Addressing climate change requires integrating social justice and human rights into climate policies, advocating for systemic change and corporate responsibility. The private sector must adopt sustainable business strategies that respect human rights and produce social, environmental, and economic value. Emerging economies and less-developed countries need equitable climate policies to participate effectively. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change highlights the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation to prevent catastrophic climate impacts. Examples of justice-guided green strategies include resilient value chain practices and initiatives by the UN Global Compact and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.

Stephen Hopgood argues that the era of promoting universal human rights is over, but the author disagrees, highlighting the ongoing impact of the global human rights movement. The text defends the traditional mission and methodology of Human Rights Watch, emphasizing its focus on core human rights issues and its effectiveness in documenting abuses and generating pressure on violators. The author contends that transforming HRW into a social justice organization would contradict its essential role and that mass mobilization is not a suitable ongoing strategy for advancing its agenda.

The article reflects on the challenges and learnings from supporting narrative change to counter conservative and authoritarian worldviews. It discusses the importance of aligning principles with practice, the dynamics of power in partnerships, and fostering collective narrative power among partners. The author shares experiences from working with JustLabs and the Global Fund for Human Rights, emphasizing the need for flexibility, collaboration, and strategic communication to achieve long-term success in narrative change.

Human rights organizations are increasingly internationalizing, with groups from the global north and south seeking to expand their reach and impact. Donors like the Ford Foundation and Open Society Foundations support these efforts. Key commentators discuss the benefits and challenges of this trend, including funding issues, decentralization, and the balance between local and international initiatives. The debate features perspectives from various human rights advocates and authors, highlighting both the potential and the risks of internationalization.

Amid global political turmoil, the author reflects on the challenges and successes of supporting narrative change through the Fund for Global Human Rights and JustLabs' Narrative Hub project. Emphasizing the importance of aligning principles with practice, the author discusses the dynamics of narrative as both process and product, the power dynamics in funder-grantee relationships, and the need to nurture collective narrative power. The reflections highlight the necessity of thoughtful funder involvement to create an ecosystem that supports sustainable narrative work for social justice.

The article discusses the shifting global power dynamics and their implications for human rights advocacy. It highlights the potential for emerging powers like Brazil, India, and South Africa to influence human rights positively but criticizes their inconsistent actions. The text also examines historical and contemporary examples of international responses to human rights violations, urging governments to prioritize ethical considerations over narrow political interests.

In 2017, researchers conducted a collaborative project in Santiago, Chile, and Medellín, Colombia, to explore the link between structural, attitudinal, and political factors and participation in the justice system. The study revealed a contrast between marginalized populations in Santiago and Medellín, with Colombians showing higher levels of rights awareness and legal knowledge. In response to these findings, a legal empowerment project was launched in San Joaquín, Santiago, in August 2019, aiming to strengthen participants' capacity to use the law and justice institutions to protect and promote their rights. The project's relevance and scope expanded following massive protests in Chile in October 2019, leading to a national plebiscite on drafting a new constitution. The project adapted to the political context and the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting to a virtual citizen empowerment program focusing on constitutional education and community leadership. Despite challenges, the virtual format allowed for broader participation and increased engagement. The researchers emphasized the importance of flexibility and adaptability in human rights research and advocacy, particularly in dynamic social and political environments.

The author, a program officer for the Enabling Environment Program at the Fund for Global Human Rights, shares insights from supporting human rights defenders in countering conservative and authoritarian worldviews through narrative change. The article discusses the importance of aligning principles and practice, embracing uncertainty, and the power dynamics between funders and grantees. It also highlights the impact of COVID-19 on shifting to online workshops and story-led self-reflection. The author reflects on the need to nurture collective narrative power among partners and allies, emphasizing the role of funders in creating an ecosystem for narrative power.

