a close relationship. According to the IPCC, desertification – along with factors like climate variability – will contribute to poverty, while climate change will worsen poverty for some dryland populations. Reasons vary, but in general, poverty gets worse when people can no longer grow crops or access enough water. It doesn’t help that those already living in poverty depend the most on agriculture, which desertification threatens.

Harmful health effects

Desertification harms human health in a few ways. The first is through food and water insecurity, but researchers are also raising the alarm about dust. According to an IPCC report, dust storms are becoming more frequent and intense. These storms carry harmful substances like pathogens and allergens over large distances, threatening the health of anyone in their path. Desertification can also contribute to water pollution and contamination, which is linked to several serious diseases like cholera, typhoid, cancer, liver damage and much more.

Increased forced migration

When productive land becomes desert, people living there often have no other option but to leave. Forced migration linked to climate change is becoming more common. According to Migration Policy, more than 1 million people in Somalia were displaced in 2022 because of drought. People often migrate within the same country, but if desertification continues to get worse, entire regions will become unlivable.

Can we fight desertification?

Deserts are part of the world’s ecosystems and far from the lifeless voids people often picture, but desertification is a devastating process we can prevent. Experts advocate for strategies such as better land and water management, improved soil quality, forest protection, different irrigation methods and so on. Anything that addresses climate change, such as a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, will also help combat desertification. With critical thinking and commitment, the world can hold back the desert.

The post Desertification 101: Definition, Types, Causes and Effects appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Every four years, the United States holds an election for president. Congressional elections occur every two years, while various state and local elections happen every year. While some rules vary, you’re typically eligible to vote if you’re a U.S. citizen, meet state residency requirements, register to vote, and are 18 years old on or before Election Day. Why is it important to vote? In this article, we’ll explore 15 reasons why you should vote in US elections, including elections in 2024.

 #1. Voting impacts the future

In the US, one person gets one vote. It may feel like your vote doesn’t matter. What can one person do to change the future? Voting for things you believe in does matter. The main reason is that when people organize around an issue and all make their voices heard, society changes. The other reason is that while your vote can feel meaningless in federal elections, it has a huge impact on smaller, local races. NPR listed a series of races determined by just a few votes, like a 2017 Virginia House of Delegates race. The election was a tie. Officials chose the winner by pulling a name out of a bowl. The Republican was declared the winner, giving the party control of the state House by just one seat. If one more person had shown up to vote in that race, the winner wouldn’t have come down to random chance.

#2. Voting isn’t a right Americans have always had

Millions of Americans vote in elections, but in the past, the number of those eligible was much smaller. In 1789, the U.S. Constitution didn’t even detail specific voting rights, instead leaving it up to the states. Most states only let white, male landowners vote. In 1868, the 14th Amendment established birthright and naturalized citizenship. While the amendment also gave freed enslaved people and Black people citizenship, they still weren’t given voting rights until two years later. Women weren’t given the right to vote until 1920, and in 1965, the Voting Rights Act passed, finally providing more voting right protections. Many people take voting for granted, but it’s the result of centuries of activism and progress.

#3. Voting rights are under threat, and voting can help protect them

Even after years of positive change, voting rights are still under threat. Things like gerrymandering, which is the redrawing of district lines to favor one party over the other, and stricter eligibility requirements are undemocratic. According to a piece from Human Rights Watch, voting rights are also threatened by misinformation, election interference and the intimidation of election officials. In 2023, at least 14 states passed laws making voting harder. Everyone eligible should take advantage of their right to vote and make it clear they want their representatives to protect voting rights. The right to vote is something everyone, regardless of their other beliefs, should fight for.

#4. Voting is an important tool for civic engagement

According to Robert Longley on ThoughtCatalog, civic engagement is “participating in activities intended to improve the quality of life in one’s community.” That includes political activities like voting, as well as non-political activities like volunteering at nonprofits, contributing to food banks, cleaning up public spaces and much more. When everyone participates in civic engagement, more problems are solved, people are more educated on issues in their communities and politicians are held to higher standards. While voting is just one aspect of civic engagement, it’s one of the most important.

#5. Voting is essential to a representative government

In a pure democracy, every American would be responsible for writing legislation, but the US uses a representative form of government. The nation is technically a “republic,” which is a form of government where voters choose representatives. These representatives then write and establish laws. A representative government is only successful if as many people as possible vote. This helps create a government truly based on what the people want and need.

#6. Voting holds politicians accountable

Politicians often get a bad rap, and often for good reason. Some get into government just for the money, power, business connections and other perks, while even politicians who started with good intentions can turn their backs on their constituents. When a politician fails to represent the best interests of voters, gets involved in a scandal, or is otherwise doing an unsatisfactory job, voting is the best way to hold them accountable. Before an election, you can make it clear you won’t vote for a politician unless they take certain actions on the issues you care about. If they fail to meet your standards, you can vote them out.

#7. Voting in local elections has direct impacts

Federal elections get the most coverage in the United States, but it’s the smaller state and county-level ones that have the most direct impacts on individual voters. Things like school funding and tax increases are determined locally, so if you want to make your voice heard, you should vote in local elections. As an example, a county in Oregon recently approved a school levy that will pay for classroom teachers and keep class sizes “steady” for the next five years. Homeowners were asked to pay $1.63 out of every $1,000 of assessed property value. Measures like this have a clear impact, so every affected voter should participate in the final decision.

#8. Voting impacts international relations

The outcomes of local elections arguably impact individuals more than federal elections, but that doesn’t mean big elections aren’t important, too. Congress and the president make decisions that affect the country as well as the world. According to the BBC, the US is the “world’s most foremost economic and military power.” It provides ⅕ of the United Nation’s entire budget, while it spent over $816 billion on defense in 2023. On a cultural level, the United States is also one of the most influential nations. By voting and staying engaged politically, you can have a say in the United States’ impact on international relations.

#9. Voting helps you stay informed on issues

Politics can be stressful and confusing. Many people don’t pay close attention to all the issues, so when elections come around, they don’t vote because they don’t feel informed. It’s never too late! When elections are approaching, take a little time to research the candidates and ballot measures in your area. Resources like Ballotpedia, which provides unbiased information on policy, politics and elections, are useful because they’re accessible and free. You don’t have to understand everything about an issue to have an opinion, so use election time to get just enough information to feel comfortable voting.

#10. The United States, which is facing more threats, needs informed voters

As we described earlier, voting rights have been under threat lately, but that’s not the only reason the United States is struggling. America is facing worsening climate change effects, rising homelessness rates, and more bankruptcies, among other issues. Experts have also expressed alarm with the Republican Party’s shift toward authoritarianism.  Former president Donald Trump, who is currently the leading Republican candidate and defendant in four criminal cases, has talked about wanting to be a dictator “for one day” and indicting political opponents, who he’s called “vermin,” if re-elected. Everyone eligible should vote if they care about where the United States is headed.

#11. Many experts – and voters – believe the future of democracy is at stake

Democracy is never a guarantee, but it’s become a central issue for the United States in recent years. According to the Brookings Institution, “democratic erosion” has two main sources: election manipulation and executive overreach. Donald Trump’s attempt to undermine the results of the 2020 election is the clearest example, but state legislatures have been making it harder to vote for years. When polled, Americans are concerned about the future of democracy. According to one survey, 62% of adults believed democracy will be threatened based on who wins the 2024 presidential elections. With the stakes so high, voting is more important than ever.

#12. Climate issues are on the ballot

Climate change is the world’s most serious problem, and as reports from groups like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change continue to confirm, human activity is driving climate change. Countries like the United States bear the most responsibility. Every election has consequences for climate change policy, so it’s one of the most compelling reasons to vote. Research what candidates on a county, state and federal level believe about climate change and what they plan to do.

#13. Many elections involve reproductive rights

In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe. v. Wade, taking away the federal right to abortion and flipping it back to the states. Several ballot measures either protecting or restricting abortion rights have come up. According to Ballotpedia, Maryland and New York will vote on ballot measures involving reproductive rights in November 2024, while others will no doubt emerge. A politician’s stance on reproductive rights and plans to address them matter more than ever, so it’s important to consider these rights when voting.

#14. Immigration is another important issue

The United States has more immigrants than any other country. The system is overwhelmed. According to NPR, as many as 10,000 people a day reach the US-Mexico border. Immigrants from other places, often forced by conflict and climate change to move, are also arriving in larger and larger numbers. Both of America’s main political parties – the Republicans and Democrats – have struggled to respond, leading to issues like inhumane conditions, family separations, hateful rhetoric and much more. Who Americans elect and what legislation they approve of matter, so immigration is another good reason to vote.

#15. LGBTQ+ rights need protection  

According to NBC, 75 anti-LGBTQ+ bills became law in 2023. They include restrictions on transition care for minors, bans on transgender athletes from school sports, limits on teaching about LGBTQ+ issues and more. While those 75 laws represent just 15% of the 500 proposed anti-LGBTQ+ laws proposed in 2023, they still have a significant impact. In a piece for Them, Nico Lang lays out how Republican politicians will continue to threaten LGBTQ+ rights while expanding their fight against transition care to adults. Ballotpedia already lists six ballot measures involving LGBTQ+ rights that will need voter approval in 2024. If you care about LGBTQ+ rights, voting is one of the best ways to protect them.

The post 15 Reasons Why You Should Vote in the US Election appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, the significance of understanding and addressing pressing social issues cannot be overstated. To navigate this complex terrain, we have curated a list of 40 courses that delve into crucial topics shaping the world in 2024. From climate change to migration, each course offers comprehensive insights, empowering learners to contribute meaningfully to positive societal change.

#1 Climate Change

The impacts of climate change are far-reaching. They affect our health, livelihoods, economic systems, and overall well-being. Vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected, disease patterns are altered, people are forced to leave uninhabitable areas, food shortages are on the rise and conflicts erupt. Those most affected contribute the least to climate change. With 2023 being the hottest year on record, 2024 could become even worse. The need for bold and fast collective action is evident. The courses below look at different dimensions of climate change from the science behind it to the ways to take action.

#2 Racism

Racism involves the systemic discrimination, prejudice, and unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on their race or ethnicity within society. It extends beyond individual attitudes and encompasses institutional and structural practices that perpetuate inequality.  Examples include biased hiring practices, discriminatory housing policies, laws that favor one group over the other. According to a survey with people of African descent that was conducted by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency , 45% of respondents experienced racism in the past 5 years. People who are victims of racism often experience limited access to social, economic, and political opportunities. Racism is bad for every society and it often leads to unjust arrests, harassment and violence. The courses below explore different aspects of racism, from its history and root causes, to identifying racism and ways to take action against it.

#3 Poverty 

Poverty is a social issue that significantly affects individuals, families, and communities. It often arises from systemic and structural factors within society and is exacerbated by global crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic, wars and climate change. Poverty often has severe impacts on all areas of life including access to education, healthcare, employment and housing. According to estimates by the UN, 670 million people are facing extreme poverty today. The courses below look at different aspects of poverty in a national, regional and international context. You will learn about the root causes and key factors, hardships people living in poverty are experiencing, and the tools and strategies you can use to take action.

#4 Healthcare

The way healthcare is organized, funded, and distributed within a society has profound implications for the overall health of its population. Marginalized communities often experience healthcare disparities and face barriers to accessing essential medical care. According to the World Health Organization, half of the world lacks access to essential health services. Disadvantaged neighborhoods lack adequate healthcare infrastructure. High healthcare costs exacerbate poverty. The courses below look at healthcare issues from a variety of perspectives including health inequalities and healthcare advocacy.

#5 Migration / Refugee Rights

According to UNHCR, the global refugee population reached 36.4 million at mid-2023, an increase of 3 per cent from the end of 2022. Moreover, 117 million people were forcibly displaced or stateless in 2023. 52% of all refugees originated from Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine. Addressing the social aspects of migration involves providing support for refugees and displaced populations, addressing their basic needs, and promoting social stability. In their new homes, migrants often face discrimination, xenophobia, and unequal treatment, requiring efforts to address underlying social prejudices. The courses below tackle various aspects of migration, from global facts and figures to specific case studies.

#6 Child Rights

Child rights revolve around the recognition and protection of the fundamental rights and well-being of children within a society. Ensuring the rights of children is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for building a just, equitable, and sustainable society. More than 1 billion children are estimated to experience physical, sexual or emotional violence every year. In places where human rights are neglected or oppressed, children often suffer the most. They are especially vulnerable to hazards during times of crises. The courses below are free to audit, you can choose to obtain a verified certificate for an extra fee.

#7 Gender Equality

Gender equality seeks to eliminate discrimination, biases, and stereotypes. It seeks to promote fairness and equal opportunities for everyone. Despite more efforts in recent years, many inequalities persist. In fact, progress has been marginal since 2015. Women are still getting paid less than men for the same work, they are frequently subjected to intimate partner violence and are deprived of their bodily autonomy. The first step to change is education. Below are several courses that focus on a broad or more specific aspect of gender equality and the ways how we can create change.

#8 Social Justice

Social justice refers to the fair and just distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It involves recognizing and addressing the inequalities and injustices that exist based on factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, disability, and other characteristics. The goal of social justice is to create a society where all individuals have equal access to opportunities, rights, and resources. Social justice is multifaceted and intersectional. Because of that, the courses below look at how social justice connects with issues such as feminism, communities, love and energy.

#9 Mental Health 

Mental Health has profound implications for individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. According to the NHS, in 2023, about 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 years had a probable mental disorder. Covid-19 and its consequences further exacerbated the situation. Learning more about mental health, its signs and symptoms, is crucial to address it. The courses below look at different aspects of mental health from well-being and resilience, to mindfulness and positive thinking.

#10 Clean Water

We all depend on clean water. Without it we get severely ill or die. With the effects of climate change, water is getting more scarce and less available in many regions of the world. According to World Vision more than 770 million people lack access to safe water. Access alone isn’t enough. Women and girls spend 200 million hours per day carrying water. Moreover, almost 500 million people are forced to defecate in the open and 1.69 billion don’t have access to adequate sanitation. The courses below look at various aspects of water access, laws and distribution, from urban water systems to current environmental policies.

Note: If you would like to obtain a certificate in more than one course, you might want want to consider a Coursera plus subscription. Make sure the courses you want to take are included. You can check here. As of January 2024 the subscription is available at a discount.

The post 40 Top-Rated Social Issues Courses to Study in 2024 appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The Development and Outreach Department of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking applicants for the position of Director, Belgium to lead our fundraising and outreach in Belgium. The Director will oversee a small team in the Brussels office and will report to the Managing Director of Development and Outreach for Europe and the Asia Pacific region (APAC).

The successful candidate will mobilize support from donors and prospects in Belgium, including the Belgium Committee – a network of close supporters from all linguistic regions (Wallonia, Brussels, Flanders) who support fundraising, outreach, networking, and cultivation initiatives. The Director will be charged with nurturing, stewarding, and growing HRW’s donor base and presence including by planning and executing an annual signature fundraising event.

The successful candidate will be expected to work from the Brussels office at least 2 days per week. We aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible in both the recruitment for and onboarding of this position.

Responsibilities:

1. Develop and oversee the strategic plan, budget and income forecast to further fundraising results in Belgium, across both the Flemish and Francophone regions;

2. Manage the Belgium Committee, develop a diverse, equitable and inclusive Committee, and keep the members engaged through regular meetings and communication;

3. Seek and secure philanthropic commitments from a personal portfolio of individual, trust and Foundation donors, prioritizing those with multi-year and five to six-figure capacities;

4. Identify and develop strategic fundraising and outreach initiatives, fostering engagement and cultivation of major gift prospects, including planned giving and cultivation events to enhance program visibility and increase fundraising results;

5. Work in collaboration with the Belgium Committee leadership and members to implement initiatives geared toward maximizing fundraising results, including the planning and execution of the annual Voices for Justice celebration;

6. In partnership with the Institutional Giving Team, research, identify, cultivate, steward, and solicit prospective foundations and existing foundations that have the ability and affinity to contribute to HRW;

7. Represent the work of HRW to existing and prospective supporters;

8. Deliver sustainable growth and meet or exceed agreed-upon financial targets;

9. Oversee income tracking, projections, expenditure budgets, event expenses, and revenue, ensuring appropriate allocation of resources within the budget;

10. Oversee gift processing and donor support services for Belgium in Salesforce; create and regularly monitor the budget; and

11. Perform any other responsibilities as required.

Managerial Responsibilities:

1. Lead, motivate, and mentor direct-reports, including communicating clear expectations, setting performance objectives, providing regular and timely constructive feedback, ensuring a balanced workload, providing guidance on professional growth, and monitoring staff well-being as it pertains to stress and resilience issues and self-care;

2. Foster an inclusive, creative, and positive work environment, encouraging diverse perspectives and participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, while proactively addressing bias, discrimination, and microaggressions;

3. Model inclusive behavior and consistently adhere to HRW’s internal values;

4. Incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion values and initiatives into the work of the Brussels team; and

5. Collaborate with staff to develop initiatives aimed at movement-building and expanding partnerships with diverse clients, donors, stakeholders, and partners.

Qualifications: 

Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a relevant field such as international relations, social sciences, or related studies is required. An advanced degree in philanthropy, business, finance, communications/marketing, or law is desirable.

Experience: A minimum of seven years of fundraising experience, including at least five years of management experience, is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge:

1. Demonstrated success in creating and managing major and leadership gift programs, as well as extensive experience in building and maintaining high-level donor relationships and personally soliciting five and six figure gifts is required.

2. Demonstrated experience managing teams is required. Experience overseeing fundraising strategy around events is preferred.

3. Excellent oral and written communication skills in French, Flemish and English, including strong presentation abilities is required.

4. Proven experience in budgeting, revenue tracking, and projections is required.

5. Familiarity with the Belgium philanthropic community is desirable.

6. Strong technological skills, including familiarity with Salesforce or other relational databases are highly desirable.

7. Outstanding interpersonal skills for effective collaboration within the organization and with external partners is required.

8. Strong commitment to human rights and/or international issues, with the ability to represent and advocate for the mission and programs of the organization is required.

9. Entrepreneurial mindset with self-motivation, independence, and the ability to work both individually and as part of a development team is required.

10. Ability to multi-task effectively, including having good planning and organizing skills and ability to work well under pressure are required.

11. Willingness to travel locally and internationally as required.

Salary and Benefits: HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers comprehensive compensation and benefits.  HRW can offer a relocation assistance package and immigration support for this role if required, and people of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply: Please apply immediately or by 3 December 2023 by visiting our online job portal at https://careers.hrw.org and attaching a letter of interest and a CV or resume. No calls or email inquiries, please. Only complete applications will be reviewed and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application submission or if you require accommodations during the application process, please email recruitment@hrw.org. Due to the large response, application submissions via email will not be accepted and inquiries regarding the status of applications will go unanswered.

Human Rights Watch is strong because it is diverse. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Human Rights Watch does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. We welcome all kinds of diversity. Our employees include people who are parents and nonparents, the self-taught and university educated, and from a wide span of socio-economic backgrounds and perspectives on the world. Human Rights Watch is an equal opportunity employer. 

Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for its in-depth investigations, its incisive and timely reporting, its innovative and high- profile advocacy campaigns, and its success in changing the human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions.

Apply here

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The United Kingdom consists of four geographic parts: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Island. It’s home to nearly 68 million people, while its capital city – London – is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world. What are the social issues facing the UK today? Here are 15 examples:

#1. Cost-of-living crisis

The UK has been in a cost-of-living crisis since 2021. There are a few causes, such as the global rise in inflation, COVID-19, the war in Ukraine, and Brexit. The high price of everyday goods, like groceries, electricity, and clothing, has the most impact on low-income families and individuals. High bills also impact the future of young people. According to a survey of 18-24-year-olds, ⅔ had lowered their career expectations, saying they could only focus on short-term survival. While the rate of price increases appears to be falling, it will likely take many people a long time to recover.

#2. Food insecurity

In its 2023 World Report on the UK, Human Rights Watch listed the “right to food” as an area of concern. The UK’s largest food bank network distributed 2.1 million emergency food parcels, which represents an 81% increase since 2017. Single-parent households, Black families, and people in social housing are the most likely to struggle with food security. People with disabilities and people receiving social security are also four times more likely to face food insecurity. High costs are a big reason why food security is becoming a more serious issue.

#3. Children experiencing poverty

Around 14.5 million people in the UK live in poverty. 4.3 million are children. According to data, the income of the households earning the least is set to fall yet again. Black and minority ethnic children will be affected the most. 46% of this group live in poverty compared to 26% of white British children. A report on northern schools found a link between education and poverty. Kids born into the poorest fifth of families in the UK were 13 times more likely to experience poor educational outcomes and poor health by 17 years old. A lack of funding is a big reason why. Northern schools get less money compared to Southern schools. While it’s not the only issue to address when it comes to child poverty, adequate education is crucial.

#4. Homelessness

It’s difficult to get accurate information on the number of people experiencing homelessness, but according to CNN, the number of households in temporary commendation reached its highest level since 1998. Temporary accommodations include hostels and rooms in a shared house. To address this issue, experts say the government needs to build homes. While they put the ideal number at around 380,000 homes, only 192,000 homes were built in 2022. The causes of homelessness, like high rents and a lack of affordable housing, also need to be addressed.

#5. Women’s rights

The UK faces many of the same issues as other countries struggling to achieve gender equality: a gender pay gap, job segregation, and cultural sexism. Unfortunately, not everyone believes the UK needs to do more work. According to one survey, 39% of participants believed that men were expected to do “too much” to support gender equality, while 43% believed society was now discriminating against men. Young people, especially boys, face an onslaught of misogynist content online, which affects their views on women and gender equality. On the other hand, 51% of survey participants said there were actions they could do to promote gender equality, while 47% expressed optimism about achieving equality within their lifetime.

#6. Trans rights

The UK has frequently ranked high on lists of the best and safest places for the LGBTQ+ community, but its views on trans rights have caused significant harm. The British press has driven much of the public’s contempt for trans people, while legal protections are not adequate. In Scotland, Parliament passed a Gender Recognition Reform bill, which made it easier for trans people to legally change their gender. The UK vetoed the bill, which had never happened before in Scottish history. These are just a few explanations for why the UK dropped from 10th to 14th place in ILGA’s 2020 European ranking.

#7. Climate change

The UK is one of the world’s top 20 greenhouse gas emitters. While the public supports stronger regulations and emission reductions, the country is not on track to meet its goals. It still depends heavily on electricity generated from gas. In 2022, the country recorded its hottest temperatures on record: 104 Fahrenheit/40 Celsius. Despite the climate emergency, there are concerns that Britain’s prime minister, Rishi Sunak, is planning to “backtrack” on the UK’s climate goals.

#8. Education

The quality of someone’s education has a huge impact on their future. In the UK, hundreds of thousands of kids don’t even have a safe school building. According to a report, around 700,000 kids attend school at “unsafe or aging” buildings in need of major repairs. If not addressed, issues like asbestos and sewage leaks pose serious risks to kids. Education quality is also threatened if students are frequently suspended. Post-pandemic, more than 3,000 students are sent home every day. Many of these kids come from low-income backgrounds, while children with special needs are four times more likely to lose learning due to suspensions.

#9. Healthcare

For years, the publicly-funded National Health Service (NHS) was a source of pride for the UK. Now, the system is weakening. Wait times for treatments and emergency care are getting out of control. According to CNN, half of the people waiting for “elective care,” which can include cardiac surgery and cancer treatment, had waited up to 18 weeks. 400,000 had waited for over a year. Healthcare workers are feeling the strain, too. In early 2023, tens of thousands of nurses and ambulance workers staged the largest walkout in the NHS’ history. Falling wages, staff shortages, and lack of funds are just three of the major issues. Experts worry about the sustainability of the NHS while private health insurance is increasing to fill in the gaps.

#10. Racial discrimination

Certain parts of the UK are very racially diverse – especially London – but discrimination remains a problem. According to the UN, racism is “structural, institutional and systemic.” People of African descent face especially severe discrimination and violations of their rights. There’s been progress regarding reconciliation, but more needs to be done. The COVID-19 pandemic also triggered racist attitudes and attacks toward British Chinese people and Southeastern Asians.

#11. Police brutality

There’s little doubt that countries like the United States have a police brutality issue, but the UK has similar problems. In a blog from the University of Birmingham, an associate professor of law and criminal justice points out how “warrior culture,” which encourages police to turn to aggression and violence, is present in the UK. One report from the charity group Inquest found that Black people are seven times more likely to die after police restraint. In early 2023, more than 1,500 police officers were accused of violence against women and girls. Because police brutality is often covered up or not reported for fear of retaliation, the scale of the problem is likely much worse.

#12. Mental health

Mental health conditions are very common in the UK. Stigma remains a barrier to getting care. According to one survey, around 9 out of 10 people with mental health issues say that discrimination and stigma negatively impact their lives. Mental health problems also cost the country a lot of money. One report found that mental health costs the UK at least £117.9 billion every year. Most of that cost comes from lost productivity and what’s accumulated by unpaid informal caregivers providing mental health support to their communities.

#13. Asylum and migration

According to Guardian reporting, the UK ranks 17th among EU countries for number of asylum applications. In terms of protecting the rights of asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants, its record isn’t the best. The Nationality and Borders Act, which became law in 2022, criminalizes those seeking asylum through “irregular means.” The government’s goal is to stop people crossing the Channel in small boats. No safer alternatives have been offered. Groups like the UN Refugee Council and civil society groups have condemned the law.

#14. Weakening of human rights protections

According to Human Rights Watch, the UK has suffered several human rights issues in recent years. The UK director went so far as to call 2022 the “most significant assault on human rights protections in the UK in decades.” Examples include violations of the rights of asylum seekers, voter disenfranchisement, and new restrictions on the right to peaceful protest. The government also brought up repealing the Human Rights Act, claiming it was being abused and that replacing it would strengthen UK sovereignty. Experts warn repealing the Act would severely weaken human rights protections. At the time of writing, the UK had not repealed or replaced the Human Rights Act, but the possibility remains a concern.

#15. Digital safety and privacy

The internet can be a dangerous place, especially for young people. The UK is attempting to increase protections with the Online Safety Bill, which passed on September 19, 2023. The legislation regulates how large tech firms design, operate, and moderate social media platforms. However, privacy activists worry about the bill’s impacts on freedom of expression, privacy rights, and end-to-end encryption, which keeps data secure from companies and governments. The UK government has also faced backlash for using surveillance technology that could log and store the web histories of millions. If the technology is implemented nationally, it increases law enforcement’s intrusive reach. Digital safety and privacy is a complex issue as the two aspects – safety and privacy – often battle one another.

The post 15 Examples of Social Issues in the UK appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Over 26 million people live in Australia, which is the smallest continent on the planet. It’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems, like the Great Barrier Reef, the Blue Mountains, and the Daintree Rainforest. It was also colonized by the British, which used it as a penal colony from the late 18th century until the mid-19th century. Today, it is a sovereign country with its own social issues. Here are 15 examples:

#1. Poverty

In 2022, a report on poverty found that 1 in 8 people, including 1 in 6 children, were living in poverty. Australia is one of the world’s richest countries, but over 3 million people struggle to pay basic bills. Income support would make a big difference. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, an economic support program lifted 645,000 people (245,000 of those people were children) above the poverty line. These supports were temporary, but if they became permanent, Australia could reduce poverty very effectively.

#2. Rights of asylum seekers and refugees

When asylum seekers and refugees come to Australia without a valid visa, they’re held in immigration detention until they get a visa or are removed from Australia. There is no limit to how long someone can be detained, so thousands of asylum seekers and some recognized refugees are held in centers around the country. Australia also uses an offshore processing system. Under this system, asylum seekers and refugees are taken to camps in places like Nauru and Papua New Guinea. Families and individuals live in inadequate conditions, sometimes for years. Human Rights Watch has called Australia’s offshore system “abusive and costly.” Since 2013, at least 12 refugees and asylum seekers have died in Australia’s offshore processing system. Six took their own lives.

#3. Indigenous rights

When it comes to Indigenous rights, Australia’s history is full of abuse and discrimination. From the mid-1800s to the 1970s, government policies took children from their families in a period known as “The Stolen Generations.” The legacy of racism and discrimination continues today. Despite making up just 3.8% of the population, Indigenous Australians are “overrepresented” in the criminal justice system. In 2021, at least 11 Indigenous people died in custody due to abuse and/or medical neglect. Indigenous people are also more likely to receive poor education and die young. Australia has the opportunity to protect Indigenous rights with referendums like the “Voice to Parliament,” which would enshrine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution and create an advisory body.

#4. Disability rights

The Disability Discrimination Act, which passed in 1992, makes it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their disability. It covers areas like employment, education, public services, and more. Temporary and permanent disabilities are also covered. According to a research paper, however, Australia’s interpretation of the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities prevents reform and allows human rights violations to thrive. Examples of violations include forced medical interventions and indefinite detention. Children and people in prisons face some of the worst abuse and discrimination.

#5. LGBTQ+ rights

Australia has many laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights and protections, but the system is far from perfect. According to reporting from The Guardian, anti-discrimination laws across the country are “patchy.” There are broad exemptions, especially for religious groups, which can open the door to discrimination and bigotry. Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia don’t even have laws that protect LGBTQ+ people from vilification. There are also no federal laws that outlaw vilification based on gender or sexuality. To protect the LGBTQ+ community, Australia needs to strengthen its existing laws and expand protections.

#6. Gender equality

Generally, Australia is a safe and welcoming place for most women, but it still hasn’t achieved gender equality. According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, women in Australia are paid 17.5% less than men doing the same work. The causes include gender stereotypes and low pay for jobs historically performed by women, like social work. Differences in education and work experience, a lack of female leadership, discrimination, and a lack of accommodations for families are other causes.

#7. Violence against women

While Australia ranks high on lists of safest countries for women, violence against women is still an issue. According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, 1 in 3 Australian women will experience violence in an intimate relationship. 1 in 5 women have experienced sexual violence since turning 15 years old. Indigenous women face a higher risk. Research shows they’re 12 times more likely to be victims of assault than non-Indigenous women. Violence is often perpetuated by partners or husbands.

#8. Incarceration of children

Currently, Australia’s age of criminal responsibility is just 10 years old, while the international recommendation is 14 years old. Hundreds of kids are imprisoned each year. In one case, a 13-year-old Indigenous Australian boy spent 45 days in solitary confinement, despite being held for minor offenses. In another case, a 13-year-old with developmental disabilities spent 78 days in a cell for 20 hours a day. These cases could violate the boys’ rights to fresh air and exercise. The cases are not uncommon, either. According to data, overcrowding in juvenile prisons means children – mostly Indigenous children- are often moved to adult prisons. Kids in adult prisons face a high risk of sexual abuse, assault, and suicide.

#9. Healthcare access in prison

Australia uses Medicare. It’s a single-payer, universal healthcare program that covers all Australian citizens and residents. Groups like veterans and Indigenous Australians can access special programs, but there’s one demographic that’s excluded: people in prison. Many human rights experts believe this exclusion constitutes a human rights violation. During COVID-19, the state was slow to give prisoners vaccines despite their heightened risk for the disease due to poor ventilation, an inability to social distance, inadequate sanitation and hygiene, and other factors. People in prison also lack adequate mental health services. In 2018, 40% of jail entrants had a mental health condition, while mental health services in prison were “severely underfunded.” Without access to Medicare, it’s much harder for people in prison to get the healthcare they need.

#10. Rights of older people

Australia’s population is aging, which opens the door to systemic discrimination and inadequate care. In 2021, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality And Safety released a report recommending “fundamental reform” of the aged care system. Specific changes included increased accountability for human rights violations, minimum staffing requirements, and increased access to home and community support services. COVID-19 revealed cracks in the system, but it will take significant changes to improve Australia’s aged care services.

#11. Housing affordability

It’s getting more and more expensive to buy and rent housing in Australia. According to a report by PropTrack, which analyzes the real estate market, a household earning an average income would need to spend a third of their income on mortgage repayments for a median-priced home. Increasing home prices and rising mortgage rates are two reasons for housing unaffordability. Tasmania, which has historically had the most affordable homes, is now a place where a typical-income household can only afford 5% of homes sold. Young people and first-time home buyers are some of the hardest hit.

#12. Homelessness

On any given night, around 1 in 200 Australians don’t have a place to sleep. According to data, 1 in 3 houseless Australians are under 18 years old. Young people are especially vulnerable as it’s difficult to get affordable, long-term housing. Domestic violence is the biggest driver of homelessness in Australia, while other causes include unemployment, poverty, and addiction. Most people experiencing homelessness are in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane, which are Australia’s largest cities.

#13. Mental health

According to the Australian government, over 2 in 5 Australians between 16 and 85 years old have experienced a mental disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety is the most common disorder, followed by depression and substance abuse. While anyone can experience poor mental health, 24% of the Indigenous Australian population reported a mental health or behavioral condition in 2018-2019. Mental illness still faces stigma in Australia, which makes it even harder for people to get the help they need. Reducing stigma, making it easier to access care, and addressing the roots of poor mental health are all necessary steps.

#14. Loss of biodiversity

“Biodiversity” refers to the variety of life on earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It’s essential to a healthy planet. Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique ecosystems and species. Around 82% of animals and 93% of frogs in Australia only exist there. Tragically, the human impact on biodiversity has been catastrophic. Pollution, resource exploitation, and other issues threaten areas like the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system. Currently, Australia has the worst mammal extinction rate in the world. Preserving Australia’s biodiversity is essential to its future.

#15. Wildfires

Australia is known for its brutal wildfire season. Climate change has made it worse. One fire, which burned through Australia’s summer from June 2019 to January 2020, released smoke levels comparable to a major volcanic eruption. According to research, the smoke from these catastrophic fires could have contributed to a rare triple La Nina weather event, which affected other continents. The fires, known as the Black Summer Fires, also destroyed an area equivalent to half of California and killed 33 people. Children and pregnant people are among those most affected by lingering health effects, such as premature labor, low birth weight, impaired lung development, and other ongoing issues. Australia is one of the biggest greenhouse gas emitters in the world, so new, strict regulations on emissions are vital.

If you want to get active on the issues above, consider joining one of the many NGOs in Australia.

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Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area. It’s home to over 38 million people, hundreds of languages, and some of the most beautiful natural landscapes. Like every nation, Canada has social issues related to climate change, the rights of marginalized people, gender equality, and healthcare. Here are fifteen examples:

#1. Climate change

In 2020, Canada was the 11th largest greenhouse gas emitter in the world. This represents a decrease from 2005, but Canada still has lots of work to do. It’s the top public financier of fossil fuels among G20 nations. It also consistently approves new oil and gas pipeline expansions and fails to enforce regulations that reduce emissions. According to Climate Action Tracker, the country’s climate goals aren’t enough to meet the Paris Agreement.

#2. Gender inequality

Canada ranks as one of the best countries for women. In 2023, it ranked in 30th place out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Index Rating. Acts like the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the Pay Equity Act establish the importance of gender equality. There are still gaps to close, however. According to Canadian Women, women still make just 89 cents to every dollar a man makes. In 2020, 10x more women than men left the workforce. Surveys show Canada’s ongoing commitment to gender equality, so the future looks promising.

#3. Immigration policy

Canada has welcomed immigrants for many years. Most people in the country have favorable views of immigrants, and according to a 2022 survey, less than 30% of Canadians thought immigration levels were “too high.” This doesn’t mean Canada does everything right. A 2021 Human Rights Watch report found that thousands of people were being incarcerated on immigration-related grounds. Despite being held for non-criminal reasons, immigrant detainees faced brutal conditions in maximum security jails and solitary confinement. Despite its good reputation regarding immigration, Canada has a lot of work to do.

#4. Indigenous rights

Canada has a long history of colonization and violence against Indigenous people. Reconciliation has been slow. According to an Amnesty International report, Canada has been “significantly failing in its obligations” to Indigenous people. Issues like territorial theft, resource extraction, systemic discrimination, and inequality are persistent. The Amnesty report echoes findings from the UN and other human rights organizations. You can learn more about indigenous rights by taking part in an online course.

#5. Violence against Indigenous women

Canada’s reputation as a safe place for women only applies to certain women. First Nations women and girls with registered or treaty Indian status make up 2-4% of Canada’s female population, but they’re kidnapped and assaulted at disproportionate rates. According to data from Human Rights Watch, 81% of Indigenous women in the child welfare system were physically or sexually assaulted. From 2001-2015, the homicide rate for Indigenous women was almost six times as high as the rate for other Canadian women.

#6. Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence includes physical violence, emotional abuse, stalking, manipulation, and so on. According to Canadian Women, 184 women and girls were killed (mostly by men) in 2022. Women who’ve experienced gender-based violence are more likely to have depression, anxiety, and other mental health diagnoses. Children who witness violence are also more likely to struggle and experience mental health effects. Dealing with gender-based violence – specifically spousal violence – costs the Canadian government over $7 billion a year. While certain people are at a higher risk of gender-based violence, it can affect anyone.

#7. LGBTQ+ rights

Canada has long been praised as one of the most welcoming countries for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2023, it ranked first on the Equaldex Equality Index. Gay marriage was legalized first in British Columbia and Ontario in 2003, and in 2005, same-sex marriage became legal across Canada. The past decades have seen even more progress regarding anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws, adoptions, blood donation laws, and more. In 2021, Canada banned conversion therapy, which is any service, treatment, or practice designed to “cure” or suppress a person’s sexual orientation, gender expression, or gender identity. The country still has work to do regarding trans rights, safety, and freedom.

#8. Anti-Black racism

While Canada may have had a smaller role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade compared to other nations, the legacy of slavery and anti-Black racism is still present in the country today. According to statistics, 41% of Black people in Canada experienced discrimination based on their skin color in 2019. Stores, restaurants, and banks were common places of discrimination, while Black respondents also reported discrimination by police. Another study found that Black Canadians in Toronto dealt with “service deserts,” which are areas with fewer safe, affordable, and effective healthcare and community services.

#9. Education inequality

Canada’s education system is well-respected around the world. Each of the 13 territories and provinces have their own system, although they must follow government standards. Students aged 6-18 years old must attend school. In recent years, tuition for secondary education has been increasing, especially for international students. There are also stark gender differences in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). In 2017, women made up just 26% of new entrants in engineering, manufacturing, and construction, and 20% of the new entrants in information and communication technologies. Unequal government funding for Indigenous students has also been an issue for many years. Canada has been making slow progress on funding gaps.

#10. Water rights

The right to safe water is a human right, but in Canada, Indigenous people have faced persistent violations. Why? The federal government has had jurisdiction over Native lands for centuries. First Nations are owed certain protections, but federal neglect has led to issues with safe drinking water. In 2016, a Human Rights Watch report found that discrimination regarding water is a “legal fact” in Canada. While Canadians living off-reserve have enjoyed safe water, First Nations deal with contamination and long-term boil-water advisories. Solutions, which can include removing colonial-era laws, are urgently needed.

#11. Healthcare

Canada uses a publicly funded healthcare system. Instead of having one national plan, there are 13 territorial and provincial healthcare insurance plans. Through these plans, Canadians get free medically necessary hospital and physician services. This fragmented system has had problems over the years, but the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the cracks in the foundation. According to Reuters reporting, Canada’s healthcare system has strained to a “breaking point” with staffing shortages, closed emergency rooms, and increasingly long waiting times. Things won’t improve overnight, so Canada’s healthcare system will likely be a social issue for a long time.

#12. Mental health

In Canada, mental illness affects more than 6.7 million people. It’s a leading cause of disability, suicide, and other health issues. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the economic burden of mental illness costs around $51 billion each year. Funding and access are major issues. Just half of Canadians who experience a major depressive episode get “potentially adequate care.” ⅓ of Canadians 15 years and older report a need for mental care, but say their needs weren’t met. 75% of kids with mental disorders can’t access specialized treatment at all. These statistics expose a striking gap between need and care.

#13. Opioid crisis

Opioid addiction and overdoses have been an issue for several years in Canada. In 2016, more than 30,000 people died from opioid-related overdoses, which was more than other major accidental death causes combined. A 2022 NPR article reported that deaths related to fentanyl more than doubled in the past five years. British Columbia has endured the most issues and declared fentanyl a public health crisis in 2016. In 2022, the province instituted a decriminalization policy. Under this policy, possessing small amounts of opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines remains illegal, but no longer comes with prosecution. Canadian officials hope this shifts focus to healthcare instead of punishment.

#14. Income inequality

Income inequality refers to the gap between those with the highest incomes in society and those with the lowest. Wide gaps lead to a host of issues such as political instability, reduced economic growth, and weakened social cohesion. In Canada, income inequality has been on the rise. According to data, the gap in net worth between the richest and poorest households grew by 1.1 percentage points in the first quarter of 2023. That represents the fastest increase since 2010. The reasons for this increase are complex. Relevant factors include low wages and growing gaps between different types of households, like younger and older households, and immigrants and Canadian citizens.

#15. Housing affordability

Having a place to live is a human right, but when housing becomes expensive, many people struggle to find adequate shelter. Canada is facing a housing crisis. According to a BBC article, the average home in Canada costs C$750,000 in 2023, which is around £435,000. That’s an increase of 360% from 2000. The cost of houses and rent is especially high in large cities. Young people, who are spending huge chunks of their incomes just on shelter, are changing their life plans because of the crisis. Canada has promised to build 3.5 million homes by 2030 to address the issue, but plans are falling behind. The housing crisis is unlikely to get resolved anytime soon.

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Racism occurs when an individual, community, or institution discriminates against someone based on their belonging to a racial or ethnic group, in particular a group that’s been marginalized. Racism can be interpersonal, institutional, and even internalized, while discrimination includes attitudes, actions, and systems. Where did racism come from? Is it something society has always dealt with or did something specific lead to its creation? In this article, we’ll explore who started racism, provide five examples of racism, and describe ways to take action.

Racism is discrimination based on an individual’s or community’s race. While bigotry and social exclusion have always occurred, white Europeans and Americans created the modern concept of “race” to justify slavery. 

Where did racism come from?

To understand racism, we must first understand the concept of “race.” It’s a relatively recent development in the history of humankind. For thousands of years, people didn’t categorize humans by race. They were aware of differences and didn’t see everyone as equal, but the concept of race didn’t truly develop until the Transatlantic Slave Trade in the 16th century. Slavery had existed before, but many people worried about the practice’s moral implications. Was it acceptable to enslave other humans? When the demand for enslaved labor increased in the 17th century, white Europeans and Americans needed a justification for slavery. They found one in the form of “race.”

In an article for Time, professor Andrew Curran describes how scientists and philosophers were eager for physical, non-religious explanations for why people from Africa looked different than white Europeans. These thinkers were not only interested in science: they were searching for reasons why slavery was acceptable. Through experiments and theories now recognized as pseudoscientific, white Europeans and Americans created a racial hierarchy that put white people at the top and Black people at the bottom. Some “races” were just born to be enslaved, the scientists and philosophers argued, and it would be wrong to go against the natural order. There were also religious justifications for slavery, but the idea of “race” ran through them all.

How has racism evolved?

In 1859, the last known slave ship arrived in the United States. Five years later, slavery was abolished. Britain had already abolished slavery and effectively ended the Transatlantic Slave Trade a few years before, but racism wasn’t over. Even those who worked to abolish slavery didn’t necessarily think Black people were equal to white people; they just didn’t think slavery was good. Racism continued to inform people’s opinions of each other (and themselves), as well as immigration policy, employment policy, housing regulations, and more.

While overt racism is no longer acceptable in many societies, old policies and subconscious racism continue to fuel racial inequality. Instead of acknowledging the legacy of slavery and other injustices from the past, many people believe inequality is the result of innate racial differences. That assumes race is a biological reality, which it’s not. Modern science shows there is no biological basis for race. Race as a complex, ever-changing political and social construct is real, but there is nothing in our DNA that divides humans into racial groups.

What are five examples of racism?

Racism comes in many subtle and overt forms, so how do you recognize it when it happens? Here are five examples everyone should know about:

Claiming to not see race

Colorblind racism is based on the misconception that because race isn’t real, we shouldn’t ever think about or mention race. Race isn’t a biological reality, but it still exists as a social construct, and racism is certainly real. Those who claim to not see race often end up perpetuating microaggressions, which are unintentional acts or comments that marginalize people based on race. They can even express overtly bigoted views while claiming it’s not about race. According to a study on the effects of colorblindness in a medical setting, researchers found that physicians using a colorblind ideology are actually more likely to use race in their screening and treatment decisions. By refusing to see racism, people trying to be colorblind end up protecting it.

Using racial slurs and spreading racial stereotypes

Racial slurs and racial stereotypes are two of the clearest examples of racism. Slurs are offensive words and phrases used to degrade and discriminate against individuals or groups of people from certain racial and ethnic groups. Many slurs are widely condemned and may even constitute hate speech, which several countries have laws against. Racial stereotypes are generalized beliefs or perceptions about people based on their race, and while many are negative (i.e. certain groups are prone to violence or criminal behavior), some are more positive. Negative stereotypes can be especially harmful as they lead to discrimination, social exclusion, and psychological harm. Even positive stereotypes are still disrespectful as they project oversimplified expectations onto people.

