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What the Balkans can teach other states in conflict

The research highlights the importance of peaceful transition to inclusive democracy and power-sharing in facilitating voluntary returns. Notably, older people with positive memories of before wartime were more likely to return, while women were less likely to want to go back. The study also emphasizes the crucial role of lawyers and n...

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalInternational Migration·DateOct 19, 2017

The war on drugs causes massive human rights violations

The war on drugs has devastating effects on human rights and public health worldwide. Experts call for drug policy reform, citing mass incarceration's failure to deter drug consumption or trafficking. They also highlight the lack of access to medicines like morphine to treat pain in millions of people.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 17, 2017

Madrid sin Barreras

Researchers in Madrid are working on a three-year project to improve laws regarding disability, focusing on universal design and accessibility. They aim to integrate all stakeholders and create new specialists in disability support, while analyzing existing regulations and proposals to develop alternative frameworks.

Widespread sexual harassment persists in India

A recent study found that 40% of women in Delhi experienced sexual harassment in the past year, leading to a significant impact on their daily lives. The research highlights the importance of addressing women's safety in public spaces and implementing effective measures to prevent such incidents.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Criminal Justice Review·DateMar 28, 2016

No link between psychedelics and mental health problems

A study of over 135,000 people found no correlation between psychedelic use and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. The researchers suggest that psychedelics may even be linked to fewer mental health problems, with benefits including deeply meaningful experiences and lasting positive effects.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMar 5, 2015

Where'd you get that great idea?

A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh found that individuals who generate creative solutions tend to build on existing ideas rather than using unrelated concepts. The study, published in Design Studies, collected data from over 350 participants and showed that ideas closely related to a problem were more likely to be ...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalDesign Studies·DateNov 4, 2014

Why sign rights treaties?

A new study finds that autocratic leaders who sign human-rights treaties do so for domestic political maneuvering rather than economic gains. The researchers analyzed four core treaties and found no evidence of tangible material rewards for ratification.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Studies Quarterly·DateOct 20, 2014

Respect for human rights is improving

A new measurement model reveals that human rights are actually improving, contrary to common claims. The model takes into account changes in data collection and categorization, showing more countries with better human rights records.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateMay 12, 2014

Why international sanctions do not always work

New research suggests that diplomatic pressure and sanctions by the international community can actually support regimes in power, rather than changing their behavior. Countries like Cuba have successfully used stigma and shaming to maintain their sovereignty and resist Western influence. The findings highlight the need for a deeper un...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalInternational Organization·DateMar 18, 2014

Birth is no reason to go to hospital

A new Cochrane Review concludes that all countries should consider establishing proper home birth services to provide low-risk pregnant women with informed choice options. Home births in many settings can be as safe as hospital births with fewer interventions and complications, according to the review.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateSep 19, 2012

Credible medical evidence of widespread torture in Darfur

A study published in PLOS Medicine analyzed medical records of 325 patients attending a clinic in Darfur, finding consistent evidence of torture, including beatings, gunshot wounds, and sexual assault. The research enhances the credibility of patient claims, but lacks data to corroborate assailant identities or genocidal intent.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 3, 2012

Preventing the inexcusable human rights violations of people with mental and psychosocial disabilities: an unresolved global crisis

Human rights violations against people with mental and psychosocial disabilities are pervasive in low-income and middle-income countries due to stigma and discrimination. The authors advocate adopting the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities framework and implementing evidence-based strategies to prevent these viola...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 16, 2011

Public radio exposes injustice

In Malawi, public radio has become an unlikely platform for ordinary people to air their grievances about abuse and corruption. The Nkhani Zam'maboma programme features contributions by villagers, highlighting local development success stories that often reveal complaints about leaders' behaviour. This approach highlights the complexit...

The ethics of biofuels

The Nuffield Council on Bioethics proposes a framework to address ethical concerns in biofuel production, focusing on human rights, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. Biofuels are seen as a vital renewable energy source, but current policies have backfired, causing deforestation and displacing indigenous populations.

SourceWiley·JournalGCB Bioenergy·DateMay 9, 2011

Evidence of medical complicity in torture at Guantánamo Bay

A study published in PLoS Medicine reveals that medical personnel at Guantánamo Bay failed to investigate and document causes of physical injuries and psychological symptoms in detainees. The review of nine cases corroborates allegations of torture, highlighting a breach of fundamental human rights.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 26, 2011

Navigating the spheres of assisted death

Experts argue that Canada's assisted death laws should be linked to equal access to palliative care, highlighting a need to address the country's inequitable healthcare system. The Canadian Medical Association Journal commentary emphasizes the importance of optimized palliative care before considering legalization.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 31, 2011

Pharma must be held more accountable to its human rights responsibilities

The PLoS Medicine Editorial argues that drug companies' human rights responsibilities have not been adequately addressed, despite the need to make medicines available to those in need. The editorial highlights the importance of accountability and calls for an external body to monitor pharmaceutical companies' policies and practices.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 28, 2010

Innovative MOM program may improve maternal health in eastern Burma

A community-based maternal health delivery strategy, MOM, implemented in eastern Burma improved access to antenatal and postnatal care, skilled birth attendants, and family planning. The project increased women's participation in these services by up to tenfold, with modern contraception use rising from 24% to 45%.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 3, 2010