Human rights law and environmental protection are interdependent, with the right to a healthy environment being recognized as essential for the enjoyment of basic human rights. Although early human rights instruments did not explicitly include environmental rights, recent interpretations by human rights bodies have linked rights to life and health with environmental protection. Over 90 countries have codified the right to a healthy environment in their constitutions, and regional agreements have acknowledged this right. The UN Human Rights Council appointed the author as the first Independent Expert on human rights and the environment to study obligations and identify good practices. The author's findings indicate a consensus that environmental harm impacts human rights and that states have procedural and substantive obligations to protect against environmental harm. Notable cases from African, Inter-American, and European human rights bodies have held governments accountable for failing to protect their citizens from environmental harm.

Flooding causes significant global impacts, with damages estimated at $651 billion and affecting 1.6 billion people between 2000 and 2019. The severity and frequency of floods are increasing due to population growth in flood-prone areas and climate change. Traditional climate change impact assessments use a top-down approach, but this study proposes a high-resolution stress test of the global river network to analyze flood hazard sensitivity and population exposure. The study reveals regional differences in settlement patterns on floodplains, with Asia having the highest number of people exposed to flooding. The findings highlight the need for targeted flood risk management strategies and adaptation measures to mitigate future flood impacts.

H. Gordon Brooks, the first dean of the College of the Arts at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, is retiring after a 27-year tenure. Michael McClure, the college’s associate dean, will serve as interim dean. Brooks' leadership saw the creation of new academic programs and significant growth in the college. Dr. Jonathan Kulp and Sara Birk will take on interim leadership roles within the college, while Kari Smith has been named director of the School of Architecture and Design.

The rise in authoritarianism and democratic decline globally necessitates effective narrative practices within social movements to foster inclusivity and reflection. The Narrative Engagement Across Difference Project (NEAD) explores how narrative practices can support collaboration and reduce authoritarianism. The NEAD report categorizes narrative practices into legitimacy, power, and complexity, offering insights into the benefits and challenges of shared narratives, the risks of delegitimizing others, and the consequences of activating negative emotions. The project aims to build stronger collective power to tackle authoritarianism and nurture democratic and civic space.

The current human rights movement faces interconnected challenges, including climate change, racial justice, populism, corporate power, corruption, and organized crime. To address these, the movement must rethink its state-centric focus, institutionalism, and proceduralism. The article argues for more creative approaches to non-state actors, decentralized and networked responses, and a shift from procedural to substantive justice. It highlights the need for broader tools, including financial pressure on private actors and better support for local initiatives, to create a more agile and independent human rights movement.

Today's IT departments face numerous challenges, including aging systems, a saturated technology marketplace, and competitive labor markets. Many organizations focus on immediate issues rather than long-term stability. A well-defined IT strategy and roadmap can serve as a 'north star,' guiding departments towards future success. Key strategies include staying informed about emerging technologies, fostering a culture of innovation, embracing Agile methodologies, developing a business continuity plan, investing in training and development, collaborating with other departments, and staying focused on organizational goals. By following these steps, organizations can turn disruption into opportunities for growth and innovation.

The article explores the political tensions within Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's coalition government, particularly in the context of LGBTQ rights and the recent Pride reception. It highlights the presence of notable guests and the absence of Sweden Democrat MP Björn Söder, who made controversial statements about the Pride movement. The article underscores the ideological rift between the Sweden Democrats and other coalition parties, especially the Liberal Party, and questions the sustainability of Kristersson's alliance with the far-right party amid ongoing culture wars.

Sweden's tradition of secular-rational values and low religious observance has left it seemingly indifferent to symbolic insults, such as flag burning. However, the provocations of Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing extremist who burns the Islamic holy book, have sparked anti-Swedish demonstrations in Muslim countries and could jeopardize Sweden's NATO application. Swedish politicians have condemned Paludan but struggle to reconcile free speech with national security. The situation highlights the need for Sweden to recognize that its values are not universally shared and to adopt a more pragmatic approach to its political challenges.