Discriminating against people based on race

Racial discrimination is one of the most prevalent forms of racism. It refers to the unfair and prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups based on their race. Around the world, it manifests in employment, housing, education, the justice system, healthcare, and more. Racial discrimination is often subtle. Laws and actions don’t need to mention race to be discriminatory. As an example, Black girls are more likely to face extreme disciplinary actions at school in the US, but there’s no acknowledgment that it’s because of race. In 2014, a 12-year-old faced criminal charges and expulsion after writing the word “hi” on a locker, while the white female classmate who was involved got a more merciful punishment. There was no policy stating that Black girls would get harsher punishments, but it still happened. Discriminatory actions can still be discriminatory even if they don’t mention race.

Dividing society by race

Known as “racial segregation,” dividing society by race means restricting access to resources, institutions, services, and opportunities based on a person’s race. The two clearest examples are apartheid in South Africa and the Jim Crow laws in the American South. In both, Black people were forced into separate neighborhoods, schools, public facilities, and sections of public transportation. In the United States, a doctrine of “separate but equal” tried to justify this segregation, but Black Americans always got worse treatment and services. The same thing happened in South Africa. Dividing society by race with the intent to hoard resources for “superior” races and prevent race-mixing is blatantly racist. Even if things were “separate but equal,” enforced segregation is still a violation of human rights.

Eliminating people based on race

Killing someone based on their race is a hate crime. When a large number of people are killed based on their race, it’s genocide. Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a specific ethnic group or nation with the intent to eliminate them completely. The Holocaust is a clear example of this. Because Jewish people come from a variety of racial backgrounds, they don’t belong to one race, but the Nazis defined being Jewish as a separate race. Racializing Jewish people was the first step in marginalizing and dehumanizing them. Once the Nazis had dehumanized Jews, they segregated them, isolated them from society, and then began to systematically kill them. The Holocaust represents the worst form of antisemitism, which has been around for hundreds of years. Although it existed before our modern concept of race, many experts call it the oldest form of racism.

How do you take action against racism?

Racism exists everywhere in the world. It continues to harm individuals, communities, and entire countries. What can we do about it? Here are three ways to take action:

#1. Understand what racism looks like

Understanding a problem is the first step to solving that problem. When it comes to racism, there are so many manifestations beyond blatant slurs and discrimination. Many forms of racism are completely unintentional, but that doesn’t negate their negative impact. If you want to take action against racism, you should educate yourself as much as possible. Read books, compose songs, write poems, take classes, and learn from racial justice organizations and activists who’ve spent years teaching about racism. Once you have a better understanding of racism, you can start working much more effectively toward change.

#2. Advocate for policy changes

Institutionalized racism is a complex web of policies, regulations, laws, and other systems that reinforce and perpetuate racism at every level of society. Unless these systems are changed, racism will persist even if individuals adjust their attitudes about race and racism. To take action, you can vote for progressive policies and laws, support advocacy groups, and examine regulations at your workplace, school, or other institutions you’re part of. If you’re not sure where to start, research what policy recommendations racial justice organizations are making.

#3. Commit to personal changes

Because racism is such a huge issue, it can be hard to know how to address it. At the end of the day, all you can control is yourself. Even people who don’t think they’re racist against any groups most likely harbor some subconscious biases, stereotypes, or internalized racism. Commit to making changes in your life, whether that means taking a closer look at your beliefs and interactions, or calling out racism when others express it. Levels of personal responsibility vary. If you’re a member of a marginalized group, your experiences with racism – and your need for personal changes – will be different than a white person. Too often, members of racialized groups are expected to carry the burden of ending racism on their own. Solidarity with other groups, community care, and rest are essential to long-term, sustainable progress.

The post Who Started Racism? History, Examples, Ways to Take Action appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Systemic racism refers to laws, policies, and institutions that give unfair advantages to some racial groups while harming others. In many places, such as the United States, South Africa, Europe, and South Korea, systemic racism remains a persistent issue.

Race doesn’t exist as a biological or genetic fact, but it is a social and political reality. Racism occurs when race is used to justify discrimination and prejudice. Most of the time, this discrimination is directed at people belonging to an ethnic minority or marginalized group. Racism has many forms, but the most pervasive – and most misunderstood – is systemic racism. In this article, we’ll define systemic racism, provide examples, and describe some of the best ways to take action against it.

How is systemic racism defined?

Systemic racism refers to the discriminatory policies and practices baked into society and institutions, including government agencies, the criminal justice system, corporations, and much more. Unlike the racism most people are familiar with, systemic racism does not require an intent to discriminate. That explains why laws and policies that don’t explicitly mention race or ethnicity can still contribute to systemic racism. How is systemic racism different from other forms of racism? To answer this question, we need to define the four main types of racism: individual, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic.

• Individual racism: racist attitudes, beliefs, and actions of individuals, both conscious and unconscious
• Interpersonal racism: racist interactions and expressions between individuals, such as slurs, discrimination, and hateful actions
• Institutional racism: racism within an organization, such as unfair or biased policies and practices based on race
• Systemic racism: racism within all levels of society

Institutional and systemic racism are often used interchangeably. Kwame Ture (then Stokely Carmichael) and Charles V. Hamilton coined the term “institutional racism” in 1967 in their groundbreaking book Black Power: The Politics of Liberation. In this book, the authors define “Black Power” and explore the roots of racism in the United States. They write that institutional racism is harder to identify because it’s more subtle and comes from established and respected societal forces.

What does systemic racism look like?

Systemic racism is a complex, multi-faceted problem, but history provides many clear examples. Here are four to know about:

Segregation in the United States

After the American Civil War ended slavery, the country began a reconstruction project. It was meant to create a society where white and Black people could live together in peace, but it essentially failed. In the wake of this failure, Southern states began creating a system of racial segregation through “Jim Crow” laws. Public services were divided by race, and while the system was supposed to be “separate but equal,” Black citizens nearly always received worse quality schools, hospitals, housing, and more.

A series of laws in the 1960s (the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968) officially ended segregation in the United States, but systemic racism still exists today. According to a National Urban League report from 2022, Black Americans get 73.9% of what white Americans get. Their median household income is lower and they benefit less from home ownership. In fact, Black couples are more than twice as likely as white couples to be denied a mortgage or home improvement loan. These are just a few of the many examples of systemic racism in the United States.

Apartheid in South Africa

In 1948, the all-white National Party won the elections in South Africa and established apartheid, a system based on racial segregation. All non-white South Africans, who made up most of the population, were forced to use separate public facilities and live apart from white people. Interracial marriage was criminalized, millions of Black citizens were moved from their homes, and Black people weren’t given any political power or representation.

People rebelled against apartheid for years, and slowly, the international community took notice. By the 1980s, apartheid was failing. In 1994, the government finally caved and the country ended apartheid with a new constitution and leadership. Systemic racism is still a problem. According to the World Inequality Lab, South Africa’s wealth inequality hasn’t changed since apartheid. Black citizens still deal with an inadequate educational system, while many still live in the isolated townships built for Black citizens.

Anti-Roma discrimination in Europe

The Roma people, who are a traditionally-nomadic Indo-Aryan ethnic group, have faced discrimination for centuries. In Europe, they were often enslaved, forced to assimilate, and viewed as criminal, lazy, and deceitful. During WWII, the Nazis persecuted the Roma, stripped them of their citizenship, and eventually imprisoned them in concentration camps. It’s unknown how many were killed, but it could be as many as 500,000.

Systemic discrimination against the Roma in Europe continues. They’re the continent’s largest ethnic minority, and 80% of them live below the poverty line. Because of persistent stereotypes and institutional barriers, it’s harder for Roma people to find work, good housing, good healthcare, and educational opportunities. During the height of Covid-19, Roma people faced heightened risks, as well as a lack of resources. Hate speech against them also increased, as Roma are often blamed for spreading disease.

Minority discrimination in South Korea

South Korea has a strong national identity, which unfortunately has led to many examples of systemic racism against ethnic minorities. In the 2000s, immigration to South Korea increased. This led to an increase in discrimination as well. As a contributor to the Korea Herald explains, skin color matters. While Koreans are at the top of the racial hierarchy, white people are viewed more favorably than people with darker skin, including South Asian and Southeast Asian immigrants, Black people, and Middle Eastern people. The history of the American military in South Korea could help explain this preference for whiteness.

In 2022, Human Rights Watch reported “pervasive” discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities, as well as refugees and foreign migrants. During the early days of COVID-19, foreigners were initially excluded from relief funds. Mixed-race people also face significant discrimination. Because South Korea does not have an anti-discrimination law, systemic racism leaves those affected without legal recourse.

What are the best ways to take action against systemic racism?

By its nature, systemic racism is baked into every level of society, so taking action against it is challenging. It’s not impossible, however. Here are five ways to combat it:

#1. Identify the forms of systemic racism

To take effective action, we must first identify what systemic racism looks like. As experts have explained, systemic racism is more subtle than individual or interpersonal racism. This is often because the issues bleed over from old, overt forms of discrimination, such as racial segregation in the United States and apartheid in South Africa. Laws undid the right for governments and institutions to directly discriminate, but the racist outcomes persist. Once we better understand what practices, laws, and policies are contributing to unequal, race-based outcomes, we can begin to change society.

#2. Donate to organizations fighting racism

Organizations and activists have fought systemic racism for as long as it has existed. Their work includes research, advocacy, aid, training, and much more. Unfortunately, they often struggle to find the funds they need to perform their work effectively. Anyone can participate in anti-racist work by donating their money, time, expertise, and other resources.

#3. Push for changes in laws and policies

Systemic racism survives through laws, policies, and other practices that create unfair outcomes. Because the laws are usually not clearly racist, they’re often ignored. Unequal outcomes are blamed on other factors. Those in power either don’t see the need for change or prefer the status quo where certain groups get more privileges than others. You can take action by drawing attention to these unfair institutions and demanding change. Protests, petitions, letter-writing, boycotts, and other steps can help raise awareness and put pressure on those in power.

#4. Advocate for equity

Undoing discriminatory practices and policies is an essential step, but something new needs to take their place. As places like the United States prove, ending segregation doesn’t miraculously lead to a utopia of equality and fairness. White people were given years of economic, political, and social advantages, leaving Black people and other ethnic minorities far behind. Laws that give everyone the same resources and opportunities ignore this fact and allow inequality to endure. To end systemic racism, society also needs to establish equitable systems that meet people where they are and serve them based on their needs.

#5. Build solidarity

Systemic racism targets a few specific groups, but it ends up hurting everyone. Collective action is essential, which means building solidarity across ethnic and racial lines. Anti-racist organizations and activists understand the importance of solidarity, which is why they often campaign and develop action plans with other groups. To get involved in solidarity work, you can start by educating yourself on the unique ways systemic racism hurts various groups, what activists have done in the years past, and what work is being done now. As the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer said, “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.”

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Philanthropy is the practice of giving money, time, and other resources to causes like education, healthcare, the environment, and arts and culture.

The world is facing many challenges. Poverty, climate change, failing healthcare systems, and conflict are just a few examples. While progress can feel like a distant dream, individuals, communities, and organizations are working hard to address deeply-rooted issues. Philanthropy represents just one of the methods. It’s the practice of giving money, time, and other resources to improve society and work for the public good. While philanthropists are usually seen as very wealthy individuals, anyone who consistently donates resources to social causes is a philanthropist. In this article, we’ll provide five examples of philanthropy, describe the different types, and explore the benefits.

What does philanthropy look like?

Philanthropy and charity have many similarities and are often used interchangeably, but they are different. The National Philanthropic Trust, which is a public charity that provides philanthropic expertise, defines charity as short-term action. That could include donating books to a school library. Philanthropy, on the other hand, is a more strategic action focused on long-term impact. Funding a new library counts more as philanthropy than charity. Here are five other examples:

#1. Education philanthropy

Education is a favorite cause for many philanthropists. Countless schools, universities, and college departments exist because of philanthropic gifts, while charitable foundations often focus on improving education around the world. In 2022, MacKenzie Scott gave millions of dollars to schools with no conditions, meaning schools were free to use the money how they saw fit. One Cleveland district decided to create the Get More Opportunities Fund, which would fund projects like college visits, teacher proposals, and school facility upgrades. Scott is just one of many philanthropists who participate in education philanthropy. In the United States, philanthropic gifts to colleges and universities totaled almost $60 billion in 2022, according to a report. That number represents a 12.5% increase from 2021. Organizations give the most money, followed by alumni.

#2. Healthcare philanthropy

Healthcare or medical philanthropy focuses on donating money, time, and resources to support healthcare causes, like research, hospital wings, programs, new technology, and much more. Around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic revealed countless fractures in healthcare systems. Philanthropists did their best to help by funding research, emergency grants, and more. According to one report, US institutional grantmakers and high-net-worth donors gave more than $20 billion toward Covid-19-related efforts in 2020. Early that same year, country singer Dolly Parton donated $1 million to research at Vanderbilt University. Seven months later, Moderan’s COVID-19 vaccine was released. Parton was thanked in the preliminary report.

#3. Environmental philanthropy

Environmental philanthropy focuses on sustainability, conservation, climate change mitigation, and other initiatives that protect the environment. As climate change worsens, philanthropic impact is hard to measure as governments and corporations fail to meet their climate targets. If the world cannot lower its emissions, there’s only so much philanthropists can do. Many have focused their efforts on policy advocacy and campaigning. The Greta Thunberg Foundation, which was founded in 2019, donates any money associated with awards or prizes that Greta receives. Donations have supported climate activists, the International Organisation for Migration, and UNICEF.

#4. Arts and culture philanthropy

Philanthropists have funded theaters, museums, art exhibits, concert halls, and creative arts programs for decades. These places are essential to preserving culture, empowering young people, and fostering creativity. According to Giving Compass, arts and culture philanthropy took off in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but one of the most famous philanthropists was supporting the arts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Andrew Carnegie, who made his wealth in oil, steel, and iron, gave away 90% of his fortune during the last 18 years of his life. He founded Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Hall, which is one of the most famous concert venues in the world.

#5. International development philanthropy

In the last few decades, philanthropy has played an outsized role in international development. According to The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, over 40 of the largest philanthropic foundations gave almost $10 billion to developing countries in 2020. That money can be used to prevent diseases, support economic growth, protect women’s rights, and more, but critics warn about the power dynamic at play. With money comes power and influence, and as philanthropists pour funds into developing countries, they advance their own agendas at the same time. One Business & Society article points out that philanthropic foundations often have a “conservative and regressive” outcome, and as resources become scarcer, the need for profit will direct philanthropy.

What are the different types of philanthropy?

Philanthropy doesn’t just look like one wealthy individual writing a check. Here are the four main types:

#1. Corporate philanthropy

Corporate philanthropy is philanthropy fed through a corporation. Using donations, initiatives, foundations, and other actions, corporations help advance the public good. It’s not completely altruistic, however, as corporations benefit from good publicity, tax breaks, and improved business value.

#2. Community philanthropy

Community philanthropy occurs when community members get together and combine resources in service of a cause. They usually collect resources to meet a local need, but communities may also send money or volunteers somewhere else to help with an issue that doesn’t directly affect them. As an example, the California Fire Foundation established a disaster relief fund to support firefighters and citizens in Maui, which experienced a devastating fire in early August of 2023.

#3. Religious philanthropy

Philanthropy motivated by religious beliefs is arguably the oldest form of philanthropy. For centuries, people of faith have distributed resources, established organizations, and encouraged others to work for the public good. Today, many philanthropic organizations have religious roots, though many have moved away from directly proselytizing.

#4. Social impact investing

Social impact investing is a newer form of philanthropy with a key distinction from traditional philanthropy. Rather than give money to a cause or organization with no expectations of a return, social impact investors invest in stocks and organizations they believe benefit the world. It’s not true philanthropy, but many people use social impact investing as a philanthropic strategy.

What are the benefits of philanthropy?

Philanthropy has become a major source of funding for nonprofits and government agencies in recent years, which can present certain issues. There are benefits, as well. Here are four of the main ones to know about:

#1. Philanthropy can be contagious

Considering how much change is needed in the world, many people wonder if their philanthropic actions make any difference. What can one person do? Research suggests empathy and generosity could be contagious. Humans have a region in their brains that activates during pain, but it can also activate when humans see someone else experience pain. Known as “mirror neurons,” this phenomenon could help explain how empathy works. Empathy is a crucial part of what motivates giving, and if people live in a society where generosity is the norm, people are more likely to connect to social issues and engage in philanthropic actions.

#2. Philanthropy can help fill in funding gaps

Most organizations (including government agencies) focused on social causes like education, sustainable development, and women’s rights don’t receive the funding needed to make significant changes. Constantly fighting for funds and never having enough is a waste of time and energy, but until there are systemic changes, organizations need money to stay afloat. Philanthropy can help fill in gaps and draw attention to the funding crises affecting just about every social issue in the world. It’s not a permanent solution, but without philanthropy, many organizations wouldn’t survive.

#3. Philanthropy can unite communities around a cause

When people think about philanthropy, they often picture one wealthy individual doling out funds to their favorite organizations, but one of the types of philanthropy – community philanthropy – is rooted in a grassroots, collaborative approach. Community members come together and collect resources either from the community itself or from external sources. There’s lots of discussion about where funds and other resources go, so instead of concentrating power in the hands of one person, philanthropy can distribute power and promote participation from every community member. When those most affected by decisions are in charge of the decision-making, philanthropy has significantly more impact.

#4. Philanthropy is good for philanthropists, too

Philanthropy should always benefit causes like education and healthcare first and foremost, but there are benefits for those who give, too. Research consistently shows how generosity and kindness trigger the production of chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, which help regulate your mood, give you pleasure, and make you feel connected to others. Health benefits include lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and even an extended lifespan. Philanthropists may also experience a renewed sense of meaning and purpose when they donate resources.

How do you become a philanthropist?

The term “philanthropist” has become closely associated with people rich enough to start foundations and fund entire libraries or hospital wings, but anyone can become a philanthropist. Here’s what you do:

#1. Identify the causes you care most about

Countless causes need your money and time, but it can get so overwhelming, it’s hard to know where to start. First, identify a few causes that matter the most to you. It could be something affecting you or your loved ones, or something outside your community you want to get more involved with.

#2. Check the credibility of an organization before you give your support

Once you know what causes you want to focus on, identify the organizations you think are doing the best job in those areas. You can check a nonprofit’s credibility on sites like Guidestar and Charity Navigator. Organizations also release annual reports that let you see how they’re distributing their money, what percentage goes directly to programs, and so on. Smaller, local organizations may not have structures that are quite this formal, but you can ask around to see what their reputation is like.

#3. Give strategically

Strategy is one of the biggest differences between charity and philanthropy. Once you’ve identified causes and organizations you want to support, consider setting up recurring donations or a volunteering routine. Thinking strategically helps you make the most impact. If you want to formalize your giving even more, talk to a financial advisor. They can help with strategy, too. A strategic mindset also helps you hold yourself and any organizations you support accountable. If you’re just giving your money away or showing up to volunteer shifts without much thought, you might miss opportunities for improvement, as well as problems that threaten the effectiveness of an organization.

#4. Form a group

Do you know other people interested in philanthropy? Consider forming a group of like-minded individuals. It can be something informal, like a group of friends that meets once a month to discuss what organization to donate to or volunteer with, or a more official nonprofit or foundation. What works best depends on everyone’s skills, finances, schedule, motivations, and experiences. If you decide to establish something formal, be sure to consult with a financial or business advisor if you have any questions or concerns.

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Human trafficking is the trading of human beings for sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, and forced labor. It affects millions of women, men, children, migrants, LGBTQ+ people, and others. In this article, we’ll provide the most important facts about human trafficking, define the many forms of human trafficking, and discuss the best ways to help. As the drivers of human trafficking – like poverty, armed conflict, and gender inequality – persist, so must the efforts to stop trafficking.

Human trafficking occurs when people are traded for sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, and forced labor. Examples include familial child trafficking, organ trafficking, forced criminality, and “Romeo” sex trafficking. Communities can combat this global issue by tackling its causes.

What should everyone know about human trafficking?

The epidemic of human trafficking has gotten more attention in recent years, but this attention has coincided with another epidemic: misinformation. Inaccurate or misleading information makes it much harder for governments, nonprofits, and individuals to combat human trafficking in their communities and abroad. Here are five facts everyone should know:

#1. Human trafficking takes many forms

While popular media tends to focus on one type of sex trafficking, the reality is more complex and diverse. According to the International Labour Organization, almost 50 million people lived in modern slavery in 2021. 27.6 million were in forced labor while 22 million were in forced marriages. Commercial sexual exploitation is a form of modern slavery, but there are also millions forced to work in agriculture, fishing, construction, manufacturing, mining, and more. Trafficking victims may receive wages, but if the wages are low and working conditions are abusive, it’s still considered trafficking. It’s also still trafficking even if people initially consented to work or sex acts.

#2. Human trafficking happens everywhere, but it’s concentrated in certain places

Human trafficking is a global issue, but it’s more prevalent in certain parts of the world. According to the International Labour Organization, Africa; Asia and the Pacific Region; and Europe and Central Asia have the highest ratios of human trafficking. This picture may not be accurate, however, as the Americas and Arab States don’t collect as much data. A lack of data is a persistent barrier for those combating human trafficking. Without clear information, it’s challenging to assess the problem’s scale.

#3. COVID-19 impacted trafficking

According to the UNODC’s 2022 report on trafficking, which covers 141 countries, the COVID-19 pandemic had “far-reaching implications” for trafficking and the efforts to fight it. For the first time since the UNODC started collecting data, the number of detected victims decreased by 11% compared to 2019. However, this likely means detection efforts suffered due to COVID. There weren’t necessarily fewer victims. As an example, the report suggests that the closure of public spaces likely drove sexual exploitation from more easily detected spaces to “less visible and less safe” areas. The pandemic also had a huge impact on economies and gender equality around the world. Poverty and gender inequality both fuel trafficking.

#4. Many factors drive human trafficking

While trafficking can affect anyone, certain factors impact a person’s risk. Poverty is one of the most important. When people are desperate, they may sell themselves or even their children to survive. They’re also more likely to accept work that quickly becomes slavery. If there aren’t any legitimate employment opportunities, rates of exploitative work increase. Similar issues emerge during armed conflict, which destabilizes the economy and forces people to flee their homes. Migrants and refugees are among the most targeted groups for traffickers. While these factors affect everyone’s risk, women and girls are subjected to more violent forms of trafficking.

#5. Human trafficking has financial implications

While precise numbers are impossible to track, the human trafficking industry could be worth $150 billion a year. Governments, corporations, and individuals around the world benefit from these profits. According to research, countless products including cotton, bricks, cocoa, bananas, and smartphones can be linked to forced labor, including child labor. In 2020, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute identified 83 foreign and Chinese companies directly or indirectly benefiting from the use of Uyghur workers. Since 2014, the Chinese government has been accused of subjecting Uyghurs, who are an ethnic minority, to persistent human rights abuses such as forced sterilization and forced labor. The use of trafficking to create everyday products makes this an issue everyone should care about.

Learn more human trafficking facts.

What are examples of human trafficking?

Understanding what trafficking looks like is essential to prevention and solution strategies. Experts have identified several forms of trafficking around the world. Here are five of the most common:

#1. Forced labor

According to the International Labour Organization, 27.6 million people are in forced labor. Most are in the private sector, while 6.3 million are in forced commercial sexual exploitation and 3.9 million are in forced labor imposed by the state. Agriculture, domestic work, construction, manufacturing and entertainment are hot spots for forced labor. Psychological abuse, physical violence, and debt bondage keep people from running. Debt bondage is a form of trafficking that burdens people with debts they can’t pay off. Forced labor can affect anyone, but it’s more common for people experiencing poverty, children, people without a good education, and people who can’t find regular work. Migrant workers are also vulnerable and can become trapped in countries where they don’t speak the language or know what their rights are.

#2. Familial child trafficking

Trafficking affects over 1 million children every year. 66% are girls, while 58% of all kids are trafficked for sexual exploitation. According to the International Organization for Migration, family members are involved in almost half of all child trafficking cases. Kids from poor areas are most at risk as their parents may feel they have no choice but to force their children to work. Child marriage is another type of familial child trafficking that, according to UNICEF, affects around 1 in 5 girls around the world. While it’s less common, millions of young boys are married off, too.

#3. Organ trafficking

Thanks to advances in science, it’s possible to transplant organs from one human to another. However, the need has always surpassed supply, which creates a market for illegal organ trafficking. According to research, the illegal trade generates around $1.5 billion every year from 12,000 illegal transplants. Unemployed people, people experiencing homelessness, and migrants are especially vulnerable as they may sell their organs to survive. In other cases, traffickers mislead victims about what’s happening. In Nepal, one district is known as “Kidney Valley” because of how many men have been abducted for their organs or driven by poverty to voluntarily sell. Organ removal surgery is risky, so many people end up unable to work or more vulnerable to severe illness.

#4. Forced criminal activity

When traffickers gain control of a person, they often force them to commit crimes. This takes work off the trafficker’s plate and shields them from liability. They weren’t the ones to commit the crime, after all, it was their victim. Instead of offering help, the justice system often punishes survivors without recognizing the abuse and exploitation that led to a crime. In 2013, a report from Anti-Slavery International found that trafficked young people, many from Vietnam, were being forced to work in cannabis factories. When they were discovered, the victims were prosecuted and deported despite their exploitation. In the UK, other common crimes included pickpocketing, ATM theft, metal theft, and forced begging.

#5. The “Romeo” or “lover boy” sex trafficking method

While the media often portrays sex traffickers as dangerous strangers, most sex trafficking victims know their abusers. In fact, many believe they are in a romantic relationship. Known as the “Romeo” or “lover boy” method, this type of exploitation involves a trafficker grooming and manipulating a victim into an intimate relationship. The relationship may seem normal at first, but soon, the trafficker manipulates their victim into sex exploitation. Threats of blackmail and violence are also used to keep victims trapped. According to the Government of the Netherlands, the internet and social media have given traffickers easier access to victims, especially young ones.

How do we stop human trafficking?

Human trafficking is not a new problem, but it’s a persistent one. Because it’s happening all over the world, it can be hard to find hope. Luckily, the solutions to human trafficking are fairly simple, although not easy. Here’s what needs to be done:

End poverty

Poverty is one of the main causes of trafficking. It makes people more vulnerable to trafficking and creates the conditions that drive people to become traffickers. According to the World Bank, almost 8% of the global population lives on less than $2.15 a day while a staggering 47% live on less than $6.85 a day. These meager wages make it harder to access essential services like education and healthcare. If governments substantially address poverty, rates of trafficking would plummet. Individuals can do their part by advocating for better wages, investing in quality public education, and learning what their community needs.

Address climate change

Like poverty, climate change has a compounding effect on every aspect of life. It endangers people’s health, safety, access to education, and much more. As climate change worsens, people are forced to leave their homes. Traffickers target refugees and migrants, especially women and children. Desperation makes these groups easier to exploit and manipulate, while other factors like language barriers, a lack of education about a different country’s laws, and discrimination make it hard to seek help. To fight human trafficking, individuals can draw attention to the climate crisis, advocate for better protections for climate refugees, and demand accountability from the corporations most responsible for C02 emissions.

Achieve gender equality

According to the World Bank, 2.4 billion women of working age are not getting equal economic opportunities compared to men. This doesn’t just affect individual women; it impacts entire families across multiple generations. Gender inequality affects economics, as well. The International Monetary Fund found that if countries with the greatest gender inequality closed the labor force participation gap, they could increase economic output by an average of 35%. Individuals can help their communities achieve gender equality by supporting women’s leadership, empowering girls through education, valuing traditionally “feminine” work, and fighting against gender bias.

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Masters in Global Health

A Master’s in Global Health and human rights are intrinsically intertwined in numerous ways. Pursuing a Master’s in Global Health equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to address health challenges that have a broader societal and global dimension. This discipline is directly and indirectly relevant to human rights in aspects such as the right to health, health equity, gender rights, migration, health in detention as well as advocacy and empowerment.

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Gender inequality is the prejudicial treatment of people based on their gender. While it affects women and girls most prominently, gender inequality is not limited to the male/female binary.   

Gender inequality is a persistent and global problem. While equality in education and employment has improved, things like COVID-19 and climate change have stalled progress in many regions. In this article, we’ll discuss the meaning of gender inequality, the most important facts about it, and how you can take action.

What’s the meaning of gender inequality?

Gender inequality occurs when people face discrimination, fewer opportunities, and increased violence because of their gender. When gender inequality exists in a society, it produces unequal outcomes that hurt not just those targeted because of their gender, but everyone else, too. Six factors can help us define gender inequality’s meaning and impact:

#1. Economic inequality

A person’s gender impacts how much money they make. According to UN Women, women make just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. Group-specific gaps widen when you look at additional factors like a person’s ethnicity, race, age, immigration status, whether they have children, and so on. This has a huge impact on an individual’s life, but failing to close the gap impacts the global economy, too. According to a Moody’s Analytics report, the global economy could experience a $7 trillion boost if there was no gender gap. Currently, closing the gap could take as long as 132 years.

#2. Less political representation

Men have dominated the political world for centuries, while other genders lack significant representation. Based on data from January 2023, it would take another 130 years for women to achieve gender equality in the world’s highest positions of power. Only 17 countries have a female Head of State, while 19 have a female Head of Government. Several obstacles make political representation difficult, such as gender-imbalanced funding, discriminatory election rules, and gender stereotypes surrounding political ambition and power.

#3. Unequal education

Education access plays a huge role in gender inequality. When girls don’t get the same opportunities as boys, they face significant barriers for the rest of their lives. A lack of education can lead to poorly-paid and dangerous jobs, increased risks for gender-based violence, and poor health. Studies have shown links between good education and improved health not only for women, but their children, too. The gender gaps in education have been narrowing for years, but certain parts of the world still struggle. As an example, since the Taliban regained control in Afghanistan, most girls have been banned from receiving any education beyond the sixth grade.

#4. Worse healthcare 

Gender often affects a person’s access to quality healthcare. Bias is a big reason why. According to research, women are less represented in leadership, less represented in clinical studies, and less likely to have their symptoms taken seriously. Factors like race contribute to these issues. As an example, Black women in the United States are much more likely to die in childbirth compared to white women. Trans people are also affected by gender inequality in healthcare. They’re much more likely to endure discrimination and lower-quality treatments, which leads to worse health outcomes.

#5. Increased violence

Gender-based violence is one of the most persistent global problems. Based on data from the World Health Organization, at least 1 in 3 women have experienced sexual or physical violence. That includes violence perpetrated by an intimate partner or someone who isn’t their partner. Most jarringly, 1 in 4 of those women experience violence between 15-24 years old. Because many women do not report abuse because of stigma or fears of retaliation, gender-based violence is most likely more prevalent than reported. Trans people and others who do not conform to gender binaries also face increased risks of violence.

#6. Unequal household responsibilities

Gender inequality can manifest in the unequal distribution of household responsibilities. Within a single home, it may not seem significant, but globally, women perform more hours of unpaid work (childcare, cleaning, cooking, etc) than men. When combined, women perform 12.5 billion hours of work without pay. They subsidize labor that keeps families afloat, supports the economy, and fills in for social services. These responsibilities also give women less time to work for money.

What facts do you need to know about gender inequality?

Gender inequality is complex, but there are five facts everyone should know:

#1. No country has reached full parity

No country has achieved gender equality, but nine of the top 10 have closed at least 80% of their gaps. For 14 years, Iceland has been the most gender-equal country. It’s closed 91.2% of its gender gap. The healthcare and education gaps are closed entirely, and since 2018, Icelandic companies with more than 25 employees have been legally required to show they pay equal wages. Norway, Finland, and Sweden are the next most equal countries. Overall, health, education, and political empowerment improved around the world, but economic participation and the opportunity gap expanded.

#2. COVID-19 worsened gender inequality

The world was making decent progress on gender equality, but the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just pause improvements. It reversed them. A global study published in the Lancet found that women experienced harsher social and economic impacts than men. The worst gaps were in employment and unpaid labor. Women and girls were also more likely to leave school and face more gender-based violence. Why? COVID-19 exacerbated existing issues. Women make up more of the informal economy, which was hit hard by COVID-19, and are more likely to take on unpaid labor like caring for children and elderly family members. It will take a lot of hard work to get gender equality back on track.

#3. Climate change negatively impacts gender equality 

Climate change can’t have intentional biases against women, but it affects women differently regardless. This is especially true in areas most affected by drought, floods, famines, and other climate-driven events. In these regions, women rely on natural resources and agriculture for their livelihoods. As climate change makes agricultural activities harder, girls often need to leave school to help their families. Climate change also fuels conflict, which makes girls and women more vulnerable to human trafficking, child marriage, and other violence. When fighting for gender equality, experts and organizations cannot forget about climate change.

#4. Poverty is gendered

Women and girls are more likely to live in poverty than men. According to 2022 forecasts from the UNDP and the Pardee Center for International Futures, as many as 416 million women could be living in extreme poverty in 2030 compared to 401 million men. This represents a “high damage” scenario, but even in lower estimates, women are still more likely to live on just $2.15 a day. Women in Sub-Saharan Africa are most at risk.

#5. Gender inequality has mental health consequences

Mental health is a complex combination of factors, but studies show gender inequality’s negative effect on mental health. Studies show a link between gender-based discrimination and mental health issues like chronic stress and trauma. Women are also more likely to have anxiety, panic disorders, depression, eating disorders, PTSD, and so on. It’s difficult to get a full picture of society’s mental health because of stigma and research limitations. However, if men do suffer from mental illness at the same rate as women, but are either not seeking help or not reporting it, it could still be considered an effect of gender inequality. Gendering emotions and conditions like anxiety and depression hurt everyone.

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What are ways to take action against gender inequality?

Gender inequality spreads its roots across areas like work, household responsibilities, healthcare, education, and more. Here are four ways to take action:

#1. Increase funding for education and social services

While education equality has seen significant victories, it’s still being threatened in many places. Increasing funds to areas like teacher salaries, operating expenses, and programs for girls are vital, but you can also help education access by supporting communities. Girls often leave school because their labor fills in gaps in social services, but when communities have the social services they need, girls are more likely to stay in school. School needs to be a safe place, too, so action can be taken in areas like building safety, clean water and sanitation, policies on harassment and bullying, and teacher training.

#2. Fight for reproductive rights

Reproductive rights have suffered in recent years. Every year, millions of people don’t receive quality care for menstruation, pregnancy, abortion, and other reproductive health needs. People can take action by advocating for increased healthcare access and legal protections, and by donating time or money to organizations that provide essential health supplies and services. Gender equality is closely linked to reproductive freedom, so it’s essential people have the right to have or not have children.

#3. Advocate for increased economic protections and equal pay

The link between economic inequality and gender inequality is one of the toughest to address. When people can’t participate equally in the economy because of their gender, it ignites a trail of consequences that can affect the healthcare, housing, education, and wealth of generations to come. Economic protections like inheritance reform and land rights are essential, while equal pay for equal work, flexible work arrangements, and support for unpaid work matter, too.

#4. Speak out against discriminatory policies and behavior

Gender inequality is an economic and political reality, but it has social and cultural effects, as well. People can take action by calling out discriminatory policies. Some may not mention gender, but if the outcomes contribute to historical gender inequality or harmful discrimination, they need to be addressed. Discriminatory behavior and language should be called out, as well. While jokes may seem harmless, they hurt individuals and strengthen the mindsets that help gender inequality endure.

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The field of women’s rights includes education, healthcare, employment, safety, security, migration, and more. Countless organizations include women’s rights in their platforms, while others dedicate all their resources to improving life for women and girls across the planet. If you’re interested in a women’s rights career, you’ll most likely begin with an internship. Are there any that are paid? While paid internships (and ones that pay well) are still fairly uncommon, there are some organizations offering stipends or hourly wages for interns. Here are nine examples:

#1. Women In International Security

Internships: Gender and Global Security Program

WIIS lists open internships on its Career Opportunities web page. At the time of writing, the organization offered a Gender and Global Security Program internship. It was a part-time, 20-week paid internship with preference given to candidates living in or near Washington, D.C. Interns help the development and implementation of external communications and WIIS program objectives, including participation in trainings and meetings, monitoring and tracking activities and research, and helping with drafting and proofreading external email campaigns, marketing materials, and so on. International candidates are welcome, but you must be authorized to work in the US. The organization doesn’t facilitate visas.

WIIS is an NGO dedicated to advancing gender equality and leadership opportunities for women in international peace and security. Their activities include supporting professional development, hosting events, leading gender equality research projects and policy initiatives, and building a community of mentors, advocates, and experts. Within the international peace and security field, WIIS focuses on conflict and gender-based violence, climate security, global health security, technology and gender, and more.

#2. RepresentWomen

Internships: Seasonal

RepresentWomen offers part-time paid internships (and for-credit opportunities) to recent graduates and college students each spring, summer, and fall. Interns can work in areas like communications; administration; and partnerships and outreach. According to the website, paid interns receive $15/hour if they’re undergraduates, and $18/hour if they’re graduate students not receiving academic credit. The program is open to remote interns. Good candidates should be available to work 15-20 hours a week on their own schedule.

RepresentWomen is a nonprofit committed to providing women with equal access to appointed and elected offices. Using evidence-based solutions, the organization works to remove structural barriers and motivate changemakers. Their solutions include gender-balanced funding, ranked-choice voting, legislative rule changes, and gender-balanced appointment and hiring rules. RepresentWomen is based in the United States in Maryland with a staff who works virtually around the US and the world.

#3. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research

Internships: Seasonal

IWPR offers paid internships in Research; Communications; and Accounting and Operations. Flexible internships are usually available for the spring and fall university semesters, while full-time internships are also available for 10 weeks in the summer. International students and college students of any major are welcome. Ideal candidates should have a commitment to women’s rights and economic justice, excellent writing and communication skills, and experience in general office work. During the internship, you’ll learn how the nonprofit sector works and gain a deeper understanding of the policy research on the intersectional issues affecting women’s economic justice.

IWPR focuses on economic justice for women. It’s a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that conducts and shares research that shapes public policy and improves opportunities for women. While the organization may get input from funders, advocates, policymakers, and others, it maintains an independent stance on its research. Priority areas include race, ethnicity, gender, the economy, and its intersections.

#4. The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

Internships: Seasonal

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights offers internships for the fall, winter, and summer. Interns perform tasks such as tracking legislation on civil rights issues, attending coalition meetings, helping coordinate grassroots events, providing administrative support, and more. All internships are remote. To apply, you must be currently enrolled in an accredited college and have finished at least three semesters of coursework. Legal interns must be enrolled in an accredited law school. Fall and winter interns are paid $20/hour for a minimum of 24 hours per week, while summer interns get $20/hour for at most 40 hours per week.

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Rights Human Rights is a coalition of over 200 organizations that promote civil and human rights in the United States. It’s not solely focused on women’s rights, but targets areas like economic justice, justice reform, immigrant rights, and education equity are inseparable from women’s rights.

#5. National Women’s Law Center

Internships: Summer

NWCL internship offers fall and spring semester internships, but these are only for academic credit. The summer internship is paid. According to the website, positions are limited, and if you receive academic credit for your internship from your school, you’re not eligible for the paid summer program. Interns are paid up to $6,375 for 10 weeks with 37.5 hours per week. The program usually runs between June and August. Interns who receive partial or full funding from another party are welcome to apply, and if the funding is less than NWCL’s rate, NWCL will make up the difference. As part of its paid program, NWCL hosts an Iris Feldman Mitgang Intern, who supports the organization’s Judges and Court efforts.

For 50 years, NWCL has focused on gender justice in public policy, the court system, and society at large. It works on issues like child care, abortion, equal pay, healthcare, income, Title IX, and the Supreme Court. Using the law, NWCL seeks to change culture and end gender inequity that harms everyone, and especially women of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and low-income women and families.

#6, Women’s Congressional Policy Institute

Internships: Seasonal

WCPI hosts interns throughout the year. They are open to current undergraduate students and those who graduated within six months of the application cycle deadline. These internships are hybrid (remote and in-office), so applicants need to live in the DC area. Interns are paid $17/hour, which is the minimum wage for D.C, and work 20-40 hours a week. Accommodations for class schedules can be made. Not majoring in women’s rights? WCPI accepts students for any major. Communications/Development interns help expand the organization’s outreach and fundraising initiatives, while Policy interns help staff on programmatic and administrative projects.

WCPI was founded in 1995. It’s a nonpartisan, nonprofit public policy organization dedicated to representative democracy and women’s leadership. Its goal is to advance issues important to women and nurture future women leaders. The organization works closely with the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, which is bipartisan. With the Caucus, WCPI hosts congressional briefings and meetings on issues like women’s health, international issues, workforce issues, and more.

#7. Malala Fund

Internships: Periodically available

We couldn’t find a specific internship page on the Malala Fund website, but it has offered paid internships in the recent past, such as the Global Advocacy internship in 2023. We found a description on CharityJob. The part-time position was based in the UK and supported the advocacy team with events, conference planning, research, and administrative work. Interns were paid £11.95/hour (for 20 hours per week) and got virtual remote working options with the flexibility to work from the London office.

Founded in 2013, the Malala Fund invests in education advocates and activists working to change policies that bar girls from attending school in their communities. The organization focuses on regions where the most girls lack secondary education, like Afghanistan, Lebanon, Pakistan, and India. By 2025, the Malala Fund hopes to see a significant increase in well-educated girls in its target countries, as well as better-funded education systems and communities where girls get equal opportunities to learn.

#8. Collective Power for Reproductive Justice

Internships: Summer

Collective Power places interns around the United States at organizations working in reproductive rights, health, and/or justice. All interns get a $4,500 stipend during their full-time, 10-week summer internship. They must also attend an intensive 3-day training at the annual Collective Power Conference, which includes workshops on nonprofits, grassroots organizing, self-care, social justice, and more. To be eligible, you need to be an undergraduate at a US college/university (this includes community and junior college) who is returning to school in the Fall semester after the internship. That means you can’t be graduating in the spring of summer or the internship year.

Collective Power was founded as the Civil Liberties and Public Policy Program in 1981. The organization grew into a national reproductive justice organization that aims to mobilize young people, connect them with allies, and support the next generation of leaders. Collective Power works with almost 40 organizations nationwide and produces programs, classes, and workshops.

#9. Women’s International League for Peace & Freedom

Internships: Periodically available

We couldn’t find any open internships at the time of writing, but WILPF has offered paid internships in the past and is part of the charter We Pay Our Interns. In 2021, it offered a 6-month digital communication internship. The intern could be remote with the possibility of occasionally working in the office if you were based in Geneva. Interns reported to the Digital Communications Coordinator, who they supported with tasks like helping to develop the website, implementing campaigns, and participating in the creation and coordination of newsletters.

WILPF is a member organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, with Sections and Groups in over 40 countries. Its partners include networks, platforms, coalitions, and civil society organizations, while it values equality and human rights, anti-militarism, solidarity, integrity, and more. It conducts work through activism, advocacy, mobilizing, and alliance-building. WILPF works around the world but focuses on countries like Afghanistan, Cameroon, Columbia, and Ukraine.

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Social justice lawyers, who are also called human rights lawyers, focus on social justice and human rights like racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, worker rights, immigrant rights, environmental justice, and gender equality.

Social justice refers to fairness and equality within society, which includes housing, work, healthcare, education, criminal justice, and much more. Social justice principles argue for equal access to all opportunities, resources, and privileges within society, regardless of a person’s racial background, gender, age, marital status, religion, and other characteristics. Social justice lawyers focus on achieving justice for their clients and holding those who violate their rights and freedoms accountable. In this article, we’ll discuss what tasks a social justice lawyer performs, what salary they can expect, and what career paths are available.

What does a social justice lawyer do?

Like all lawyers, social justice lawyers perform many tasks, but because they’re motivated by justice and human rights protection, they often take on extra responsibilities. Here’s a brief list of what a social justice lawyer might do:

They represent clients who’ve had their rights violated

Many social justice lawyers work within the court system. When they take on a client’s case, which can involve discrimination or another violation of their client’s rights, the lawyer will file a complaint or lawsuit. They prepare for court by conducting research, prepping their client, interviewing relevant parties, writing arguments, and more. A social justice lawyer must understand how the court system works, meet all deadlines on time, and behave professionally. Their goal is to get their client justice.

They work on impact litigation

When social justice lawyers bring cases to court, they want to achieve justice for a specific client or group, but sometimes, it’s about achieving a larger change, too. Impact litigation (also called strategic litigation) occurs when a lawyer brings a lawsuit in hopes of changing a specific policy or law viewed as discriminatory or otherwise unjust. Class action lawsuits are a common method because they show a law or policy has a widespread negative effect, but individual claims can affect things, too. In the United States, Brown v. Board of Education is one of the most famous examples of impact litigation as it began ending segregation. Social justice lawyers and social justice organizations often take a proactive approach and search for impact litigation cases.

They advocate for just and equal policies

Many social justice lawyers are also advocates, which means they work to influence lawmakers and politicians. Using their expertise, they work to shape and promote legislation and policies that protect the rights of marginalized communities and make society a more fair, equal place. That can include working with legislators who are drafting new laws and engaging in lobbying efforts. Because they know the law so well, social justice lawyers play a key role in shaping the future of human rights law.

