Navigating Paternalism as a Humanitarian Worker
Humanitarianism is considered a ‘good’ thing to do. However, working for a Greek NGO revealed the power structures inherent in humanitarian work.
Racing the Clock in Japan’s Universities
Japan is piloting five-year integrated bachelor’s programs to increase graduate degree holders and equip students to address global challenges.
What the Chagos Deal Got Wrong About Decolonization
As the U.K. and Mauritius sign a historic 2025 treaty on the Chagos Islands, Chagossians still wait for justice, return, and recognition.
We Continue to Exist and Resist: Coping, Resistance, and Collective Care As Muslims in British Columbia
Muslims in BC resist Islamophobia through joy, faith, and community care, building resilient spaces of belonging despite adversity.
“It’s Not Just a Phase:” How Muslim Youth Grow Into Their Faith Through Community
A Black Muslim youth shares how she builds her faith and belonging through community in British Columbia.
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Human Rights
The United States is a Regime of Disappearance
The U.S. enacts a silent regime of “erasing” immigrants in ICE custody, continuing decades-long patterns of state-enforced disappearances.
Environment
Europe’s Silent Insect Crisis: Understanding the Path to Recovery
Insects are vanishing at record speed, especially in Europe, threatening ecosystems, food security, and daily life. Nevertheless, solutions are still possible.
Our Voices
Ali Lahrech
Staff Writer
Ali holds an Honors B.A. in International Relations, History and Spanish from the University of Toronto, where he specialized in… More »
Emma Webb
Editor
Emma is pursuing a degree in psychology and business at Western University. She’s passionate about global health care… More »
Else Lanjouw
Senior Writer
An eager student, Else has completed a minor in International Development Studies and a semester abroad in Nantes, France… More »
Editor’s Picks
TIFF, Berlinale, Cannes…Your Support is Conditional
By Natalia Stubbs
Film festivals often advocate for justice, but their silence on Palestine reveals contradictions.
Europe’s Green Blind Spot: Environmental Racism Against Roma Communities
By Marine Krauzman
Across Europe, Roma communities live beside landfills and toxic sites, victims of an invisible form of discrimination: environmental racism..
What is Dead May Never Die: Examining the Expansion of Al-Qaeda in Sub-Saharan Africa
By Dami Fakolujo
Years after successful anti-terrorism operations against Al-Qaeda, why are its affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa growing increasingly more powerful?
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Social Justice
Bridging the Inclusion Gap for Students with Disabilities: A National Education Roadmap in Australia
As Australia’s schools promise inclusion, students with disabilities still face exclusion and advocacy groups demand real reform.
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.