Selecting the right eCommerce platform is crucial for business success. A structured selection process with well-defined requirements and criteria is essential. Key considerations include prioritizing business requirements, involving the right people in the selection process, aligning selection criteria with desired benefits, and starting planning early. Ensuring the selected solution fits within the IT architecture strategy and supports long-term business growth is vital.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked debate in Sweden about its defense and potential NATO membership. Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson has opted against joining NATO, citing regional stability concerns, and has reminded EU leaders of the bloc's mutual defense clause. Björn Fägersten from the Swedish Institute of International Affairs notes that while the EU's clause is legally robust, it lacks the military apparatus of NATO and is more symbolic, potentially covering scenarios like cyber-attacks. The EU's defense role is currently limited, with France pushing for 'strategic autonomy.' The US and UK have been the most vocal in supporting Sweden's defense, aligning with the Hultqvist Doctrine. Germany's recent defense spending increase and the EU's push for strategic autonomy could influence Sweden's future defense strategy, especially if US commitment to European security wavers.

James Savage discusses the dangerous situation in Europe due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the broader implications for European peace and democracy. He criticizes European leaders for past mistakes, including appeasement, allowing Russian propaganda, and becoming politically and economically compromised by Russian interests. Savage highlights the need for Europe to strengthen its defenses, resist Russian propaganda, and reassess its political stances, particularly regarding NATO membership for countries like Sweden and Finland.

James Savage discusses the dangerous situation in Europe due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the historical and cultural ties between European countries and Ukraine. He criticizes European leaders for their past appeasement and underestimation of Russian aggression, as well as their failure to address Russian propaganda and interference in democratic processes. Savage suggests that the experiences of Ukraine may prompt countries like Sweden and Finland to reconsider their stances on NATO membership, and stresses the urgency of addressing these issues to protect peace and democracy in Europe.

Today's technologies are transforming business operations and creating competitive advantages. To leverage technology effectively, organizations must align their business strategy with their technology stack, supported by the right people, processes, and data. A thorough technology assessment is crucial for understanding the current landscape and building a realistic, actionable future roadmap. Key considerations include defining a vision, taking a top-down approach, understanding organizational impacts, and thinking beyond current challenges to anticipate future needs.

Selecting the right software vendor is crucial for successful system implementation and benefits realization. Organizations should prioritize business requirements, involve the right stakeholders, align selection criteria with desired benefits, and start planning early. Clarkston Consulting suggests a structured selection process and offers its services as an impartial third-party to facilitate the process, ensuring alignment with business strategy and IT requirements.

The Local has experienced a significant increase in membership, growing from 15,000 to 50,000 paying subscribers since the beginning of the pandemic. This surge has enabled the independent publisher to focus on providing key resources and reporting on critical issues such as coronavirus restrictions, new immigration rules, and Brexit fallout. In 2022, The Local plans to expand news coverage, answer reader questions, update rule changes, address immigration and visa issues, enhance property-related stories, and improve newsletters, email alerts, and their app. The publication emphasizes the importance of a two-way conversation with readers and intends to continue adapting to their feedback.

The Local has experienced a significant increase in membership, growing from 15,000 to 50,000 paying subscribers since the beginning of the pandemic. This surge has enabled the independent publisher to focus on key stories and become a vital resource for readers. In 2022, The Local plans to expand news coverage, answer reader questions, provide regular updates on rule changes, and address immigration, visa, and property-related issues. They will also update their app and continue to engage with readers to determine the stories and topics of interest.

The Local has experienced a significant increase in membership, growing from 15,000 to 50,000 paying subscribers since the start of the pandemic. This growth has enabled the independent publisher to focus on providing key resources and coverage on topics such as coronavirus restrictions, new immigration rules, and Brexit fallout. In 2022, The Local plans to expand news coverage, answer reader questions, update rule changes, address immigration and visa issues, enhance property-related stories, and overhaul their app, among other initiatives. The publication expresses gratitude for the support of its members, which has allowed it to remain a vital resource during the pandemic.