They help educate the public

Most people don’t understand the laws and policies that shape their lives, which is why the expertise and experience of social justice lawyers are so important. Lawyers can serve as essential guides and educators. Through books, workshops, classes, and other venues, lawyers explain the rights and freedoms people are entitled to, how legislation and policies protect or don’t protect them, and what people can do to empower themselves and their communities.

They work with activists and social justice organizations

Many social justice lawyers collaborate with activists and social justice organizations. It can be in a formal capacity as an employee or board member, or as a supporter, partner, or volunteer. They have many skills to offer and can help activists and organizations navigate potentially risky legal situations, address the root causes of injustice, and advocate for better laws and policies.

They research and analyze data on social justice issues

The best social justice lawyers stay up-to-date on human rights issues, legislative trends, and the effects of systemic injustices. They may perform original research using access to legal databases, primary documents, academic resources, and more, but they also have the skills necessary to discern meaning from pre-existing research. Some lawyers focus on the research side of things while others work primarily in court with clients.

How much do social justice lawyers make?

Social justice lawyers have a wide salary range, which shows the job’s potential for advancement. According to ZipRecruiter, a human rights lawyer in the United States earns an average of $97,846 in 2023. Salaries went as low as $49,500 and as high as $140,000. Most were between $79,000 and $109,500. Specific salaries depend on factors such as:

Experience

More experienced lawyers earn the highest salaries. When you’re entry-level, you have yet to prove your skills and gain the type of experience that makes you valuable to your organization.

Education

All social justice lawyers need a law degree, but if you have additional education or special credentials, you may access jobs with higher salaries. The law school you attended can also affect how much an organization is willing to pay you; prestigious law school grads tend to land the best jobs after graduation.

Location

Your area’s cost of living and its demand for social justice lawyers affects your salary. If you move to a city with a high cost of living, you’re going to earn more than if you moved to an area with a low cost of living, but everything costs more, too. You’re also likely to earn a higher salary if there’s a high demand for social justice lawyers.

Employer

Social justice lawyers work for employers like nonprofits, government agencies, private law firms, corporations, and more. Large private firms and other well-funded organizations tend to offer higher salaries, while nonprofits have tighter budgets and fewer funds.

Specialization

The more specialized your education and experience, the fewer people you’re competing with when it comes to jobs. Some specializations are also in high demand, which affects your salary. Labor, immigration, energy, and health law are just four examples of specializations in greater demand these days.

What career paths are available to a social justice lawyer?

Social justice is a broad field, so there are many career paths (including outside of law) available to a lawyer. You can work at government agencies, nonprofits, private firms, and other organizations. Here are five examples of career paths:

Immigration lawyer

Immigration lawyers work with individuals and families immigrating from one country to another. They can also represent refugees, asylum-seekers, trafficking victims, and anyone else caught up in the immigration system. A lawyer’s job is to walk clients through all the immigration processes, help with any needed translation and interpretation services, connect clients to social services and employment opportunities, and represent their best interests. Immigration lawyers can advocate for laws that protect immigrants, hold those who exploit immigrants accountable, and make the immigration process smoother and less complex.

Criminal defense lawyer

Criminal defense lawyers defend those accused of committing a crime. Their job is to ensure their client’s rights are protected, regardless of their guilt or innocence. Criminal defense lawyers can work as public defenders or private attorneys. This specialization can be difficult as the public and other attorneys may harbor ill will toward a lawyer who chooses to defend those accused of crimes. Criminal justice lawyers can fight against the abuse and exploitation of those accused (and convicted) of crimes, while also advocating for better legal and social protections.

Family lawyer

Family lawyers specialize in domestic and family-related issues, including divorce, domestic violence, child adoption, child support, custody, and so on. Being a social justice lawyer in this field means addressing issues like gender equality, children’s rights, women’s rights, protection against abuse, and more. When it comes to advocacy, family lawyers can fight for legislation that better protects children, people fleeing domestic violence, and others in vulnerable positions.

Medical malpractice lawyer

Medical malpractice lawyers represent people injured by a medical professional. It can be due to improper treatment, negligence, a misdiagnosis, or other error that resulted in harm. Common examples include errors made during childbirth, anesthesia errors, and pharmaceutical errors. These types of cases can be very expensive, so a lawyer interested in social justice can offer pro bono services for those who can’t afford a costly lawsuit. Medical malpractice lawyers can represent those who have been directly injured, as well as the families of those who have died as a result of their injuries. Lawyers can advocate for better safeguards at medical clinics, more thorough background checks for medical professionals, and steps that address the roots of medical errors, which could include racial and gender bias.

Employment lawyer

Employment lawyers can represent employers or employees, but if you’re interested in social justice, you most likely want to work on behalf of an employee. Cases often involve things like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, whistleblower protections, sexual harassment, and contract violations. They work to protect rights related to gender, age, disability, marital status, ethnicity, and other characteristics often used to justify discrimination. Lawyers can also advocate for better worker protections, better wages, harsher penalties for union-busting, and more.

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Learn more about inequality and discrimination as they relate to economics, gender, technology, and much more from leading educational institutions

Inequality and discrimination have been a subject of study for fields like history, economics, politics, public policy, gender studies, and much more for decades. How do we achieve a more equal world free from discrimination? In this article, we’ll list 10 courses that seek to answer that question. The courses cover topics like poverty and inequality, gender inequality, anti-discrimination law, inequality in global pandemics, and more. Most of the courses are free to audit with an option to pay for a verified certificate.

#1. Understanding Poverty and Inequality (SDGAcademy)
#2. Understanding Gender Inequality (University of Exeter)
#3. Inequality and Democracy (Utrecht University)
#4. America’s Poverty and Inequality Course (Stanford University)
#5. Comparative Equality and Anti-Discrimination Law (Stanford University)
#6. Discrimination and Diversity in the Modern Workplace (Berkeley University)
#7. Understanding Gender Equity (Catalyst)
#8. Fighting for Equality: 1950-2018 (Columbia University)
#9. Justice and Equity in Technology Policy (University of Michigan)
#10. COVID-19 and Society: Inequality in Global Pandemics (UBCx)

#1. Understanding Poverty and Inequality (SDGAcademy)

Created in partnership with the Center for Sustainable Development at Brookings Institution, this course provides an overview of the definitions, scale, and scope of poverty and inequality around the world. You’ll study links between poverty, inequality, and well-being, as well as the opportunities for socioeconomic mobility, the challenges facing marginalized populations, and links to climate change, migration, and conflict. By the course’s end, you’ll also be ready to explain the different policy approaches and tools that address poverty and inequality.

There are 18 people involved in this course, including John McArthur (Senior Fellow and Director, Center for Sustainable Development), Chandrika Bahadur (Director, SDG Academy), and Sabina Alkire (Director, Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative). With 2-4 hours of work per week, you can finish the course in 6 weeks. There are no prerequisites, but it’s an intermediate-level course. It’s best for policy professionals, development practitioners, and advanced undergraduates and graduate students interested in poverty, inequality, economics, and development.

#2. Understanding Gender Inequality (University of Exeter)

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals include gender equality and the empowerment of women. In this course, you’ll learn about gender inequality in the workplace, within family units, and in the media. Topics covered include gender as a construct, how gender inequality works in the workplace and at home, and how to challenge gender inequality through changing awareness, language, attitudes, and structures. By the course’s end, you’ll be ready to explain gender inequality, describe how practices are reinforced, discuss types of inequality, and identify ways to challenge gender inequality.

Emma J, who is a lecturer at the University of Exeter focused on gender relations and workplace discrimination, teaches the course. With 3 hours of work per week, you can finish the course in 4 weeks. There are no prerequisites, though the course is designed for people older than 16 and who are preparing for higher education or entering the workforce. Some knowledge of gender inequality will be helpful.

#3. Inequality and Democracy (Utrecht University)

Inequality is growing within most countries around the world. How does this affect political equality? Can equal political power and economic inequality coexist? In this course, you’ll cover topics like the rise of economic inequality, property rights and corporations, democracy, campaign finance, capital flight and tax avoidance, and alternatives to current economic systems. As an interdisciplinary course, you’ll learn through lenses like politics, philosophy, economics, law, and history.

Yara Salman (MSc), Rutger Claassen (Prof. Dr), and Michael Bennett (Dr.) teach the course. It’s a great choice for anyone interested in politics, media, education, government, or law. With 3-4 hours of work per week, you should finish in 6 weeks. You can audit the course for free or pay for full access and a verified certificate upon completion. As a beginner course, there are no prerequisites; it’s about as difficult as a first-year undergraduate course.

#4. America’s Poverty and Inequality Course (Stanford University)

The United States is facing a time where income inequality is the worst it’s ever been, poverty is high, and racial and gender inequalities persist. This course explores the reasons why. Students will learn the 40 key research results that explain US policy and the new science of poverty and inequality from leading scholars, who present their own research.

This course was developed by the Stanford Center on Poverty and Inequality. It’s taught by David Grusky (Edward Ames Edmonds Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences) and Lindsay Owens (Economic Policy advisor, office of Senator Elizabeth Warren). The course is divided into 8 modules with short videos and readings, most of which come from Inequality in the 21st Century. The course is free and doesn’t require any prerequisites. With 2-4 hours of work per week, you can finish in about 9 weeks.

#5. Comparative Equality and Anti-Discrimination Law (Stanford University)

Are you interested in learning about anti-discrimination law? This course uses a problem-based approach to study anti-discrimination law globally. You’ll compare US and European legal systems with national, regional, and international legal systems, like those in India and Brazil. Over five modules, you’ll cover employment discrimination and harassment, marriage equality, affirmative action/gender parity, hate speech, and secularism and the rights of religious minorities.

Richard Thompson Ford (George E. Osborne Professor of Law, Stanford Law School) and David B. Oppenheimer (Clinical Professor of Law, University of Berkeley) teach the course. With 2-6 hours of work per week, you can finish in 16 weeks. No prerequisites are required, though the textbook Comparative Equality and Anti-Discrimination Law, Third Edition enhances the course.

#6. Discrimination and Diversity in the Modern Workplace (Berkeley University)

This course is part of the “Beyond Diversity: Anti-Racism and Equity in the Workplace” professional certificate. It helps professionals advance in their careers by helping them navigate complex group dynamics, communicate effectively, and make key decisions about equity goals. In “Discrimination and Diversity in the Modern Workplace,” you’ll learn how to identify and respond to biases, understand the perspectives of minoritized employees, implement equitable hiring and evaluation practices, and create an inclusive, equitable workplace for everyone.

Rodolfo Mendoza-Denton (Lead Instructor, University of Berkeley) teaches the course. With 5-8 hours of work per week, you can complete the course in 8 weeks. It’s at an intermediate level, so while there are no specific prerequisites, some background knowledge about equity, discrimination, and diversity will be helpful.

#7. Understanding Gender Equity (Catalyst)

This short course is a great introduction to gender equity. It’s part of the “Race, Gender and Workplace Equity” professional certificate. You’ll learn why gender matters, how to identify gender inequities, and how to address them in the workplace. By the course’s end, you’ll be ready to analyze how organizational policies and practices address gender inequities, determine the difference between gender equity and gender equality, and develop strategies to improve gender equity.

There are nine course advisors and course instructors, including Ashley Rivenbark (Senior Associate of Leading for Equity and Inclusion, Catalyst), Lauren Pasquarella Daley (Senior Director, Women and the Future of Work), and Joanna Duffett (Sr. Associate Librarian, Information Center, Catalyst). The course can be finished in just 1-2 hours. There are no prerequisites.

#8. Fighting for Equality: 1950-2018 (Columbia University)

This course is the last part of the “Women Have Always Worked” series. Here, students will examine how the Cold War reinforced visions of the suburban, nuclear family and impacted women’s pathway to independence and equality. You’ll learn how women’s participation in activism and work led up to the events of the 1960s, how different groups of feminists challenged systems, and how women’s participation in work and family impacted politics up to 2018.

Alice Kessler-Harris (R. Gordon Hoxie Professor of American History Emerita) and Nick Juravich (Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in Women’s History, New-York Historical Society) teach the class. With 2-3 hours of work per week, you can finish in 12 weeks. It’s an intermediate class, so it’s best for students with an undergraduate-level interest in history, gender, and labor. There are no prerequisites.

#9. Justice and Equity in Technology Policy (University of Michigan)

Technology and public policy are closely linked these days. Things like AI and algorithms affect government and industry decisions and reinforce social biases, especially against marginalized communities. There are also concerns about unfair allocations of government funding and emerging technologies to combat global climate change. In this course, you’ll explore the connections between technology, policy, and equality and how inequalities can be addressed. By the course’s end, you’ll be ready to rethink expertise, design, and policy and governance as it relates to technology.

Shobita Parthasarathy (Professor of Public Policy; Director, Science, Technology and Public Policy program) teaches the course. The course is broken into six weeks, but it can take up to 10 hours to complete a week’s worth of study. Luckily, the course is self-paced, so you can take longer if necessary. The course’s difficulty is not listed, but there don’t appear to be prerequisites.

#10. COVID-19 and Society: Inequality in Global Pandemics (University of British Columbia)

This course explores that can be learned from COVID-19, how society was organized before the pandemic, and what society can look like in the future. You’ll examine how your local experiences during the pandemic connect to global trends, how ageism and racism exacerbated the pandemic, how COVID-19 and climate change are linked, and how the disease impacted existing health inequalities.

Dr. Katherine Lyon (Assistant Professor of Teaching) gives an introduction to each topic and offers literature recommendations. Experts from the University of British Columbia give five lectures in this course. With 1-2 hours of study each week, you can finish the course in 5 weeks. There are no prerequisites.

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Founded in 1884 and based in beautiful North Wales, Bangor University offers a unique Masters of Laws that combines the study of International Human Rights Law with International Criminal Law in a single programme.

The programme is designed to provide students with the legal knowledge and understanding necessary to tackle and confront some of the most pressing issues of our time, such as climate change, artificial intelligence, global migration, unlawful military interventions and crimes against humanity.  We want our students to emerge as competent human rights professionals, ready and able to contribute to resolving these critical challenges, whether that be at a national, regional or international level.

Students are required to take three core modules: International Human Rights Law, International Criminal Law and Legal Research Methods. Additionally, students will undertake a dissertation that allows them to research in depth an issue of particular interest to them under the close supervision of an expert member of staff.

In addition to the above, students select three modules from a range of options that may include International Climate Change Law and Policy, Contemporary Issues in International Environmental Law, Business and Human Rights, Public International Law, Cultural Heritage in International Law, and Comparative International Criminal Justice (see our website for the full range of options).

At Bangor University, Masters modules are taught through a seminar-style format.  This allows students to get to know each other and encourages discussion and group work. Additionally, it allows us to get to know our students and their future career aspirations. Throughout all modules, members of staff draw on their own professional experiences to inspire students and offer advice on career options, be that with international and regional bodies (such as the UN), non-governmental bodies organisations (for example, Human Rights Watch) or within the private sector (where demand for those with human rights qualifications is rapidly growing).

Apply now

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The selection process for the XXII edition of the Master in Human Rights and Conflict Management are now closed. The class has reached its capacity and the Programme is going to start in January 2024. The Call for Applications to the XXIII edition of the Master (a.y. 2024-2025) will be available by May 2024 from our website.

Description

The Master in Human Rights and Conflict Management is designed to provide students from different cultures and backgrounds with a deep understanding of the linkages between human rights and conflict management theory and practice. The curriculum, strongly field oriented, prepares participants for working with NGOs, governments, aid agencies, the UN system and regional organisations, also operating in the context of complex emergencies and joint operations.

The Master starts on January 9th, 2024 and runs until Spring 2025. The syllabus of the Master Programme, in addition to individual studying and the preparation of a final written project (project work), will cover about 450 hours of classroom lectures and 480 hours of internship. The internship lasts three or more months starting from August/September 2024.

Training objectives

The main educational goals of the Master in Human Rights and Conflict Management are as follows:

• To train high-rank professionals who will work in design, management and monitoring positions within the programs and actions promoted by national, regional, international or non-governmental organisations, for the double purpose of protecting human rights and preventing, mitigating or solving conflicts.
• To train professionals who will combine, in a dynamic, non-sequential way, critical knowledge and technical-operational skills as the key components of an extremely professional service in complex situations.
• To train professionals who are aware of the mutual connections between the protection of human rights and conflict management, and who possess a sound juridical and methodological background and practical-operational skills in such areas.
• To train professionals who, in the design and management of actions and in decision-making processes, will keep into account the historical, geopolitical, economic dimensions as well as the “gender” component and the complexity of the intercultural relations.

Programme

The Master programme is divided into two modules with specific courses:

• Module I (January-March): Philosophical perspectives on Human Rights | UN Human Rights standards and mechanisms | Regional Human Rights standards and mechanisms | Conflict Studies | International Humanitarian Law | International Law | Team Building
• Module II (April-July): Migration Law | International Criminal Law | Business and Human Rights | Human Rights Field Operations | Selected Issues on Human Rights | International PK & PB Operations | International Humanitarian Operations | International Electoral Observation | Conflict Management | Personal Safety and Security | Stress Management | First Aid | Project Cycle Management and Project Development |

How to apply

The Master is open to a maximum of 28 candidates. Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

(1) Have a three-year (at least) university degree or equivalent. Students expecting to graduate before December 31, 2023 are also eligible.
(2) Understand, speak and write English at least at LEVEL B2, (CEFR for Languages, CoE).

Scholarships

A limited number of partial waivers could be available, depending on financial availabilities, to citizens of non-OECD countries who are eligible for release of a visa for Italy. Selected applicants may apply for the partial waiver of the tuition fee by motivating their request in a detailed manner on their application form. Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna reserves the right to determine the amount of each contribution and the awarding criteria.

Apply now

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IOM is the leading intergovernmental organization working with migration around the world. They work closely with governments, NGOs, and other intergovernmental organizations to develop and implement programs, conduct research, and recommend policies surrounding the areas of migration and development, facilitating migration, regulating migration, and forced migration.

IOM provides primarily paid internships for senior undergraduate students, graduate students, recent master’s-level graduates who completed their degree less than a year prior to starting the internship, and other individuals sponsored by government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions. Interns must be between ages 19 and 36 and should have a working knowledge of English, French, and/or Spanish.

Internships last from 2 to 9 months, depending on the intern’s availability. Interns are given a monthly living stipend unless otherwise arranged. They can work in a country office in their home country or in an overseas office but must arrange their own travel plans and visa. Learn more on the official website.

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Location: New York, the United States.
Compensation: possible monthly stipend if not otherwise sponsored by other institutions.
Duration: up to 6 months with the possibility of extension.
Application Deadline: depends on the vacancy.

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) has existed since 2005. It emerged out of Kofi Annan’s initiative and with the support of governments of Spain and Turkey. Based in New York, the Alliance is a global network of states, international organizations, civil society groups as well as the private sector. The main areas of focus are Education, Youth, Migration, Media, all chosen in order to reduce tensions that exist among cultures and to bring cooperation between communities. As its core vision, UNAOC seeks to promote culturally sensitive development policies.

The UNAOC occasionally shares internship opportunities on its job portal.

The requirements depend on the type of internship advertised, however, it is expected from candidates to:

• hold an undergraduate or graduate diploma, obtained within three years before the start of the internship and
• be fluent in English and another UN working language

In the past, UNAOC has offered internships in the field of Communication, Community Engagement, and Education.

In general, interns may be eligible to obtain a monthly stipend, provided that they are not sponsored by any other institutions. Nevertheless, interns are responsible for their own visa, travel, and accommodation arrangements.

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The MA program at the Institute for Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (GRSJ) is an interdisciplinary graduate program that attracts scholars from around the world. The program incorporates research and theory from various fields, including social sciences, humanities, science, education, and law. Students engage in theoretical and empirical work that contributes to the advancement of current knowledge and relevant dialogues around culture, politics, and public policy in local, global, and transnational contexts. The program explores critical race theory, ethnic studies, indigenous studies, media studies, feminist politics and methodologies, health, history and autobiography, international development, literature/film and cultural studies, migration and racialization, gender, sexuality, social justice, social policy, and community action.

The Institute for Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice emphasizes a collaborative approach to research and teaching, providing opportunities for graduate students to interact with other students and faculty on shared themes of interest. The program is interdisciplinary in nature, with participation from across UBC departments and units, extending networks across the campus community and beyond. The program’s faculty and students are heavily engaged in community-based research and teaching, reflecting the unique diversity in interdisciplinary thought and practice

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Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies

A Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies is a graduate-level program that focuses on the study of migration and refugee issues. The program typically combines theoretical and practical components to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities associated with migration and refugee movements. Graduates of a Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies program may go on to work in a variety of fields, including non-governmental organizations, international organizations, governmental agencies, research institutes, and advocacy groups. They may work as policy analysts, researchers, educators, or advocates, among other roles.

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The University Institute of Studies on Migration (IUEM) offers an Official Master’s Degree in International Migration, which has been an official course at Universidad Pontificia Comillas since 2008-2009. This programme aims to train highly skilled professionals to pursue careers in the areas of International Migration and International Development and Cooperation. The Master’s Degree programme combines online learning, such as virtual classes and online tutorial tools, with a week of mandatory in-person attendance during the last week of February. During this week, students will attend classes related to Research Methodology and participate in face-to-face tutorial sessions.

Students in the programme will have the opportunity to complete professional internships in national and international institutions, such as Kenya, Peru, or Cameroon. Additionally, the Official Master’s Degree in International Migration offers the possibility of admission to the Official Doctoral Degree Program in International Migration and Development Cooperation. The IUEM provides grants and scholarships to students enrolled in this programme.

The Official Master’s Degree in International Migration at IUEM provides a comprehensive and practical learning experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their careers in International Migration and Development Cooperation.

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The MA in Migration and Displacement offered by the University of the Witwatersrand encompasses various disciplines such as public health, political science, sociology, urban planning, development studies and more. This degree program is designed to equip candidates for critical engagement with theories and practices of migration and displacement, making it suitable for those who want to advance their scholarly training in migration studies. With migration being an important and hotly debated topic worldwide, the study of migration has wide-ranging academic and practical applications.

Applicants seeking admission to the MA in Migration and Displacement program must possess a strong Honours or four-year undergraduate degree with an average of 65% or above in a social science or related discipline. However, candidates with relevant professional experience will also be considered. The university offers limited fellowship support to exceptional students from other African countries.

The MA by research is intended for advanced students with prior social science research experience, a background in migration studies, and the desire for advanced scholarly training. Successful completion of a research report of approximately 50,000 words is the sole criterion for evaluation in this program.

South African students are encouraged to apply for support from the University to pursue the MA in Migration and Displacement program. This program aims to produce well-trained scholars who can apply their knowledge of migration and displacement to the practical and academic spheres.

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The Migration Studies program offered by Tel Aviv University is a one-year (3 semesters) M.A. program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in humanitarian organizations addressing global migration issues. From debates on free movement in Europe to the Ukrainian refugee situation, many migration issues are at the forefront of today’s discussions and politics.

This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with opportunities to critically engage with global issues surrounding migration and policy debates. The program covers a range of topics, including immigration and citizenship policies, perspectives on refugees, asylum seekers and humanitarian aid, and the challenges of social, cultural and economic integration. Students can expect to learn theories, research tools, and analytical models in these areas.

The program highlights world-leading faculty and expert practitioners in the field of migration, offering students specialization in global migration and policy fields with hands-on professional workshops. Additionally, students have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad in one of several exchange programs at universities affiliated with TAU.

However, note that this track is not open to students whose enrollment in the Migration Studies program is supported by United States Federal Student Aid due to restrictions on the use of such aid. Students will also be able to enjoy cultural evening activities and overnight excursions around the country in addition to the coursework.

By the end of the Migration Studies program, students will have gained practical experience and skills necessary to become leaders for real social change, and they will have gained an appreciation for Tel Aviv, a city with a rich immigrant history.

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The M.A. Program in International Migration Studies at the City University of New York offers multidisciplinary education, preparing students for opportunities to work with and advocate on behalf of international migrants and refugees. In today’s world, where racism and xenophobia are on the rise, the program aims to train students to examine how policies shape migrants’ experiences and analyze the social, cultural, economic, and political ramifications of international migration in the United States and beyond.

The program offers students the opportunity to study under leading immigration scholars from various fields, including sociology, political science, English, history, anthropology, international affairs, education, and urban planning. Faculty members study migrants from different parts of the world, often through a comparative lens, and use various research methods ranging from advanced quantitative techniques to in-depth ethnographies of urban communities. Students will gain knowledge in areas such as migrants’ struggles for upward mobility, the experiences of immigrant children in schools, the effects of refugee resettlement in different types of communities, and the building of political power in, by, and for immigrant communities.

Studying international migration in New York City offers unique opportunities to learn about diverse immigrant communities. Students will have access to organizations that are at the forefront of immigration outreach, services, research, policy, and advocacy.

Upon completion of this degree, graduates will be ready for a range of positions in policy, human rights, and advocacy organizations, ethnic studies centers in schools and universities, and government and service agencies. The program also provides excellent preparation for doctoral study. Overall, the M.A. Program in International Migration Studies at the Graduate Center offers a comprehensive and practical education that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address the critical issues facing international migrants and refugees today.

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DePaul’s MS in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies is the first graduate refugee studies program in the U.S. The program is designed to provide students with a mix of theory and practical experience to prepare them to assist immigrants, migrants, and refugees worldwide. Students will gain a broad-based understanding of the legal, political, and humanitarian resources necessary to address the issues created by these situations.

The program requires two years to complete and most courses are offered in the evening at the Loop or Lincoln Park campuses. As part of the program, students will take courses in law, history, public health, public service, and international studies. They will also gain extensive hands-on training with agencies and institutions assisting displaced people.

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The master’s degree in Refugee Studies is an internationally recognised program that offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex nature of global refugee movements and the diverse local, national, and international responses to forced displacement. The course is designed to provide students with interdisciplinary knowledge of the gendered, economic, political, legal, socio-cultural, and psychological processes related to forced migration.

The course is divided into four core modules: Forced Migration in Global Era, Research Methods, Policy and Practice of Humanitarianism, and Independent Applied Research/Dissertation. Students will also have the opportunity to study specialist options on social, cultural, political, legal, and psychosocial aspects of refugee studies and community development.

A distinguishing feature of the course is its emphasis on the lived experience of refugees and refugee communities. Students will gain a full appreciation of refugee experiences, achievements, and needs. The course will equip students with advanced skills in interdisciplinary analysis and research, with a focus on refugees from the point of view of the law, politics, and anthropology, analysing their experiences on a global and local scale.

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The Master of Arts program in Migration and Refugee Studies is an interdisciplinary program that aims to equip graduates with critical knowledge, research methods, and analytical skills related to current theoretical, legal, political, economic, social, demographic, and psychological issues in migration and refugee studies. The program offers two concentration options, migration or refugee studies, and prepares graduates for careers within governmental, non-governmental, and international agencies, as well as universities, research organizations, and private corporations dealing with issues related to migration and refugee movements.

Applicants seeking admission to the Master’s program should have an undergraduate degree in Humanities and/or Social Sciences of high standing, equivalent to a B grade or higher. The university’s language proficiency requirements must also be met. Prerequisites may be assigned, depending on the student’s academic background, and students with related work, research, or volunteer experience will be given priority. All students are required to complete a thesis according to university regulations. After completion of the thesis, it must be defended in an oral examination during which questions may be asked regarding any aspect of the thesis itself or of courses taken in the program, particularly as they may relate to the thesis.

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Learn about racial justice, anti-racism, equity, and inclusion in courses from notable universities around the world.

While it takes different forms, racism and discrimination persist around the world. In 2020, protests against police brutality and racial inequality in the United States spread globally. No organization is immune as even human rights nonprofits like Doctors Without Borders and Amnesty International struggle with systemic racism. This is why learning about racial justice and anti-racism is so important. In this article, we’ll describe eight courses focused on what anti-racism is, why it matters, and how to integrate anti-racist culture and practices in an organization.

#1. Anti-Racism Specialization (The University of Colorado Boulder)
#2. Facing Racism and Emotional Tax in the Workplace (CatalystX)
#3. Asian American History and Identity: An Anti-Racism Toolkit (University of Colorado Boulder)
#4. Driving Change and Anti-Racism (LinkedIn Learning)
#5. Beyond Diversity: Anti-Racism and Equity in the Workplace (BerkeleyX)
#6. Structural Racism: Causes of Health Inequities in the US (The University of Michigan)
#7. Love as a Force for Social Justice (Stanford University)
#8. Leading Racial Equity and Inclusion in Organizations (Northwestern University)

#1. Anti-Racism Specialization (The University of Colorado Boulder)

The Anti-Racism specialization is divided into three courses: Anti-Racism I, Anti-Racism II, and Anti-Racism III. During the courses, you’ll learn about race and racism (specifically in the United States) and how to be an anti-racist advocate. You’ll explore topics like the historical and linguistic constructions of race and racism, the theory of intersectionality, and cultural contexts outside the United States. The specialization includes a community outreach project where you apply what you’ve learned and practice anti-racist advocacy skills.

Shawn O’Neal and Jennifer Ho teach. O’Neal is a DJ, musician, producer, and race scholar in the ethnic studies department. Ho is the director of the Center for Humanities & the Arts at the University of Colorado Boulder, as well as a professor of ethnic studies and president of the Association for Asian American Studies. The first course in the specialization takes about 15 hours, the second takes 19 hours, and the third takes 24 hours. When you commit to 6 hours of work per week, you can complete the whole specialization in about three months. There are no prerequisites. You can audit the course for free, but certificates require a fee.

#2. Facing Racism and Emotional Tax in the Workplace (CatalystX)

This short course is part of CatalystX’s series on Race, Gender, and Workplace Equity. Designed for beginners, it explains the impact of racism, what “emotional tax” is, key concepts like intersectionality, anti-racist skills, and strategies for addressing racism. You’ll learn how to self-reflect and develop action plans that help make workplaces (and other environments) inclusive and fair.

There are several instructors for this course, including Dr. Terrence Howard (VP of Learning Products and Programs at Catalyst), Andrea Tatum (Sr. Director of Corporate Engagement, Western Region), and Julie Friedberg (Senior Director, Learning Design & Delivery). “Facing Racism and Emotional Tax in the Workplace” takes just 1-2 hours to complete. The course is free, but a certificate upon completion costs about $50. There are no prerequisites.

#3. Asian American History and Identity: An Anti-Racism Toolkit (The University of Colorado Boulder)

Interested in Asian American history and addressing the rise in anti-Asian discrimination? This course offers a thorough introduction to Asian American history, identities, and discrimination in the US. In week 1, you’ll learn about the diversity of Asian American identity, as well as anti-racism terminology. Week 2 gets into the major themes of Asian American history, such as what brought Asian and Pacific Islanders to the United States over the centuries. Week 3 covers the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in violence against Asian Americans, and history of negative stereotypes that drives the violence. The course will also help you develop anti-racist skills that can be used to combat anti-Asian racism, hate, and violence.

Instructors Maxwell Cassity and Kariann Yokota teach the course. Cassity has a Ph.D. in English and specializes in American Ethnic Literatures and Media Studies. Yokota previously worked as an Assistant Professor of History and American Studies before teaching at the University of Colorado Denver. “Asian American History and Identity” is divided into three weekly modules and a short 1-hour course conclusion/evaluation. In total, the course takes about 19 hours to complete. There are no prerequisites.

#4. Driving Change and Anti-Racism (LinkedIn Learning)

Looking for a quick introduction on how to achieve equity within an organization? This course explores how to start the hard conversations necessary for change. You’ll learn how to identify inequity, how to define the goal, how to negotiate the goal, and how to use tools like maintaining focus, staying consistent, and overcoming emotions. By the course’s end, you’ll have a strong understanding of equity and what it takes to change an organization.

Director of the American Negotiation Institute Kwame Christian teaches the course. He runs corporate training, serves as a business lawyer, and teaches as a professor of negotiation at The Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law. He also hosts the podcast “Negotiate Anything.” The anti-racism course is less than 20 minutes long and is part of the “How to Engage Meaningfully in Allyship and Anti-Racism” learning path. There’s no free audit option; the course costs $30.

#5. Beyond Diversity: Anti-Racism and Equity in the Workplace (BerkeleyX)

There are three courses in the “Beyond Diversity: Anti-Racism and Equity in the Workplace” professional certificate program: “Bias and the Workplace: History, Structure, and Individuals,” “Discrimination and Diversity in the Modern Workplace,” and “Improving Workplace Climate.” You’ll learn from the perspectives of minoritized employees; identify and respond to implicit and unconscious biases in the workplace; use equitable and hiring evaluation practices; and create a culture of equity and inclusion for everyone in the workplace.

Rodolfo Mendoza-Denton is an award-winning professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, and the Richard and Ronda Goldman Distinguished Professor in the Division of Social Sciences. When you commit 5-8 hours of work per week, you can finish the program in about 6 months. It’s a great choice for executives, managers, and employees; there are no prerequisites. You can audit each of the courses for free, but for the full experience (and official certificate) you’ll need to pay around $600.

#6. Structural Racism: Causes of Health Inequities in the US (University of Michigan)

Why do racial health inequities exist? Some may think behavioral or even genetic differences are to blame, but research consistently points to racism. In this course, you’ll explore these differences, what the historical roots are, and what to do about them. You’ll also get opportunities to practice your advocacy skills through writing. By the course’s end, you’ll be ready to describe structural racism’s impact, identify policies that created racial health inequities, and apply public writing strategies that combat racial health inequities.

Paul Fleming and William D. Lopez teach the course. Fleming is an assistant professor in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education whose mixed-methods research centers on the root causes of health inequities. Lopez is a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education who conducts public health research on how the fear of immigration enforcement impacts mixed-status communities. “Structural Racism” is broken into three weekly modules. With 5-6 hours of work per week, you can complete the course in about 17 hours. There are no prerequisites.

#7. Love as a Force for Social Justice (Stanford University)

What does love have to do with anti-racism and social justice? This course explores this question and much more. Through modules like “Words and the Meaning of Love” and “Love and Social Justice,” you’ll learn about different concepts of love and how agape love (compassion/kindness) serves as a force for social justice. You’ll also learn about non-violent communication, the biology of the brain and love, love as a basic concept of ethical and religious beliefs, and love in action. By the end of the course, you’ll have a firm grasp on the importance of love within community, connection, and functioning society.

Anne Firth Murray teaches the course. For decades, she’s worked as an activist, philanthropist, and educator. She is the Founding President of The Global Fund For Women and a Consulting Professor in Human Biology at Stanford University. “Love as a Force for Social Justice” is divided into six weeks with varying hourly commitments per week. In total, the course takes about 27 hours to finish. There are no prerequisites.

#8. Leading Racial Equity and Inclusion in Organizations (Northwestern University)

Systemic racism and exclusion have a huge impact on workplace culture, employees, and performance. In this course from the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences at Northwestern University, you’ll learn how to address racial inequality and promote equity and inclusion. That includes learning the roots of systemic inequalities in the United States, how to engage with the Racial Equity Framework, and how to create a Racial Equity Action Plan. Whether you’re a mid-level term leader, specialist, recruiter, or other workplace professional, this course will help you build a strong, inclusive work culture.

Founding Director of the Center for the Study of Diversity and Democracy Alvin B. Tillery, Jr. teaches this course. His research includes American political development, racial and ethnic politics, social movements, American political thought, and critical race theory. “Leading Racial Equity and Inclusion in Organizations” is divided into four weeks, not counting the orientation module. With 4-6 hours of work per week, you can finish the course in about 4 weeks. There is unfortunately no free audit option for this course; it costs $1,900 to register. There are no prerequisites.

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Every night, hundreds of thousands of people in America don’t have a permanent, safe place to stay. Homelessness can look like living in a car, hopping from shelter to shelter, or staying temporarily with different people. While collecting accurate data is challenging, there are certain facts human rights advocates should know about homelessness in the United States.

Homelessness in the United States has many causes, but the outcomes always include a lack of safety and vulnerability to other serious issues. Without major changes, homelessness in the US is expected to increase.

#1. There are about half a million people experiencing homelessness in the United States

While homelessness is a global issue, the United States has faced a sharp rise in recent years. In January 2020, 580,466 people were experiencing homelessness. That included people staying in shelters and on the streets. It’s difficult to know if this number is completely accurate. Why? The number comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Point-in-Time (PIT) count. PIT is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on one night in January. That can limit the accuracy of the count. Also, unsheltered youth often don’t seek out traditional homelessness assistance programs, so they can easily be undercounted.

#2. Homelessness has many causes

In the United States, several factors intersect and build on one another to create conditions that lead to homelessness. Poverty is a major cause. While affordable housing has decreased, wages haven’t kept up. This churns up a perfect storm of high housing prices, low pay, and reduced public assistance. A lack of affordable healthcare drives homelessness, as well. Several studies show a close link between healthcare costs and bankruptcy, which can quickly lead to homelessness. While addiction and mental illness can also cause people to lose their housing, research shows addressing poverty, wages, affordable housing, and healthcare costs would significantly reduce homelessness.

#3. Certain groups are at a higher risk of homelessness

According to HUD data, certain groups are more likely to experience homelessness than others. Out of 10,000 men, 22 are homeless, while 13 out of 10,000 women are homeless. HUD data also finds that race and ethnicity affect risk; racial and ethnic groups that have faced marginalization – like Black Americans and Native Americans – experience increased rates. This makes sense considering the long-standing discrimination and inequalities in American society. What about disabled people? According to data described in a 2022 “Immigration and Human Rights Law Review” article, disabled individuals have a higher risk for homelessness. 20% of people with disabilities live in developed countries, but those same countries don’t provide sufficient housing. In the United States, the number of disabled people experiencing long-term or chronic homelessness increased by 8.5% from 2018 to 2019.

#4. LGBTQ+ youth are uniquely vulnerable

For a few reasons, LGBTQ+ youth are at high risk for homelessness. Of the roughly 1.6 million young people who experience homelessness each year, up to 40% identify as LGBTQ+. According to a 2013 Child Trends article, these young people are also more likely to experience homelessness at a younger age than other unsheltered youth. Rejection from family is a common reason. About 50% of teens report getting a negative reaction when they come out, while 1 in 4 get kicked out of their homes. Without safe, stable options, these rejected kids often end up on the streets and vulnerable to violence, criminal activity, and other serious outcomes. Books on homelessness like No House to Call My Own, which was written in 2015 by Ryan Berg, help educate advocates on what LGBTQ+ youth face and how to provide the best care.

#5. Veterans face increased risks, but there’s been significant progress

In the United States, veterans face the usual risks for homelessness – a lack of affordable housing, poverty, and unemployment – but they also have higher risks for mental illness, substance abuse, and social isolation. Historically, these factors have made veterans more likely to experience homelessness than non-veterans. In 2009, The National Coalition for the Homeless found that veterans made up 23% of the homeless population. 47% were from the Vietnam War era, which severely affected returning soldiers. According to a VA survey, half a million of those who served in Vietnam suffered from PTSD, high rates of suicide, divorce, and substance abuse. The real number is likely much higher as surveys tend to only reflect a portion of the truth. Since 2009, progress has been made. In November 2022, HUD published a press release announcing a 55.3% reduction in veterans experiencing homelessness since 2010.

#6. Many cities address homelessness by criminalizing it

Unfortunately, many places in the United States respond to homelessness by categorizing it as a crime. That doesn’t mean laws directly say “being homeless makes you a criminal,” but cities have created webs of laws that end up essentially criminalizing homelessness. “Hiding Homelessness: The Transcarceration of Homelessness” from the California Law Review lays out several examples, including bans on sleeping outside, camping, standing near a building for too long, receiving food, and so on. For unhoused people, it becomes nearly impossible to avoid breaking these laws.

Consequences include harassment from law enforcement, criminal charges, and jail time. Framing homelessness as a crime also increases the likelihood that unhoused people will be treated poorly and face even more marginalization. It also penalizes people who want to help. In October 2022, an Arizona woman was arrested for sharing food with unhoused people in a park. Why? The city had passed an ordinance that forbade people from sharing prepared food in parks for “charitable purposes.” Before her arrest, the retired restaurant owner had been distributing free food for four years.

#7. Homelessness is a health issue

Being homeless can have catastrophic effects on a person’s health. According to a 2019 fact sheet from the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, unhoused people have higher rates of illness and die around 12 years earlier than the general U.S. population. Issues include a lack of safe places to store essential medications, an increased vulnerability to communicable diseases on the streets or in shelters, and poor nutrition. Even seemingly minor issues, like cuts, can easily develop into infections. Homelessness also has a major effect on a person’s mental health. While mental illness is a risk factor for homelessness, being homeless makes existing conditions worse and increases mental strain on those who were healthy before. In turn, poor mental health makes a person more vulnerable to substance use, reckless behavior, self-harm, and suicide. When addressing homelessness, the United States needs to understand the health impacts.

#8. Many unhoused people in the United States have jobs

There’s a very common misconception that if unhoused people just got jobs, they could get off the streets. However, in the US, thousands of unhoused people are already employed. In a 2017 survey, 8% of unhoused individuals said they were working part-time, seasonal, or temporary jobs. 27% of unhoused adults with children said they worked part or full-time jobs. In 2018, 10% of the nearly 5,000 unhoused people in San Diego, California said they were working. This number is likely higher because many unhoused people don’t come forward about their housing status. Unhoused people who are working are also likely to hide their status from employers and coworkers to avoid discrimination. A recent analysis also found that most people who experience homelessness get government benefits. The fact that so many unhoused people are working and/or getting benefits already clearly demonstrates that existing support isn’t enough to prevent homelessness.

#9. Homelessness is very stigmatized in the United States

While the causes of homelessness are closely linked to poverty, a lack of affordable housing, and soaring healthcare costs, huge portions of American society see homelessness as a personal issue. The rhetoric around homelessness can be deeply dehumanizing. Narratives about moral failings, laziness, filth, danger, and so on abound. It’s not uncommon to hear public figures talk about homelessness using phrases like “zombie apocalypse” or see news broadcasts film piles of trash or tents while they talk about homelessness like it was an infestation.

A 2021 Psychology Today article highlights a research study on perceptions of homelessness using Twitter. Beliefs about unhoused people being “dirty” were very common, as well as “socially deviant,” “lazy,” violent,” “criminal,” and so on. It was also very common for Twitter users to believe unhoused people brought it on themselves and therefore didn’t deserve help. This widespread dehumanization makes it easier for cities to criminalize homelessness and create us versus them narratives. This fuels further discrimination and violence against the homeless population.

#10. There are effective solutions to ending homelessness

Solutions like framing housing as a human right (which is described in one of the essays in this article) and tackling the roots of homelessness are effective. However, the United States lacks a cohesive, national housing policy. Homelessness solutions are currently left to state and local governments and organizations, which creates a patchwork of efforts with inconsistent results. According to the Coalition for The Homeless, which is the country’s oldest advocacy and direct organization for unhoused people, long-term housing assistance is the best solution. Federal housing assistance, permanent supportive housing, and “housing first” are cost-effective and proven to reduce homelessness.

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The Master of Science (MS) in Human Rights at Binghamton University provides students with the tools they need to change the world.

The Master of Science in Human Rights at Binghamton University offers human rights approaches to a variety of issues including education, health, violence, children, family, poverty, incarceration, immigration, and the political economy.

Students will also develop competencies in community organizing, social innovation and program evaluation as well as professional skills for working in human rights organizations at the local, regional, national and international levels.

The MS in Human Rights is designed for graduates who seek human rights career tracks in a variety of fields including: human rights advocacy in the public and nonprofit sectors; local, regional, national and international human/civil rights positions with governments and nongovernmental organizations; academic careers in related disciplines including law and social sciences; corporate social responsibility, and more.

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Social responsibility is often used in a corporate context, but every actor in society – including individuals – can embrace social responsibility. The basic premise is that actions affect others. To be socially responsible, a business or individual should act in a way that benefits society and avoids harm. In this article, we’ll identify why social responsibility matters for corporations and individuals, as well as what social responsibility can look like.

Social responsibility is a moral framework where organizations and individuals strive to act for the greater good and avoid causing harm to society and the environment.

What is corporate social responsibility and why does it matter?

When “social responsibility” comes up in conversation, it’s often referring to corporate social responsibility (CSR). CSR is a self-regulation tool and framework that businesses are increasingly investing in as consumers express a desire for more responsible corporate actions. In the past, corporations focused almost exclusively on the financial interests of their primary stakeholders. In recent years, it’s become important for corporations to improve how they treat their employees, how they impact the environment, and how they use their profits.

When corporations apply socially responsible practices and policies, there are many benefits. The first is customer loyalty as consumers are more likely to keep buying products if they see the company as a positive force in society. According to stats compiled by Harvard Business School Online, an impressive 77% of consumers feel motivated to support companies they see as improving the world. CSR is also an important draw for employees. 88% of people said companies should not make money if it hurts general society, while 70% said they wouldn’t work for a company if it doesn’t have a “strong purpose.” 60% were even willing to take lower pay to work at companies with purpose. If corporations want to increase consumer loyalty and retain employee talent, social responsibility is essential. If you want to learn more about CSR, consider taking a course online.

How can corporations embrace social responsibility?

There isn’t one social responsibility map corporations should follow. Depending on the organization and sector it works in, certain policies may be more relevant or important than others. That said, there are three main areas every corporation should focus on if they want to be more socially responsible: environmental impact, ethical labor practices, and charitable giving.

