Why Japan, of All Countries, is Adopting a Four-Day Work Week
Japan is one of few countries whose economic policy officially encourages firms to adopt a four-day work week. Why is a country known for long working hours adopting a progressive policy, and could it be an antidote to Japan’s unique labor issues?
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Protests in Panama Reveal Deeper Trends of Poverty, Corruption, and Inequality
While Panama is considered among the most developed countries in Latin America, why are many people taking to the streets to protest the living costs in the country?
Biden’s Visit to the Middle East Signals Escalating Militarism in the Region
With the U.S. and the E.U. grappling with global inflation, Biden is attempting to foster new alliances between Israel and the Arab states that could provoke conflict with Iran.
Reliance on Russian Natural Gas Fueling Germany’s Energy Crisis
Germany is at risk of a self-inflicted energy crisis amid the war in Ukraine, revealing the need to transition away from Russian natural gas.
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Human Rights
Cobalt Mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: The Human and Environmental Costs of the Transition to Green Technology
With mining companies in the Global North exploiting and controlling its cobalt industry in the name of sustainability, the DRC and the Congolese people get the short end of the stick.
Environment
Increasing Agricultural Strength in the Face of Climate Change
While climate change threatens agriculture due to floods and intense temperatures, there are many ways we can work to mitigate a global food crisis. Increasing knowledge of growing resilient plants and supporting smaller farmers in surviving climate disasters.
Our Voices
Arlene Yang
Social Media Coordinator
Arlene has graduated from UBC with a B.A. in International Relations and a Masters in Management. More »
Solomon Johnson
Senior writer
Solomon is a graduate of the University of New Mexico where he studied Political Science and International Studies. More »
Alex Senchyna
Staff writer
Alex (she/they) graduated from Simon Fraser University with a B.A. in International Studies and History. More »
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Social Justice
The U.K.’s New Deportation Policy is a Violent Extension of its Colonial Legacy
The new U.K. Nationality and Borders Bill poses several pressing human rights concerns. But despite criticism, the U.K. is pushing for more deportation flights for asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Who are we?
Spheres of Influence is a non-profit digital publication dedicated to explaining and unpacking global affairs in an accessible way while highlighting underreported issues. We are entirely volunteer-based and youth-led and work to amplify marginalized voices and provide opportunities for youth to gain experience in journalism and global affairs.