The article discusses research exposing Nigeria's authoritarian practices, including digital surveillance and repression of civic freedoms. It highlights the role of global counterterrorism frameworks and multinational technology firms in enabling these practices. The research offers recommendations for better digital and security practices, emphasizing the need for precise legislation, robust data protection, and stronger import controls. The article also underscores the importance of grassroots research in addressing these issues and calls for a holistic approach to reforming the misuse of technology.

ABBA, the Swedish pop legends, announced their return after nearly forty years with two new singles and a high-tech concert season called The Voyage. The band's male stars, Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, revealed plans for virtual concerts and a purpose-built arena in London's Olympic Park for hologram performances. Despite their previous reluctance to reunite, citing a preference to leave fans with memories of their prime, the enduring popularity of ABBA's music and projects like Mamma Mia and the ABBA museum, along with their friendship and loyalty, have led to their comeback. The new songs maintain ABBA's signature sound, and the public's enthusiastic response suggests their return is well-received.

Sweden’s Prime Minister Stefan Löfven resigned after losing a confidence vote in parliament. Andreas Norlén, the speaker of the Riksdag, is tasked with forming a new governing coalition among the eight political parties.

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Löfven resigned following a no-confidence vote, leading to political uncertainty as the Riksdag speaker Andreas Norlén seeks a new coalition. The crisis was triggered by the Left Party's withdrawal of support over rent control policies, exacerbated by the Centre Party's free-market stance. The Social Democrats' decline and the rise of the far-right Sweden Democrats complicate coalition formation. Potential outcomes include Löfven's return, a Moderate-led government with Sweden Democrat support, or a snap election, all pointing to prolonged political deadlock.

Sweden, initially known for its lenient Covid-19 strategy, is now facing a significant second wave of infections, prompting the government to impose stricter measures. Prime Minister Stefan Löfven announced a ban on public events of more than eight people, though private gatherings remain less restricted. The Swedish Public Health Agency, led by Anders Tegnell, has been sidelined as the government takes more control. Despite the lack of strict lockdowns, many Swedes are voluntarily practicing social distancing. The government is considering legislation to close shops and public transport, reflecting a shift towards more stringent measures. Sweden's death toll and rising infection rates challenge the effectiveness of its initial approach, even as its economic downturn remains less severe compared to other EU countries.

A study led by Dr. Eric C. Ferré from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, along with an international team, has challenged the long-held belief that the Earth's mantle is not magnetic. The research, published in Nature Reviews: Earth & Environment, reveals that the upper mantle contains magnetite and a new type of iron oxide with magnetic properties, despite high temperatures. This finding suggests that the mantle contributes to Earth's magnetic field, which protects living species from cosmic radiation. The study, which also involved researchers from the University of Münster, Complutense University of Madrid, and University of Kentucky, utilized satellite data and laboratory simulations to understand the mantle's role in earthquake dynamics and the Earth's magnetic field.

Countries around the world are adapting to life with Covid-19, navigating between initial pandemic disruptions and a return to pre-pandemic routines. In Delhi, the focus has shifted from Covid-19 to daily life concerns, while Stockholm debates its non-lockdown approach. Beirut faces rising cases amid other crises, and Russians are largely dismissing the pandemic. Rio de Janeiro reopens despite high infection rates, and Ho Chi Minh City shows confidence due to low active cases. Scientists in Washington, DC, predict a rise in infections as colder weather approaches.

Sweden's unique approach to the Covid-19 pandemic, which avoided lockdowns in favor of voluntary social distancing, has faced increasing criticism as the death toll rises. The strategy, led by state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell, aimed to prevent overwhelming the healthcare system and hoped for herd immunity. However, Sweden has experienced higher death rates compared to its Nordic neighbors and has not achieved significant herd immunity. The economic impact has also been severe, with a potential GDP drop and rising unemployment. Domestic and international criticism has grown, leading to calls for an independent evaluation of the strategy.