Environmental impact

As the producers of everything from cars to coffee, corporations have a huge impact on the environment. Research shows that just 100 energy companies are responsible for 71% of all industrial emissions. Throughout history, corporations have polluted the air, disrupted the lives and migration of animal species, poisoned the water, and much more. As climate change accelerates, corporations will play a huge role whether by helping to heal the planet or destroying it. Many companies have been setting climate targets and moving to reduce their carbon footprints, but as action is often voluntary and data is self-reported, there’s a lot of room for improvement. Companies wanting to stand out as environmental leaders would do well to embrace true transparency and full commitment. As an NRDC blog post by Joshua Axelrod puts it: “As some of the entities most responsible for putting us in the crisis we’re in today, it’s time for companies to take full responsibility for their climate footprints.”

Ethical labor practices

As CSR becomes more popular across industries, people have started paying closer attention to how a corporation treats its workforce. This is an especially hot-button issue for international corporations reckoning with child labor and other unethical practices taking place far from their main offices. Unfortunately, consumers can’t always count on the justice system to sort things out. In 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 8 to 1 that Nestle USA and Cargill can’t be held liable for the child labor on Ivory Coast cocoa farms. The main reason? The court said that the case didn’t show that decisions regarding child labor were made in the United States. However, there’s no doubt that the corporations have unethical practices in their supply chain. It’s often up to consumers to hold corporations accountable and demand more socially-responsible actions. Corporations can improve their standing by ending exploitative systems, cleaning up their supply chains, raising pay, providing more benefits, and so on.

Charitable giving

As corporations rack in profits, they can show their commitment to social responsibility by being philanthropic. That includes donating money, products, and services to local, national, or international charitable organizations. You’ll often see companies sponsoring events like charity runs, galas, and more. According to Giving USA’s annual report on philanthropy for 2021, corporations donated around $21.08 billion, which includes cash, contributions through corporate giving programs, grants, and gifts. However, this still represents a tiny fraction of what corporations reap in profits. To truly impress consumers and embrace the spirit of social responsibility, corporations should be committing more to charity.

Are there downsides to corporate social responsibility?

In recent years, corporate social responsibility has become an often mocked corporate phrase. Critics have gone so far as to call it a “hoax” and a “scam.” It’s easy to see the roots of that criticism as companies with CSR policies like Facebook and Amazon are frequently in the news regarding severe ethical violations. The vast majority of the energy companies responsible for 71% of industrial emissions have CSR policies, too. When it comes to environmental policies, there’s a specific term for companies that present themselves as more sustainable than they really are: greenwashing. The criticisms of social responsibility for corporations are less about policies and more about how they’re used as a smokescreen to disguise a corporation’s dark side. For corporations to be socially responsible, their practices and policies have to be more than marketing ploys.

What is individual social responsibility and why does it matter?

Social responsibility for an individual is simply the act of thinking of others – not only yourself – when you make decisions. It’s a commitment to caring for other people and the environment, even when you have to make sacrifices regarding your own desires and convenience. Most people naturally exhibit compassion toward family and close friends, but emotional distance from people can make social responsibility harder. It can also get harder when people are very different from us.

Despite the distance many feel when dealing with people different from them, humans are a social species. In one 2018 study from Nature, researchers found that even during challenging situations, “the desire for cooperation would appear to often be nascent and the evidence suggests that we are naturals at it, given the opportunity.” We’re hard-wired for community. Encouraging responsibility for one another is the only way to live peacefully in community.

How can individuals embrace social responsibility?

Most people know what it means to consider the feelings of others, compromise in relationships, and think about what’s best for society. It may come automatically, however, and without much thought. If you want social responsibility to be more intentional for you, here are three ways to make it more a part of your identity:

Be more politically active

Political structures have a huge impact on a person’s ability to live a good life. In most places, power is unequal and discrimination against marginalized groups persists. Regardless of your position in society, you can be more socially responsible by getting politically involved and supporting social justice and human rights for everyone. That may mean voting any time you can, joining a local organization, educating about social issues, pressuring lawmakers on specific legislation, or running for office yourself. In places where government oppression is common, politically active people are often risking everything, which makes their social responsibility even more admirable.

Pressure companies” to change harmful practices

When people want to live more responsibly, many consider how they spend their money. They take a deeper look at the products and services they’re buying and companies they’re supporting. Some people can change their spending habits to better reflect their values, but that’s not always financially possible. It can also be extremely difficult to find a company that doesn’t have some skeletons in its closet. Instead of giving up, people can pressure companies to change their harmful practices. Boycotts are one strategy, but they only tend to be effective when they’re organized. People can also pressure politicians to enact legislation that forces companies to change.

Live more ethically in your daily life

For individuals, social responsibility doesn’t have to be dramatic. Every day, people encounter opportunities to think of others and act in ways that make the world a better place. During the last years of the COVID-19 pandemic, mask-wearing became politically divisive, but for many, it is a symbol of social responsibility. In many places, wearing a mask while sick was already normal, so wearing one during a pandemic was not met with much resistance. Most people understood that masks kept everyone safe. In countries like the United States, however, being asked to wear a mask exposed a cultural weakness regarding social responsibility. Americans have strong opinions about individual rights, so when asked to do something fairly selfless, some recoiled. For others, it was an opportunity to live out their values. While mask-wearing during a pandemic is a rather extreme example, it illustrates how social responsibility can mean choosing between yourself and others. It’s everyone’s responsibility to think about what that means for them.

The post What Is Social Responsibility? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Learn how to protect children from violence, exploitation and trauma in courses from leading universities around the world.

In places where human rights are neglected or oppressed, children often suffer the most. They are especially vulnerable to hazards during times of crises. Human rights professionals recognize the need for protection of minors. They raise awareness on child rights violations, press governments to change harmful policies, assist children during humanitarian emergencies, and use human rights laws to bring perpetrators to justice. More than 1 billion children are estimated to experience physical, sexual or emotional violence every year. Millions of children have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and wars.

To defend the rights of children, it’s essential to know them. We have compiled a list of online courses, that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to defend, promote and protect the rights of children. All courses are free to audit. You can opt-in for a verified certificate for an extra fee.

#1 Child Protection: Children’s Rights in Theory and Practice (Harvard University)
#2 Children’s Human Rights – An Interdisciplinary Introduction (University of Geneva)
#3 Resilience in Children Exposed to Trauma, Disaster and War (University of Minnesota)
#4 Protecting Children in Humanitarian Settings (Columbia University)
#5 Child Protection for Teachers (Queensland University of Technology)
#6 Caring for Vulnerable Children (University of Strathclyde)
#7 International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford University)

#1 Child Protection: Children’s Rights in Theory and Practice (Harvard University)

In this online course you will learn how child protection is enshrined in international human rights law. You will analyze case studies on pressing child rights issues and learn to apply international human rights standards to a variety of contexts. Beyond the legal framework, you will study the impact violence, exploitation and abuse have on children, and what you can do to protect children from these harms. In the final week of the course you will learn how to assess a child protection system and what you can do to strengthen it.

Taught by Jacqueline Bhabha, the Research Director of the Harvard Center for Health and Human Rights, this course will be useful to human rights professionals, child rights advocates, lawyers, educators, law enforcement officers, social workers and everyone else who wants to take action on the rights of children. The self-paced course will take roughly 16 weeks to complete with an estimated commitment of 2-5 hours per week. There are no prerequisites to this course. Everyone is welcome to join and become an agent of change for children’s rights.

REGISTER HERE

#2 Children’s Human Rights – An Interdisciplinary Introduction (University of Geneva)

Taking a multi-disciplinary approach with contributions from law, psychology, sociology, history, education and other disciplines, this course offers a well-rounded primer to the human rights of children. Participants of the course will analyze critical issues affecting the rights of children around the world. Starting with an introduction to international and regional standards and monitoring systems, participants of this course will take an in-depth look at the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This essential treaty sets out legally binding civil, political, economic, social, health and cultural rights of children. Whilst the course provides an overview on Children’s Human Rights in general, dedicated chapters will focus on health, participation and freedom from violence. Going beyond the theory, the course will also discuss international and regional judicial and quasi-judicial bodies that were tasked with the implementation of these essential rights. This course will also take a look at human rights programs that promote child rights and analyze why some of them were successes or failures.

This course is taught by three leading experts from University of Geneva’s Centre for Children’s Rights Studies, namely Philip D. Jaffé, Roberta Ruggiero and Jean Zermatten. The entire course takes 11 hours to complete. There are no prerequisites for enrollment. Upon completion, learners who opted-in, can download the paid certificate and add it to their CV. The course is a great asset for everyone who wishes to strengthen their understanding of children’s rights, but students who seek a career in child protection will find it especially useful.

REGISTER HERE

#3 Resilience in Children Exposed to Trauma, Disaster and War (University of Minnesota)

Children are especially vulnerable to harms during times of humanitarian emergencies fueled by wars and disaster. Child soldiers, children who were raped, and children who had been forcibly displaced are most at risk to develop long-term emotional distress. This course will explore what can be done to protect children at risk and how you can support them in their recovery. During this course, you will learn strategies to foster resilience in children and gain insights into key take-aways from 50 years of resilience research. You will also study and analyze interventions that promote and nurture resilience in children, and you will have the opportunity to discuss with other practitioners working with children at risk around the world.

This course is offered by University of Minnesota. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete. Videos contain subtitles in Arabic, French, Portuguese (European), Italian, Vietnamese, German, Russian, English, Spanish and Hungarian. The course is taught by Ann Masten from the Institute of Child Development at the University of Minnesota. The course draws on the research Ann Masten conducted with children and families who have experienced homelessness, war, migration, disaster, as well as poverty or family violence.

REGISTER HERE

#4 Protecting Children in Humanitarian Settings (Columbia University)

More than 60 million children are affected by humanitarian crises globally. Children are among the most vulnerable during humanitarian crises. They face grave risk from violence, abduction, gender-based violence and recruitment into belligerent groups. Effective responses are required. Drawing on the experiences of child protection practitioners from around the world, this course equips you with the skills to better protect the wellbeing of children in humanitarian contexts. Whilst you will explore international and regional child protection systems, you will also learn how to establish and design successful child protection interventions.

The course is ideal for child rights practitioners and a great asset for everyone who aims for a career in children’s rights. While the course contents are available for free, you may opt-in for a verified certification issued by Columbia University for an extra fee. The course takes approximately 12 weeks to complete with a weekly commitment of 2-3 hours per week but learners are welcome to take the course at their own pace.

REGISTER HERE

#5 Child Protection for Teachers (Queensland University of Technology)

This course aims to empower teachers and educators to recognize signs of abuse and neglect. Whilst you will learn about the different types of neglect, you will also study key aspects of relevant child protection legislation and policy. The course will help clarify the role of teachers and other professionals in reporting suspected cases of child abuse and neglect, and outline the characteristics of effective prevention programs at school. Throughout the course you will have the option to engage with other teachers and educators, and to reflect on your own role to improve child protection at your school.

This course is a great option for teachers, educators, and education leaders who want to improve their professional practice but it will also be useful to everyone else who participates in educational systems that include children. The course is taught by Kerryann Walsh, Professor in Education at Queensland University of Technology and specialisation in child protection and child maltreatment prevention.

REGISTER HERE

#6 Caring for Vulnerable Children (University of Strathclyde)

In partnership with the Centre for Excellence for Children’s Care and Protection, University of Strathclyde is offering a course on caring for vulnerable children in the light of child poverty and increasing budget cuts to childcare systems. In this course you will explore concepts of vulnerability, risk, attachment, containment, child development and parenting. Whilst the course will help you assess when vulnerable and at risk children should be removed from their family homes, the course will also enable you to choose from other meaningful and supportive means of intervention.

With a weekly dedication of 4 hours the course takes roughly 6 weeks to complete. More than 100,000 learners have taken the course already and rated it 4.8 out of 5. The course is taught by Senior Teaching Fellow Graham McPheat, who is also the course leader of the international MSc in Child and Youth Care Studies at University of Strathclyde. The course is ideal for everyone working in child care or planning to become a childcare professional in the future.

REGISTER HERE

#7 International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford University)

Women’s sexual and reproductive health is heavily intertwined with human rights including the right to life, health, privacy, education and the prohibition of torture and discrimination. Forced sterilization, forced virginity tests, female genital mutilation and early marriage are examples of violations of these rights. UN human rights entities such as the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) fight against these violations. In this course offered by Stanford University, you will learn about women’s health and human rights from child birth to old age.

The course is taught by scholar-activist and non-profit founder Anne Firth Murray, who teaches child rights at Stanford University. The entire course takes roughly 58 hours to complete and can be taken at your own pace. The course is a great asset for everyone who would like to focus their career on women’s sexual and reproductive rights. Learners can audit the course for free or choose to opt-in for a verified certificate for an extra fee.

REGISTER HERE

The post 7 Online Courses on Child Protection and Children’s Rights appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

For as long as humans have existed, they’ve helped each other. After emergencies like natural disasters or war, communities have collected and shared resources, often sending aid far away. This human impulse continues in the form of humanitarian aid. Today, “humanitarian aid” refers to logistical and material help in areas like food, shelter, education, and medicine. It’s often deployed to address immediate, short-term needs until institutions like the government can step in. Why is humanitarian aid important? Here are fifteen benefits:

#1. Humanitarian aid targets a variety of needs

The first benefit of humanitarian aid is how many issues it addresses. Explore any humanitarian organization’s website and you’ll get an idea of the areas they work in. As an example, Islamic Relief Worldwide, a faith-based agency with a presence in 40+ countries, deals with emergency response, health, education, food, water, livelihoods, and more. UNICEF, a UN agency focused on children’s rights, works on adolescent development, gender, health, climate change and the environment, and social policy. Rather than focusing on one or two concerns, the vast majority of humanitarian aid organizations use a comprehensive strategy.

#2: Humanitarian aid helps millions of people

According to the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022, the UN and its partner organizations reached 107 million people in 2021. This number represents those who benefited from at least one kind of aid, such as food or medical assistance. As an example, organizations reached 1.23 million people in northern Mozambique, which more than doubles the number of people served in 2020. Many more need assistance. While the reach in 2021 was impressive, the UN and partner organizations had hoped to serve 174 million. In 2022, the goal is to benefit 183 million people.

#3. Food assistance saves people from starvation and malnutrition

Hunger is linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It can also cause premature births, low birth weights, and stunted infant development. According to the Food Research & Action Center, food insecurity connects to the most common and expensive health problems in the United States. Food-focused humanitarian aid saves lives, improves health, and protects livelihoods. Looking at the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022 again, we can see the impact. According to the World Food Programme, almost 105 million people around the world received direct food aid in the first nine months of 2021. In South Sudan, over 500,000 “severely food insecure” people were helped. In Syria, almost 6 million people received regular food baskets.

#4. WASH services save lives and combat disease

WASH stands for water, sanitation, and hygiene. Without proper WASH, people are at severe risk for thirst-related issues and water-borne diseases. According to the CDC’s Global WASH Fast Facts, 2 billion people don’t have access to safe drinking water. Nearly half of the world’s population can’t access safely-managed sanitation, either. WASH-focused humanitarian aid helps. In 2021, half a million people in Iraq received access to WASH services, while in Venezuela, 1.8 million people got WASH help. UNICEF helped ensure that 34 million people got access to safe water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

#5. Medical humanitarian aid benefits millions

Medical supplies and training are essential in just about every emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example, although diseases like malaria and Ebola have also been concerns for a long time. In 2021, UNFPA provided 2 million people with PPE in 29 countries. Through COVAX, 362 million doses of the Covid vaccine were shipped. Sexual health was also addressed; in 33 countries, kids and young people (aged 10-24) received tailored sexual and reproductive services. 29 million women of reproductive received sexual and reproductive health services, as well.

#6. Many people need shelter following emergencies

Disasters like floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes often destroy homes or force people to flee. Refugees traveling to new countries need shelter, as well. Most humanitarian organizations include shelter as one of their priority issues. As an example, the UN Refugee Agency distributes tents from three centers in Durban, Dubai, and Copenhagen. They also provide plastic sheeting and matting, as well as funds for rehabilitating communal shelters or building new homes.

#7. Humanitarian aid benefits children’s education

When disasters unfold, children are uniquely affected. Education is disrupted more often than not, which can have serious long-term consequences. UNICEF lists several issues, such as reduced earning potential, barriers to employment, and decreased participation in politics. People without adequate education are also more likely to experience negative health outcomes. While the gender gap in education is closing, girls are still more likely to have trouble getting an education. In 2021, UNICEF helped almost 110 million kids access formal or non-formal education. The UNHCR also connected over 869,900 refugee and host community kids with connected or home-based learning.

#8. Humanitarian aid benefits the most vulnerable

Women, children, and refugees are three of the world’s most vulnerable groups. Their vulnerability only increases in times of crisis. Luckily, humanitarian organizations focus on the people most impacted. According to the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022, 2.4 million malnourished kids were admitted for treatment. 5 million kids and guardians received mental health and psychological support. 11.3 million people got protection services, including legal aid and referrals to gender-based violence support. 4.2 million refugees and asylum-seekers got essential healthcare services.

#9. Humanitarian aid reaches affected areas fast

When an emergency strikes, recovery can take a long time. In the meanwhile, people need help immediately. One of the main benefits of humanitarian aid is how quickly it can be mobilized and deployed. According to UNCHR’s guide for emergency deployment, members of the international emergency roster need to be ready to deploy within 72 hours. UNDAC (the United Nations Disasters Assessment and Coordination) can deploy within 12-48 hours of a request.

#10. Humanitarian aid helps communities prepare

Humanitarian aid doesn’t only benefit people following an emergency; it can help them prepare for one. Many organizations, many of them local or national, hold various public trainings. Information includes how to prepare for an emergency (like a wildfire, earthquake, or hurricane), how to recognize the warning signs, and what to do. Humanitarian projects are also increasingly including preparedness as part of their own systems. This saves money, but most importantly, it can save lives.

#11. Humanitarian aid helps communities rebuild

The main goal of humanitarian aid is to save lives and reduce suffering. However, humanitarian aid’s role in community restoration also matters. If assistance only focuses on the short-term issues, it leaves communities in the lurch for the more challenging, long-term concerns. In a 2016 piece on the World Economic Forum, Habitat for Humanity CEO Jonathon T.M. Reckford writes: “Collectively, those of us offering humanitarian aid should leverage our efforts and precious resources to bridge the gap between relief and development so we can help families create permanent solutions to the challenges they face.” When the gap between short-term and long-term closes, humanitarian aid and development efforts empower communities to rebuild.

#12. Humanitarian aid is part of combating climate change

Climate change is a factor in many crises. According to the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, storms, floods, and droughts have increased threefold over the last three decades. Because of population growth and urbanization, more people are affected by climate-related issues like reduced food security, unsafe water, increased migration, and disease. Humanitarian aid efforts must factor in climate change if they’re going to be effective. That necessitates more preparedness measures, more flexible cash assistance, programs, multi-risk management strategies, and so on.

#13. Humanitarian aid can help achieve the SDGs

The Sustainable Development Goals are a series of 17 interlinked global goals established in 2015 by the UN General Assembly. The deadline? 2030. If the world wants to meet these goals, humanitarian aid must become more innovative. In a post on the UNHCR Innovation Service, Dan McClure writes: “Reducing vulnerability and improving resilience needs to be seen as an essential component of humanitarian action.” A shift in how humanitarian aid is conceived could play a key role in achieving SDGs such as zero poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, and affordable and clean energy.

#14. Humanitarian aid gives people their dignity back

Humanitarian aid meets physical needs like hunger and thirst, but one of the main benefits of aid is how it gives people their dignity back. In the UNHCR Emergency Handbook, there’s a section on humanitarian principles. It describes humanitarian aid’s purpose as “to save lives and alleviate suffering in a manner that respects and restores personal dignity.” Helping someone in a way that disrespects their autonomy and dignity is not true humanitarianism. When properly given, humanitarian aid has a significantly positive effect on a person’s emotional and spiritual health as well as their physical health.

#15. Humanitarian aid can fuel hope and motivation

The humanitarian aid system is far from perfect, but despite its flaws and limitations, it can change the lives of those both receiving and giving assistance. It proves people and organizations are willing to help and sacrifice for others. It saves lives and eases the suffering of millions. In a time where crises are constantly erupting – and hope can be hard to come by – humanitarian aid can make dire situations a little brighter and motivate people to keep working for a better world.

The post 15 Benefits of Humanitarian Aid appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Despite being renowned as a multicultural democracy that celebrates its international reputation for upholding the human rights of its citizens, Canada has struggled to address several of its own human rights abuses within its own borders. Here are 10 human rights challenges that continue to plague Canada, ranging from the country’s longstanding discrimination against their Indigenous communities to the breaching of the rights of criminals and migrants in the nation.

Rights of Indigenous Canadians

First Nations communities in Canada have long lived in the shadows of their colonial oppressors, facing systemic discrimination as their rights as humans are breached. Indigenous Canadians live on lands called reserves that are equipped with inadequate water treatment systems, which have led to a health and sanitation crisis in First Nations communities. The lack of access to clean water has led to considerable mental, social and emotional crises for Indigenous communities, highlighting the lack of action the Canadian government has taken to protect the rights of First Nations.

Violence Against Indigenous Women and Children

Indigenous women and children face disproportionately higher levels of violence and are at higher risk of being murdered in Canada. Indigenous women and girls are twelve times more likely to be murdered or go missing that any other demographic group in Canada and are three times more likely than non-Indigenous women to be assaulted. The violence against Indigenous women stems from systemic racism and deep colonial attitudes that perpetuate discrimination across Canada and are exacerbated by sexist and misogynistic perception of women in the country.

Immigration Detention

The Canadian federal government adopted new policy regulations in 2018 that require children to be held in immigration detention as a “last resort”. Although the number of detained children has decreased over the years, the average time they spent in detention facilities rose, highlighting the structural issues of immigration that continue to plague Canada. Furthermore, despite the introduction of the National Immigration Framework in 2016, Canada has seen a rising trend in immigration detainees in prisons – in 2019, the Canadian Border Services Agency detained 7212 people in immigration holding centres, compared to 6609 people in 2017.

Religious Freedom

In April 2020, the Supreme Court of Canada refused to consider whether Quebec’s controversial ban on religious symbols should be suspended. Introduced in 2019, Bill 21 banned civil servants, teachers and police officers in Quebec from wearing religious symbols when providing or receiving government services. Religious symbols such as hijabs, kippahs and turbans are subject to the ban, underscoring the province’s racist and discriminatory attitude towards religious freedom.

Corporate Accountability

Canada has consistently failed to implement reforms to hold major mining corporations accountable for human rights abuses that occur behind closed doors. The Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise currently do not hold the authority to investigate human rights abuses that occur within the mining industry, which prevents the association from exposing the exploitation by Canadian companies that work overseas in the oil and gas trades.

Women’s Rights

Women in Canada are disproportionately more likely to face financial insecurity, violence and workplace harassment compared to their male counterparts. According to the Canadian Women’s Foundation, 10% of women in Canada live on low incomes and every six days, a Canadian woman is killed by her intimate partner. Such phenomena stem from systemic sexism and gender-based discrimination, alongside societal expectations for women to be the primary caretakers of the home, where they engage in unpaid work in childcare.

Counterterrorism

The Canadian government has failed to support and repatriate Canadians who are unlawfully detained in jails due to alleged connections with the Islamic State (ISIS). Approximately 47 Canadians have been detained in these prisons for over a year, living in overcrowded and inhumane conditions and none of these individuals have been charged with any crime. Human Rights Watch speculates that the Canadian government has deliberately withheld support for its citizens due to their suspected connections with ISIS, highlighting the discriminatory attitudes towards counterterrorism.

Unlawful transfer of weapons

Despite the militarized repression of demonstrators in Colombia, Canada has continued to support and transfer weapons to Saudi Arabia, arguing that there would be no “substantial risk” that the arms would be used to commit human rights abuses. This unlawful transfer of weapons breaches Canada’s international obligations to the Arms Trade Treaty and underscores the perpetuation of the violation of human rights conducted by the Canadian government.

Rights of Migrants

Migrants in Canada continue to exploited for their labor, living in “conditions of modern-day slavery”. According to a report released by The Migrant Rights Network, migrants live in destitute accommodation, characterized by a lack of privacy and cleanliness and are desperate for respect and dignity as people. Alongside testimonies of migrants, the report also cited concerns regarding the control employers have over migrant workers, particularly surveillance and control over their movement.

Solitary Confinement

Although solitary confinement was abolished in Canada in 2019, federal jails have continued to use solitary confinement as a way of punishing criminals in prisons. Some inmates have been cited to be kept alone in their cells for extended periods of time, to the extent where it meets the United Nation’s definition of torture. In fact, a Canadian study found that approximately 30 percent of prisoners did not get four hours outside their cells and 10 percent met the UN definition of torture.

The post 10 Biggest Human Rights Challenges in Canada appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Assimilation means absorbing new things into a system. Assimilation is most often talked about in the context of “cultural assimilation,” which is when immigrant groups are encouraged to “adopt the culture, values, and social behaviors of their host nation.” This means shedding or hiding aspects of one’s culture – including certain foods, clothing, language, religious traditions, etc – that the host nation is unfamiliar with. Supporters of assimilation claim it creates a more cohesive cultural identity, reduces cultural conflict, and helps immigrants gain more social and economic opportunities. In this article, we’ll discuss the theoretical models of assimilation, as well as what assimilation can look like in practice. Are supporters of assimilation correct in their claims or does assimilation lead to discrimination and cultural destruction?

Cultural assimilation in theory

Cultural assimilation has existed for as long as people have moved from place to place. In a 2018 article on ThoughtCo, Dr. Nicki Lisa Cole describes how sociologists in the US first began developing theories on assimilation early in the 20th century. From their work, three theoretical models of assimilation were developed:

Classic and new

This first model embraces the idea of the US as a melting pot. It presents assimilation as a linear process where each generation becomes more and more similar to the dominant culture. While the children of immigrants may keep some of their parent’s traditions, their children (and the children after them) are more likely to lose elements of their grandparents’ culture. Eventually, everyone shares the same culture. This theory is not without criticism. It’s been called “Anglo-conformist.” It also only works if the mainstream, dominant culture is something that’s easily defined.

Racial/ethnic disadvantage

This theory frames assimilation as a process that varies based on factors like race, ethnicity, and religion. Depending on where a person is from, they may enjoy a fairly easy assimilation process, but for others (usually non-White immigrants), racism and xenophobia may make it much more challenging. Learning the language and adhering to the dominant cultural values will not help immigrants facing increased discrimination. There are major personal and societal consequences when some groups are privileged and others are disadvantaged.

Segmented assimilation

The segmented assimilation model claims that different immigrant groups assimilate into different parts of society. Factors like socioeconomic status determine what section an immigrant has access to when they arrive in a host country. There are a variety of pathways a person may take. Some follow a classic assimilation model while others end up assimilating into poorer parts of society, which leads to fewer opportunities. Sociologists also study a third pathway, which is when a person keeps many of their cultural values and traditions while successfully assimilating economically. Sociologists focusing on the segmented model tend to study second-generation immigrants.

Assimilation in practice

As the models show, assimilation is a complex topic. In practice, assimilation often happens naturally as people adjust to a new place and their children grow up surrounded by a different culture. However, assimilation also has an insidious history. In many places, indigenous people and immigrants have been subjected to forced assimilation. Assimilation is also often inseparable from ideas about race and “the other.” Here are two examples of assimilation’s dark side:

Canada: Residential schools and cultural genocide

When Europeans settled in Canada, they considered themselves superior in every way. To “save” and “civilize” the Indigenous people, the Europeans embarked on a centuries-long project that had catastrophic consequences. They looked to the United States as inspiration and established the residential school system in the 1880s. In 1920, it became mandatory for Indigenous children to attend residential schools; they had no other legal options. The stated belief was that unless forced to assimilate, the Indigenous people – and Canada as a whole – would never flourish. The schools forced assimilation by cutting children’s hair short, dressing them like Europeans, and only allowing English. They even kept siblings apart, serving the last ties to family and culture. Children were subjected to physical, emotional, and spiritual abuse, as well as malnutrition and poor healthcare. Between 1883-1997, more than 150,000 children were torn from their homes.

The last residential school didn’t close until 1996, which means many survivors are still alive today. In 2015, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission released a 6-volume final report. It concluded that the residential school system had attempted “cultural genocide.” It can be easily argued the system was attempting literal genocide, as well. Mass graves have been found at many schools. In 2021, Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation reported that ground-penetrating radar had identified about 200 potential burial sites at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. Canada’s assimilation campaign was presented as beneficial to the Indigenous people, but all it did was destroy culture, inflict trauma, and kill children. Canada continues to face a reckoning regarding its violations of human rights.

The United States: Asian Americans and the “model minority” paradox

The story of Asians in America reveals the paradoxical nature of assimilation in the United States. While often viewed as a “model minority,” Asian Americans are also seen as “unassimilable.” In the 19th century, most anti-Asian discrimination targeted Chinese immigrants, who arrived in the US in the 1850s. Seen as cheap labor, they got jobs as gardeners, laundry workers, and railroad workers who built the Transcontinental Railroad. Hostility against Chinese American workers boiled over in 1882 when Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act. In 1943, the Magnuson Act ended exclusions, though it only permitted 105 Chinese immigrants every year. In a 2012 lecture “Asians in America: The Paradox of ‘The Model Minority’ and ‘The Perpetual Foreigner,’” Dr. Min Zhou describes how before WWII, Americans saw Asian immigrants in a harshly negative light, casting them as “sneaky” foreigners with strange foods and culture. Asian men were seen as feminine or even childlike because of their hairstyles, clothing, and jobs in historically “feminine” fields like laundry and restaurant work. Discrimination against Japanese Americans reached its peak during WWII with internment. Dr. Zhou points to this time as the origin of the “model minority” as Chinese Americans worked to prove their loyalty to the US and distance themselves from Japanese Americans.

During the civil rights movement, the model minority myth became fully formed. Asian Americans suddenly became examples of “successful assimilation.” Congratulated as hardworking, docile, and loyal, they were contrasted with Black Americans. Sociologist William Petersen praised Japanese Americans in particular, while he called Black Americans “problem minorities.” The model minority myth not only divides minority groups but lumps together all Asian and Pacific Islanders. It erases both history and current prejudices. A 2021 paper published in Sociology Compass concluded that while the status of Asian Americans has “improved dramatically,” the COVID-19 pandemic’s wave of anti-Asian racism and “othering” exposed how thin the line between “model minority” and “foreigner” is. Because of racialization, it doesn’t matter how well Asian Americans meet the current standards of assimilation. They still face discrimination and violence by those who see them as inherently “other.” When convenient, their successful assimilation is weaponized against other groups. Is this the best we can expect from assimilation as a societal concept? Or is it time to do away with assimilation?

Biculturalism: an alternative to assimilation

Full assimilation is only necessary if the dominant culture demands conformity to be successful and if becoming more like the dominant culture is beneficial. As we see from the examples of Canada’s residential schools and Asian Americans, demanding conformity is closely tied to forced assimilation while successful assimilation connects to ideas about race. On the other hand, not assimilating at all can lead to social isolation, lost economic opportunities, and other issues. Is there another way?

According to Psychology Today, biculturalism is “the personal blend of one’s cultural heritage and lived experiences.” Rather than a combination of two cultures or feeling culturally split, biculturalism can be framed as a “reconciliation” of cultures. Seth Schwartz, a professor of public health sciences, finds that biculturalism leads to higher self-esteem, less anxiety, less depression, and better family relationships. Fully assimilated people experience worse outcomes. This is known as the “the immigrant paradox.” Rather than fully assimilating, it’s possible to integrate elements of multiple cultures and create something unique that’s satisfying for each individual.

Final thoughts

If you asked people planning to move to a new culture, most would probably prefer biculturalism if they knew they would be welcomed. However, many places do not want immigrants to retain their own cultural identity or – at the very least – the host country has specific guidelines on what’s acceptable and what’s not. A country may welcome the new types of food an immigrant group brings, but draw the line at the group’s religious practices. The more lines there are, the less welcome a person feels and the less likely they are to want to keep any of their cultural identity. It may seem easier to shed the past and fully assimilate despite the cost. For biculturalism to be possible, countries need to embrace it. This must be intentional. Racism, xenophobia, and other types of discrimination must be addressed. Different cultures must be celebrated and supported. Systems must be set up so cultural differences aren’t barriers to success. This leads to happy, healthier people and more unique, expansive cultures.

The post What Is Cultural Assimilation? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

What is social justice? It’s a concept of fairness regarding the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society. While human rights focus on providing everyone with the basic rights and freedoms outlined in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, social justice is concerned with fairness, access, equity, and equality. Human rights and social justice are closely aligned, but not interchangeable. This guide describes ten social justice courses available online from the Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn learning platforms.

The courses below cover subjects such as feminism and social justice, social work, data science for social justice, art and music, and Black performance as social protest. As is the case with most online learning platforms, you can audit most of the courses for free. If you want to access all the materials (including graded assignments) and receive a certification, you will usually need to pay a course fee. Most courses offer financial aid opportunities. Coursera and FutureLearn also offer plans where you can subscribe and access most of the courses and certificates on their websites without an additional fee. If you want to take multiple courses on a single platform, these subscription plans are worth considering.

#1. Feminism and Social Justice (University of California Santa Cruz)
#2. Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change (University of Michigan)
#3. Love as a Force for Social Justice (Stanford University)
#4. Community Organizing for Social Justice (University of Michigan)
#5. Writing for Social Justice (BerkeleyX)
#6. Data Science for Social Justice (DavidsonX)
#7. Visualizing Women’s Work: Using Art Media For Social Justice (University of Michigan)
#8. Community Awareness: What Is A Socially Just University (University of Michigan)
#9. Black Performance as Social Protest (University of Michigan)
#10. Music and Social Action (Yale University)

#1. Feminism and Social Justice (University of California Santa Cruz)

An adaptation of Distinguished Professor Bettina Aptheker’s course at UC Santa Cruz, this online MOOC defines and explores feminism through the lens of three significant events in the history of feminism and social justice. The course covers the Empire Zinc strike of 1951, the 1971-1972 trial of Angela Davis, and the #metoo movement. Bettina Aptheke leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand Professor Aptheke’s working definition of “feminism”
• Learn about the causes, conditions, and outcomes of the Empire Zinc strike
• Learn about the trial of Angela Davis
• Explore the causes and outcomes of the #metoo movement, as well as recent changes that came from the movement

How you will learn

“Feminism and Social Justice” is divided into four weeks. It takes about eight hours total to complete. Coursework includes readings, videos, discussion prompts and forums, and graded quizzes. The quizzes, which are each worth 25% of your grade, are available to view through the audit track. To pass each quiz, you must score an 80% or higher. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.8/5 user rating.

REGISTER HERE

#2. Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change (University of Michigan)

This course explores the role of social workers, including the history of social work, its roles in different settings, the themes that guide social work practice, and current challenges facing the profession. Students will gain a thorough understanding of social work in the United States and its connection to social justice. The course can be taken on its own or as part of the “Social Work: Practice, Policy, and Research MasterTrack Certificate Program.” Barbara Hilz (Clinical Assistant Professor of Social Work and MSW Program Director) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand the scope of social work and the skills and roles of social workers
• Apply core frameworks and change efforts to a case situation
• Explore the history of social work
• Learn how to center justice in social work through the Privilege, Oppression, Social Justice, and Diversity framework

How you will learn

This course is divided into four weeks and takes 12 hours total to complete. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, practice quizzes, and four graded module quizzes. They are each worth 25% of your grade. To pass, you must score 70% or higher. To receive a grade, you must be on the paid course track. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.8/5 user rating.

REGISTER HERE

#3. Love as a Force for Social Justice (Stanford University)

This course explores “agape love,” a concept of compassion and kindness, as a force for social justice. Using the expertise of people from many disciplines, students will learn the biological, religious, psychological, and social perspectives of love. By the course’s end, students will have a deeper understanding of love as the key to creating community, connection, and functional societies. Anne Firth Murray teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand different types of love
• Explore love and the brain, including the neuroscience of empathy
• Discuss love within different religions and ethical systems of thought
• Explore love in action in one-on-one interactions, in businesses, and in NGOs
• Understand love within a social justice context

How you will learn

The course is divided into six weeks and takes about 28 hours total to complete. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion forums, and graded assignments. Assignments are peer-reviewed, so you must review three of your peers’ assignments. It appears that the assignments (there are twelve) are available even on the audit track. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.7/5 user rating.

REGISTER HERE

#4. Community Organizing for Social Justice (University of Michigan)

In this course, students will study strategies for community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society. Topics include the core concepts of social justice, practical steps for community-building, and how to develop action plans. The course is based on those working for community change in the metropolitan Detroit area, but it’s useful for anyone no matter where they live. Professor of Social Work Barry Checkoway teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define social justice, community, organizing, and leaders
• Explore stereotypes, discrimination, and social identity
• Develop better communication skills and how to navigate tough conversations
• Learn the seven steps to creating change
• Understand the different elements of strategy for community organizing

How you will learn

This beginner course is divided into six weeks and takes about eight hours total to complete. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, and graded assignments. These are six reflections asking about your comprehension of that week’s topic. When you audit, you can see the reflections, but you can’t submit for a grade. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.8/5 user rating.

REGISTER HERE

#5. Writing For Social Justice (BerkeleyX)

This edX course teaches students about how writing can change the world, whether it’s on a personal, local, national, or global subject. Students will learn the importance of words in different genres, such as personal journals, letters to public officials, and opinion articles. By the course’s end, students will have a firm grasp on the power of writing for social justice and the skills necessary for a variety of genres. Maggie Sokolik (Director, College Writing Programs) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define social justice
• Learn how to develop powerful vocabulary and strong sentences
• Understand how to use logic to persuade readers
• Learn to craft persuasive and powerful opinion essays
• Explore writing formats and how to get published

How you will learn

When the course is in session and you’re taking the certificate track, you have access to all materials including graded assignments. It takes four weeks with 4-5 hours of work per week. On the audit track, your access expires after about a month. Coursework includes videos, readings, ungraded quizzes, and discussion forums. There are three homework assignments and one final writing assignment. To pass, you need to score 50% or higher as an average of all assignments. You only receive a grade you’re paying for a verified certificate. When the course is not in session, it’s archived and no longer active, though you can see the materials and old discussion forums.

REGISTER HERE

#6. Data Science for Social Justice (DavidsonX)

This intermediate course teaches students how to analyze injustice and structural inequality by applying methods in R. R is a tool and environment for statistical analysis and is used to handle, store, and analyze data. Based on a student’s current R skills, you’ll learn how to use data for social change, see how inequities are embedded in education, health, and housing, and analyze and communicate data using well-designed visualizations like histograms, bar graphs, and boxplots. Laurie Heyer (Kimbrough Professor of Mathematics | Chair of Genomics) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Apply data science to analyze injustice and structural inequality
• Reflect on inequities across communities and regions using data
• Communicate with data with unbiased and well-designed visualizations
• Explore the role of data scientists in social justice

How you will learn

At the time of writing, we couldn’t access the course details. With 3-5 hours of work per week, the course takes about four weeks. Because it’s an intermediate course, students will need to access R and Rstudio, install tidyverse, load data from Excel spreadsheet or .cvs, use R Markdown files, work with projects in R, and recognize categorical/non-categorical variables. Access to any graded materials is limited on the audit track. Access to the course also expires after a certain time with the audit track.

REGISTER HERE

#7. Visualizing Women’s Work: Using Art Media For Social Justice (University of Michigan)

This FutureLearn course teaches students how to view art history through the lens of gender and learn about the historical erasure of women’s work through social justice art. Students will gain a foundation in visual literacy and interpretation, as well as an understanding of how to identify and interpret art-based social justice projects. Melanie Manos, a world-renowned visual and performance artist, leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand the basics of visual literacy and different art forms
• Explore the connection between art and social justice
• Identify the history and patterns of gender bias in public art
• Develop strategies for responding to gender bias in public art/memorials and other social justice issues

How you will learn

This course takes four weeks with about three hours of work per week. It’s self-paced though with the audit track, you lose access to the course after four weeks. Coursework includes videos, readings, exercises, and discussions. There don’t appear to be any graded assignments.

REGISTER HERE

#8. Community Awareness: What Is A Socially Just University (University of Michigan)

In this Coursera course, students learn about higher education and how institutions can become more socially just for all groups, especially low-income and historically-underrepresented populations. Students will hear from institutional leaders, professors, and students on topics such as a university’s role in social justice, universities’ contributions to inequality and injustice, and what changes need to be made in higher education. Barry Checkoway (Professor of Social Work), Dilip Das (Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Affairs), and Rachel Neimer (Instructor) lead the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Discuss what a university is and who the institution is for
• Explore the purpose of higher education
• Examine learning and teaching in light of a changing university population
• Learn about the role of faculty members and administration

How you will learn

This course is divided into eight weeks and takes about six hours to complete. There is no paid track (or certificate of completion), so full access is available to everyone. Coursework includes readings, videos, and discussion prompts and forums. There are no graded assignments.

REGISTER HERE

#9. Black Performance as Social Protest (University of Michigan)

In this course, students explore the history of social protest through Black performance, which has been a model for protest around the world. Students will read, watch, and listen to performances throughout American history, learn about patterns of resistance, and produce a reflective manifesto for racial equity through performance. Three professors from the school of Music, Theatre, and Dance (who also have lived experiences as Black performers) lead the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Describe histories of plantation performance
• Understand the geographies and motivations for the Great Migrations between 1917-1935
• Explore performance from the Civil Rights Era and Black Lives Matter movement
• Create a personal manifesto and share it with the class

How you will learn

The course takes five weeks with three hours of work per week. If you’re on the audit track, your access is limited to five weeks. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion forums, and exercises. There are two tools in this course: the Gallery tool and the Workbook tool. The Gallery is a public space where students post their Mixtape and manifesto and receive comments. The Workbook tool is a private space for journaling, reflecting, and drafting. Students can export a PDF version of their Workbook content.

REGISTER HERE

#10. Music and Social Action (Yale University)

How should musicians respond to the state of the world? What are their responsibilities and where are the opportunities for them to participate in social action? This course creates space for these questions and many others. Students will explore the figure of the classical musician as a public figure with an important societal role that can fuel positive change and democracy. Sebastian Ruth (Visiting Lecturer in Community Engagement) leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Discuss what art is and how it contributes to public life
• Explore the connection between art and democracy
• Learn about the social commitment of artists from the 20th and 21st centuries
• Reflect on the role of art, artists, and social action

How you will learn

The course is divided into nine weeks and takes about 26 hours to complete. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion prompts, and graded assignments, which include quizzes and peer-reviewed assignments. To pass the quizzes, you must score a 70% or higher. It doesn’t appear that the assignments are locked behind the paid track. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.7/5 user rating.

REGISTER HERE

The post 10 Online Courses on Social Justice  appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Asian states have ratified a variety of international human rights conventions. Nevertheless, human rights abuses and violations are common. People and refugees are facing arbitrary detention, torture and enforced disappearance. Beside learning about human rights from world-class lecturers, studying with a regional focus comes with many unique perks and invaluable experiences. Here are 6 human rights law schools in Asia for you to consider:

University of Hong Kong – Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong

Master of Laws (LL.M) in Human Rights Programme

The University of Hong Kong established its Master of Laws in Human Rights Programme in 1999 in order to focus on international human rights issues, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. As an interdisciplinary programme, students are required to draw upon other disciplines such as history, politics, philosophy and sociology to ensure human rights law is understood in context. By the end of the programme, students will have learned to understand the international human rights legal framework, reflect on human rights challenges from global, regional and domestic perspectives and apply their knowledge to advocate for real change. Teachers include renowned experts in the field from around the world including eminent scholars, judges, United Nations (UN) human rights mandate holders, and heads of non-governmental organisations.

Soochow University – Taipei, Taiwan

Master Degree in Human Rights Program

As the only human rights master degree offered in Taiwan, the Master Degree in Human Rights Program aims to deepen the education and research of international human rights and train students to apply their knowledge to the real world. Students are required to complete 24 credits of coursework focusing on “human rights philosophy topics”, “special topics and research on history of human rights thinking” and “special topics on international human rights law”, alongside a thesis and internship in the field of human rights. To complement the human rights education, Soochow University hosts several seminars and human rights weeks every year to exchange information with international scholars.

Mahidol University – Phutthamonthon, Thailand

Asia Pacific Master of Arts in Human Rights and Democratisation (APMA)

The Asia Pacific Master of Arts in Human Rights and Democratisation (APMA) is a 12-month interdisciplinary graduate program jointly offered by the Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies of Mahidol University (Thailand), Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines, Kathmandu School of Law (Nepal), University of Colombo (Sri Lanka), and Universitas Gadjah Mada (Indonesia). The program is designed for students who seek a deeper understanding of regional and global human rights issues and the promotion of democracy, peace and development in the Asia Pacific.

By the end of the program, students will have excellent knowledge of theory and practice of the promotion and protection of human rights and democratization, the ability to undertake independent scholarly research on human rights and democratization issues in the Asia Pacific and apply their knowledge of human rights in real situations.

