ANALYSIS For years now, steps have been taken to erode rule of law in Poland. The European Court of Human Rights has criticized the Government for unlawful breaches in the procedures in appointing judges to the Constitutional Court, and for the handling of the Ombudsman’s Office, a cornerstone in the defence of human rights for all, including free speech and the right to … [Läs mer...]
Art as a vital counterweight to intolerance and dictatorship
REFLECTION The elevation of art, possibly even to the most prominent position within society, is a potent antidote to fascism, dictatorship, xenophobia, racism, and intolerance. In literary, graphic, or musical form, art resists the multi-pronged attack waged on our societies by rampant consumerism, technological dependence, and throw-away culture. The art in life and the … [Läs mer...]
Reflections on human security in times of distress
REFLECTION What is human security, and what dimensions does it encompass? What threats does it face, and how do we manage and resolve them? In recent times, it appears as if threats to human security have been aggravated by global warming, manipulation through social media, and trigger-happy, Mafia-esque leaders who seem more interested in preserving their own privileges than … [Läs mer...]
Universality vs. A Liberal Federation: Reflections on the UN Human Rights Council
REFLECTION The past few weeks, the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) held meetings in Geneva. Since its establishment in 2006, the Council has been a contentious institution. The lawyer Sara Bengtson situates one of the main criticisms against the HRC – that its lack of formal membership criteria prevents it from effectively promoting human rights – in the context of a broader … [Läs mer...]
Striding Toward Democracy: Tunisia a Unique Example
ANALYSIS Despite serious setbacks, an economic crisis and high unemployment Tunisia continues on the road towards democracy. Why is Tunisia making progress where other Arab countries have failed? Johan Schaar, chair of ALNAP, writes about a new book that finds the answer in Tunisia’s unique history of a flexible and accommodating Islam and long tradition of reformism. Click … [Läs mer...]