Sweden has adopted a unique approach to the coronavirus pandemic, relying on citizens' sense of responsibility rather than enforcing strict lockdown measures. While public gatherings over 50 are banned, businesses like restaurants and gyms remain open. The strategy, led by state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell, aims to flatten the curve without enforcing harsh restrictions, betting on Sweden's consensus culture. Public confidence in the Public Health Agency and Prime Minister Stefan Löfven has risen. Critics like Björn Olsen argue for stricter measures. Evidence shows reduced public activity, and hospitals are currently coping. The government is considering a bill for additional powers, but Tegnell believes that countries with widespread infections will end up with similar outcomes.

A car and lorry collided on Bewell Street near the Tesco superstore in Hereford shortly after midday. The female driver of the car is being assessed by West Midlands Ambulance Service. Motorists are experiencing delays near the Steels roundabout.

A collision between a car and a lorry occurred on Bewell Street in Hereford, near the Tesco superstore, shortly after midday. The female driver of the car is being assessed by the West Midlands Ambulance Service. The incident has caused traffic delays near the Steels roundabout.

A collision between a car and a lorry occurred on Bewell Street in Hereford, near the Tesco superstore, shortly after midday. The female driver of the car is being assessed by the West Midlands Ambulance Service. The incident has caused traffic delays near the Steels roundabout.

A car and lorry collided on Bewell Street near the Tesco superstore in Hereford shortly after midday. The female driver of the car is being assessed by West Midlands Ambulance Service. Motorists are experiencing delays near the Steels roundabout.

Dr. James Nelson, a biologist at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has been awarded an Early-Career Research Fellowship by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine's Gulf Research Program. The fellowship, which includes $76,000 and mentorship opportunities, will support Nelson's research on the impact of human-made changes on Louisiana's Gulf Coast ecosystems. The Gulf Research Program was established following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill to enhance offshore safety and environmental resilience.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is establishing the Kathleen Babineaux Blanco Public Policy Center, which will house the former governor's papers and provide interdisciplinary research on public policy areas. The center, overseen by the College of Liberal Arts and the Edith Garland Dupré Library, will issue policy papers, host lectures, and offer nonpartisan analysis. It aims to improve lives and communities across Louisiana with insightful information. The center's launch will be celebrated with events on September 21, and most of its funding comes from private gifts.

Forklifts and trucks transported two shipping containers to Lafayette’s McComb-Veazey neighborhood for the construction of the 1020 House, a project by UL Lafayette’s School of Architecture and Design in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. The 435-square-foot house, named for its container dimensions, emphasizes sustainability and prefabrication. Architecture professor Geoff Gjertson oversees the project, which follows the MODESTEhouse, another sustainable housing initiative. The 1020 House features thermal insulation, a sloped roof, and elevated sections for cooling. Designed by students, the project aims to be completed by December and will be handed over to Habitat for Humanity.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms are increasingly used in decision-making across various sectors, raising significant concerns about human rights and privacy. The opaque nature of data collection and algorithmic decision-making, exemplified by the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal, highlights the risks of bias and discrimination. Companies must collaborate with public authorities and civil society to ensure AI use aligns with human rights standards. The EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) aims to enhance transparency in automated decision-making. Businesses are encouraged to adopt principles of non-discrimination, empathy, and human dignity to build consumer trust and potentially create a 'new green economy' through responsible AI use.

Prince Zeid Ra’ad Zeid al-Hussein has been nominated as the next United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, succeeding Navi Pillay. The article outlines key priorities for Prince Zeid, emphasizing the need for a higher public profile, a dynamic communication strategy, and engagement with sub-state authorities. It also suggests doubling OHCHR staff without increasing Geneva presence, focusing on global financial and economic policy bodies, and avoiding the notion of a human rights 'end times.' The article advises against declaring the end of standard-setting in human rights, advocating for ongoing legal development and reform.

Martin Paterson scored a late equaliser to deny Derby County an eighth consecutive win, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Huddersfield Town. Craig Bryson initially put Derby ahead after Chris Martin missed a penalty. Huddersfield applied pressure in the closing stages, with Paterson scoring the equaliser. Both managers, Steve McClaren and Mark Robins, expressed satisfaction with their teams' performances.