Students will study at Mahidol University for their first and second semesters and will later proceed to study at their chosen partner university (Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines, Kathmandu School of Law in Nepal, University of Colombo in Sri Lanka, or Universitas Gadjah Madah in Indonesia) where they take their remaining classes.

Paññasastra University of Cambodia – Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Master’s Programmes in International Human Rights Law, Faculty of Law and Public Affairs

The Master’s Programmes in International Human Rights Law is offered by the Faculty of Law and Public Affairs at Paññasastra University of Cambodia (PUC-FLPA). Offered in English, it is an international level programme that draws on the academic and practitioner strengths of the Faculty as well as the extensive number of human rights experts associated with Paññasastra University of Cambodia (PUC). Since 2014, the Master’s Programmes
in International Human Rights Law is offered with support from the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (RWI), an independent academic institution affiliated with Lund University in Sweden.

By the end of the program, students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of international and regional human rights, with a focus on the Asia Pacific region, hold high level competency in research, writing, critical thinking and analysis, advocacy, legal reasoning and problem-solving and utilize their knowledge and competency to help promote and protect human rights.

University of Jember – Jember, Indonesia

Master Program in Human Rights (MA/LLM)

The Master Program in Human Rights (MA/LLM) is a program offered by the University of Jember’s Centre for Human Rights, Multiculturalism and Migration and aims to promote the research of human rights. To advance the advocacy and research of human rights, the Centre for Human Rights, Multiculturalism and Migration conducts annual conferences, inviting world-renowned professors, practitioners and policymakers and publish scholarly articles in the Journal of Southeast Asian Human Rights.

Hitotsubashi University – Tokyo, Japan

Democracy and Human Rights Program, Institute for Global Governance Research

The Institute for Global Governance Research of Hitotsubashi University offers its graduate democracy and human rights program, which aims to promote a deeper understanding of the current state of the liberal international order through research on the global situation of democratic and human rights norms and institutions. The program trains students to craft policy proposals that contribute to the maintenance of the liberal international order and research and defend liberal values.

The post 6 Human Rights Law Schools in Asia appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The United Nations is the world’s largest intergovernmental organization. Currently made of five main organs – the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, the International Court of Justice, and the UN Secretariat – the UN serves an important role in the world. How does it protect human rights? In this article, we’ll discuss the history and purpose of the UN, how it fulfills its goals, and what challenges the organization faces.

The story of the United Nations

In 1920, at the Paris Peace Conference that ended WWI, the League of Nations was born. It was the first intergovernmental organization with the goal to maintain world peace. While the organization proved to be ineffective, the concept of a unified group of nations lived on. The United Nations was officially established in 1945 in response to WWII. The League of Nations officially dissolved in 1946.

When the UN first met, there were 51 Member States who ratified the United Nations Charter. In 1948, the assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which elaborated on the Charter’s principles and established universal human rights. This was a high priority for the UN following the Holocaust and other atrocities during the war. The UDHR has since become a guiding document for various human rights treaties and instruments. Currently, the UN has 193 members and is headquartered in New York City.

The purpose of the UN

Article 1 of the UN Charter lays out the purpose of the organization in four parts, which are paraphrased here:

1. To maintain international peace and security (which includes preventing and removing threats, suppressing acts of aggression, and settling disputes)
2. To develop friendly relations among nations based on respecting the equal rights and self-determination of people
3. To achieve international cooperation in solving economic, social, cultural, and humanitarian problems (including promoting respect for human rights and freedoms)
4. To be a center for harmonizing the actions of nations as they try to accomplish these goals

How does the UN protect human rights?

The UN has lofty goals. These are challenging to accomplish, especially given the size and complexity of the UN system. What instruments and entities are used to protect human rights? There are more than we can cover in this article, but here are some key examples.

Treaties and legal instruments

The International Bill of Human Rights

The International Bill of Human Rights is made of three instruments: The UDHR, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The UDHR is the foundation of international human rights law. The two covenants reiterate many of the articles in the UDHR, but the covenants are legally-binding treaties.

Conventions

A convention is a legally binding agreement between contracting countries and the UN. Several conventions address human rights issues, such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination; the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women; and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Entities that address human rights:

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Based in Geneva, the OHCHR is the main UN entity that protects and promotes human rights. It supports the human rights aspects of peacekeeping missions and maintains offices in different regions such as Africa, the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe and Central Asia. The High Commissioner for Human Rights has the authority to investigate human rights situations, publish reports, and comment on human rights issues.

The Human Rights Council

In 2006, the HRC replaced the UN Commission on Human Rights. Its mission is to promote and protect human rights. The Council has 47 elected members that address human rights violations, make recommendations, and discuss “thematic human rights issues and situations.” Members are elected for staggered three-year terms on a regional group basis.

The Security Council

The Security Council frequently deals with human rights abuses, especially in conflict zones. The Council has the authority for certain actions. They can investigate, mediate, dispatch a mission, appoint special envoys, dispatch a peacekeeping force, and issue a ceasefire directive. They can also establish travel bans, economic sanctions, arms embargoes, and more.

UN peacekeepers

The UN sends out many peacekeeping operations and peace-building missions. Working on the ground, human rights teams are responsible for protecting civilians, addressing conflict-related human rights violations, and strengthening respect for human rights and the rule of law.

The UN Development Group’s Human Rights Working Group

This group was established in 2009 at the request of the UN Secretary-General. Abbreviated as UNDG-HRWG, this group’s role is to advance human rights mainstreaming efforts with the UN development system. The OHCHR serves as the Chair. Priorities include making human rights expertise available to national development actors and helping the UN development system deliver rights-based development results.

Treaty bodies

There are ten human rights treaty bodies made of independent experts in human rights. They are elected for fixed renewable four-year terms by State parties. Their role is to monitor the implementation of the core international human rights treaties, such as the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

Special advisors/experts

Special Advisors

There are two Special Advisors (who are individuals appointed by the Secretary-General) that focus on human rights: the Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide and the Special Adviser on the Responsibility to Protect. The Special Advisor on genocide raises awareness of the causes and nature of genocide, warns when there’s a risk of genocide, and advocates for appropriate action. The Special Advisor on protection leads the “conceptual, political, institutional and operational development of the Responsibility to Protect.” The Responsibility to Protect is an international norm identifying the international community’s responsibility to stop genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity.

Special Representatives

In addition to Special Advisers, the Secretary-General also appoints special representatives who advocate against major human rights abuses. There are currently three special representatives focused on Children and Armed Conflict; Sexual Violence in Conflict; and Violence Against Children.

Special Rapporteurs

The Human Rights Council appoints Special Rapporteurs, who are human rights experts. Their role is to monitor, advise, and report on human rights situations in specific countries and worldwide. They respond to individual complaints, conduct studies, and travel to countries to assess human rights situations.

What challenges threaten the UN’s role in protecting human rights?

The UN has many entities and instruments addressing human rights, but the organization faces significant challenges in its role as a protector of human rights. Here are three problems:

The Security Council veto power

There are mechanisms within the UN system that cause problems. The veto power system of the Security Council is a key example. Because of their role in founding the United Nations, the US, UK, China, France, and Russia get special status as permanent members of the Security Council. They’re also given a special voting power: “the right to veto.” That means if any one of these five Members decides to vote “no” in the 15-member Security Council, the decision or solution won’t move forward. A decision could have support by every single member except one of the five Permanent Members, but their veto stops it cold. When a decision involves a human rights issue – which it often does – that veto power is significant.

The veto system is controversial and often debated. In 2018, Member States called for removing the veto power and expanding the Security Council’s permanent seats. The African Group pointed out that most of the issues the Council discusses relate to the African continent. The meeting coverage reads: “Despite having the largest number of Member States in the United Nations, Africa continues to be undermined and has no representation in the permanent category…”

A damaged reputation

Many scandals and controversies have tainted the UN’s record on human rights. One of the most pressing issues involves the Human Rights Council. In 2020, the General Assembly elected fifteen new members, including China, Pakistan, and the Russian Federation. China managed to be elected despite weak support; compared to its previous election, it lost the support of 41 Member States. Of the countries elected, it got the fewest votes. This is due to China’s deteriorating reputation on human rights, which includes a violent response to pro-democracy protestors in Hong Kong and abuses targeting China’s Uyghur Muslim population. The fact that States with poor human rights records can hold a place on the Human Rights Council does not inspire confidence in the UN.

Not enough power to address global issues

The last main challenge facing the UN is the scope and scale of human rights issues. As an intergovernmental, global organization, the UN has a responsibility to deal with all of them. Issues include poverty, climate change, sustainability, children’s rights, disarmament, healthcare, food security, gender equality, forced migration, and more. The cost and complexity of addressing these issues are hard to fathom, but there’s another factor that affects the UN’s effectiveness as a human rights protector: its power.

Despite its size and influence, the UN does not hold much actual power over its Member States. It doesn’t take long to find evidence that many of the 193 Member States are not upholding international human rights law. While Article 6 of the Charter does give the UN power to expel Members who have “persistently violated the Principles contained in the present Charter,” it never has. Even if it did expel a Member, how does that halt the human rights violations still going on? What can the UN do about countries not bound to its treaties? The UN’s toothlessness leaves many wondering just how effective the organization can be at upholding human rights. As the world deals with increasingly complex issues – like climate change and a rise in authoritarianism – can the UN in its current state fulfill its role? Drastic reform may be needed. For now, the future remains uncertain.

The post What’s the Role of the UN in Protecting Human Rights? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Law is one of the key enforcement mechanisms for human rights. Lawyers focused on human rights can work with individuals, groups, intergovernmental organizations, international courts, and more. To build a career in human rights law, you must first specialize in the field. Here are ten human rights law schools based in the United States:

UVA Law

Charlottesville, VA
Human Rights Program/International Human Rights Law Clinic

With UVA Law’s Human Rights Program, faculty members, student groups, and other departments coordinate speakers, summer and postgraduate employment, and more. The International Human Rights Law Clinic is at the program’s heart. Human rights lawyers, NGOs in the US, and international NGOs provide Clinic students experience and knowledge in areas like gender equality and sports; reparations; migrant rights; indigenous rights; transitional justice; and much more.

Students at the Clinic have worked on projects like the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women. They participated in organizing a round table with US gender and rights advocates, drafting a briefing paper, coordinating and editing five civil society briefing papers, and contributing to the special rapporteur’s 2013 thematic report.

St. Thomas College of Law

Miami Gardens, FL
Human Rights Institute/Master of Laws in Intracultural Human Rights

The St. Thomas University Human Rights Institute promotes human rights through research and education, social advocacy, and direct services. For the last decade, the Institute has researched areas like economic micro-development, refugee services, social services, and more. In 2021, the College of Law announced the Benjamin L. Crump Center for Social Justice, which will train the next generation of what the press release describes as “social justice engineers.”

St. Thomas College of Law also offers a unique LL.M. program focused on the protection of human rights. Lawyers, teachers, human rights activists, government officials, and others join the program led by faculty from the United Nations and other centers of scholarship. In the program, students learn the major theories, practices, and essential concepts in international human rights law. They also gain experience in research and advocacy. Honor graduates are eligible to apply for the Doctor of Science of Law program in Intracultural Human Rights.

Fordham University, School of Law

New York, NY
International Human Rights Clinic/LL.M. in International Law and Justice

Fordham University is home to The Walter Leitner International Human Rights Clinic, founded and led by Professor Chi Adanna Mgbako, a human rights scholar and advocate. The Clinic includes human rights training, legal and policy analysis, public interest lawsuits, and more. In collaboration with grassroots justice organizations, the Clinic focuses on projects such as women’s rights and gender justice, sex worker rights, and LGBTQ rights.

Fordham University also offers an LL.M. program in International Law and Justice, which was created with support from the human rights Clinic. Students gain a deep understanding of human rights protection and promotion. Each student must take 24 credits of approved courses, including 12 credits of Specialization Distribution Courses.

Georgetown University Law

Washington, D.C.
Human Rights Institution (HRI)

The HRI at Georgetown Law is one of the country’s leading teaching and training institutions for human rights. Every year, it partners with students to decide on the focus of the Fact-Finding Project’s Work, which looks at human rights violations and recommends policy changes and legislation. Georgetown Law provides other opportunities for students to research and engage in human rights. There are clinical programs on issues like immigration law and policy. Graduate students can earn qualifications in Refugees and Humanitarian Emergencies or International Human Rights.

There are many human rights courses to choose from, including smaller seminars, clinics, practicums, and lecture-style courses. J.D. students can also pursue clinical programs like the International Women’s Human Rights Clinic, the policy Clinic at the Harrison Institute for Public Law, and the Civil Rights Clinic.

Columbia Law School

New York, NY
The Human Rights Institute/Social Justice and Human Rights

The Human Rights Institute at Columbia Law School is the center of human rights scholarship at the school. Established in 1998, the institute and Human Rights Clinic has deep roots in Human Rights in the United States; Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights; and Human Rights and the Global Economy. Students gain research and practical experience working initiatives and cases with both the school’s faculty and human rights organizations.

Students can also choose Social Justice and Human Rights as their area of study. There are summer funding opportunities, post-graduate fellowships, advanced seminars, human rights fellowships for LL.M. students, clinics, and more. Faculty and alumni from Columbia Law have gone on to organizations like the United Nations, Amnesty International, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

Yale Law School

New Haven, CT
The Schell Center/Human Rights Law Clinic

Established in 1989, the Schell Center coordinates a program of human rights activities for students and scholars at Yale, including panels and lectures, a weekly Human Rights Workshop, summer and post-graduate fellowships, and guidance to students on human rights research and career opportunities. The Schell Center also supports the Multidisciplinary Academic Program in Human Rights, which provides undergraduates with an interdisciplinary perspective on human rights study.

Yale is also home to the Allard K. Lowenstein International Human Rights Law Clinic. This course gives students practical experience, the knowledge and skills needed for human rights lawyers, and the opportunity to contribute to human rights protection. Each year, students in the Clinic earn three credits for practical work on human rights issues, which is usually through collaborating with an NGO.

Harvard Law School

Cambridge, MA
The Human Rights Program/International Human Rights Clinic

Founded in 1984, the Human Rights Program helps scholars, advocates, and students expand their knowledge of human rights. Activities include summer and post-graduate fellowships and opportunities for experiential learning. In partnership with student organizations – like the Harvard Human Rights Journal – the program examines human rights issues. The program also supports students working on research projects with human rights organizations.

Harvard Law’s Human Rights Program works closely with the International Human Rights Clinic. Through supervised instruction, students learn about human rights activism and how to protect human rights. Students work in small project teams to strengthen their advocacy and ethical skills. The Clinic is held in the Fall and Spring semesters.

University of California Berkeley School of Law

Berkeley, CA
The Human Rights Center/The International Human Rights Clinic

The Human Rights Center at Berkeley School of Law researches war crimes and other human rights and international humanitarian law violations. The Center works to protect human rights, hold perpetrators accountable, and train students to research, investigate, and document violations. Opportunities for students include the Investigations Lab, the first university-based open source lab finding and verifying human rights violations. Students work in teams to find, verify, and analyze information found on social media. There’s also a series of human rights courses supported by the Center and a student fellowship program.

The International Human Rights Law Clinic works closely with the Center. The Clinic focuses on four areas: the promotion of human rights in the US; economic, social, and cultural rights; counter-terrorism and human rights; and accountability and transitional justice. Students develop innovative solutions and work on a variety of human rights projects.

CUNY School of Law

Long Island City, NY
Justice Centers/Clinics

CUNY School of Law has many opportunities for students studying human rights. Their Justice Centers support intersectional approaches to human rights issues, law and policy, and transformative justice. Students, faculty, and community partners collaborate on the work. There are three Justice Centers: the Center on Latinx Rights and Equality; the Center for Urban Environmental Reform; and the Sorensen Center for International Peace and Justice.

CUNY is the #1 clinical program in the nation with a series of experiential learning clinics focused on experience and essential skills. The Human Rights and Gender Justice Clinic engages students (under close supervision) with projects and human rights practice education. Other clinics include the Disability & Aging Justice Clinic, the Equality & Justice Clinic, and the Workers Rights Clinic.

Stanford Law School

Stanford, CA
Stanford Human Rights Center / Law and Policy Lab

Established in 2013, the Stanford Human Rights Center focuses on public policy analysis, identifying international best practices, detention conditions, and the inter-American human rights center. On campus, it promotes events, student engagement, and public understanding of human rights. The Center also works closely with Stanford’s International Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Clinic. At the time of this article’s writing, the Clinic was inactive as it looked for its next Director.

At the Law and Policy Labs, students work under the guidance of faculty advisors on real-world problems. The labs serve real clients on law and policy issues including education, governance and transparency, energy and the environment, and more. First-year courses examine basic legal doctrines while advanced courses examine policy.

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Are you interested in knowing more about a human rights topic? Maybe you’re in school and need an idea for a project. People hoping to work (or currently working) in the human rights field also need to know about emerging trends. Even if your career isn’t in human rights, these topics are still relevant. Whether you want to volunteer with an organization, raise awareness about an issue, or simply know more about what’s going on, understanding the state of human rights is important. It’s the first step to defending rights and making the world a better place for everyone. Here are ten human rights topic ideas to explore:

#1. Gender inequality

Gender inequality is an evergreen human rights topic. Because it has such a long history, we have a good idea of what works and what still needs to be done. Issues like the gender pay gap, the distribution of unpaid labor, gender-based violence, gendered job segregation, and women’s empowerment play into the state of inequality. Due to the pandemic, gender parity was set back by about a generation, so how to best respond is also a good topic to explore.

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#2. Climate change

The climate crisis is arguably the most globally urgent human rights topic today. Reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change consistently confirm that human activity drives climate change. It affects rights like health, housing, food, water, education, and more. It disproportionately affects women, children, older people, minorities, migrants, rural workers, and other vulnerable groups.

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#3. Children’s rights

Children often have their human rights violated. This is especially common during times of war, poverty, and other conflicts. The climate crisis represents one of the biggest threats. According to UNICEF, around one billion children are at “extremely high risk.” Kids need adults and organizations committed to speaking up for them and empowering their voices.

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#4. The rights of migrants and refugees

More than 280 million people (about 3.6% of the global population) live outside their country of origin, according to the United Nations. Many of those migrants were forced to leave. The reasons vary significantly, but the human rights of migrants and refugees are often threatened. A report by the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the Mixed Migration Centre at the Danish Refugee Council gives us an example. The report detailed how people crossing routes between East and West Africa and Africa’s Mediterranean coast face human rights abuses from smugglers, human traffickers, and State authorities.

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#5. Weakening democracy

Freedom in the World 2021, a report from Freedom House, found that authoritarian actors are becoming more brazen. 73 countries saw their freedom scores decline, including authoritarian states like Belarus and democracies like the United States and India. Considering that 2020 represented the 15th consecutive year of a decline in global freedom, weakening democracy is a disturbing human rights trend.

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#6. Reproductive rights in Poland

Reproductive rights are important everywhere, but things are becoming dire in Poland. The country has some of the most restrictive abortion laws in Europe thanks to the Law and Justice Party, which came to power in 2015. As things stand, nearly all abortions are effectively banned. This had led to protests like the massive 2020-2021 Women Strike. Groups supporting women’s rights have received bomb and death threats while individual activists are facing what many see as politically-motivated criminal charges. Anyone invested in reproductive rights should watch what’s happening in Poland.

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#7. Disability rights

Due to barriers and discrimination, disabilities make it difficult or impossible for people to participate in the workplace, schools, cultural activities, travel, and so on. As an example, the United States’ confusing Social Security rules can lead to reductions or even a complete loss of benefits for disabled people when they marry. Health insurance can vanish, too. Stigma and ignorance make the world an unjust place, too.

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#8. Surveillance technology

Concerns about surveillance are growing in the wake of Covid-19 tracking and monitoring technology. Ethical issues already existed in the use of crime prevention technologies, but the pandemic gave governments a reason to use the tech for another purpose. Employee monitoring, QR codes, facial recognition, drones, data collection, and more can easily start threatening human rights. Surveillance technology everyone. It’s a human rights topic that deserves attention.

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#9. Transgender rights

Human rights for trans people were never protected that well, but there’s been a global rollback in recent years. 96 countries allow trans people to legally change their gender, but 71 have what ILGA World (a worldwide federation of organizations campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights) calls prohibitive requirements. There’s also been a weakening of discrimination laws, making the world a more dangerous place for trans people.

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#10. Disinformation and misinformation

Propaganda and conspiracy theories have always existed, but technology facilitates the lightning-speed spread of false information. Disinformation is deliberate, but accidentally sharing false information – misinformation – can be just as harmful. False information is a human right issue because it threatens rights like the right to free and fair elections, the right to health, and the right to freedom from discrimination. The global surge of false information regarding Covid-19 is a clear example of the real-world effects. Conspiracy theories about the virus’ origins and false claims about cures and vaccines have led to violence and death.

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Advocates go by many names and work in many fields. They’re found in legal, medical, educational, and social service systems. Depending on their role, advocates can support students, conduct research, develop public policies, represent clients in court, write grants, and much more. If you want a job dedicated to helping others, advocacy is a great career path to consider. Here are 10 careers that make a difference:

Victim advocate

When someone is the victim of a crime, it destabilizes their whole world. Victim advocates step in and provide assistance including but not limited to emotional support, information on legal rights and how the justice system works, help with safety planning, intervention with employers, and access to other resources. They work with a client through all the stages of the criminal justice process and are often needed afterward, as well. Advocates work in government law offices, medical institutions, social service organizations, law enforcement offices, and nonprofits.

Like many advocacy jobs, a victim advocate career can take a few paths. You’ll need at least an associate or a bachelor’s degree in a field like criminal justice, social work, human rights or psychology. There are certificates available, too, which when combined with a degree, can open up more job opportunities. Most people need at least 1-2 years of experience in social work (internships often count) before getting an entry-level victim advocate job.

Shelter advocate

Shelter advocates provide support during a crisis, usually to adult and child survivors of domestic violence. They work at domestic violence shelters and perform many supportive and administrative duties. Responsibilities include caring for the health of the client (emotional, physical, psychological), answering a crisis hotline and providing resources to callers, assisting with safety planning and orders of protection, and completing intakes for clients.

Most shelters require at least a bachelor’s degree in social work or another social services field. Previous experience working with survivors is also essential, either in a former job, as a volunteer, or as an intern. Shelter advocates should also have certain certifications to ensure a client’s safety, such as certification in basic first aid and CPR.

Guidance counselor

A safe, supportive school environment is essential for young people. Guidance counselors are advocates for K-12 students. Academics are a focus, but guidance counselors also work with kids on personal and social development. Responsibilities can include helping students with academics, identifying behavioral issues and recommending solutions, and providing training for school faculty.

Bachelor’s degrees in counseling, social science, or an education-related field are the best fit. Most schools also want their counselors to have a master’s degree in school counseling or a similar area. You’ll also need to complete an internship and pass any required exams for licensure or certification. To expand your job options, additional certifications in areas like mental health, career development and college admissions are a good idea.

Youth worker

Like guidance counselors, youth workers advocate for young people. They work in places like juvenile detention facilities, government offices, community centers, schools, and social service agencies. Workers educate kids on healthy behaviors, skills for employment, and skills for emotional regulation. They also advocate for programs and resources that serve kids. The challenges faced by youth workers vary. Sometimes, the kids they’re working with need minimal support and help, but often, the kids are struggling with more serious concerns like mental illness, addiction, abuse, and more. A youth worker based at a juvenile detention facility will have different responsibilities than a worker at a school.

Youth workers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like youth work or community studies. After graduation, you’ll most likely need either a postgraduate diploma (in youth work or community work) or a specialist certification. Volunteer work and internships provide necessary experience. Continuing education in the field of social work, behavioral health, and more will benefit a youth worker, too.

Mental health advocate

Those struggling with mental health issues often need help navigating their diagnoses, work, school, and other areas of their life. That’s where advocates come in. Mental health advocates work at a variety of organizations, including schools, hospitals, community clinics, and addiction treatment centers. Responsibilities include providing emotional support to clients, explaining treatment options, and helping them access other resources regarding their diagnosis. Advocates must understand things like health insurance coverage, the legal system, school policies, and whatever else may be relevant to the client. Advocates can also work with organizations destigmatizing mental health and/or lobbying for public policies that improve mental care access.

Organizations that hire mental health advocates ask for different qualifications. There isn’t a specific degree requirement, but if you want a managerial position, you’ll need a degree. Some places ask for a master’s degree in public health, social work, student affairs, or a similar field. For entry-level jobs, 2 or so years of experience in healthcare or social services are usually required.

Community health worker

Community health workers work with social services, nonprofit organizations, clinics, and other institutions to provide health-related care to a community. Trust is very important in this profession as community health workers serve as advocates for the people they serve. The majority of the time, community health workers are hired from within the communities. Responsibilities include providing health education, developing strategies to improve a community’s health, collecting data, and addressing community concerns. They often work alongside health educators.

Community health workers usually have at least a high school diploma, though some areas require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Some areas have certification programs available, too, though a community health worker may not require certification. On-the-job training is the norm, where you’ll cover outreach skills, information on the specific health topics you’re assigned to, and communication skills. Knowledge of multiple languages is also very beneficial.

Social media manager

In the age of the internet, a lot of advocacy happens on social media. That includes drawing attention to urgent issues, raising money for campaigns, and providing educational content. An individual activist can engage in advocacy and support themselves using platforms like Patreon, but many organizations hire people to manage their social media. Responsibilities include developing the organization’s brand, planning and scheduling content, and tracking the social media impact.

Because social media management is a fairly new career, organizations are flexible about what they’re looking for. Many managers have bachelor’s degrees in marketing, business, or related fields, but anyone with a lot of social media experience and a track record of engagement will appeal to employers.

Researcher

Before advocates and advocacy organizations can take action on issues, they need information. Research paints a clearer picture of the issues at hand, allowing organizations to develop the most effective strategies. Researchers are responsible for identifying research goals, identifying sources, gathering and verifying data, and organizing and reporting on their findings. They might also be in charge of analyzing the data in more depth, but not always. Researchers work at just about any organization, including nonprofit advocacy groups, governments, intergovernmental groups, colleges, medical institutions, and more.

Most researchers need a postgraduate degree in the field they want to work in. A master’s degree is usually the standard for entry-level jobs, while you need a doctorate for higher-level positions. Experience is important for this career, so you should work on research projects while a student.

Grant specialist

Many organizations engaged in advocacy depend on public and private grants. Grant specialists are responsible for researching and securing grants. These specialists understand an organization’s mission, what grants an organization is eligible for, and how to convince donors to give them the grants. They might also be responsible for distributing and monitoring the grant money. Colleges, universities, and nonprofit advocacy groups hire grant specialists the most. Specialists may be on staff at an organization or work as a freelancer.

To become a grant specialist, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree. English, communications, and marketing are common majors, but if you want to secure grants for specific causes, a background in that cause may be better. For example, if you want to secure grants for an organization advocating for police reform, a criminal justice degree could be more beneficial. To gain experience, look for internships or volunteer grant writing positions.

Immigration lawyer

Immigration law is complex. In many places, the law is not only confusing but also unfriendly or discriminatory towards immigrants and refugees. The process is very challenging, so people need strong advocates who understand the law. Immigration lawyers represent clients on cases involving student visas, green cards, temporary work visas, asylum, deportation, criminal proceedings, and more. The lawyer’s job is to advocate for their client, ensure they understand what’s going on, and get the best outcome possible. Immigration lawyers work in law large firms, small practices, and networks focused on immigration law.

To become an immigration lawyer, you’ll need a law degree. If possible, you should choose a concentration or specialization in immigration law. This won’t be required to practice law, but it better prepares you for your future career. As you’re completing your education, look for experience wherever you can, whether it’s internships, volunteering, or part-time work. When you take the final exam to become a lawyer, see if there is a certification in immigration law available. This appeals to both clients and prospective employers.

The post 10 Careers in Advocacy That Make a Real Difference  appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The terms “social justice” and “human rights” are often used interchangeably. While closely connected, they’re not identical. Human rights refer to the basic rights everyone is owed – like the right to food and water, the right to housing, and the right to be free from discrimination – but social justice is more concerned with the distribution of wealth, privileges, and opportunities. Human rights affirm that everyone deserves adequate shelter, but social justice focuses on the fact that some people can only afford rent on a 2-room apartment shared with three roommates while a wealthy individual buys up multiple single-family homes.

No one degree is required to work in the social justice field, but there are degree programs in the USA focusing on the subject. Some are social justice-specific, but there are other programs where you can choose a social justice concentration or earn a certificate offered by an educational institution. Here are ten examples:

M.A. Social Justice and Human Rights

George Mason University (Fairfax, VA)

The Social Justice and Human Rights concentration is available in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program. Students can design their studies around what matters most to them and gain an understanding of the social, political, cultural, historical, and economic threads binding social justice issues. The concentration prioritizes a global and intersectional framework. Course and research topics include immigration, disability rights, racial justice, and environmental justice. Experiential learning opportunities – like internships, consulting projects, and field studies – are also available.

To earn the MA, students will need to complete 36 total credits. 14 are required courses. Students also need a certain number of credits in Emphasis Courses, Experiential Learning, Elective Courses, a Research Methods course, and a capstone project or thesis.

BS in Social Justice Studies

Eastern Kentucky University (Richmond, KY)

The Social Justice Studies major from this public university embraces an interdisciplinary framework, encouraging students to become critical thinkers with a global, intersectional perspective. The SJS program focuses on going beyond the idea of “justice” within crime, law, and the criminal justice system. Students study the diversity of social issues, like economic inequality, classism, sexism, colonialism, war, and more. With this degree, students are equipped as global and local citizens motivated to work towards a more just world.

The SJS program consists of a Core series of courses (18 hours), Electives (15 hours), and Supporting courses (12 hours). This major is offered through EKU’s School of Justice Studies.

M.A. Higher Education – Diversity and Social Justice

The University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)

The Master of Arts in Higher Education offers a concentration in Diversity and Social Justice. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for addressing diversity and social justice issues in higher education. With the support of other students and faculty, the program explores educational policies, the practice of social justice education, and how knowledge can be implemented. Students are paired with an advisor from the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education based on what the student is interested in.

The Diversity and Social Justice program takes two years of full-time study with at least 30 credits. Students complete 9 credits in Core courses, 15 in the Diversity and Social Justice concentration, and 6 Cognate courses (which must be outside Higher Education and must address diversity and social justice issues). Students must also complete a 2-semester internship.

BA in Social Justice

Hamline University (St. Paul, MN)

This BA program prepares students for a career in social justice with an understanding of social injustices based on history, culture, geography, theory, and ethics. Students learn skills needed to problem-solve using innovative, analytical, ethical, and integrative methods. Majors in this program have gone on to careers in politics, human services, human rights, education, and more.

To earn the BA in Social Justice, students must take 12 courses. Two are required courses. The others must be the following areas: one course in politics or legal studies; one in social, cultural, economic, or psychological analysis of social justice issues; one in history with a social justice focus; one in moral, ethical, or values concerns; and one in practical skills. Students must also take at least five courses in one of three concentrations: an existing discipline or interdisciplinary program (like philosophy, law, women’s studies, etc); a specific geographical area (like Asia, the United States, etc); or a student + advisor-designed concentration. Internships or fieldwork is not required for this program, but it’s highly encouraged.

BS in Social Justice

Marian University (Fond du Lac, Wisconsin)

This program at Marian University (a private Catholic school) explores the promises of justice, the realities of injustice, and practical solutions. Students build a strong understanding of ethics, philosophy, history, human rights, power, and diversity. While taking coursework, students work with local organizations like health advocacy groups, community centers, and social services offices.

Of the 120 credits needed for a bachelor’s degree, students must take 30 credits of general education courses. After the introductory Social Justice Courses and five additional courses, students choose courses aligned with a specific concentration: Religion and Social Justice; Advanced Cultural Studies; Environmental Justice; and Global Justice and Human Rights. Students can also design a unique concentration with guidance from faculty.

Philosophy major/Social Justice track

Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT)

For millennia, philosophers have wrestled with questions about ethics, society, and justice. Philosophical methods of analysis and argumentation are important parts of activism and social progress. Available through the Philosophy department, the social justice track provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to reckon with injustice. They will apply their philosophical skills to issues of human rights, social responsibility, and equality.

Philosophy majors submit proposals when applying for the social justice track. Proposals should include three philosophy courses and two non-philosophy courses that create a coherent concentration. Additionally, students must take one Core course in history or mind and reality, as well as two philosophy electives and at least two advanced philosophy courses (in any area) during their junior or senior years.

University of Colorado (Denver, CO)

MH/MSS Social Justice Track

The Graduate Social Justice Track is an interdisciplinary Masters available to students admitted to the Master of Humanities/Master of Social Science Program. Students build knowledge and practical skills related to democracy, education, race, class, gender, and more. The program provides learning opportunities that prioritize intersectional understandings of the social justice issues of today. Coursework, internships, collaborative research, events, and training help students thrive.

The MH and MSS degrees both require 36 credits. 9 must be through the Core requirements. At least 12 must be Social Justice-themed. Students must also take elective courses and complete a project or thesis (worth 3-6 credits) on a social justice topic. It’s strongly recommended that students take at least one quantitative/qualitative research methods course.

M.A. Equity and Social Justice in Education

San Francisco State University (San Francisco, CA)

Students studying in the Equity and Social Justice Education MA program learn about culture, language, race, ethnicity, ability, and gender diversity in education. Theoretical, historical, and political perspectives as they relate to education are the focus. Social activism is also a large part of the program. Students will learn interactive pedagogies and teaching philosophies using critical thinking, demonstrations, simulations, and more.

To complete the degree, students must take 18 credits of Core courses, 3 credits of Research Methods, 6 credits of Electives, and 3 credits of a “Culminating Experience,” which is either a Master’s thesis or a field study. The program does not provide a teaching credential.

MA of Public Administration – Human Rights and Social Justice

Cornell University (Ithaca, NY)

Taken through the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs, the MA of Public Administration allows students to take courses from across the campus. The Human Rights and Social Justice concentration focuses on human rights and the policies that expand human rights. Students studying this concentration also analyze political and economic barriers that block progress and prevent social justice from becoming a reality. Representative employers (full-time and internships) include Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, China Labor Watch, and more.

Students take 9 courses in Foundational Coursework, 5 courses in the Human Rights and Social Justice concentration, and a one-credit Colloquium course every semester. Students are also expected to participate in practical work experience, which can include internships, off-campus study/externship, or a graduate certificate program. Because analysis and written communication are essential to public affairs, students also have opportunities for a capstone project, a professional report, and a thesis.

Social Justice (Undergrad and Graduate Certificate)

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Harvard Division of Continuing Education is a division of the University dedicated to programs and unique online teachings for high school students, professionals, and distance learners. Students who choose an Undergraduate or Graduate Certificate in Social Justice examine both theoretical and practical questions of social, political, and economic rights. They’ll learn about core themes of social justice through areas like the environment, politics, religion, law, and more. Upon completion of the certificate, students will have valuable insight into policy, principles of social justice, and social justice issues.

To earn the certificate, students will need to complete four certificate courses for graduate credit and earn at least a B-grade in each course. The courses must be completed within three years. The graduate certificate in social justice requires 16 credits or four courses. A social justice foundational course is required along with three electives.

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The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected billions of people around the world. Human rights are critical for response and recovery. To promote, claim and defend human rights, you first need to know them. We have compiled a list of 10 top-rated online courses to learn more about human rights, social justice, UN diplomacy and related issues. You can audit the courses for free or opt-in for a paid verified certificate for an extra fee. If you plan to obtain a verified certificate by multiple universities, all courses below are included in Coursera plus.

Table of Contents

#1 Children’s Human Rights (University of Geneva)
#2 International Migrations: A global issue (Sciences Po)
#3 Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (Essec Business School)
#4 Social Norms, Social Change (University of Pennsylvania)
#5 International Organizations Management (University of Geneva)
#6 Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World (University of London)
#7 UN Sustainable Development Goals (University of Copenhagen)
#8 Indigenous Canada (University of Alberta)
#9 Feminism and Social Justice (University of California, Santa Cruz)
#10 Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection (University of London)

#1 Children’s Human Rights (University of Geneva)

Millions of children experience emotional, physical, or sexual violence. Hundreds of thousands flee their homes due to persecution, conflict, and war. During precarious times and humanitarian emergencies child rights are often affected the most. In this course by Geneva University, you will analyze child rights instruments, explore protection mechanisms, and assess child rights interventions. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, the course examines the rights of children from a variety of perspectives. The course is taught by leading experts in the sector of children’s rights from UNIGE’s Center of Child Rights Studies.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Identify human rights violations, and specifically child rights violations
• Outline key elements of the UN Child Rights Convention (CRC)
• Describe the UN monitoring mechanisms with regards to child rights
• Explain strategies to promote, defend and protect child rights

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 11 hours to complete and is focused primarily on video lectures, readings, and quizzes. To obtain a verified certificate, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. At time of writing the course was rated 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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#2 International Migrations: A global issue (Sciences Po)

More people than ever before live in a country they weren’t born in. People move. They always will. In this course offered by one of France’s leading universities, you will learn about international migration from a global perspective, with regional and local case studies. Throughout the course you will explore topics such as migration and development, statelessness, border controls, inclusion and exclusion, discrimination, and freedom of movement. Tackling a key human rights issue, the second week of the course is dedicated specifically to refugees and environmentally displaced persons. The course is taught by Catherine Wihtol de Wenden, Research Director at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and consultant to the Council of Europe (CoE) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define and use crucial terminology regarding migration, refugees, and displacement
• Outline challenges and complexities related to international migrations
• Describe the right to mobility as a fundamental human right

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 11 hours to complete and is focused primarily on video lectures, readings, and quizzes. To obtain a verified certificate, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. At time of writing the course was rated 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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#3 Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (Essec Business School)

The competencies to leverage diversity and facilitate inclusion are more than an asset. They are essential for UN entities, NGOs, governments, and companies alike. Entities that value diversity and inclusion attract more talent and achieve better outcomes. Being one of the top valued skills of employers and HR recruiters, this course provides you with easy access to develop knowledge and skills in this area. The course is hosted by Junko Takagi, Chair of Diversity and Inclusion at ESSEC Business School and features a diverse group of speakers from a variety of backgrounds.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Argue for the importance of diversity and inclusion
• Reflect on your own behaviors and reactions when experiencing diversity
• Outline key concepts of diversity and inclusion strategies
• Analyze and assess diversity and inclusion policies

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 9 hours to complete and features a broad variety of exercise types. Designed for active learning and engagement, learners will take part in peer-assignments, guided discussions, and complete quizzes. To receive a passing grade, you need to complete one evaluation quiz and two peer-graded assignments. The course was rated 4.7 out of five.

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#4 Social Norms, Social Change (University of Pennsylvania, UNICEF)

Social Change is the transformation of institutions, values, and behaviors. It’s essential for the realization of human rights and social justice. Offered through a partnership of UNICEF and University of Pennsylvania, this course explores how to eliminate harmful practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and other forms of gender-based violence. The course consists of two parts, focused on theoretical aspects and practical implementation. The course is taught by Cristina Bicchieri, Professor of Social Thought and Comparative Ethics.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Distinguish between different types of social practises
• Use a variety of tools to understand, measure and influence collective practises
• Create new beneficial norms and eliminate harmful ones
• Outline how issues such as child marriage and gender-based violence can be addressed

How you will learn

Both courses together take roughly 22 hours to complete. The lectures consist primarily of videos and readings. Each chapter of the courses also includes an optional discussion prompt. To receive a passing grade, learners must answer 70% of the quiz questions correctly. Learners rated the course 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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#5 International Organizations Management (University of Geneva)

Offered by the University of Geneva, International Organizations Management is a high-level introductory course to the structure, management and operations of the United Nations and other international organizations. Participants of the course will learn about important UN bodies such as the UN Security Council and the UN Secretariat, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The course is taught by eight instructors and the content is adapted from Geneva Universities’ MBA on International Organizations. The course is a useful starting point for individuals who aim for managerial positions at the United Nations, international NGOs, or social enterprises. Current managers who are interested in transitioning into a career with international organizations might also find the course beneficial.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the theory and practice of international organizations
• Discuss the governance, structure, and mandate of the United Nations
• Assess the different types of leadership styles in the United Nations
• Identify challenges/opportunities involved in international organization partnerships

How you will learn

The entire course takes roughly 18 hours to complete and was rated 4.8 by previous cohorts of learners. To receive a verified certificate, learners must answer 80% of the questions in five quizzes correctly. The course mainly consists of video lecturers with additional reading materials and occasional optional guided discussions.

REGISTER HERE

#6 Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World (University of London)

Founded in response to the atrocities of the second world war, the main goal of the United Nations is to foster international peace and security, protect human rights and deliver humanitarian aid. To strengthen these goals the UN engages in diplomatic agreements, negotiations, and conflict resolution. Offered by the University of London, this course introduces the UN system, its bodies, functioning and mandate. Participants of the course will develop practical skills to analyze current UN affairs and explore important UN themes.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the core values of the United Nations
• Differentiate between crucial UN bodies, their functioning and mandate
• Analyze the connection between human rights and the United Nations
• Recognize key UN agencies and their role in providing crises response

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes approximately 12 hours to complete and is taught entirely in English. To receive a passing grade, learners have to submit 5 peer-graded assignments on the UN today, the origin of the UN, the UN security council, human rights and crisis response.

REGISTER HERE

#7 UN Sustainable Development Goals (University of Copenhagen)

The 17 UN SDGs were created in 2015 to achieve a better and more sustainable future for everyone. They address global challenges including hunger, poverty, inequality, climate action, clean energy, and economic growth. University of Copenhagen’s course introduces the history, scope, and development of the UN SDGs. Learners will examine multiple key stakeholders involved in the implementation of the SDGs and discuss climate action (SDG 17) more thoroughly. The course is facilitated by Professor Katherine Richardson, who was a member of the panel appointed by the UN Secretary General to write the 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report. Multiple other experts are featured throughout the learning experience.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Describe the history, development, and scope of specific UN SDGs
• Outline the causes and mechanisms of climate change
• Discuss human inequality as central obstacle to achieving the SDGs
• Explain the role of key stakeholders in the realization of the UN SDGs

How you will learn

Rated 4.8 out of 5 by previous learners, the course takes around 10 hours to complete. To receive a passing grade, learners must complete three quizzes and answer 80% correctly. Each week of the course consists of video lectures, readings, quizzes and discussion prompts.

REGISTER HERE

#8 Indigenous Canada (University of Alberta)

Indigenous peoples play an important role in the protection of the environment, fighting climate change and the realization of the human right to a safe, healthy and sustainable environment. Yet they continue to face exclusion, marginalization, threats and worse. This course offered by the University of Canada explores indigenous worldviews and key issues indigenous peoples are facing in Canada. Participants of the course will learn about land claims, indigenous rights, and legal systems, as well as political conflicts and activism.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the history of indigenous worldviews, arts, and culture
• Describe the goals and principles of indigenous legal systems
• Recognize the consequences of resource extraction of indigenous territories
• Explain the positive impacts of cross-gendered, third and fourth gender identity and two spirited individuals in indigenous societies
• describe the rights pertaining to land that UNDRIP addresses for Indigenous peoples

How you will learn

Learners in previous cohorts rated the course 4.8 out of 5. The course takes approximately 21 hours to finish. To successfully pass the course, learners must answer 70% of the questions in 12 short quizzes correctly. The course primarily consists of videos, readings, quizzes and offers the opportunity to engage in optional discussions every week.

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#9 Feminism and Social Justice (University of California, Santa Cruz)

Feminist and social justice activism continue to transform our societies. In this course taught by scholar-activist Bettina Aptheker you will learn about the history and development of feminism and social justice through analyzing essential case studies and key events. Taking an intersectional approach, you will discuss issues related to domestic violence, voting rights, racism, poverty, and prison reform.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Explain the definition of feminism and formulate your own definition
• Discuss the role of protests in feminism and social justice
• Analyze key events and case studies that changed our societies
• Assess the effects of contemporary movements such as the #metoo movement

How you will learn

Feminism and Social Justice takes approximately 8 hours to complete. The course includes videos, readings, quizzes, and optional discussion prompts. To receive a passing grade, learners must complete 4 quizzes and answer 80% of the questions correctly. Previous participants rated the course 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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#10 Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection (University of London)

Internally displaced people (IDPs) are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or war. Unlike refugees, they stay within the borders of their home countries because they are unable or unwilling to move to another country. In 2020, a record number of 55 million people were internally displaced. In this course by University of London you will learn about internal displacement as a major humanitarian challenge in today’s world and explore strategies to alleviate human suffering caused by internal displacement.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the scale, causes and effects of internal displacement
• Reflect on IDP protection at global, regional, and national levels
• Describe challenges of IDP protection during conflicts
• Explain the role of advocacy in elevating issues of internal displacement

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes around 27 hours to complete. While the course offers videos, readings, and quizzes, it also includes peer-assignments. To successfully pass the course, learners must complete two quizzes and four peer-graded assignments. The course has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by previous learners.

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If you plan to obtain a verified certificate by multiple universities, all courses above are included in Coursera plus.

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The MA Human Rights Law offered by the SOAS University of London provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with relevant issues in this discipline. This MA program was designed to provide a specialization in a continually evolving area of law that deals with several issues relate to major present debates and developments. The program is taught by expert staff experienced in working and teaching in the field, at posts such as the UN and civil society organizations.

With a variety of modules that focus on core subjects in the field of human rights law, the program considers a critical perspective into the theory and practice in this field, as well as other related fields, particularly the ones focusing on the global South. The core modules include international human rights law, international criminal law, international refugee and migration law, international humanitarian law, and justice, reconciliation and reconstruction in post conflict societies. Students also have an option to choose a singular module on a specific legal approach and these include human rights and Islamic law, law, rights and social change, human rights and peacebuilding, the Israeli-Palestinian case, Darfur, anatomy of a human rights emergency, and human rights of women.

SOAS Human Rights Law graduates leave the program as civic minded and critically engaged individuals who can contribute to the needs of their communities and societies in an effective way. Besides building careers within the field, graduates usually use this master program as a strong basis towards a PhD leading to an academic career.

Admission requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a subject appropriate to the program
• Relevant work experience
• English language proficiency certificate
• Supporting statement
• References

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M.A. Higher Education – Diversity and Social Justice

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, United States, is currently accepting students for their Master of Arts in Diversity and Social Justice program. Spread over two years of full-time study, the program is intended to prepare students to address a variety of issues that stem from inequality and to improve diversity in private and public settings after completion. All students complete six credits of coursework related to higher education and 12 credits of coursework related specifically to diversity and social justice. Students are also expected to complete a practicum experience, a research project and cognate coursework offered in departments chosen with the assistance of an advisor. Students must submit GRE scores with their applications, and non-native English speakers are also required to verify fluency with IELTS or TOEFL scores.

M.A. Social Justice and Education

The University College London in London, United Kingdom, offers a Master of Arts program in Social Justice and Education. The objective of the program is to examine how political and social factors affect education both in terms of policy and practice and how access to education affects issues like citizenship and social inequality. Coursework requires 1 full year to complete with all classes held at the university’s campus. The program includes mandatory modules in the sociology of education and interpreting education research. Then, students select two additional modules of coursework based on their interests and goals. To be considered for admission, students must have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree and show that they are fluent in English either through status as a native speaker or by submitting TOEFL or IELTS scores

M.A. Social Justice & Public Policy

All Hallows College in Dublin, Ireland, offers multiple graduate programs in Social Justice and Public Policy. Intended to be a part-time curriculum, the program can culminate in a graduate certificate with 30 credits of study, a graduate diploma with 60 credits of study or a master’s degree with 90 credits. Those who opt to earn the full degree will spend 2 years completing the program requirements on campus. Ideal for anyone who is currently involved with public policy that influences social justice as a part of their careers or for those interested in pursuing a career path in the field, the program includes classes in economics, social change, communications and strategic planning. Students must also complete a dissertation and take courses on research methods.

M.A. Social Justice and Equity Studies

Brock University in St. Catharine’s, Canada, is accepting students for their Master of Arts program in Social Justice and Equity Studies. The purpose of the program is to enable students to take a critical look at issues related to social justice, so that they are better able to fight for equality in regards to age, gender, race, sexuality, class and other categories. After graduation, students may choose to pursue doctoral-level degrees or be properly prepared to work as consultants or advocates for nonprofit organizations and government agencies. Courses are taught by faculty members from 16 different departments for a thorough multi-disciplinary approach to the study of social justice. The program requires 16 months of full-time study for completion and is open to native English speakers and non-native speakers with sufficient IELTS and TOEFL scores.

M.Sc. Justice Studies

Arizona State University in the Southwestern city of Tempe in the United States is offering a Master of Science degree in Justice Studies. An interdisciplinary program, the course of study typically requires a year of full-time study to complete. Students are free to choose from one of five areas of concentration: citizenship and migration, globalization and economic justice, law and policy, media and technology and social identity and communities. To be considered for admission, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent and have maintained an average GPA of 3.0 or the equivalent during their final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study. Students that graduated from a foreign university are also expected to provide IELTS or TOEFL scores to demonstrate fluency in English

M.A. Justice Studies

The University of Regina offers a Master of Arts degree program in Justice Studies at their campus in Regina, Canada. Intended to be a full-time course of study that lasts for 2 years, the program takes a multi-disciplinary look at justice with courses in public safety, health, learning and justice theory. Students are permitted to conduct research in one of four areas: the social factors that contribute to crime, corrections and victims services, international justice and human rights and social justice as it relates to gender, political participation, economic status and ethnic and cultural identity. In order to qualify for admission, students must hold a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent and have a graduation average of 70 percent or the equivalent. Fluency in English is also required

M.A. Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice

The Institute for Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice at the University of British Columbia offers a Master of Arts degree in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice. A full-time program, the curriculum includes courses held at the university’s campus in Vancouver, Canada, and typically requires 12 to 18 months of study to complete. There are a number of focus areas that students may elect for their studies. Some of the many options include women’s studies, race theory, migration and radicalization, health and media studies. Graduates are prepared for doctoral-level study or for work in the public or private sectors in advocacy, public policy and related fields. Admission to the program is very competitive. Students must show evidence of having maintained a B+ average in their third and fourth year undergraduate coursework to be considered for admission

M.A. Human Rights, Culture & Social Justice

Goldsmiths, University of London offers a Master of Arts program in Human Rights, Culture and Justice for individuals who are currently employed in or hope to one day work in the field of human rights advocacy. A flexible course of study that can be completed 1 year with full-time study and within 2 years with part-time study, the program includes three core modules, through which all students progress. The modules examine how human rights are constructed, how human rights are organized and how human rights issues can be researched and evaluated. At the conclusion of the first two modules, students complete an essay. A research proposal is submitted at the end of the third module. Students then proceed to complete a culminating research project.

M.A. Communication and Social Justice

The University of Windsor in currently offering a Master of Arts program in Communication and Social Justice as a full-time course of study at their campus in Windsor, Canada. This multi-disciplinary graduate-level program focuses on the intersections between communication and media and both culture and the political economy. Students are encouraged to examine how communication affects social, political and economic power in societies today and how social justice and communications have been interconnected in the past. Some topics that are covered during the program include propaganda, censorship, communication laws and regulations, global media systems and advertising. Course work also delves into how race, gender, class, sexuality and ethnicity have historically and are currently being portrayed in the media. Because all classes are conducted in English, students must demonstrate fluency through IELTS or TOEFL scores for admissions consideration.

M.A. Social Justice and Human Rights

George Mason University is accepting applicants for their Master of Arts degree program in Social Justice and Human Rights. This program requires two years of full time study at the university’s campus in Fairfax, Virginia, in the United States near the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Intended for students who hold a bachelor’s degree and either have an interest in working in human rights advocacy or are currently employed in the field, the program allows students to focus on an area of concentration of specific value to them. Possible areas of emphasis may include race studies, gender studies or queer studies. The location of the program gives students access to notable human rights groups, providing opportunities for field work and experiential learning. Non native English-speaking applicants must show fluency in English prior to admission.

M.A. Social Justice and Community Engagement

Wilfrid Laurier University in Brantford, Canada, is currently accepting applicants for their Master of Arts degree program in Social Justice and Community Engagement. Intended to be completed through one year of full-time study at the university’s campus, the program involves a number of requirements that allow students to investigate how issues of social and environmental justice play out in real community settings. All students complete a set group of courses and are expected to participate in a 160-hour community placement. A culminating capstone project is also required. The focus of the program is equipping graduates to help fight discrimination, poverty and environmental abuse after graduation. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, submit a writing sample and demonstrate fluency in English to be considered for admission.

M.A. Social Justice and Human Rights

Arizona State University in the city of Phoenix in the state of Arizona in the Southwestern United States is currently offering a Master of Arts degree in Social Justice and Human Rights. Students with a bachelor’s degree and interest in topics like family structures, labor, human security, education, environmental protection, children’s welfare and migration are invited to apply. All students take classes in grant writing, addressing social problems and research methods in social justice. An internship is also a mandatory part of the program. This master’s course of study consists entirely of campus-based classes and is only offered as a full-time program. Students who earned their undergraduate degrees in non-English speaking countries must submit ELTS or TOEFL scores for admissions consideration.

M.A. Social Justice

The University of Colorado Denver in Denver, Colorado, United States, is offering a Master’s degree in Social Justice at their campus. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach to the topic of social justice, allowing students to gain an understanding of how various issues and factors contribute to social justice or interfere with justice being equally given to certain racial groups, minority groups or classes within societies. Law, political science, education, consumerism and the media are all covered during the coursework. Students take classes full time to complete the program, and 1 year of study is required to complete all of the course requirements. Classes are taught only in English. Prior to admission, applicants who are non native speakers must verify their fluency by submitting TOEFL or IELTS scores.

M.Sc. Social Justice, Development and Health

Queen Margaret University is currently offering a blended Master of Science degree program in Social Justice, Development and Health. Students take courses both online and at the university’s campus in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. Very flexible, the program can be completed as a full-time course of study for one year or as a part-time course of study for two years. Anyone who is interested in furthering the fight for social justice in a senior position can benefit from the program. Students will approach the topic of social justice from many angles, seeing how anthropology, health policy and public health, sociology, management and psychology all play a role in justice. Because classes are taught only in English, foreign students who are not native speakers are expected to submit TOEFL or ELTS scores for admissions consideration.

M.Ed. /M.A. Social Justice Education

The University of Toronto in Toronto, Canada, offers both Master of Arts and Master of Education degrees in social justice education. This multi-disciplinary program can be completed full-time or part-time at a pace determined by the student, provided that the course of study lasts for at least 1.5 years and a maximum of 3 years full time or 6 years part time. Upon admission to the program, students are able to select their own area of interest from a broad range of options, including media and communication, gender studies, queer studies, disability studies, cultural contexts in education, democracy and ethics, indigenous studies and race relations. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, at least 12 months of work experience in a field related to social justice and demonstrated fluency in English to be considered for the program.

M.A. Equity and Social Justice in Education

San Francisco State University in San Francisco, California, United States, offers a Master of Arts degree in Equity and Social Justice Education for individuals who already work in or plan to work in a field related to adult education. A full-time, campus-based program, the curriculum includes four required courses, a seminar in educational research, a field study and a master’s thesis. Students also have the flexibility to choose between a number of education-related elective courses to complete the required number of credits. Admissions are competitive. Only students who hold a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent and have a “B” average GPA of 3.0 or above or the equivalent will be considered. Applicants who are not native English speakers will need to demonstrate that they are fluent with acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores.

M.A. Conflict Transformation and Social Justice

Queen’s University in Belfast, Ireland, is currently accepting students into their Master of Arts in Conflict Transformation and Social Justice program. Requiring one year of full time or two years of part time study to complete, the program includes course work in many different disciplines, including political science, law, anthropology, history, philosophy, psychology and sociology. Literature and creative arts classes are included in the course of study, providing a fully rounded look at the subjects of conflict and social justice in global societies. Classes are taught in English, and applicants must show fluency with adequate IELTS or TOEFL scores to be accepted for admission.

M.Sc. Social Justice and Community Action (Online Distance Learning)

The University of Edinburgh of Edinburgh, Scotland, is currently accepting applicants for their Master of Science in Social Justice and Community Action program. A completely online course of study for distance education students, the program is taken on a part-time basis over a period of 24 months. The course of study is intended for recent bachelor’s degree recipients who wish to obtain positions in social justice-related fields as well as professionals who are already working in areas of social justice research, policy writing or grassroots organizations in any sector. Course formats include podcasts, distance-based group assignments and independent studies.

M.A. Global Urban Justice

The School of Geography at the University of Leeds in Leeds, United Kingdom, is accepting applicants to their Master of Arts in Global Justice program. Classes can be taken full time for 1 year or part time for 2 years and focus on the theme of justice and injustice in urban areas. Students must participate in a collaborative research placement and write a dissertation to receive the degree. Research methods are covered in the compulsory course work, and students will consider a broad range of issues, including citizenship, climate change and migration through the course work. All classes are taught in English, so prospective students must display fluency through satisfactory IELTS or TOEFL scores.

M.A. Social Justice

Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Canada, is currently accepting applicants for their Master of Arts in Social Justice program. Students can choose from the traditional course of study or a specialization in women’s studies at the start of the 24-month, full-time course of study. For further flexibility, students have the option to choose four different streams to earn the degree: coursework, creative project, research project or practicum. All students complete classes in research methods and social justice theory to prepare them for the work in their individual curricula. All courses are taught in English, and fluency must be demonstrated via TOEFL or ELTS scores to be considered for admission.

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Social justice promotes the equal treatment of everyone in all areas of society, including the economy, the political arena, the healthcare system, the schooling system, and more. No one should face barriers because of their race, ethnicity, gender, sex, or other characteristics. Everyone should have equal access to opportunities. There are many fields someone committed to social justice can work in, so there are many social justice degree options that set them on their career path. While some schools offer degrees specifically in social justice (most are master’s degrees), you’re more likely to find programs that align with social justice objectives, such as human rights, social work, law, education, and so on. You can also find programs that offer specializations in social justice. Here is our quick guide on what you need to know about social justice degrees:

Why get a social justice degree?

Getting a degree in a social justice field leads to many opportunities and sets you up for a fulfilling career. You’ll be prepared for various kinds of work centered on helping others and making the world a better place. If you value work that makes a positive difference, you’re not alone. Research shows most people are eager for meaning, even if it means making less money than if they went a different route. A social justice degree is one of the best degrees you can get if meaningful work matters to you. Because of the many career paths within the social justice field, it’s also a good choice if you’re still figuring out what exactly you want to do.

What jobs can I get with a social justice degree?

Speaking of career paths, what’s available to you? Here are some of the jobs associated with social justice degrees:

Social worker

Social workers engage with individuals and families to help them improve their lives. Issues addressed include addiction, unemployment, mental illness, trauma, abuse, and more. Social workers are found in places like schools, hospitals, and welfare agencies. Some work primarily with children and families while others work with individuals in clinical settings like a therapy office. Most people will need at least a bachelor’s degree in Social Work, though some jobs require a Master’s. Some places also require a social work license.

Lawyer

Lawyers can work on many social justice issues, such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and other human rights. They can work at the local, national, and international levels. Lawyers interested in social justice should consider specializing in the area they’re most passionate about. To become a lawyer, you’ll need a law degree and whatever certification your country requires to practice law.

Policy analyst

Since policies are what drive change in society, it makes sense that policy analysts play an essential role in social justice. Policy analysts work with local, national, and international organizations, including NGOs, governments, and research institutions. They analyze existing policies and develop new ones related to economics, politics, healthcare, and more. A Master’s degree is usually required for this job, though some positions require a doctorate.

Journalist

Journalists who focus on social justice issues are integral to raising awareness, exposing corruption, and educating the public on often complicated problems in society. They tell stories, conduct investigations, and analyze information. Most journalists have a degree in journalism, but other degrees like English, political science, and writing can work, too.

Where can I study social justice?

Every school will offer degrees relevant to social justice. Some even offer specific social justice degrees, though most of those are Master’s degrees. Here are some examples of the degrees available:

Hamline University (St. Paul, MN)

Social Justice major/minor

Available as a major or minor, this interdisciplinary degree exposes students to various academic disciplines and practical skills relevant to social justice. Areas of concentration include Native American studies, Latin American studies, international human rights, and more. Any approved concentration relevant to social justice is acceptable. The Social Justice Department also provides paid internships.

London University (London, UK)

MA in Human Rights, Culture, & Social Justice

This Master’s degree can be completed in 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time). Students take courses through departments like cultural studies, political science, English, and communications. Students learn about modern human rights, how they’re addressed, theories, and more.

Brock University (St. Catharine’s, ON Canada)

MA in Social Justice and Equity Studies

Students learn to look critically at social justice issues while earning this interdisciplinary Master’s degree. Courses are taught through 16 different departments, providing students with a comprehensive perspective on social justice. Full-time study takes about 16 months.

The University of Buffalo (Buffalo and Amherst, New York)

Social justice minor

To earn this minor from the Department of Sociology, students need 18 credits, 12 of which are at the 300-400 level. The Social Problems class and internship are required. Other course examples include Social Movements, Race and Racism, Sociology of Social Policy, and Advanced Topics in Environmental Sociology.

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Front Line Defenders

Front Line Defenders was established in 2001 in Dublin with the goal of protecting human rights defenders at risk and those who work for any or all of the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their HQ is based in Dublin, but they also have office in Belgium, the Americas, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

They provide grants to strengthen and protect human rights defenders to be able to continue their work. For example, these grants cover legal fees for those who are judicially harassed, medical fees for those who have been attacked, and family assistance for imprisoned human rights defenders. The part of their work is also campaigning and lobbying at the international level for the protection of human rights defenders.

Amnesty International Ireland

Amnesty International Ireland is the Irish branch of Amnesty International, an international human rights organization fighting against human rights violations worldwide. The Irish branch of Amnesty International has around 20.000 supporters campaigning on issues such as refugee rights, ending torture and reproductive rights.

Amnesty International Ireland investigates and exposes facts about human rights violations and campaigns towards governments to ensure they respect international law. They mobilize supporters to campaign for change and supports people in claiming their rights through training and education.

Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission national human rights and equality institution. They were established with a purpose to promote and protect human rights and equality in Ireland, and build a culture of respect for human rights in the country.

One of the most significant aspects of their work is providing legal assistance to help people defend their rights, as well as contributing to legal cases that deal with human rights violations. They also work at the policy level to review the effectiveness of human rights and equality laws and cooperate with civil society to monitor and report on human rights and equality on the ground.

FLAC

FLAC is a human rights organization that was established to promote equal access to justice for all. Their vision is ‘’ of a society where everyone can access fair and accountable mechanisms to vindicate their rights’’.

FLAC offers free and confidential legal information and advice to people and helps them access their legal rights. They also carry out research and analysis of human rights law to achieve greater equality, especially for groups who are more marginalized. Last, but certainly not the least, FLAC advocates to bring about the legal change in areas in which laws are discriminatory and unfair.

Nasc

Established as a human rights NGO, Nasc’s mission is to empower migrant communities to realize and fulfil their rights. They work closely with migrants and refugees to advocate for a change within Ireland’s protection and immigration systems.

Nasc’s name derives from the Irish word ‘’link’’. They link migrants and refugees to their right. Their goal is ‘’to realize the rights of all migrants and refugees within Irish society’’, as well as to ensure fairness, access to justice and the protection of human rights.

Afri

A Dublin based NGO, Afri works to promote human rights, peace, justice and environmentalism, with a special focus on the Global South and injustices caused by conflict. Their mission is to influence policy and practice both in Ireland and internationally on human right, global justice, peace, and sustainability issues.

Afri organizes and conducts campaigns and events on issues such as climate change, poverty, war and militarization, democracy, food sovereignty, corporate accountability and natural resources. They also hold workshops and talks attended by grassroots activists, and conduct educational campaigns in schools, colleges and communities on all the issues mentioned above.

Doras

 Doras is NGO working to promote the rights of migrants in Ireland. Their vision for Ireland is ‘’a society where equality and respect for the human rights of migrants are social norms’’.

Through promoting and upholding the human rights of migrants, Doras advocates and campaigns at all levels for change in policy and legislation. They also provide legal aid on immigration and asylum issues, direct provision, family reunification, and employment rights to over 1.200 migrants annually. Last, but not least, they work with external stakeholders ‘’to ensure that all those who now call Ireland their home feel valued, recognized and appreciated’’.

Migrants Rights Centre Ireland

Migrants Rights Centre Ireland is a national organization working with migrants and their families in the country to promote empowerment, equality and justice.

One of the core areas of their work is providing support to migrants in minimum wage and unregulated work since these populations are at a higher risk of becoming exploited and poor. They also provide support to victims of trafficking for labor exploitation, as well as to undocumented, unemployed or underemployed migrants. To facilitate their activities, the Migrants Centre Ireland provides access to rights, information, conducts case work, and works with migrants in campaigning.

Irish Refugee Council

Irish Refugee Council is an working with a mission to ‘’ promote and protect the rights of people seeking protection and those recognized as refugees in Ireland.’’

They work with people who fled their countries due to war or conflict and it is no longer safe for them to return. They also work with people who experienced torture, death threats, and other forms of violence because of their religious belief, political stance, sexual identity, for protesting, or for simply being a female or a member of an ethnic minority.

Peace Bridges International Ireland

Peace Bridges International has been internationally promoting non-violent approaches to peacebuilding and protecting human rights defenders since 1981.

The Irish branch of Peace Bridges International was founded in 2014 as a part of country groups across the world, who work to support and strengthen human rights defenders through implementation of various projects. They promote non-violent approaches to conflict resolution and build a culture of human rights that will, in the future, lead to a more just and peaceful world.

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Master’s in Human Rights Education is a program that offers a rigorous human rights education in the community and classroom while being grounded in positive action and critical thinking. It aims to prepare graduates to teach about and tackle issues related of race, class, gender, religion, sexual identity, and nation.

The program is designed for teachers and educators operating in non-formal settings like community organizations. During the courses, students learn about the right to education, curriculum efforts towards human rights and social justice, and schooling with dignity and rights. Students also engage in critical thinking and debate about both local and global contexts, with a special focus on globalization, social movements, migration, and transnationalism. As a part of their final capstone project, students design a program, create a curriculum, and write a project that summarizes their experience and knowledge. The essential element of this program is transformation that is done through education which strengthens people to make changes not only in their own live, but in the lives of their families, communities, and institutions. Graduates of this program usually find an employment in international or local non-governmental organizations. Many work with immigrants or refugees in the US in some capacity, or in policy or curriculum development or program design for global education programs.

Admission requirements

• Completed online application with non-refundable $55 application fee.
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Evidence of background of academic preparation and/or professional experience that demonstrates ability to pursue graduate level programs.
• Two letters of recommendation, noting suitability for graduate work.
• CV
• A Statement of Intent

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Designed to prepare students for successful and challenging careers in international organizations, non-governmental organizations, legal practice, or public administration, this master program provides an in-depth understanding and knowledge of international and human rights law. The curriculum of the program is structured around courses dealing with the structure of the legal procedures governing states and organizations, as well the protection of the individual rights in a complex international environment.

The courses and seminars are offered to small and medium size groups consisted of 15 to 30 students, and designed to offer a broad range of teaching methods, as well as to provide an encouraging and supportive learning environment through close student-teacher interaction. Students are offered a chance to define and profile themselves in a variety of specialization areas such as international human rights law, migration and refugee law, international law and conflicts, and general international law. Upon completion of the program, students are equipped with expert knowledge and advanced research skills. Most often graduates of this master program find employment and build their careers in international organizations, public institution, international and national non-governmental organizations, legal institutions, academia, as well as in some area of the private sector.

Admission requirements

• A nationally recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent to at least 180 ECTS or to three years of full-time study from an accredited institution of higher education
• A proof of proficiency in English
• An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline related to international law and human rights

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Through a combination of research and practice, this master program offers an in-depth understanding on implementation of the idea of human rights in theory and practice of social work. This interdisciplinary program combines social sciences with standards and instruments of international human rights with a focus on the triple mandate of social work: world society and social development, social problems and human rights violations, and international law in a social work perspective. It also focuses on the development of human rights methods and interventions for different fields of social work.

The curriculum of the program includes courses on migration and racism, poverty and social exclusion, health and human rights, children’s rights, human rights education, management of change, gender, and diversity of human rights. Besides conducting a research for their master thesis, students are also required to develop and realized the Human Rights Praxis Project that is connected to the issue of social work and human rights. With the assistance and guidance of the program lecturers, students are encouraged to acquire independently additional methodical knowledge in the are of their interest, and critically justify and reflect their strategies.

Upon completion of the program students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to identify issues relevant to human rights theory, social policies, areas of activity of social work and problem areas, as well as the ability to promote a professional practice based on human rights. Graduates of this program meet the job market requirements in the area of social services, international governmental, non-governmental and private organizations, as well as in free-lance and consultancy.

Admission requirements

• Completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (social work, social sciences, law, humanities, cultural sciences)
• A minimum of 1 year of voluntary or professional work experience in a related field
• Proof of an adequate training in research skills
• Proficiency in English

Apply now

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The MA program in Social Justice and Human Rights focuses on understanding social injustices and human rights abuses, exploring key topics such as labor, migration, education, and the environment. The program provides a theoretical and methodological foundation for comprehending these issues within their legal, political, historical, and cultural contexts. Students develop an understanding of how these issues are defined by multiple and intersecting forms of inequality and social identity, including gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and nationality.

The program is designed for those interested in working towards ethical responses to social injustice and human rights abuses. Students may choose to focus on specific issues in international or domestic contexts, such as refugee resettlement, immigration and citizenship, human trafficking, racialized violence, and international human rights law and organizations. The program offers rigorous courses taught by experienced faculty from various disciplines, and many students complete internships domestically or internationally to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of the complexities of these issues.

Students can choose to complete a traditional Master of Arts thesis, an applied project, or a capstone course as their culminating experience. Through the program, students gain practical skills in research and grant writing, and deeper insight into the theory and practice of social justice, human rights, and humanitarian efforts.

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The LLM (which is an abbreviation of Legum Magister or Masters of Laws) is a postgraduate law degree. Students and professionals often earn an LLM to specialize in a specific field, like human rights. With this degree, a person can show law firms they have advanced legal training and can work in many legal environments. With a specialization in human rights, a lawyer can work on social justice issues, challenge structures that aren’t enforcing human rights law, and protect the rights of the vulnerable. Here are 5 LLM human rights programs you can obtain online:

LLM International Human Rights Law

The University of Law

This postgraduate online degree focuses on building a student’s in-depth knowledge of the subject and how international law protects human rights. It covers topics like the general principles of international human rights law, the connection between humanitarian and human rights law, and the challenges and future of international and domestic human rights. Full-time, the program takes 12 months. Part-time takes 21 months. Modules are assessed by a 3-hour written exam (which must be taken at one of the UK campuses or approved overseas center) or a written coursework assignment. A 15,000-word thesis is also required.

To apply, students need a UK undergraduate degree (any subject) at 2:2 or above, or an equivalent qualification. Proven English proficiency is needed, as well.

LLM with a specialization in human rights

University of London

The University of London is known for its research and teaching on human rights law. The LLM program consists of 16 modules from 4 courses. Each module takes about 115 hours. To earn the human rights specialization, you need to complete 12 modules (three complete courses) from that specialization. The specialization prepares students to work with government, inter-government, and corporate organizations on issues like human rights, immigration, women’s rights, and more.

The program can be completed within 1-5 years depending on your schedule. Courses include the International Rights of the Child; Medical Law and Ethics; The European Convention on Human Rights; and the United Nations Protections of Human Rights. Each module ends with a written exam. There are no oral exams or dissertations required. To apply, you must have a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) where 50% of the units taken were law-related. You can also be admitted with an advanced law degree or admission into legal practice by a governing organization. English proficiency is required.

LLM in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

Aberystwyth University

This distance learning degree has students examine traditional human rights and humanitarian law subjects and new issues, like the regulation of international society. Studies cover the local, national, and international complexities. The program balances an academic approach with practical concerns. Students gain expertise in human rights with this mixture of practical and theoretical studies, as well as exposure to a wide range of human rights and humanitarian law subjects. Modules are subject to change but include topics like Contemporary Issues In Food Policy and Law, Law and Gender, and International Criminal Law. Assessment involves coursework essays (120 credits) and a 60-credit dissertation on a chosen topic.

To apply, students must have a 2:2 Bachelors (Honours) or an equivalent in law or related social science degree. English proficiency is also required (IELTS 6.5 with a minimum 5.5 in each component or an equivalent). The program takes between 2-5 years.

LLM in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

American University Washington College of Law

In 2015, this LLM became the first hybrid program of its kind with virtual and on-residence courses in Washington, D.C. You also have the option to study in-residence and online only. Students learn practical knowledge from experts in the field, including judges and presidents from international and regional courts, UN special rapporteurs, members of UN human rights committees, and civil society leaders. Virtual courses consist of 2-hour live classes with discussions. Course examples include Advanced Human Rights and Asylum and Refugee Law. To complete the LLM, students need 24 credit hours: 12 in specialized courses, 6 externship credits, and 6 independent studies credits.

To apply, students must have a JD from a US law school accredited by the American Bar Association or a first degree in law from an equivalent foreign law school. International applicants must meet an English Language Proficiency Requirement, as well.

LLM in Transnational Crime and Justice

United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute

This LLM organized by UNICRI and the University for Peace teaches professionals and university graduates about international law, transnational crimes and transitional justice, humanitarian law, and international human rights law. Students will gain expertise in the theoretical and practical aspects of the subjects; unique insights into the UN and other organizations; and an understanding of how international criminal tribunals and courts work. There’s a distance learning phase and a residential phase at the UN Campus in Turin, Italy. During the Graduation Project at the end of the residential phase, students take part in a Moot Court simulation.

To apply, students must have at least a 3-year university degree in law, political science, social sciences, international relations, criminology, or a relevant academic subject. Full proficiency in English is required.

Explore more human rights masters here.

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Working for social justice and human rights organizations is both challenging and rewarding. Organizations look for passionate, organized employees who understand the threats to human rights and can work to develop and promote solutions. Canada is a democracy with a decent reputation as a human rights leader, but many issues remain. Indigenous rights, immigration detention, disability rights, and more need to be better addressed. Interested in working for an NGO in Canada? Here are 10 organizations offering jobs:

Action Against Hunger Canada

Action Against Hunger serves in more than 50 countries. They have programs focused on nutrition, safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and food security. There’s been an office in Canada since 2006. The organization is a member of the Humanitarian Coalition, which consists of 10 leading aid organizations that provide Canadians with an easy way to donate during international humanitarian disasters. For jobs, some examples include program development and financial analysis positions.

Alberta Human Rights Commission

The goal of this Alberta-specific human rights commission is to reduce discrimination in the province. They accomplish this by examining and resolving discrimination complaints through settlements, court hearings, and human rights tribunals. They are responsible for administering the Alberta Human Rights Act.

The Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children

Founded in 1989, this coalition of more than 50 NGOs is a leading children’s rights group in Canada. Using the Convention on the Rights of the Child as a guide, the coalition’s work includes monitoring and promoting children’s rights in Canada; connecting with other groups concerned about children’s rights; and educating the public about children’s rights.

The Centre for Law and Democracy

This nonprofit based in Nova Scotia works globally to promote and protect human rights. Their focus is on the human rights essential to democracy, such as the freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and the right to information. Their work includes consulting on legislation, conducting field research, publishing reports, and helping with litigation. Specific project examples include digital rights, global transparency work, and freedom of expression in Myanmar. Internships and volunteer positions are available on a rolling basis.

The HIV Legal Network

This organization is Canada’s leading advocacy group for the legal and human rights associated with HIV and AIDS. While based in Canada, the organization works internationally. Their work includes research, analysis, education, and advocacy. They also work on issues like drug policy, immigration, prisons, sex work, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s rights.

Canadian Human Rights International Organization (CHRIO)

This nonprofit works with civil society to promote human rights. Their work involves monitoring human rights abuses, promoting solutions, and educating the public. Programs include human rights, mental health, and youth human rights. CHRIO is also committed to helping Canadian citizens, residents, immigrants, and people who live abroad access services like family counseling, employment training, translation, artistic training, and more. For immigrants new to Canada, CHRIO helps them settle down and transition smoothly.

Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion

This national charitable organization helps individuals and organizations be more inclusive. First founded to address antisemitism and to promote interfaith dialogue, the Canadian Centre for Diversity merged with another organization to become the Centre for Diversity and Inclusion. They promote awareness and action on diversity and inclusion issues.

Equitas

This organization uses human rights education programs in Canada and internationally to promote equality, human rights, and social justice. Their approach consists of three pillars: participatory human rights education, a human rights-based approach, and gender-based analysis. Their mission is that their human rights education activities address systemic discrimination and other human rights violations.

Amnesty International Canada

Amnesty International is one of the biggest human rights organizations in the world. It monitors, exposes, and protects against human rights violations. Priority issues include the death penalty, women’s rights, climate justice, indigenous peoples’ rights, and business and human rights. In Canada, AI focuses on how actions from the Canadian government and people can impact human rights. According to their website, job openings are rare at Amnesty International Canada.

Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (MIGS)

MIGS is a leading Canadian research and advocacy institute focused on genocide prevention, violent extremism, and mass atrocity crimes. The institute performs in-depth research and proposes policy recommendations to stop conflicts from escalating. Through its DMAPLab, a policy hub, MIGS is currently working on countering violent extremism. In addition to research, MIGS provides consultancy services to national and international governmental agencies.

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Everyone deserves human rights like freedom from discrimination and the right to an education, health, and housing. Unfortunately, people’s rights are often restricted and violated because of their sex and gender identity. Women and girls face discrimination across the world, making work on women’s rights and gender equality essential. In this guide, we’ll explore women’s rights jobs, including why they matter, what women’s rights professionals do, where they work, and how to get a job in the field.

Why are women’s rights important?

There’s been significant progress in women’s rights over the years, but it’s unequally spread across the world and not significant enough. According to data, there are just 22 women in the top positions of government (and that’s a record number), the gender gap in the labor force has not shifted for the past two decades, and women continue to perform most of the unpaid care and domestic work. The COVID-19 pandemic deepened existing problems, leaving more women in poverty than men, increasing unpaid work, and worsening domestic violence. Women’s rights were so impacted that it will now take about 136 years to reach gender equality, which adds a generation to past estimates.

What do women’s rights professionals do?

There are many career options within women’s rights, including but not limited to women’s healthcare professional, lawyer, researcher, educator, social worker, journalist, consultant, and more. Whatever field they work in, women’s rights professionals focus on protecting the rights of women and girls, advocating for accountability when women’s rights are violated, and empowering women through humanitarian aid and long-term development assistance.

Where do women’s rights professionals work?

Women’s rights professionals are found everywhere from governments to intergovernmental organizations to NGOs to corporations. Here are some examples of the organizations offering jobs in this field:

UN Women

An agency of the UN, UN Women focuses on areas such as women in leadership; freedom from violence; sustainable peace and resilience; women’s economic security and autonomy; and humanitarianism. The agency works with UN member states, governments, and civil society organizations on services for women, laws, and policies.

Global Fund For Women

Founded in 1987, this nonprofit funds women’s rights initiatives around the world. It now works in over 170 countries focusing on areas like education, economic justice, health and sexual rights, and political participation. The fund operates by providing support grants, including multi-year grants, to activists leading the way. The organization’s goal is to support grassroots movements and build collective power.

Immigration Equality

Women’s rights intersect with immigrant and LGBTQ+ rights. This organization helps LGBTQ+ individuals and HIV-positive immigrants in the United States and around the world. Its work includes providing free legal services to asylum-seekers, immigrant detainees, undocumented immigrants, and LGBTQ couples and families hoping to reunite.

Equality Now

This international organization promotes and protects the rights of women and girls through legal advocacy. The staff includes campaigners, lawyers, regional partners, and community activists. The goal is to press governments to create better laws for women and to enforce existing laws. Equality Now’s four main priorities are ending sexual violence; ending harmful practices like child marriage; ending sexual exploitation like trafficking; and ending discrimination in law.

How do you become a women’s rights professional?

Because “women’s rights professional” is an umbrella term, there are many career paths you can take. Here’s a general overview of what the job process can look like:

Education

Like most of the human rights field, the women’s rights sector doesn’t demand a specific degree. Most jobs require a bachelor’s (with higher-paying jobs asking for more education), but there are usually several disciplines that work. Women and gender studies or human rights seem like the most obvious programs, but depending on the specific work you want to focus on, a degree in economics, international development, history, sociology, communications, law, and others might fit better. For jobs not specific to human rights, but where you can specialize in women’s rights (think women’s healthcare/medicine), there will be other educational requirements.

Whatever degree you choose, seek out classes and other learning opportunities like workshops and lectures addressing women’s rights and gender equality. This provides the education you’ll want as a women’s rights professional.

Volunteering, internships, and networking

Gaining experience and building relationships is an important piece of the women’s rights career process. It’s rare to find even an entry-level job that doesn’t require some experience in the form of volunteer work or an internship. Many college programs have internship programs – some require you to have an internship to graduate – so always take advantage. Interning and volunteering with an organization can often help you get a job at that same organization or at least meet people who might lead you to other opportunities. You can also network by attending events and workshops for people in the women’s rights field.

Reluctant to volunteer or take an unpaid internship? Here’s a list of internships that pay.

How much do women’s rights professionals get paid?

Salaries for women’s rights jobs vary significantly because there are so many career paths you can take. On ZipRecruiter, the tag for “women’s rights jobs” shows a range of $33k-$119k a year. The average pay is $64,229. Your level of education, the size of the organization you work for, and your past job experience will factor into your salary.

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Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are people who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution. Unlike refugees, they stay within the borders of their country. They might want to stay close to their homes, lack the resources or physical fitness for the perilous flight or are trapped in conflict areas with no way to escape. IDPs remain under the protection of their government, even if that government is the reason for their displacement.

According to the Global Report on Internal Displacement more than 55 million people were internally displaced at the end of 2020,  48 million as a result of conflict and 7 million due to disasters. 20 million internally displaced persons are children under the age of fifteen. In 2020 most internal displacements happened in East Asia and Pacific (30.3%), Sub-Saharan Africa (27.4%) and South Asia (23.8%). Internal displacement affects all regions of the world.

University of London is now offering a course on Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection. The course is taught by Professor David Cantor, Professor of Refugee Protection and Forced Migration Studies and Dr Agnes Woolley, Lecturer in Transnational Literature and Migration Cultures. The course takes roughly 27 hours to complete and is self-paced.

In this course participants will learn about internal displacement from a global perspective. Participants of the course will explore global trends in internal displacement, examine the fundamentals of the global protection response for IDPs, and assess the experience of internal displacement through research and artistic sources. Learners who are interested may seek to continue studying the master’s program in Refugee Protection and Forced Migration Studies at University of London.

There are no requirements to enroll in the online course. Learners can audit the course for free or opt-in for a paid certificate for an extra fee. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Register now

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Lawyers are a popular subject for movies. Depending on the story, they might be portrayed as cutthroat and cold-hearted, or as passionate and willing to sacrifice their well-being for justice. Some of the best compelling films about lawyers showcase the latter. In the real world, human rights lawyers face many challenges.  They focus on human rights violations and the people most often victimized, such as women, racial minorities, refugees and members of the LGBTQ+ community. To see justice fulfilled, lawyers often face off against governments, corporations, the military and other powerful groups and individuals. Harnessing their expertise, lawyers help ensure human rights are upheld and that abusers are held accountable. Here are 13 movies about lawyers fighting for justice and human rights:

#1. Philadelphia (1993)

Director: Jonathan Demme
Starring: Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Mary Steenburgen

Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks) works as a senior associate at a corporate law firm in Philadelphia. He’s gay but chooses to keep his sexuality and AIDS diagnosis private. After he’s fired for misplacing paperwork, Beckett suspects the firm learned about his illness. He decides to sue his former employer. Philadelphia was one of the first mainstream films to discuss homophobia, homosexuality and HIV/AIDs. Tom Hanks won an Academy Award for Best Actor, while the film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay. It’s inspired by the real-life story of an attorney who sued for wrongful dismissal in 1987.

#2. The Fight (2020)

Directors: Eli Despres, Josh Kriegman, Elyse Steinberg

This documentary follows a team of lawyers from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a nonprofit human rights organization working to protect individual rights and liberties in the United States. Five legal battles are covered, including the opposition to the Trump administration’s travel ban, which targeted Muslims, and a rejection of the Trump order banning transgender personnel in the military. The four lawyers in the film – and the clients they represent – display powerful, heart-wrenching commitments to justice. The film won the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Social Impact Filmmaking at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.

What do human rights lawyers do? Here’s our article describing the type of work this professional engages in.

#3. Marshall (2017)

Director: Reginald Hudlin
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, Kate Hudson

Thurgood Marshall was the first Black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. This legal drama centers on one of Marshall’s early cases: the State of Connecticut v. Joseph Spell. In this 1940 case, a wealthy white woman accuses her Black chauffeur of rape. The event immediately draws the attention of the media, who create sensationalist headlines. It’s the perfect case to fuel racial stereotypes held by the nation. Marshall, who works as the NAACP’s head lawyer, defends Spell with the help of a local lawyer. While Spell’s boss claims he attacked her, Spell has a very different story. Will the truth come out?

#4. Dark Waters (2019)

Director: Todd Haynes
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, Bill Camp

Corporate defense lawyer Robert Bilot (Mark Ruffalo) has his life turned upside down when a farmer (Bill Camp) from his grandmother’s hometown arrives at his office. The man wants Robert’s help investigating the chemical corporation DuPont. Robert is initially unsure of what he should do, but when he visits the farm himself, he grows more and more suspicious. Dark Waters follows Robert’s real-life quest to find the truth, the toll it takes on him and how he holds DuPont accountable for their deception. While Robert didn’t start as a human rights lawyer, his battle on behalf of those affected by the corporation’s actions certainly qualifies him.

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#5. Erin Brockovich (2000)

Director: Steven Soderbergh
Starring: Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart,

In 1993, Erin Brockovich became a whistleblower against PG&E after she discovered the company contaminating the groundwater in Hinkley, California. She was a paralegal, and with attorney Ed Masry, they won their case against the massive corporation. Her story is the subject of the film Erin Brockovich, which stars Julia Roberts and Albert Finney. Brockovich would go on to work on other anti-pollution lawsuits and as a consultant and activist.

#6. Shahid (2012)

Director: Hansal Mehta
Starring: Rajkummar Rao, Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub, Prabhleen Sandhu

This film is based on the life of Shahid Azmi, an Indian lawyer. During the 1992 Bombay riots, Azmi was arrested. Because he was young and there wasn’t much evidence against him, he was released without jail time. As an adult, he is arrested again. This time, he spends seven years in jail based solely on a confession he never actually made. While imprisoned, he takes a distance course and becomes a lawyer. Following his release, Azmi begins defending others accused of terrorism. Passionate and driven, Azmi attracts the ire of many for his work. What will it cost him?

For those interested in studying human rights law, here’s our article on 12 of the best LL.M. programs.

#7. Just Mercy (2019)

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx, Brie Larson

Harvard graduate Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) moves to Alabama to fight for those who can’t afford proper representation. With Eva Ansley (Brie Larson), he starts the Equal Justice Initiative and visits a prison to meet with death row inmates. There, he connects with Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), a Black man given the death penalty for a murder he didn’t commit. Working within a complex and racist justice system, Stevenson fights to see that justice is done. Just Mercy is based on Stevenson’s award-winning memoir of the same name. Stevenson continues his work defending the human rights of people caught in the criminal justice system. He’s argued (and won) multiple cases at the United States Supreme Court.

#8. Advocate (2019)

Directors: Rachel Leah Jones and Philippe Bellaïche

Advocate follows the Jewish-Israeli human rights lawyer Lea Tsemel, who defends Palestinians accused of terrorism. Through archival footage of her career, which spans over five decades, as well as interviews with Tsemel, her family and her associates, the film explores the lawyer’s motivations for her work. Viewers also learn more about two contemporary cases Tsmele is involved with. She is a controversial figure, called a hero by some and a traitor by others. The film premiered at the 2019 Sundance Festival and has won many awards at festivals around the world.

Interested in human rights and social justice law? Here’s our guide on the job’s tasks, salary and career paths.

#9. Motley’s Law (2015)

Director: Nicole N. Horanyi

After seeing her father fight for the right to disability following a car accident, Kimberly Motley found herself drawn to the law. She earned a law degree and worked as a public defender in Wisconsin for five years, but in 2008, she traveled to Afghanistan for a legal education program. What she experienced led her to stay and become the first foreign attorney to practice in Afghanistan. Motley’s Law, an award-winning documentary, provides a look into her life and work for human rights. She’s represented children, journalists, activists and others whose rights are under threat.

#10. Gideon’s Army (2013)

Director: Dawn Porter

In 1961, a man was arrested for burglary. Clarence Earl Gideon didn’t have the money to hire a defense lawyer, but when he appeared in court alone and asked for a lawyer, the judge refused. In Florida, the court was only required to appoint counsel when the defendant was charged with a capital offense. Forced to represent himself, Gideon was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The case that came from this incident, Gideon v. Wainwright (1963), determined that the right to counsel extends throughout every state and that those who can’t afford lawyers must be appointed counsel. As a result, Gideon was given another trial – this time with a lawyer – and was acquitted. Named after Gideon’s case, the documentary Gideon’s Army follows three public defenders committed to representing disenfranchised people in the Southern United States. It won the Candescent Award at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.

#11. The Uncondemned (2015)

Directors: Michele Mitchell and Nick Louvel

For around 100 days in 1994, Hutu militias in Rwanda targeted the Tutsi minority ethnic group, enacting what is now known as the Rwandan Genocide. In 1997, Jean-Paul Akayesu, a former educator and politician from Rwanda, stood trial for 15 counts of genocide, violations of the Geneva Convention and crimes against humanity. The case was unique because it was the first trial to prosecute rape as a war crime and an act of genocide. The Uncondemned examines Akayesu’s trial. The film features three rape survivors, who anonymously testified, as well as the American prosecutors who developed the case against Akayesu.

#12. On the Basis of Sex (2018)

Director: Mimi Leder
Starring: Felicity Jones, Armie Hammer, Justin Theroux

The biographical legal drama On the Basis of Sex explores the early career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court. It begins with Ginsberg as a young student in law school. Following her graduation at the top of her class, Ginsberg learns no law firm will hire her because she’s a woman. She takes a job as a professor but soon finds an opportunity to challenge a sexist law in court. The film focuses on a specific case that jump-started Ginsberg’s career as a lawyer committed to striking down sex-based laws.

Gender inequality is an issue many human rights lawyers fight against. Here’s our article on what everyone should know about gender equality.

#13. Illegal Woman (2020)

Director: Ramon Térmens
Starring: Daniel Faraldo, Isak Férriz, Yolanda Sey

Fernando (played by Daniel Faraldo) works as an immigration lawyer in Spain. When his latest client, a sex worker at risk for deportation, is found dead in her cell, Fernando doesn’t believe the official story of suicide. He decides to investigate. With the help of his deceased client’s friend, Fernando risks his own safety to learn the truth. Illegal Woman is in Spanish. It doesn’t appear to be based on a true story, but it shines a light on the brutal treatment often faced by migrants and the lawyers working to protect their human rights.

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In the United States, there’s a political battle raging over the concept of systemic racism. One side claims that if racism exists at all, it’s isolated to individuals and one-off incidents, while the other side argues racism is woven into the fabric of the country’s systems. Who’s right? One can find evidence of systemic racism by taking a close look at areas of society like education, employment, housing, healthcare, the criminal justice system, and immigration policy. On the surface, a single stat may have more than one explanation but taken all together, the data paints a clear picture: someone’s race affects things like their education, how much money they earn, where they can live, what they eat, and the kind of medical care they receive. Here are ten examples of systemic racism in the United States.

#1. Education
#2. Employment and wealth
#3. Homeownership
#4. Food insecurity
#5. Healthcare
#6. Policing and surveillance
#7. The criminal justice system
#8. Environmental racism
#9. Digital inequity
#10. Immigration policy

#1 Education

In many ways, access to education lays the foundation for the rest of a person’s life. Without a good education, a person’s employment opportunities and income potential are limited. This has a ripple effect on every area of their life and their children’s lives. School discipline is another source of racial disparities. According to 2013-2014 data from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, Black K-12 students are almost 4 times more likely than white students to get one or more out-of-school suspensions. Black girls in particular face discrimination. They’re 5.5 times more likely to be suspended compared to white girls, while Native American girls are 3.3 times more likely to face suspension.

Systemic racism affects education quality, as well. School districts with the most Black, Native, and Latino students get significantly less revenue than districts with fewer students of color. For districts with 5,000 students, that can mean losing $13.5 million. Less funding means fewer computers, fewer teachers, outdated textbooks, and run-down buildings. Even in schools with resources like gifted education programs, racial disparities are a problem. In one study, after adjusting for factors like standardized test scores, researchers found Black students were 54% less likely to be referred to gifted-education programs. Lower-quality education and fewer resources affect where – and if – a student attends college, how many loans they need, if they graduate, and more.

#2 Employment and wealth

Systemic racism’s effect on employment is well-documented. It begins with the hiring process. Black Americans with “white-sounding” names receive 50% more callbacks for their job applications. Having a college degree doesn’t necessarily help one’s chances. Between 2010-2012, one study showed that while only 6% of all engineering graduates were unemployed, 10% of Black college graduates with engineering degrees didn’t have jobs. Despite these numbers, is getting a degree still worth it? Studies show that while white college-educated households enjoy higher lifetime earnings and better economic achievements, this doesn’t apply to Black college-educated households. White college graduates are much more likely to get (and give) financial support for education and/or home ownership from their parents, while Black college graduates are more likely to be the ones supporting their parents.

What about income? Workplaces still discriminate against people of color, especially women. While white women earn about 79 cents for every white man’s dollar, Black women earn 63 cents while Hispanic/Latina women earn 58 cents. Black men earn about 71 cents per dollar. According to a Citi report, the Black pay gap alone equals about $2.7 trillion. All that lost income leads to higher rates of poverty within non-white communities. According to census data from 2019, Black and Hispanic Americans were overrepresented in poverty. There were improvements from years past, but the COVID-19 pandemic most likely undid that progress.

#3 Homeownership

Systemic racism in housing has a long history. The National Housing Act of 1934 formalized redlining, which effectively restricted people of color from homeownership. Instead of getting to live in the newly-established suburbs, Black Americans and other people of color were segregated into urban housing projects. The government was not subtle. According to the Federal Housing Administration’s reasoning, if Black Americans bought suburban homes, the property values would go down and threaten the loans of white Americans. There was no evidence of this and, as Richard Rothstein explains, property values actually went up when Black Americans moved in because they were willing to pay more for housing than white Americans. The FHA’s justification was based in racism.

Redlining has lasting consequences to this day. Black homebuyers are more likely to be denied a real estate agent appointment, while housing lenders are more likely to recommend subprime loans to Black homebuyers even if they qualify for prime loans. According to real-estate brokerage firm Redfin, just 44% of Black householders own their homes as opposed to 73.7% of white householders. Compared to white neighborhoods, similar homes located in Black-majority neighborhoods are worth 23% less.

#4 Food insecurity

Food insecurity refers to a lack of access to adequate food. That could include a lack of grocery stores nearby or a lack of stores with high-quality, affordable food. In the United States, areas affected by food insecurity are often called “food deserts.” They are part of many low-income, urban neighborhoods. In 2014, a professor found that while poverty was a key component, Black and Hispanic neighborhoods had fewer large supermarkets than their white counterparts. Further research confirms the link between race and food insecurity. Using data from 2021, Feeding America found that while the Black population represents just 14% of the country’s population, it has a food insecurity rate of 19.7%. The Native population, which represents 1.9% of the population, has a food insecurity rate of 20%.

Food insecurity has many consequences on a community’s health and well-being. When the only options for food are places like gas stations, Dollar Stores, and fast food restaurants, the risk for serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and birth defects increases. Children without good nutrition may experience delayed development, asthma, anemia, and behavioral issues. Systemic racism is behind the prevalence of food deserts. Since the 1980s, premium grocery stores have prioritized white, wealthier customers in the suburbs while divesting from Black communities in cities. To this day, stereotypes about crime and poverty, both of which are highly racialized, have made supermarkets resistant to expansion.

#5 Healthcare

The healthcare system has abused non-white people (especially Black Americans) for centuries. It’s so prevalent it has its own term: “medical racism.” Hiding behind the veneer of science and medicine, doctors and researchers in the 1800s promoted ideas like phrenology (which is the belief that the shape of a person’s skull relates to their moral character) and that Black people were naturally submissive and therefore meant to be enslaved. From 1932-1972, the US government promised to provide healthcare to Black men with syphilis, but instead secretly left the disease untreated to study its progress. The Tuskegee study is one of the most infamous examples of healthcare abuse.

Systemic racism in healthcare is still prevalent. It can show up in odd ways, such as the belief that Black patients feel less pain. Studies show that Black people are significantly less likely to receive pain medication and when they do get it, they get it at lower doses. When Batten professor and social psychologist Sophie Trawalter went to learn why, she found the belief isn’t always linked to negative feelings about race, but rather a belief that race is biological. This shows that even someone with good intentions can end up perpetuating systemic racism. How can the healthcare industry deal with its issues? A more diverse medical field can help. Only around 5% of doctors are Black. White doctors represent 56% of the field, while Asian doctors are 17% and Hispanic doctors are around 6%. These stats matter because research shows more ethnic diversity in the medical field leads to better outcomes and increased trust.

#6 Policing and surveillance

Racial discrimination begins early in the criminal justice system with policing and surveillance. Consider traffic stops. In 2020, a study using a dataset with 100 million traffic stops across the US found that Black drivers are 20% more likely to get stopped than white drivers relative to their residential population. Once pulled over, Black drivers are then 1.5-2 times more likely to be searched than white drivers, despite the fact they’re less likely to be carrying guns, drugs, or other illegal contraband. Are we sure race is the factor? That same study found that as the sun sets and it gets harder to tell the race of a driver, there’s a 5-10% drop in the number of Black drivers stopped.

Surveillance, which is becoming increasingly technology-driven, exacerbates systemic racism, too. Facial recognition provides a good example. Racial bias is baked into the technology. One 2019 study found that facial recognition was up to 100 times more likely to misidentify Black and Asian faces, while Native Americans experienced the highest false-positive rate. The solution isn’t better technology, however, as facial recognition would exacerbate systemic racism. Law enforcement has always targeted Black communities and other communities of color. According to an article on a Harvard University blog, the NYPD keeps a database of “gang affiliates,” nearly all Black and Latino, with no requirements to prove any gang affiliation.

#7 The criminal justice system

Once a person is in the criminal justice system, their race impacts what happens next. Black youth are more than 4 times more likely to be detained or committed to juvenile facilities compared to their white peers. According to a 2017 report, Black men got 19.1% longer sentences for the same federal crime than white men between 2012-2016. This accounted for factors like criminal history, age, citizenship, and education. The long-term effects of systemic racism? Despite making up just 13% of the US population, Black people make up 38% of the population in jails and prisons. In certain states (like Michigan, Virginia, Louisiana, and North Carolina), more than 50% of the prison population is Black.

The death penalty is racialized, as well. Early in the 20th century, when rape accusations were weaponized against Black men, 89% of those executed for the crime were Black. When executions were no longer applied to rape, but only to murder, 75% of cases involved the murder of white victims, even though around half of all homicide victims were Black. Since 1976, 43% of those executed have been people of color, while people of color make up 55% of those currently on death row. Throughout history, Black people are more likely to get the death penalty, while those who murder Black people tend to get less harsh sentences.

#8 Environmental racism

Environmental racism is a form of systemic racism related to the locations of landfills, hazardous waste disposals, chemical plants, and other environmentally-harmful structures. In the United States, these environmental hazards are disproportionately placed near communities of color. For years, research has shown that while many believe poverty is the #1 risk factor for high pollution exposure, it’s actually race. According to research outlined in a 2020 issue of Hopkins Bloomberg Public Health magazine, even middle-class Black Americans face higher pollution levels than white people with yearly incomes of just $10,000.

One of the prime case studies is Cancer Alley in Louisiana. This 85-mile stretch near the Mississippi River is packed with petrochemical plants and oil refineries. The air in a nearby town, St. Gabriel, has levels of cancer-causing chemicals higher than 99% of the country. ⅔ of St. Gabriel’s population is Black. Studies consistently show residents face much higher cancer risks than most of the country. In 2023, the EPA abruptly closed an investigation into Cancer Alley without releasing any findings or making any agreements with state agencies. Meanwhile, people near Cancer Alley continue to suffer, as do other communities of color around the country living near plants, landfills, and other environmentally-hazardous areas.

#9 Digital inequity

The National Digital Inclusion Alliance defines digital inequity as “the disparity in access, knowledge, and ability to use digital tools and technology, particularly harming lower-income individuals and minority communities.” We live in a digital world where people need tools like the Internet to apply for jobs, schools, scholarships, and career opportunities. Technology is also increasingly important for skill-building, completing homework, starting businesses, and much more. When it comes to who gets access, race is a factor. Around 31% of Black Americans don’t have a home computer while 38% don’t have high-speed internet access at home. Why? One reason is cost. The US charges more than other Western nations.

Digital inequity also exacerbates systemic inequalities. In 2019, a class action suit against Facebook claimed its targeted advertising algorithms discriminated against protected groups, such as women of color, who searched for housing on the website’s Marketplace. This practice is known as “digital redlining,” which is the use of technology to discriminate based on information like your race, gender, and age. It continues a legacy of discrimination against people of color looking for housing, jobs, and credit opportunities. The lawsuit was initially dismissed but was reinstated in 2023.

#10 Immigration policy

Race and immigration policies in the United States have always been closely aligned. It’s all about who the US considers worthy of citizenship. When the country was first deciding who could be a citizen in 1790, only “free white persons” with good character and who had lived in the US for two years were eligible. Eligibility expanded, but the US remained deeply invested in the type of person who entered the country. Millions of mostly white immigrants entered the country illegally from the early 1900s through the 1960s, but they were generally welcomed and lawfully employed. Non-white immigrants did not enjoy the same privileges. As more people from Asia, Africa, and Latin America began arriving, policies got stricter. Chinese immigrants were a favorite target early on. In 1882, Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act, which was the first comprehensive federal immigration legislation. It banned all immigration of Chinese laborers for a decade with few exceptions.

As the 20th century rolled in, Congress passed the Immigration Act of 1924, which set up a quota system to limit immigration. To keep “undesirable” immigrants out (like immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe and Asia), the law used census data from 1890 when most immigrants were white Protestants from Western and Northern Europe. Policies like this shaped the population of the United States and helped stoke anti-immigrant and racist sentiments. Today, Mexican immigrants are a frequent target, but studies show Arab and Asian immigrants also experience higher rates of racial discrimination than white immigrants. This impacts access to education, healthcare, housing, civic participation, equitable employment, and more.

The post  10 Examples of Systemic Racism in the USA appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

International development projects are similar to international humanitarian aid, but include long-term solutions to poverty based on concepts like empowerment, sustainability, and dignity. International development (also known as global development) also includes classifications for developed and developing countries. As a field and practice, international development relies on the Sustainable Development Goals as its framework. Professionals work in areas like community development, law, legislation, advocacy, policy, and more. Interested in this field? You’ll want a master’s degree in international development. Australian schools offer many options.

Note: Information is subject to change. For up-to-date info, always check the program’s official page.

Table of Contents

#1. Master of International Development (The University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia)
#2. Master of International Development Practice (Monash University, Melbourne, Australia)
#3. Master of International Development (University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory)
#4. Master of International and Community Development (Online program, Deakin University)
#5. Master of International Development (RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia)
#6. Master of Global Development (Griffith University, South East Queensland, Australia)
#7. Master of International Development (La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia)
#8. Master of International Development (The University of Western Australia, WA, Australia)
#9. Master of Global Development (James Cook University, QLD, Australia)
#10. Master of International Trade and Development (The University of Adelaide, Adalaide, Australia)
#11. Master of Global Project Management (Torrens University, multiple campuses)
#12. Master of Development Studies (UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia)
#13. Master of International Community Development (Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia)
#14. Executive MBA in Entrepreneurship (University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia)
#15. International Relations (The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia)

#1. Master of International Development (The University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia)

This 2-year, 14-course program prepares students for careers at international organizations like the UN, the World Bank, NGOs, and more. Program participants explore key issues and practices about development, globalization, food security, and much more. They’ll also develop practical skills regarding donors, the role of NGOs, and project management. During each study period, students have the option to switch between full-time and part-time study.

To apply, students must have a Bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. You can also apply if you have relevant full-time equivalent work or experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. Tuition is A$23,874 per year, though fees are subject to change based on yearly increases and chosen courses.

#2. Master of International Development Practice (Monash University, Melbourne, Australia)

This program explores the political, economic, cultural, and ecological challenges of poverty, poor health, inequality, and more. Specialists guide students through a multi-disciplinary framework of sustainable development. There are six “streams” available, including Democracy, justice and governance; Gender, peace and security; and Global Migration. Students also gain practical experience through internships in countries such as South Africa, India, Fiji, and others.

Three admission criteria determine the program’s duration and how many credits are needed. As an example, students admitted through entry level 1 have an Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with at least 60% average credit. For them, the program is 2 years of full-time study or 4 years of part-time study. In 2022, the rates were A$25,400/year for domestic students and A$36,400/year for international students.

#3. Master of International Development (University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory)

This 48-credit program explores theories on sustainable development and cross-cultural practice. Students develop practice-led research skills and prepare for careers at places like NGOs, multinational businesses, and government bodies. Students also have an opportunity to enroll in the Development Research project unit, which includes a real-world development project often connected to current employment.

To apply, students need a degree or equivalent approved by the University. If a student has a bachelor’s degree in a related field, they may get 12 credit points of unspecified credit, as well as admission to the 1.5-year program. Ordinarily, the master’s degree is a 2-year program. For domestic students, tuition is A$30,000 per year. Domestic students pay A$21,600 a year.

#4. Master of International and Community Development (Online program, Deakin University)

The Master of International and Community Development is the longest-running course of its kind in Australia. Students can choose from three streams: international development, community development, or the combined stream of international and community development. Topics include poverty, inequality, and empowerment. Students will develop skills and hands-on experience through assessment tasks, seminars, and lectures.

This is a 1-year (full-time study) online program with a part-time option. To apply, you need either a bachelor’s honor degree in a related field; a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline and two years of relevant work experience; a graduate certificate/diploma in a related field; or University-approved academic capabilities. For the 1-year track, the estimated tuition fee is A$22,600.

#5. Master of International Development (RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia)  

This 2-year, 96-credit program offers tailored study options like evening classes, full-day workshops, and online resources. Students will study gender, environment, sustainability, health, and more while developing professional skills in designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating international development projects. Unfortunately, this program is not available to international students on a student visa.

If a student has a bachelors honors degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, or degree qualification in a different discipline, they may be eligible for up to 48 credit points of exemption. The international development program is a full-fee place; the 2022 tuition is A$24,960.

#6. Master of Global Development (Griffith University, South East Queensland, Australia)

This 160-credit program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and addresses issues like climate change, development economics, health and development, and more. Students work with experts to develop practical skills, build a network, and enhance their knowledge and perspectives.

The program’s length and credit requirements vary depending on your entry path. If you’re coming in with only a bachelor’s degree, the program is 2 years full-time. The program is offered on campus and online, though it’s not available online to international students on a student visa. In 2022, domestic students pay A$26,000/year while international students pay A$30,500/year.

#7. Master of International Development (La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia)

In this 2-year program, students learn about policy and practice frameworks; how to drive social change through organizing and government policy; and how to design and deliver development projects. Students have a variety of specializations to choose from and an opportunity for an internship.

To apply, students will need an Australian bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Relevant work experience or professional accreditation may be considered if it’s equivalent to earning a Bachelor’s degree. For domestic students, the program costs $21,800 per 120 credit points, which is one year of full-time study.

#8. Master of International Development (The University of Western Australia, WA, Australia)

This 1.5-2 year program educates students on international development concepts, theories, and approaches. Using an interdisciplinary curriculum, students gain analytical and practical skills that prepare them for work in development policy, research, practice, and more.

To apply, students first need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Then, they need either the equivalent of a UWA-weighted average mark (at least 50%) or at least two years of experience in international development. Significant work experience (at least five years with a “material” level of responsibility) is also acceptable. For domestic students, the typical 2022 annual fee (CSP only) ranges between A$3,985-$14,630. For international students, the total course fee in 2022 was A$79,400.

#9. Master of Global Development (James Cook University, QLD, Australia)

This 2-year program teaches students to blend and apply advanced theoretical and analytical knowledge. That includes evaluating and creating solutions to complicated development problems. The course consists of six core subjects and electives from eight main areas, such as Public Health; Sustainable Development Planning and Policy; and Governance and Social Change.

To apply, students need an AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree or equivalent. For domestic students, fees range from $A11,040 (estimated annual Commonwealth-supported fee) to A$30,150. The estimated fee for a full-time study for International students is A$32,960.

#10. Master of International Trade and Development (The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia)

This 36-unit program prepares students for a variety of careers. Over 1-1.5 years, they’ll study the roles of domestic, regional, and global players, as well as the challenges facing businesses and economies. They’ll also develop advanced legal and commercial knowledge and negotiation strategies. Students take courses in Trade, Economics, and Law.

To apply, students must have a completed Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. The tuition for domestic students isn’t listed, though the website says it’s an Australian full-fee place. The indicative annual tuition fees (24 units) for the international student place is A$47,500.

#11. Master of Global Project Management (Torrens University, multiple campuses)

With a typical duration of 18 months, this course focuses on industry standards, planning, budgeting, and execution. Students will develop strong skills and expertise in global project management processes, giving them what they need to work in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, education, commerce, and more.

To apply, students need a Bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) and at least two years of professional experience. Those without formal qualifications are welcome to apply if they have at least 7 years of professional, administrative, or managerial work experience. For domestic students, the 2022 domestic subject price is A$3,150. For international students, the annual fee is A$27,500.

#12. Master of Development Studies (UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia)

This 2-year degree offers specialist studies in international development using a participatory approach to the philosophy of social justice, community development, and human rights. Students learn about the geopolitical, economic, social, cultural, and ethical contexts of development.

The program has three admission “streams.” Which one fits best depends on how much relevant academic and/or professional experience a student has. For the standard 2-year program, students will need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline with a UNSW-approved credit average of 65%. For domestic students, 2022 CSP first-year fees were A$14,630. Full fees were A$26,360. International students owe A$38,210 for their 2022 first-year fees.

#13. Master of International Community Development (Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia)

In this program, students study topics such as community development project design and management; participatory research and evaluation; globalization and social movements; and much more. To complete the master’s, students must complete 192 credits, including core courses (72 credits), electives (72 credits), and a community-based research or research thesis (48 credits).

To be eligible, international students need either an Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline or an Australian diploma (or equivalent) in a similar discipline with an overall score of 6.5 on the IELTS (or equivalent) with no lower than 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Tuition is A$12,200 per semester. For domestic students, fees depend on whether you’re offered a CSP or a full fee-paying place.

#14. Executive MBA in Entrepreneurship (University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia)

A 1-2 year intensive program designed for innovators and entrepreneurs, this Executive MBA helps students develop a project while they continue working. What does this have to do with international development? Many entrepreneurs work in development. Students get access to a project space, masterclasses, and events.

To apply, students need a UTS-recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent. There’s also a professional experience requirement of at least six years of full-time (or part-time equivalent) relevant work experience. Fees at UTS vary depending on what type of student you are and what subject you’re enrolled in.

#15. International Relations (The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia)

Students in this 32-unit program gain conceptual and technical knowledge and skills in international relations. There are core courses and electives that allow students to specialize in fields like Security and Statecraft; Globalization and Development; or Law and International Politics.

As with the other programs on this list, there are a handful of admission pathways. For the standard 2-year pathway, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline or 3 years of study toward an approved qualification at an overseas partner institution with a formal pathway to the MIR. You’ll need an average 5.0 GPA on a 7-point scale in your previous qualification. At the time of writing, fee information was not available.

The post 15 International Development Masters in Australia appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

An LLM in human rights is an internationally recognized advanced law degree that focuses on the laws that protect and guarantee human rights at the local, national, regional, and international levels. Programs are often offered by universities that have established human rights research centers on their campus. In addition to providing educational opportunities, many programs also include mandatory or optional internships with non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations.

What you’ll learn in a LL.M. in Human Rights Law

Students in LLM human rights programs can expect to learn about a variety of legal fields, including human rights law, international law, humanitarian law, international criminal law, and refugee law. Moreover, they will learn about international courts, human rights protection mechanisms and the functioning of international organizations. Schools may have a particular regional or topical focus or offer a broad introduction to human rights law.

How much does an LLM in Human Rights Law cost?

The cost of LLM programs varies from university to university. Often, students can receive financial aid, scholarships, fellowships, grants and loans to offset the costs. Generally, costs are in the range between 10,000 and 20,000 USD in Europe and can reach more than 50,000 USD in the USA. Fees for programs often depend on your status e.g. whether or not you are a domestic or international student. In addition, some LLM programs require students to pay a fee for their application.

What are the career prospects for graduates of an LLM in human rights program?

Graduates of LLM in human rights degree programs often work for international law firms focused on human rights. Moreover, they may find employment with non-governmental organizations such as Oxfam and Amnesty International, advocacy groups, the United Nations (UN), and other international organizations or human rights entities including human rights courts. There are plenty of options available for LLM graduates.

12 LL.M. Human Rights Programs for Your Consideration

You can find LLM human rights programs all over the world, but many of the best programs are based in the United States, the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Students often prefer schools that are located near The Hague, Geneva, Washington, D.C., New York City or London, as these are areas where human rights entities and organizations are headquartered.

Let’s take a look at some top universities where you can study a human rights LL.M.

#1 University of Law (United Kingdom)

LLM International Human Rights – Full-time
LLM International Human Rights – Part-time

Key information
University	University of Law
Country	United Kingdom
Learning mode	Online, On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12 to 24 months
Tuition fee	£9,200 (Domestic), £12,360 (Non-Domestic)
Application deadline(s)	September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The University of Law (ULAW) is UK’s largest law school. Founded in 1876, ULAW is among the top universities to study a LLM in International Human Rights Law globally. The curriculum of the LLM focuses on international human rights law, human rights protection and includes practical training on human rights advocacy, international criminal law and dispute resolution. Moreover, the masters programme offers a comprehensive module on research methods. The LLM in International Human Rights Law opens up a variety of career paths for those who want to become human rights lawyers, researchers or advocates.

The LLM is offered in a full-time (12 months) and part-time (21 months) track and accepts students from legal and non-legal backgrounds. Students from non-legal backgrounds are required to do an additional entry exam. Students can choose to study on-campus or online. University of Law offers a range of funding options for prospective students, including scholarships, bursaries and student loans.

The university of Law has nine campuses all over the UK, including in Birmingham, Bristol, Chester, Guildford, Leeds, London, Manchester, Nottingham and Sheffield, as well as an international branch in Hong Kong.

#2 Columbia University (United States)

General LLM with specialization in Social Justice and Human Rights

Key information
University	Columbia University
Country	United States
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	10 months
Tuition fee	$82,467
Application deadline(s)	September
Funding	Scholarships and Fellowships
Official Website	Click here

Open to lawyers from around the world, Columbia University is offering a general LLM programme where students can choose from various specializations, including social justice and human rights. For this programme a limited amount of scholarships is available for outstanding students. If you would like to be considered for financial aid, the submission of a Fellowship essay is required upon application.

In the first part of the programme you will receive an Introduction to American Law and develop your skills in legal and research writing. Moreover, you will attend introductory programs on career development where you can explore careers in the private sector, social justice and the office of Judical Clerkships.

Students are required to pay $85 for application.

#3 Geneva Academy (Switzerland)

LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights

Key information
University	Geneva Academy
Country	Switzerland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	CHF 18,000 (≈ 18,700 USD)
Application deadline(s)	November
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The Geneva Academy offers both full and partial scholarships for its LLM program in Human Rights. Full scholarships cover the cost of tuition and living expenses in Geneva for ten months. This is a one-year postgraduate degree and one of the most innovative LLM programs in international human rights law in Europe. Students are presented with intellectually challenging material on some of the most essential human rights issues of the day.

The program provides practical training in both international humanitarian law and human rights law, as well as international criminal law, and highlights the ways all three affect each. Faculty includes renowned institutions and human rights entities, including the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

While core classes offer a firm foundation in a variety of legal areas concerning human rights, students can tailor their program to a specific interest. Examples of these interests include armed non-state actors, the regulations concerning international courts or tribunals, and counter-terrorism.

#4 Leiden University (The Netherlands)

LL.M. in European and International Human Rights Law

Key information
University	Leiden University
Country	The Netherlands
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	€19,300 (Full-time), €9,650 (Part-time)
Application deadline(s)	Before September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

University of Leiden in The Netherlands offers a LLM in European and International Human Rights Law. The programme is offered in a full-time and part-time version and costs €19,300 (Full-time) or €9,650 (Part-time)

The master is specialised on the comparison of human rights protection systems in Europe and around the world. You will study international law in action and also explore different strategies for the promotion of human rights. The master aims to turn students into effective advocates for promoting the basic rights and fundamental freedoms that are inherent to all human beings.

The lectures and workshops during the study are taught by in-house academic staff and by renowned human rights experts working for the UN, the EU, NGOs or other organisations. The LLM includes a study trip to Strasbourg and Geneva to experience international courts first-hand.

#5 Queen Mary University (United Kingdom)

Human Rights Law LLM

Key information
University	Queen Mary University
Country	United Kingdom
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	£17,250 and £26,250
Application deadline(s)	Before September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

Queen Mary’s program is the first association between a graduate school and a non-governmental organization. It’s designed to offer cutting-edge theory to students pursuing scholarship in human rights. Tuition costs between £17,250 and £26,250. The School of Law at Queen Mary offers a range of funding opportunities (scholarships and studentships) for postgraduate study.

The program focuses on issues that are currently at the forefront of the world stage. These issues include international women’s rights, socio-economic rights and issues, the rights of children, and the rights of other just as vulnerable groups based on economic status, culture, language, and other areas.

It’s one of the top ten law schools in the UK, and many of the staff are nationally recognized experts, both in law and NGO experts in socio-cultural theory. The law center also offers specialized training in critical thinking and writing to give you the skills necessary to write effective briefs and hone your academic, legal writing skills. You’ll also have access to some of the best databases and brick and mortar libraries in the world to do your research. The law center is located within walking distance to many law firms and the University of London Library at Senate House.

#6 University of Dundee (Scotland)

Business and Human Rights LLM

Key information
University	University of Dundee
Country	Scotland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	£19,900 (International Students), £8,350 (England, Ukraine, Scotland)
Application deadline(s)	July for International Students / August for UK students
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The University of Dundee offers two full scholarships for students demonstrating honors level work in law and a commitment to work in human rights. The University of Dundee is one of the top-ranked law schools in Scotland and focuses on areas such as business and human rights, climate change and gig economy. Students can choose from optional modules in corporate governance, investment law and water law.

Classes are taught by staff members nationally ranked in their field and dedicated to their work. Students have a combination of classes, seminar, and research methods. Students also participate in legal research courses to hone vital academic research skills in this field, culminating in a written dissertation at the end.

Law students can apply for a global internship with Pagoda Projects to develop employability skills and gain valuable international work experience.

#7 American University (United States)

LL.M. in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

Key information
University	American University
Country	United States
Learning mode	On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	$58,724
Application deadline(s)	May and October
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

American University’s Washington College of Law offers many opportunities for LLM students to apply for full tuition funding and fellowships. It offers scholarship assistance to students showing aptitude for law and a dedication to the areas of human rights and advocacy.

The LLM program is a hybrid masters program with both onsite and online curriculum offerings, allowing students a wide range of flexibility to acquire their advanced degree. It’s offered in both English and Spanish, making it one of the most accessible LLM programs in international human rights law in the world.

The residential component of the degree is taught by experts from the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian law during its summer intensive courses. These are specialized courses designed for an intensive introduction to the world of international human rights, and students are required to be available for two three-week sessions during the summer term.

The virtual courses are taught in live two-hour sessions in which students from around the world interact with the faculty and each other. Students participate in the coursework and benefit from working with their peers from around the world.

The faculty themselves are experts in the field and practicing lawyers in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. They are essential contacts for future employment and include NGO members, international tribunal judges, and members of UN treaty bodies, among other experts.

Note: Online and hybrid students who receive the LL.M. in International Human Rights & Humanitarian Law will not be eligible to sit for the NY bar exam.

#8 University of Bristol Law School (United Kingdom)

LLM in Human Rights Law

Key information
University	University of Hong Kong
Country	Hong Kong
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	1-2 years
Tuition fee	£20,900 (overseas students) / £10,900 (UK students)
Application deadline(s)	July/August
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

Ranking among the top 10 UK Law School’s, University of Bristol is offering a LL.M. in Human Rights Law that can be completed within 1-2 years. The curriculum of the programme is focused on learning about human rights frameworks and protection mechanisms at regional and global level. Moreover, the programme offers specalised modules on employment law, mental health, migration and other optional topics. The Master of Laws also aims to equip students with excellent legal, analytical and research skills.

Taught by leading academics from the Human Rights Implementation Centre, the LL.M. offers students the opportunity to participate in legal clinics to hone their practical skills. Alumni of the programme work as solicitors, barristers, lawyers and researchers in international and European organisations, such as the United Nations or the European Commission.

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 10% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study.

#9 University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong)

Master of Laws in Human Rights

Key information
University	University of Hong Kong
Country	Hong Kong
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	42,100 and 171,000 HK$ per year
Application deadline(s)	February
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The Master of Laws (LL.M) in Human Rights Programme was established in 1999 in response to the growing demand for knowledge about human rights in the Asia-Pacific region. The Programme focuses on human rights issues of global concern, including in the Asia-Pacific region, and aims to foster an active learning environment.

Lecturers of the programme include experts in the human rights sector from around the world including eminent scholars, judges, United Nations employees and directors of NGOs.

The programme attracts students from a broad range of backgrounds including lawyers, judges, human rights professionals working for international organizations, NGOs or institutions. Moreover, investigative journalists, human rights scholars, government officials and doctors are among the alumni of the Masters.

#10 Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Germany)

Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law – LLM

Key information
University	University of Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder)
Country	Germany
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	€ 6.100 for LL.M. Program (full- and part-time study)
Application deadline(s)	February
Funding	External Sources
Official Website	Click here

The Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law aims to prepare students for careers in policy making, international, public and governmental service as well as public and private legal practice. Moreover, graduates of this programme work for non-governmental organizations or pursue an academic teaching or research career.

The programme is focused on human rights protection in the context of armed conflict. Many of its modules are designed to explore the linkages and occasionally contradictions of human rights law and international humanitarian law. In addition to developing theoretical knowledge, the master aims to equip students with reliable practical skills in the application of their theoretical knowledge.

Students will learn to apply international standards of protection in specific circumstances, in particular in international court proceedings and other institutional procedures, the investigation of facts, or conflict resolution.

#11 University of Edinburgh (Scotland)

LLM in Human Rights

Key information
University	University of Edinburgh
Country	Scotland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	£14,400 (UK), £25,300 (International / EU)
Application deadline(s)	Every 3-4 months
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The LLM in Human Rights is designed to provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of international human rights law in its broader political context, with a particular emphasis on human rights in times of transition, including conflict situations or other political and societal movements.

You will have the opportunity to not only explore the global role of human rights and the international and domestic machinery that promotes and enforces rights, but also how academic debates connect to the practice of human rights.

The programme has a flexible structure, including some interdisciplinary options, that enables you to tailor your curriculum to best suit your individual interests and career plans, drawing from a choice of specialised courses from the Law School and the School of Social and Political Science.

#12 University of Essex (United Kingdom)

LLM International Humanitarian Law

Key information
University	University of Essex
Country	United Kingdom
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	£9,200 (Domestic Students), £19,740 (International Students)
Application deadline(s)	October
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The School of Law at the University of Essex in Colchester, England, United Kingdom, runs the Essex Human Rights Center, a major hub for cutting-edge research in the field of human rights. Students in the International Humanitarian Law LLM program have an opportunity to participate in these studies. In addition, the school offers a Master of Arts degree in Human Rights and Cultural Diversity, and a Master of Arts degree in Theory and Practice of Human Rights.

Find out more about human rights masters

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Learn about the human rights laws that govern international migration. Investigate failures to protect the rights of refugees and develop a critical understanding of migration issues from climate change to human trafficking.

Migration law encompasses instruments from a variety of sources. They include human rights law, humanitarian law, refugee law, criminal law, and labor law. On the human rights level, international and regional conventions and documents explicitly reference migrants and refugees and recognize their need for special protection. Freedom of movement, the right to asylum, the right to family reunification, and the right to non-refoulement are just some examples of the rights that are critical in this context.

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To shed light on these complex issues, University of Kent is offering an ExpertTrack on International Migration Law that can be taken entirely online. In this learning experience you will develop extensive knowledge about the instruments of international migration law, learn to apply international treaties to case studies, and explore existing international protection mechanisms for asylum seekers and refugees. After completing the ExpertTrack, you will be able to make complex legal arguments concerning state practice and be better equipped to assess current political discourses on critical migration issues. The ExpertTrack will also enable you to identify failures of state actors in providing protection to refugees and asylum seekers. The ExpertTrack consists of three courses:

Law and the Framing of Migrants and Migration

In the first part of this ExpertTrack, you will examine essential terminology as it relates to migration and the rights of refugees. You will explore the sources of international migration law and develop critical thinking skills when analyzing current and previous media depictions of migrants and migration.

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Freedom of Movement, Refugees, Traffickers, and Smugglers

In this course you will learn about the laws that govern human migration, explore the scope and application of the right to freedom of movement, and analyze protocols that relate to human trafficking and smuggling.

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Law’s Absence and Law’s Failings

In this part of the course, you will investigate human rights law and the protections it provides to migrants and vulnerable groups. You will examine how international law affects internally displaced persons and learn about the universality of human rights for undocumented migrants. The course also contains chapters on environmental displacement and immigration detention.

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Throughout the courses you will be able to discuss migration issues together with learners from around the world, share your experiences, concerns and ideas, and get feedback from other participants.

The ExpertTrack is taught by Sian Lewis-Anthony, who is Senior Lecturer in Law at Kent Law School and specializes in International Human Rights Law and International Migration Law.

The self-paced ExpertTrack takes roughly 12 weeks to complete with a weekly commitment of 2-4 hours. You can start a free 7-day trial before committing to any payment. Upon successful completion of the ExpertTrack, you will be eligible for a verified certificate issued by University of Kent that you can add to LinkedIn or your CV.

The course is a great asset for everyone interested in migration law and especially relevant for students, lawyers, NGO workers, and professionals who want to advocate for the rights of migrants and refugees.

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“Civil rights” is defined as the guarantee of equal social opportunities and equal protection under the law. Historically, civil rights movements have focused on racial equality and justice. Two big examples include the Civil Rights Movement in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s and the fight against South African apartheid, a discriminatory system that officially ended in 1994. Activists and groups continue to promote equality and justice around the world. Here are ten organizations:

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has been around since 1909. Influential activists such as W.E.B. Du Bois and Ida B. Wells formed the organization in light of challenges facing Black Americans and violence like the 1908 Springfield Race Riot, where nine Black people were killed and dozens of Black-owned homes and businesses were destroyed. With over 2 million activists, it’s the largest civil rights organization in the United States. The NAACP’s mission is to “secure the political, educational, social, and economic rights of Black people and to eliminate race-based discrimination.”

Color of Change

Founded after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, this online organization seeks to mobilize members through petitions, donations, and more. Originally, they focused on the aftermath of the hurricane and on the fact that Black people didn’t have access to the resources they needed. Color of Change has expanded its mission to include police brutality against the Black community.

The National Coalition of Black Civic Participation

This organization encourages civic participation in the Black community. Since 1976, NCBCP has worked at the local, state, and national levels to address disenfranchisement. That includes non-partisan voter empowerment organizing and training; the promotion of women’s health; grassroots education; and disaster recovery initiatives. The organization currently has a 100/100 score on Charity Navigator.

American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee

Described as the largest Arab American grassroots civil rights organization in the US, ADC addresses discrimination and bias against Arab-Americans. It was founded in 1980. The organization has a handful of programs, such as the ADC Legal Department, which offers counseling and litigation involving discrimination, defamation, and hate crimes. Since 9/11, many of the cases have involved airlines and employers. The ADC is a member of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

Minority Rights Group International

A London-based group, this organization works in 50 countries and focuses on the rights of indigenous people and ethnic, linguistic, and religious minorities. They campaign with over 150 partners on programs such as advocating and lobbying governments; publishing publications; producing documentary films; and conducting legal work. The organization has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council as well as observer status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Asian Pacific Labor Alliance

Since 1992, the Asian Pacific Labor Alliance has been the first and only national organization of AAPI workers. It promotes worker and immigrant civil rights. Programs include political education and voter registration, as well as the training and empowerment of AAPI workers within the labor movement. APLA also works with international labor organizations.

Native American Rights Fund

Founded in 1970, this non-profit uses existing treaties and laws to hold the US government accountable to its obligations. Through the Tribal Supreme Court Project, the organization performs work such as monitoring Indian law cases that have the potential to reach the Supreme Court and offering help to tribal leaders and attorneys. NARF is the oldest and largest organization of its kind.

Immigration Equality

This organization’s goal is to promote equality and justice for LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive immigrants. IE provides direct legal services, impact litigation, and policy advocacy. The group was founded the same year the Justice Department recognized sexual orientation as a protected right for refugees and just four years after the US lifted its ban on gay immigrants. Today, IE has 18 staff members and over 1,000 lawyers in their pro-bono network.

Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation

ANTaR is a community-based, national nonprofit advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. It consists of a network of individuals and other groups both indigenous and non-Indigenous. Founded in 1997, the group aims to support Indigenous voices rather than speaking for them. This includes taking direction from Indigenous people on the policies and legislation that affect them. Focuses include educating non-Indigenous Australians so they learn to respect and affirm Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as lobbying governments and working for a moral and legal recognition of First Peoples.

People Against Suffering, Oppression, and Poverty

PASSOP is a grassroots organization based in Cape Town, South Africa. It focuses on the rights of asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrants. When it was founded in 2007, the focus was on asylum seekers facing xenophobia. PASSOP became one of the first organizations in the area to research anti-immigrant violence. Today, the organization focuses on various issues within the scope of immigration, such as gender rights and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

The post 10 Civil Rights Organisations Promoting Equality and Racial Justice appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

In 2020, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees released their Global Trends report. It revealed that one in 97 people were forcefully displaced from their homes due to causes like conflict and war. Another reason? Climate change. Extreme weather events and more long-term issues like drought and sea-level rise worsen existing threats and become woven in the tapestry of factors that force displacement. In some circles, people caught in the crossfire of environmental issues are known as “climate refugees.” Is this an accurate term? And how big of a role does climate change actually play in displacement?

Why “climate refugee” is a controversial term

The 2020 UNHCR report gave credence to the concept of climate refugees and what challenges they’re facing, but it’s worth knowing that the term “climate refugee” is not universally recognized. Why? Who could disagree with the reality that climate change is a problem? The reason “climate refugee” lacks an international definition is not because the UN and other international bodies consider climate irrelevant. Instead, it’s because the term simplifies a complex issue where climate is more often than not just one factor as opposed to the main cause. Dr. Nithya Natarajan, a King’s College lecturer in international development, believes most “climate refugees” are already facing major challenges and climate was just the last straw. Calling people “climate refugees” whitewashes the bigger drivers.

The legal definition for “refugee” also specifies that the person must cross international borders. When climate is the main cause for displacement, it often forces people to move around within their country and not across borders. That doesn’t mean climate never causes international displacement, but according to experts, it’s more common for people to not move far. The UNHCR’s report may not have changed the legal definition of “refugee,” but it made it clear that climate should be part of the conversation about displacement. In the future, “climate refugee” might become a legally recognized term, but for now, it’s more of a buzzy term than anything official.

Examples of climate displacement

In 2018, the World Bank released a report focusing on three regions: Latin America, South Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa. If action isn’t taken, over 143 million people will need to leave by 2050. The Pacific Islands are also in dire straits. The sea level is rising almost ½ inch every year, leaving 8 islands already underwater. Unfortunately, because the islands are home to a fairly small population, there hasn’t been much international action despite all the press coverage. In 2015, Ioane Tetiota was deported from New Zealand back to Kiribati, which he had fled with his family because of climate-related issues like limited drinking water. His visa expired in 2010, so he applied for refugee status. It was denied. He then took the case to the UN Human Rights Committee, saying that New Zealand had violated his right to life by deporting him. While the Committee did not find the deportation unlawful, it made the ground-breaking statement that governments must take into account human rights violations caused by climate when they’re considering deporting asylum seekers.

Things are looking rough for South Asia, too. Extreme weather events like cyclones, rising temperatures, rising sea levels, and rivers flooded by melting glaciers are all major concerns. As the area sees increased urbanization and rapid economic growth, energy demand is expected to grow 66% by 2040. 800 million people will face worsening living conditions and could be forced to move. In Bangladesh alone, one in 7 might be displaced by 2050. This is because a big chunk of the population lives on the coast, which sees the most significant effects of a rising sea level, like salinization. 33 million could face health problems because of salt-contaminated drinking water. Crops are also damaged by salinization.

How to address climate displacement

What can be done for people displaced by climate if they aren’t legally considered refugees? Most are facing challenges other than climate that can get them refugee status. Climate is starting to get recognized more, however, so the international community must step up. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals address migration and climate change in SDG 13. Countries sign on to targets like strengthening resilience to climate-related dangers; integrating climate change measures into national strategies and policies; and improving education and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation and early warnings.

Reaching these targets is not easy. It requires investment in infrastructure, emergency aid, and job security. Nations must pay attention to longer-term issues like rising sea levels as well as natural disasters like hurricanes and cyclones. Risk reduction, data monitoring, and forecast models also play an essential part in mitigating climate change. When it comes to displacement and people seeking asylum, climate must be considered. Even if the formal definition of “refugee” doesn’t change, new terms must be created and recognized. Climate displacement must be taken seriously.

The post Who Is A Climate Refugee? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

After you earn a bachelor’s degree, you can go on to a master’s degree. This postgraduate certification gives you more advanced knowledge of a topic and skills that help you qualify for certain jobs. Even if a job doesn’t require a master’s degree, having one can help your odds and open up more opportunities down the road. Depending on where you’re studying, a master’s degree can take about 1-3 years and might allow you to study part-time or remotely. International relations and human rights have some overlaps but also many differences. Which degree should you get?

Getting a master’s in international relations

International relations, which is also known by names like international affairs, global affairs, or global studies, encompasses the relationships between states and cultures. Many factors affect these relationships, such as politics, geography, economics, law, resources, human rights, and more.

What you can expect

When you go into a master’s program for international relations, the courses will cover topics like history, diplomacy, conflict resolution, political science, security, anthropology, international law, religious, cultural studies. Students earning a master’s in international relations usually focus on something specific within the field, like law, business, migration, trade, security and so on. You will most likely need to study another language, as well, especially one or more of the six official United Nations languages will be useful: French, English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian. In a international relations master’s you will specifically learn about the relationships between governments and states, how they function, how they can be influenced and how they are maintained.

Examples: What can you become with a master’s in international relations

• Diplomatic Officer for a country or multi-national organization
• Intelligence Specialist for a governmental entity
• Lobbyist for a cause in global politics
• Non-profit Coordinator at an international NGO
• Counter-terrorism Officer in a National Security Entity

Getting a master’s in human rights

The human rights field encompasses the promotion, protection, and enforcement of human rights such as the right to life, right to vote, right to work, and right to an adequate standard of living. Everyone has a part to play in human rights, but earning academic certifications is important if you want to expand your career opportunities in the field.

What you can expect

Human rights master’s programs have grown in popularity over the last few decades. If you want to work in human rights, most jobs (beyond entry-level jobs) will likely require at least a master’s. Coursework is interdisciplinary and often includes topics like history, sociology, anthropology, legal studies, political science, and psychology. Many programs offer specializations, as well as the option for part-time study or distance learning. In a human rights master’s you will learn about the international and regional protection mechanisms of human rights, you will study important human rights documents and how they are applied, and you will develop some hands-on skills in research, campaigning, communication, education, law and advocacy. Explore more about master’s programs in human rights on our dedicated page.

Examples: What can you become with a master’s in human rights

The human rights field is broad, so you can find jobs with international organizations (like the UN, OSCE, EU), humanitarian non-profits, law firms, advocacy groups, and more. For more career paths check out our dedicated page

• Human Rights Researcher at ICRC
• Human Rights Lawyer at a Law firm
• Human Rights Campaigner at Amnesty International
• Human Rights Officer at the United Nations
• Human Rights Educator at Council of Europe

Should you get a master’s in international relations or human rights?

If you are aiming for using human rights as your primary tool to create change in this world, a master’s in human rights is a great fit. If you are more aiming for a diplomatic or political career, you might prefer a master’s in international relations. A master’s in human rights might prepare you better for a career in Non-governmental organizations advocating specifically for a human rights cause. A master’s in international relations might be a better fit if you want to join diplomatic services or work as delegate for your country. Both degrees are a good fit for becoming part of the United Nations and other intergovernmental entities like OSCE or the Council of Europe.

The post Should I Get a Master’s in International Relations or Human Rights? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Culture shapes the world, but what is culture? It’s the art, traditions, achievements, languages, and values of social groups. Culture is passed down from generation to generation. Unfortunately, many cultures, mostly indigenous ones, are in danger. The state of language is a good example. According to UNESCO, almost half of the world’s languages are at risk of disappearing. When languages are lost, a group’s history, stories, medical knowledge, and more are lost, as well. Culture is also threatened by things like climate change, war, religious discrimination, and development. When cultures vanish, the world’s cultural diversity suffers. Why does this matter?

What is cultural diversity?

“Cultural diversity” is the presence of various cultural and ethnic groups within a society. It’s also called “multiculturalism.” Due to drivers like immigration and economic globalization, cultural diversity is a hot-button topic. How does it manifest in society? There are two main theories: the melting pot and the salad bowl. Both these theories are simplified versions of reality. It’s not as if societies wholeheartedly embrace one or the other. They’re still worth knowing about.

The melting pot: unity or assimilation?

The melting pot theory of cultural diversity states that when different cultures meet, they melt together. The “melting pot” metaphor is often used to describe the immigrant experience in the United States. Just like different metals melt together to create something new and strong, different cultures unify into something better. Is this true, though? The positive view of a cultural melting pot says that there’s an equal blend of each culture’s strengths. In reality, however, what tends to happen is that certain cultures are forced to assimilate to the dominant culture and let go of their unique traditions. This is often enforced through government and work policies, as well as fear and shame-based discrimination.

The salad bowl theory: individuality or isolation?

In the 1960s, the salad bowl metaphor of cultural diversity gained traction. Instead of a pot where cultures meld together, cultures remain separate in a salad bowl. They retain their individuality while living side by side. We can see examples of salad-bowl communities in places like New York City, which has areas like Chinatown and Little Italy. A salad bowl preserves individual cultures, but it’s not without issues. There’s concern that society becomes fractured without a shared identity that connects the different cultures. This can lead to increased discrimination and prejudice when cultures do interact with each other. While the melting pot represents one side of the spectrum – assimilation – the salad bowl can represent isolation. There must be a balance between the two where cultures are respected and valued for their differences, but united in pursuit of the true common good. This isn’t an easy undertaking for societies. Is it worth it?

Why cultural diversity matters

Cultural diversity can lead to problems like discrimination, but it has many benefits. It can actually help reduce discrimination as opposed to fueling it. Empathy and a commitment to respect must be present. Mere proximity to a different culture may improve discrimination based on unfamiliarity, but as is clear from the United States and its long history of cultural diversity, closeness alone isn’t enough to significantly reduce discrimination. When proximity is matched with respect and celebration, different cultures benefit greatly from one another’s perspectives, skills, and values. There’s unity in this shared commitment to learning and connecting.

Cultural diversity is also important for the economy. According to research done on cultural diversity in the workplace, it’s shown to improve innovation and productivity. The more diverse a workplace is, the more ideas and perspectives there are. Tasks like problem-solving and brainstorming in particular benefit from diversity. Today, more and more businesses are investing in diversity and inclusion (D&I) practices and seeing results like better recruitment, higher employee satisfaction, and better performance.

Supporting cultural diversity

For the benefits of cultural diversity to become a reality, members of society need to come together to support it. Everyone, including but not limited to politicians, business leaders, and teachers, all play an important role in acknowledging and respecting cultural similarities and differences. Here are some examples:

• Recognize and respect other cultures’ celebrations, traditions, beliefs, etc
• Work to preserve disappearing languages
• Consume media (books, movies, music, etc) from other cultures
• Stand against cultural discrimination
• Be aware of how societies often force people to assimilate
• Encourage learning about other cultures
• Let people from other cultures speak for themselves

As globalization continues, increased interaction between different cultures is inevitable for many societies. How those societies choose to respond to that interaction and the impacts are not set in stone. If fear of the unfamiliar, disrespect, and a lack of curiosity drive decision-making, discrimination and the degradation of culture will follow. When there’s acknowledgment, respect, and celebration, cultural diversity has the power to strengthen economies and communities.

The post What is Cultural Diversity? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Without enforcement, universal human rights are just a concept. Instruments like treaties and laws are necessary to ensure everyone’s human rights are protected. Human rights lawyers, advocates, and other defenders of human rights pressure governments, companies, and individuals to uphold the law, create new laws, and hold violators accountable. What are the main areas of practice for human rights? Here are seven examples.

#1 Anti-discrimination

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the right to be free from discrimination. It’s also protected in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, and other human rights laws. Anti-discrimination legislation works to prevent discrimination against certain groups of people, who are often referred to as “protected groups” or “protected classes.” Various laws have been established around the world, like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States, which made it illegal to discriminate against people based on their race, color, religion, nationality, or sex. In anti-discrimination law, specific areas of focus can include voter registration, schooling, public accommodations, and more.

#2 Freedom of expression

The right to freedom of opinion and expression can be found in Article 19 of the UDHR. It includes the right to “hold opinions without interference.” Freedom of expression is often threatened by the powers that be in the name of national security or religion. While governments do have a duty to prohibit hate speech, that authority can be abused to squash activists, journalists, and NGOs. The definition of hate speech is constantly debated in the world of human rights law. Learn more about freedom of expression in an online course.

#3 Disability law

People with disabilities endure significant barriers and discrimination. Their human rights are often violated because they require more accommodations than able-bodied or neurotypical people. This discrimination can affect schooling, healthcare, voting, employment, and more. Disability rights lawyers and activists work to improve laws that prevent discrimination and better encompass different disabilities. They also raise awareness of how discrimination spreads. Today there are various master programs that are specifically focused on disability law.

#4 Women’s rights and gender equality

Women’s rights and gender equality are major areas of humans rights law. While universal human rights (such as the right to life, work, freedom from discrimination, etc) apply to all people, women have not historically enjoyed equal rights. In 1979, the General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, acknowledging that while other instruments exist, women still don’t have the same rights as men.

Globally, progress has been uneven. Depending on the region, significant violations of women’s rights are commonplace. This includes discrimination in the workplace, barriers to education and healthcare access, and other structural problems. Human rights lawyers work in firms and organizations to advocate for equal pay, equal education access, better healthcare, and more social protections against abuse and trafficking.

#5 Domestic violence

Domestic violence is often grouped with women’s rights because it mostly affects women. In the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women (1993), the document stated that “violence against women is one of the crucial social mechanisms” that keeps women lower on the social ladder. Domestic violence also has a significant impact on children. While less prevalent, men can also be affected by domestic violence, so human rights laws need to include them. Laws on domestic violence vary by country. Human rights lawyers focus on advocating for better (and more inclusive) domestic violence laws. They also work to see that laws are enforced properly and justice is served. Learn more about how gender-based violence can be tackled in an online course.

#6 Refugee law

Displaced people are owed human rights like everyone else. They are also uniquely vulnerable because of why they were displaced (which includes conflict, food insecurity, climate change and more) and the stigma placed on them as they seek a new home. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has a mandate to provide international protection. International instruments include the 1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. Lawyers working in refugee law advocate for displaced people, help them through the complex process of seeking asylum, and provide resources.

#7 Access to education

The right to education is found in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international instruments. It’s considered crucial because of its effect on other human rights. Research shows that if all adults completed secondary education, poverty rates significantly go down. Education also narrows the gender gap. The right to education includes universal and free primary education, accessible secondary education, and accessible higher education. Human rights defenders focus on challenges to the right to education, such as migration and displacement, financing, and discrimination. Various international human rights instruments provide a framework for the right to education, so the countries that ratify these treaties need to be held accountable.

The post Human Rights Areas of Practice appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Becoming an activist leader takes determination, resilience, and a passion for justice. But it does not stop there. We have compiled a list of courses that will equip you with essential skills. All courses featured below are available to audit or trial for free. You can opt-in for a paid verified certificate for individual courses or choose Coursera Plus, Coursera’s annual subscription, and obtain certifications in several courses listed below. All courses are taught by top universities from around the world.

Learn to mobilize and engage supporters

It is crucial for human rights organizations to mobilize their supporters whenever they are needed. Learn about the principles of effective engagement, how to transform communities and create positive change in society. Explore the pitfalls and successful strategies to engage your followers in a good cause.

• Community Organizing for Social Justice (University of Michigan)
• Strategies for Effective Engagement (University of Colorado Boulder)
• Civic Engagement in American Democracy (Duke University)
• Transforming Communities (University of Colorado Boulder)

Learn to influence and persuade power holders

Lobbying and influencing powerholders to change policies, laws and budgets is an essential strategy of human rights advocacy. Learn how to navigate difficult negotiations, find common ground through mediation, and develop a solution through conflict resolution strategies.

• Influencing People (University of Michigan)
• Introduction to Negotiation (Yale University)
• Negotiation, Mediation and Conflict Resolution (ESSEC Business School)
• Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World (SOAS University of London)

Learn to inspire and lead a team

Human rights leadership is about guiding and empowering others, setting direction, and inspiring people to work towards a common goal for a better future. Leaders are found at all levels of any organization, not only the top ones. Learn to inspire and build capacity in your team and how to develop and foster your social influence.

• Agile Leadership (University of Colorado)
• Building Your Leadership Skills (HEC Paris)
• Inspired Leadership (Case Western Reserve University)
• Strategic Leadership and Management (University of Illinois)

Learn to be more inclusive and leverage diversity

Diversity and inclusion are more than just assets. They are essential qualities that help human rights groups to thrive. Learn more about leveraging the power of diversity in the workplace and your community and how to act more inclusively when engaging with diverse groups and teams.

• Inclusive Leadership: The Power of Workplace Diversity (University of Colorado)
• Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace (ESSEC Business School)
• Leading Diverse Teams & Organizations (University of Michigan)
• Gender Analytics: Gender Equity through Inclusive Design (University of Toronto)

Learn to manage international organizations and NGOs

Running an organization successfully requires effective leadership and good governance. Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of international organizations, the functions of the board and the strategies to generate social impact.

• International Leadership and Organizational Behavior (University Bocconi)
• International Organizations Management (University of Geneva)
• Business Strategies for a Better World (University of Pennsylvania)
• Social Impact Strategy (University of Pennsylvania)

Learn to communicate in challenging situations

Human rights staff often work under high pressure in difficult circumstances. Decisive action and effective communication are key to navigate the challenge. Learn to communicate effectively during a crisis, support people during emergencies and motivate others to take action for an important cause.

• Humanitarian Communication: Addressing Key Challenges (University Geneva) – currently not available
• Storytelling and Influencing: Communicate with Impact (Macquarie University)
• Communication Strategies for a Virtual Age (University of Toronto)
• Psychological First Aid (Johns Hopkins University)

Learn to govern and foster democratic principles

Good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Learn about the management of public resources, how to curb corruption, tackle inequalities and reduce poverty. Explore how you can promote inclusive societies and how to build accountable and effective institutions.

• Inequality and Democracy (Utrecht University)
• Management of International Development (University Bocconi)
• Human Rights for Open Societies (Utrecht University)
• Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (University of Michigan)

Learn to advocate for vulnerable groups and populations

Human rights protect the most vulnerable groups in society. Everyone can become vulnerable, but some groups are more likely to have their rights violated. Learn about the hardships refugees are facing on their perilous journeys, the rights every child should enjoy and how to confront gender based violence.

• Refugees in the 21^st century (University of London)
• Children’s Human Rights (University of Geneva)
• Confronting Gender Based Violence (Johns Hopkins University)
• International Migrations: a global issue (Sciences Po)

A majority of the courses in this list are part of the Coursera Plus annual subscription.

The post 30 Online Courses for Activist Leaders appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

About 1.5 million NGOs are operating in the United States. These non-governmental organizations focus on a variety of issues such as healthcare, women’s rights, economic development, and more. To conduct certain activities, an NGO must be registered. There are benefits to registration beyond avoiding legal troubles, such as signing contracts in the NGO’s name and qualifying for certain financial assistance. How does the registration process work in the United States?

Take an online course on running a non-profit today!

First steps

If you’re part of a group that wants legal benefits like exemption from federal and state taxes, you’ll need to formally incorporate and register as an NGO. Not a United States citizen? On the State Department’s page for NGOs, it states that individuals do not need to be citizens to create a new NGO. When you’re beginning the process, structure is important. That includes choosing a name for your NGO. Because you want to incorporate your organization, you’ll need a unique name that hasn’t been claimed already. This is also the time to appoint a board of directors. With their help, draft the operating rules (the bylaws) of your NGO and decide what kind of legal structure the group should take – a trust, association, or corporation.

Paperwork and tax exemption

The next step is to file incorporation paperwork and apply for tax-exempt status. Registration requirements vary state by state, but it’s usually not complicated. You’ll need to write a short description of the organization, including its name, mission, and address of an agent in the state you’re registering in. There’s also a fee. Depending on what state you’re in, some NGOs with religious, educational, or other charitable goals may need to also register with a state charity official. In most states, the process does not involve any kind of “approval” by a government authority. This is so authorities don’t abuse their power and hinder NGOs with goals they don’t like.

Most NGOs in the US qualify for federal and state tax exemption. Depending on the type of NGO and its activities, the kinds of benefits it can receive vary. Usually, NGOs that exclusively focus on religious, charitable, educational, literary, and nonpartisan goals can apply. To pursue this, you’ll need to apply to the IRS. The IRS has instructions and guidelines on this process. This is also the time to get any necessary permits and licenses you need to operate.

Foreign NGOs in the US

The United States allows foreign NGOs to register in the country with a non-profit entity form. These NGOs are funded by foreign governments but work within the US for varied purposes. Some are nonpartisan, while others serve as a liaison on foreign policy to US organizations. It’s common for foreign NGOs to fund and work alongside American NGOs. As long as these foreign NGOs register and file tax returns as required by law, they don’t have to provide reports to other US federal government agencies. If the NGO wants to apply for tax exemption, the process is generally the same as for US NGOs. Foreign NGOs also need to apply for a license in whatever state they want to operate in.

What to do if your tax exemption is revoked

NGOs can lose their tax exemption. If they fail to file the required Form 990 series returns or notices for three years in a row, their status is automatically revoked. Luckily, you can apply for reinstatement. One option is to try and get the tax-exempt status retroactively reinstated. An NGO is only eligible if they’ve not had their status automatically revoked before and if they submit a series of forms no later than 15 months after their Revocation Letter. This is known as “Streamlined Retroactive Reinstatement.” There are three other options if an NGO doesn’t meet the streamlined requirements. To avoid losing its tax exemption, an NGO needs to submit required returns to the IRS.

After registration

After an NGO registers, the US government doesn’t involve itself in the NGO’s mission. NGOs can recruit participants and don’t need to notify any government agency about activities, membership, or outreach. NGOs are also free to work with foreign governments and NGOs. Some rules apply, such as not working with governments or individuals sanctioned by the US or any groups designated as a terrorist organization. NGOs are free to recruit foreign donors and work internationally.

Under US law, NGOs have freedom of expression and association. That means NGOs can engage in nonpartisan political activities. If they take a partisan stance, an NGO may not qualify for tax exemption. Nonpartisan NGOs are still free to advocate for specific political issues and criticize the government. There are laws on issues like immigration, visas, campaign finance, and more, but NGOs are not held to a different standard than other organizations.

Take an online course on running a non-profit today!

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MARUAH

MARUAH is a Singapore human rights NGO which actively works advocating for the respect and upholding of human rights in accordance with both national and international norms. The organization is a focal point for the Working Group for an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism.

MARUAH works on raising awareness, understanding and knowledge of human rights and issues surrounding them at the national, regional and international levels in the country and ASEAN. It also facilitates engagement, participation and education of the public, groups and other organizations in Singapore on human rights and related issues while providing a civil society perspectives on human rights issues at all levels.

Transient Workers Count Two (TWC2)

TWC2 is an NGO that works on the promotion of fair treatment of migrant workers in Singapore. It envisions a society that recognizes and values the important contribution they make to households, economy and country’’.

Through conducting ground research and engaging with policy makers and employers, TWC2 advocates for an enlightened policy framework for migrant labor in Singapore. The organization also assists migrant workers so that they have fair resolution of their cases, access to medical care, dignity in work and living conditions, and protection of their autonomy. Last, but not least, the organization engages in public education to teach the public about the social conditions in which exploitation, abuse and injustice occur.

Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE)

AWARE is a Singapore based women’s rights NGO that works on advocacy and promotion of the rights of both women and men so that they have equal access to education, marriage and employment. More particularly, AWARE advocates for the rights of women to control their own bodies and fully enjoy their sexual and reproductive rights.

AWARE’s mission is to ‘’remove all gender-based barriers so as to allow all individuals in Singapore to develop their potential to the fullest and realize their personal visions and hopes’’. It achieves this through research and advocacy, education and training, and support services. It advocates against policies, laws and mindsets that discriminate against women and contributes towards the strengthening of laws related to domestic violence.

Think Centre

Think Centre is a Singapore based NGO founded in 1999 with a goal to advocate, examine and raise awareness on civil society issues in the country related to human rights, rule of law, development and democracy. For many years, the organization has been active in initiating and facilitating involvement of the local civil society in human rights awareness and promotion.

The organization’s work is applicable on both national and regional levels, and where necessary, on international levels as well. Think Centre is active in the promotion and protection of human rights. More specifically it advocates against death penalties and the respect of right to life, as well as freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and association, labor rights, and rights of migrant workers and their families.

Sayoni

Sayoni is an NGO composed of queer women, including lesbian, bisexual and transgender women. It advocates for equality in dignity and well-being of women regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sexual characteristics.

Sayoni was established in 2006 and since then it advocates for equality on all levels with a vision of ‘’empowering queer women towards greater involvement and presence in the community’’. Its advocacy and education efforts include advocating on an international level, such as reporting to the UN, engaging and advocating on both national and regional level with local groups and governments, campaigning and publications, with a mission ‘’to provide resources and communication channels that would contribute to self-confidence, participation and a voice’’.

Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics (HOME)

HOME is a Singapore based NGO established in 2004 with an aim to empower and support migrant workers who find themselves victims of human rights violations and who suffer from exploitation and abuse.

HOME implements a variety of outreach projects and public education on issues affecting migrant workers. Its work is guided through three pillars: welfare, empowerment and advocacy. The organization’s goal is increase awareness on situation of migrant workers in Singapore through campaigns and public education. Through its advocacy work it hopes to achieve changes to improve the lives of this affected population in Singapore.

Advocates for Refugees

Advocates for Refugees is an NGO based in Singapore that works on raising awareness on the issues of refugees and forced migration in Singapore. It advocates and campaigns for the rights of refugees in the country.

The organization conducts research to soften the position of Singapore government when it comes to treating refugees and asylum seekers. Through its research, Advocates for Refugees seeks to better understand, inform and give recommendations on policies, as well as support legal aid organizations in the country. It also runs campaigns to shape the public opinion on the issues related to refugees and partners up with local and regional organization that support displaced communities.

We Believe In Second Chances

We Believe in Second Chances is a youth led NGO in Singapore advocating for the respect of the right to life and the abolishment of the mandatory death penalty. It is led by a belief that ‘’it is unjust to impose the mandatory death penalty on anyone, as a mandatory sentence does not allow for mitigating circumstances to be taken into account’’.

Along with campaigning and raising awareness on issues surrounding the death penalty in Singapore, the organization’s goal is to build a community of support around families of death row inmates. The organization believes that everyone needs to take the responsibility for their mistakes and that no crime should go unpunished, but it also believes that problematic and unjust laws in the country need to be revised and debated.

Project X

Project X is an NGO that protects the rights of sex workers in Singapore and aims to encourage their acceptance in society while fighting against misconceptions and stigma related to their work. The organization campaigns for better health services and against violence against sex workers.

Project X works on increasing awareness of sex workers about their basic human rights, thereby increasing reports of violence and abuse. It also advocates for universal access to sexual health services and speaks out against violence committed against sex workers from law enforces, clients, and the public. It also empowers sex workers to take charge of their lives through self-determination and educates them about health issues.

United Women Singapore (UWS)

UWS is a locally based NGO that works on the advancement of women’s rights in Singapore, as well as empowerment and gender equality by building a pipeline of women leaders and influencers. The organization’s mission is to ‘’create opportunities through programs and partnerships that help women and girls maximize their full potential, and empower them to become future leaders.

UWS works on narrowing the gender equality gap through education as well as through advocacy and raising awareness on issues ranging from anti-violence to women’s empowerment. It is supported by key stakeholders, including corporate partners, government agencies, academia, the diplomatic community, non-profits and community groups and the wider community.

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According to the UN, the number of international migrants surpassed 270 million in 2019. This represents an increase of 51 million since 2010. Nearly half of all international migrants moved to one of 10 countries. 19% of the world’s total immigrant population lives in the United States. One of every seven international migrants is younger than 20 years old. What are the stories behind these statistics? What does the world think of immigrants? To start answering these questions, here are five essays about immigration:

“Out of Eden Walk” (2013-present) – Paul Salopek

At the time of this 2019 essay, Paul Salopek has been walking for seven years. In 2013, he started from an ancient fossil site north of Ethiopia. His plan? Cover 21,000 miles over ten years, retracing humankind’s walk out of Africa. While he’s walking through the past, his project is also timely. Numbers-wise, we’re living with the largest diaspora in human history. More than 1 billion people are on the move, both within their own countries and beyond borders. During his journey, Salopek covers climate change, technological innovation, mass migration, and more. Through essays, photographs, audio, and video, he creates a vivid tapestry of stories from people rarely heard from. This essay is a great introduction to Salopek’s “slow journalism.” You can find more at OutofEdenWalk.org.

Journalist and writer Paul Salopek is a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. He has reported for publications like The Atlantic and National Geographic Magazine. John Stanmeyer, who took the photos for this essay, is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker and photographer.

“Mohsin Hamid: why migration is a fundamental human right” (2014)

Author Mohsin Hamid was born in Pakistan and educated in the US. He lives in the UK. In this essay, he explains how he wishes for “a world without borders.” He believes the right to migrate (which includes emigration and immigration) is as vital as other human rights, like freedom of expression. People have always moved, crossing borders and sharing cultures. Humans are also migrants in that simply by living, we move through time. Unfortunately, this human right has been denied all over the world. Hamid looks forward to a day when migration is respected and welcomed.

Mohsin Hamid is the author of several books, including Discontent and Its Civilizations: Dispatches from Lahore, New York, and London. He writes both fiction and nonfiction.

“I’m a Dreamer. Ask my 80+ Employees if I should be deported.” (2020) – Victor Santos

Young and brilliant, Victor Santos is the founder of Airfox, a Boston-based tech startup. On the surface, Santos is living the American Dream. In this essay in the Boston Globe, he describes that for the past 10 years, he’s worried about ICE taking him away. He’s an undocumented immigrant dependent on DACA. Santos briefly describes his experience growing up in the US, working through college, and getting opportunities because of DACA. Following the publication of this piece, the Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration cannot immediately end DACA. For now, Santos and the other hundreds of thousands of Dreamers are protected.

Victor Santos is the founder and CEO of Airfox, a loan app that uses mobile data to estimate credit risk. He was on the list of MIT Technology Review in Spanish’s Innovators Under 35 Latin America 2018.

“My Life As An Undocumented Immigrant” (2011) – Jose Antonio Vargas

Vargas opens this essay describing how, at 12-years old, he left the Philippines for the US in 1993. At 16, while going to get his driver’s permit, he was told his green card was fake. He realized he was undocumented. In this essay from 2011, partially inspired by four students who walked from Miami to Washington to lobby for the DREAM Act, he spoke out. The essay describes Vargas’ life and career in America, navigating the system with his secret. It’s a vivid, personal look at Vargas’ experience of “hiding” in plain sight and an act of courage as he owns his story.

Jose Antonio Vargas is a former reporter for the Washington Post. He shared a Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the Virginia Tech shooting. He is also a filmmaker, writer, and immigrant rights activist. He founded Define American, a nonprofit that strives for dialogue about immigration, in 2011.

“A Young Immigrant Has Mental Illness, And That’s Raising His Risk of Being Deported” – Christine Herman

Immigrants, especially undocumented immigrants, deal with a variety of challenges. One of them is the mental health care system. Those with untreated mental illnesses are at higher risk of getting in trouble with the law. When the person who is mentally ill is also undocumented, things get even more complicated. Deportation to a country with an even worse mental healthcare system could be a death sentence. This story from NPR is about a specific family, but it highlights issues that affect many.

Christine Herman is Ph.D. chemist and award-winning audio journalist. She’s a 2018-2019 recipient of a Rosalyn Carter fellowship for mental health journalism.

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Around the world, people experience homelessness. According to a 2005 survey by the United Nations, 1.6 billion people lack adequate housing. The causes vary depending on the place and person. Common reasons include a lack of affordable housing, poverty, a lack of mental health services, and more. Homelessness is rooted in systemic failures that fail to protect those who are most vulnerable. Here are five essays that shine a light on the issue of homelessness:

What Would ‘Housing as a Human Right’ Look Like in California? (2020) – Molly Solomon

For some time, activists and organizations have proclaimed that housing is a human right. This essay explores what that means and that it isn’t a new idea. Housing as a human right was part of federal policy following the Great Depression. In a 1944 speech introducing what he called the “Second Bill of Rights,” President Roosevelt attempted to address poverty and income equality. The right to have a “decent home” was included in his proposals. Article 25 of the Universal Declaration also recognizes housing as a human right. It describes the right to an “adequate standard of living.” Other countries such as France and Scotland include the right to housing in their constitutions. In the US, small local governments have adopted resolutions on housing. How would it work in California?

At KQED, Molly Solomon covers housing affordability. Her stories have aired on NPR’s All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and other places. She’s won three national Edward R. Murrow awards.

“What People Get Wrong When They Try To End Homelessness” – James Abro

In his essay, James Abro explains what led up to six weeks of homelessness and his experiences helping people through social services. Following the death of his mother and eviction, Abro found himself unhoused. He describes himself as “fortunate” and feeling motivated to teach people how social services worked. However, he learned that his experience was somewhat unique. The system is complicated and those involved don’t understand homelessness. Abro believes investing in affordable housing is critical to truly ending homelessness.

James Abro is the founder of Advocate for Economic Fairness and 32 Beach Productions. He works as an advocate for homeless rights locally and nationally. Besides TalkPoverty, he contributes to Rebelle Society and is an active member of the New Jersey Coalition to End Homelessness.

“No Shelter For Some: Street-Sleepers” (2019)

This piece (by an unknown author) introduces the reader to homelessness in urban China. In the past decades, a person wouldn’t see many homeless people. This was because of strict rules on internal migration and government-supplied housing. Now, the rules have changed. People from rural areas can travel more and most urban housing is privatized. People who are homeless – known as “street-sleepers” are more visible. This essay is a good summary of the system (which includes a shift from police management of homelessness to the Ministry of Civil Affairs) and how street-sleepers are treated.

“A Window Onto An American Nightmare” (2020) – Nathan Heller

This essay from the New Yorker focuses on San Francisco’s history with homelessness, the issue’s complexities, and various efforts to address it. It also touches on how the pandemic has affected homelessness. One of the most intriguing parts of this essay is Heller’s description of becoming homeless. He says people “slide” into it, as opposed to plunging. As an example, someone could be staying with friends while looking for a job, but then the friends decide to stop helping. Maybe someone is jumping in and out of Airbnbs, looking for an apartment. Heller’s point is that the line between only needing a place to stay for a night or two and true “homelessness” is very thin.

Nathan Heller joined the New Yorker’s writing staff in 2013. He writes about technology, higher education, the Bay Area, socioeconomics, and more. He’s also a contributing editor at Vogue, a former columnist for Slate, and contributor to other publications.

“Homelessness in Ireland is at crisis point, and the vitriol shown towards homeless people is just as shocking” (2020)#- Megan Nolan

In Ireland, the housing crisis has been a big issue for years. Recently, it’s come to a head in part due to a few high-profile incidents, such as the death of a young woman in emergency accommodation. The number of children experiencing homelessness (around 4,000) has also shone a light on the severity of the issue. In this essay, Megan Nolan explores homelessness in Ireland as well as the contempt that society has for those who are unhoused.

Megan Nolan writes a column for the New Statesman. She also writes essays, criticism, and fiction. She’s from Ireland but based in London.

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A human rights lawyer is a legal representative who specialises in protecting the fundamental rights of people. Some human rights lawyers work from offices, others stand in court, and some are on the frontline in conflict zones, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive their basic rights. This article explores the wide range of work conducted by human rights lawyers, from representing a person at risk of becoming homeless, to acting for international non-governmental organisations who seek to challenge government activities, to ensuring that former dictators charged with war crimes receive a fair trial. Human rights lawyers also do many other types of work – these are just some examples!

Represent individuals in human rights claims for compensation

This is one of the most common types of work undertaken by human rights lawyers. Say for example, a person is unlawfully detained by immigration authorities. A human rights lawyer may be able to assist them obtain compensation from the government to compensate them for the time that they were deprived of their liberty. Another example would be if a person was discriminated against on the basis of a protected characteristic such as their sexuality or their race. For example, in 2019 two British paratroopers won a discrimination claim against the Ministry of Defence, for years of racist abuse which they endured. Their lawyers will have helped them to obtain a financial pay-out and an acknowledgement of responsibility from the Ministry of Defence in respect of what took place.

In these types of scenarios, a human rights lawyer would usually meet with their client to take their detailed account of what happened, and help them obtain all the relevant evidence. They would then write to the opponent explaining the case against them. If the opponent does not agree to settle the matter outside of court, the human rights lawyer would help the client start court proceedings against the opponent.

Challenge government decisions on the basis that they are unlawful

Another important activity undertaken by human rights lawyers is to challenge governmental decision-making through the courts. In England and Wales (and in some other jurisdictions), this process is known as a judicial review. The human rights lawyer would ask the court to review the government’s decision on the basis that the government acted irrationally, exceeded their power, or acted unfairly. Human rights lawyers use the judicial review process in a wide range of situations from preventing a person from being evicted unlawfully, to attempting to stop an asylum seeker from being deported to their country of origin, to challenging the decision-making powers of the Investigatory Powers Tribunal. Often these types of cases are very urgent, as they involve the client trying to stop an imminent event from happening. This means that the human rights lawyer must act quickly and efficiently to secure funding and bring the claim to court.

Act for families in inquests into the death of their loved ones

Where a person has died unexpectedly whilst in the care of the state, such as in a prison, in police custody or at a military training facility, there will usually be an inquest into their death. For example, the Deepcut inquest, investigated the deaths of four soldiers at a military training barracks in Surrey, England. An inquest is a fact-finding court case which seeks to explore the circumstances of a person’s death. In England and Wales, where it is suspected that a human rights violation has occurred, an in-depth inquest will take place before a jury. Human rights lawyers play an important role in this process, by acting on behalf of the family of the deceased to make sure that relevant witnesses are called, and the right questions are asked so that the truth of what happened to the deceased can be revealed.

Help individuals or organisations obtain protective injunctions

An injunction is a court order preventing a person from undertaking a certain action, or ordering a person to fulfil a certain action. Human rights lawyers often seek injunctions for their clients. For example, a human rights lawyer may help a victim of domestic violence seek a protection order preventing their partner from entering their home or from contacting them. Injunctions are also often used by human rights lawyers who specialise in media law to try to prevent a breach of a person’s privacy. For example, one celebrity successfully obtained an injunction preventing the publication of details of their affair with a prostitute. The impact of this court order was that the press could not print any identifying details in relation to the celebrity.

Act on behalf of groups of individuals at Commissions and Inquiries

Where there has been a wide-scale breach of human rights, such as an event which has resulted in the loss of many lives, it is common for a nation to hold a commission or an inquiry to establish the facts of what took place, and to learn lessons for the future. Examples include South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Chile’s Rettig Commission. Human rights lawyers play an important role in these events, by representing interested persons. For example, in the Grenfell Tower Fire Public Inquiry, human rights lawyers represented the survivors of the fire, and the family members of those who died. They helped ensure that voices of the interested persons were heard by the chair of the inquiry. These lawyers worked together as a team to help ensure that the inquiry focussed on the most important issues. Their work helped the inquiry to prove that incorrect building materials had been used by the local authority’s building contractors when the tower was re-furbished, which contributed to the spread of the fire.

Work on Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives

Large law firms and other companies have a moral obligation to give back to the communities in which they operate. Some employ human rights lawyers within their corporate social responsibility team, in order to head up human rights orientated projects such as running legal advice drop in centres. For example, corporate law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer specialises in providing its clients with advice on business and human rights, such as human rights policies and compliance, and the impact of human rights legislation such as the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015. It has also contributed to the development of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Direct or advise Non-Governmental Organisations

Many human rights lawyers work for human rights organizations with a specific mission or cause. For example, Martha Spurrier is the director of human rights and civil liberties organisation, Liberty. Their mission is to defend freedom, and campaign to ensure that everyone in the UK is treated fairly. As director, she is responsible for helping to define their key priority issues – such as facial recognition, and the threat to the Human Rights Act. Human rights lawyer also often work for human rights organisations in an advisory capacity, providing expertise on key issues.

Help to write human rights legislation, policies and conventions

Some human rights lawyers work in national and regional government to help draft human rights legislation and regulations. For example, lawyers at the Government Legal Service in England and Wales provide the government with advice and help write new laws. Human rights lawyers also work for governmental organisations such as human rights and equality commissions, developing policies, and holding the government accountable to its human rights promises.

Human rights lawyers also work for the United Nations, assisting with writing human rights treaties and conventions and monitoring their implementation. For example, the Committee for the Elimination of Discrimination against Women is made up of a panel of human rights law experts from across the world, such as Japanese Hiroko Akizuki, a professor of international law at Asia University, and Gunnar Bergby, who is the Secretary-General of the Supreme Court in Norway. These experts help to monitor the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Represent or prosecute criminals charged with war crimes

Human rights lawyers specialising in International Criminal Law represent the prosecution and the defence at the International Criminal Court. For example, ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor was prosecuted for war crimes in Sierra Leone. In 2012, he was sentenced to 50 years’ imprisonment. He was represented by Courtenay Griffiths QC. Griffiths worked hard to ensure that Taylor had a fair trial, in spite of the international condemnation of his actions. When interviewed about his involvement in the case, Griffiths explained his belief that “It is right and proper that a defendant, however heinous the crime committed, has the right to the best representation.”

Take part in humanitarian work

Human rights lawyers work on the ground in conflict zones as protection officers to ensure that vulnerable communities receive the legal protection that they need. Protection officers are employed by the UNHCR, as well as other non-governmental organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Non-Violent Peaceforce. They use international, regional and national human rights laws to provide assistance to individuals and communities who are subject to human rights violations. For example, in South Sudan, protection officers work in the field to reduce community-based violence, to protect children, and to help tackle sexual and gender-based violence. In refugee camps in Kenya, protection officers assist displaced people from neighbouring countries, including helping some to obtain refugee status.

These are just a few examples of work undertaken by human rights lawyers. If you are interested in becoming a human rights lawyer, you should first pursue your legal qualifications. At the same time, do as much voluntary or pro bono human rights work as possible, to build your experience and help you to discover your interests.

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In 1960, Harper Lee published To Kill a Mockingbird. Taking inspiration from her family and an event in her childhood, Lee told a story of racism, injustice, and growing up in 1930s Alabama. The book was an instant classic but became one of the most challenged books in schools around the country. What makes this book so enduring and so controversial? How can readers wrestle with its themes and flaws? Here are five essays about To Kill A Mockingbird:

“How Do We Teach “To Kill a Mockingbird” and Honestly Confront Racism?” – DJ Cashmere

The author of this essay read To Kill A Mockingbird in 8th grade. He loved it. Later, when he tried teaching the book to his students, the kids didn’t connect to it. This isn’t unusual. Why? Cashmere states that it’s because too many white teachers neglect to discuss how racial justice has changed over the years. This gap in understanding also hurts students of color. Cashmere explores five ideas on how to teach this book today, including decentering whiteness and including Go Set A Watchman, the sequel that shook white readers’ view of Atticus Finch.

DJ Cashmere is a print and audio journalist in New York. He covers urban policy, culture, and education.

“We Shouldn’t Always Feel Comfortable: Why ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Matters – Christina Torres

Similar in theme to the first essay, “We Shouldn’t Always Feel Comfortable” addresses a recent reason schools aren’t reading Mockingbird: its racial themes cause discomfort. Torres, a middle-school English teacher, believes that discomfort is a sign the novel should still be read. The use of the N-word in the novel should make both students and teachers uncomfortable. Torres writes that it’s important for teachers and students to wrestle with the word. Good education includes facing uncomfortable things. It’s the only way to change. Note: In the comments section, Torres does say she understands that in majority-Black classrooms, the novel may be too problematic. The “good discomfort” she’s describing applies to classrooms where non-Black students wrestle with their own biases and history.

Christina Torres is a teacher and writer. Her work has appeared in Honolulu Civil Beat, Teaching Tolerance, and EdWeek Teacher. She writes about culture, education, race relations, and fitness.

“To Kill a Mockingbird: a story for white people” (2019) – E.R. Shipp

Aaron Sorkin adapted To Kill A Mockingbird for Broadway, where it opened in 2018. It was a huge success. Jeff Daniels played Atticus Finch, who is centered as the main character instead of Scout, the novel’s narrator. E.R. Shipp saw the play, describing Daniels as “magnificent.” There were updates she appreciated, such as Calpurnia having a bigger role. Still, as Shipp watches the stage, she realizes how clear it is that Mockingbird is for white people. They like to imagine themselves as friends of Atticus and fighters for justice. Even adjusted for the times, Mockingbird still centers whiteness.

E.R. Shipp is a journalist. In 1996, she won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary. She’s the journalist in residence at Morgan State University’s School of Global Journalism and Communication.

“The Courthouse Ring” (2009) – Malcolm Gladwell

Drawing on the history of Southern politics, this essay compares Atticus Finch to Jim Folsom, the populist Alabama governor in the 1940s and 50s. On the surface, Folsom and Atticus are both progressives. However, even though Atticus stands up to racists, he doesn’t address the racist system. When Tom Robinson is found guilty, Atticus just hangs his head. He isn’t angry with the town’s blatant disregard for justice. While many readers adore Atticus, seeing him compared to a real person – Jim Folsom – reveals the problematic aspects of his character.

Since 1996, Malcolm Gladwell has been a staff writer for The New Yorker. He’s also a best-selling author, podcaster, and public speaker.

“Go Set A Watchman: Why Harper Lee’s New Book is so Controversial” (2015) – Dara Lind

We shouldn’t ignore Lee’s controversial sequel in an article about To Kill A Mockingbird. Announced in 2015, many questioned Lee’s involvement in Go Set a Watchman. Did she give informed consent? Was this just about money? Then the book came out. Many readers were horrified to learn that Atticus Finch is racist. This essay digs into that revelation and asks what this means for To Kill A Mockingbird.

Dara Lind has worked at Vox since the site’s launch in 2014. She’s one of the US’ leading immigration reporters and also covers stories on federal data, police shootings, and more.

The post 5 Essays About “To Kill A Mockingbird” appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Monika Robert’s TransGriot Blog

Monika Roberts is ‘’a proud unapologetic Black trans woman speaking truth to power and discussing the world around her since 2006.’’ She is a GLAAD award winning blogger and trans human rights advocate working on the promotion of acceptance of all trans people while especially focusing on transgender people of color.

She writes a blog called TransGriot (pronounced Gree-oh) where she lists all her favorite blogs, trans blogs, LGBTIQ and POC resources. On her blog she states the “Blog’s mission is to become the griot of our community. I will introduce you to and talk about your African descended trans brothers and trans sisters across the Diaspora, reclaim and document our chocolate flavored trans history, speak truth to power, comment on the things that impact our trans community from an Afrocentric perspective and enlighten you about the general things that go on around me and in the communities that I am a member of.”

Chloe Schwenke’s Blog

In 2017, Chloe Schwenke’s blog was selected as one of the top 40 human rights blogs on the web by Feedspot. She is a Quaker feminist, human rights activist, educator and researcher with many years of experience working internationally in developing countries.

Up to date, Chloe has worked with some of the leading American human rights, development and research organizations. She compiled a lengthy list of accomplishments as an independent consultant on projects of the USAID, the US State Department, the World Bank, the UN, the Human Rights Campaign, the Inter-American Development Bank and many other international donors. On her blog she writes about feminism, foreign policy, gender equality, human dignity, international development, leadership, public policy, women and girls.

Befeqadu Hailu’s Voice from Ethiopia Blog

Befeqadu Hailu is an award winning Ethiopian blogger, human rights activist and writer, who runs a blog called Voice from Ethiopia, where he writes about human rights issues affecting the country.

In 2014, Hailu was arrested and charged with terrorism together with other members of a blogging group called Zone 9, because of their online and offline activism and campaigning for human rights in Ethiopia. Even though he was released from detention, Hailu is still facing a trial for ‘’inciting violence through writing’’. Hailu, nevertheless, received several awards for his writing and activism, including the Burt Award for African Literature and the International Press Freedom Award from the Committee to Protect Journalists.

Marcell Shehwaro’s On the Edge of Syria Blog

Marcell Shehwaro is a human rights activist from Aleppo in Syria. She is very well known for her blog about life in this city where she writes about some of the most extreme situations that human rights activists are facing in Syria and Iraq.

Marcell recently fled Aleppo due to deteriorating security situation in Syria. She is a member of the group of human rights activists and defenders called Kesh Malek, who, despite the war, keep on protesting against the Syrian current regime. The group’s goal is to warrant freedoms of press, education and justice. Together with Kesh Malek, Marcell wants to set up schools in devastated Aleppo, to provide children who still live there with education.

Craig Murray’s Blog

Craig Murray is a human rights activist, blogger and author. Formerly he served as a diplomat for the UK government in Uzbekistan. He also stood as an independent parliamentary candidate in Blackburn in 2005. He is also an honorary research fellow at the University Lancaster School of Law.

On his blog, Craig Murray shares his personal insights about the world politics and the state of human rights in conflict affected countries such as Syria and Palestine. He was brought before the court several times for blogging; however, he is still very active in posting regularly.

Renee Gerlich’s Writing by Renee Blog

Renee Gerlich is a feminist human rights activist and independent writer based in New Zealand. She writes about women’s liberation, militarism, education and the literacy gap. Her activism often involves exhibitions and actions, including an exhibition called Too Much Truth: Women’s Global Resistance to Sexploitation in 2017 and an intervention at the 2018 Auckland Pride.

She has published on the Canadian website Feminist Current on prostitution and gender identity in New Zealand and the feminist magazine Rain and Thunder. She gave interviews with Women’s Liberation News, Feminist Current, Defend Feminists, and the environmentalist writer Derrick Jensen. Essays she posts on her blog have been translated into French, Spanish, German, Turkish, Norwegian, Serbian and Croatian languages.

Howard Wasserman’s Civil Rights Blog