Is Blood Thicker than Water? The Role of the First Lady in Sub-Saharan Africa
First ladies and families in sub-Saharan African countries hold powerful influence despite a lack of political foundation. Why is this the case, and is it right?
Reflecting on the 2024 Senegalese Presidential Elections
Senegal’s presidential election concludes the twelve-year mandate of Macky Sall and two months of political turmoil in the country.
Should Thailand’s Digital Wallet Policy Be Implemented?
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s digital wallet policy begins despite facing criticisms and needing a 500-billion baht loan.
Pain Pills and Medical Bills: The Difficult Journey to Recovery for Gun Violence Survivors
Gun violence in the U.S. is often measured in deaths. However, survivors are forced to grapple with financial hardship, trauma, and addiction.
Building a Sustainable Future: Tackling Climate and Conflict in the MENA Region
The Middle East and North Africa must adapt to increasingly harsh conditions to grow food in the region and its political consequences.
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Human Rights
Putin’s War in Ukraine Pushes Latvia To Take Drastic Measures Toward Ethnic Russian Residents
As Putin’s war in Ukraine continues, Latvia has cracked down on ethnic Russian residents — a move Latvia considers necessary but may backfire.
Environment
Lessons from Portugal’s Renewable Energy Playbook
The Canadian debate around approaches to renewable energy is more polarized than ever. Last November, Portugal quietly showed the world what is possible.
Our Voices
Madalynn Hausch
Staff Writer
Madalynn is currently studying political science at the University of British Columbia. Her research interests include … More »
Melanie Miles
Editor
Melanie grew up in a series of homeless shelters and family friends’ homes up and down the east coast of the United … More »
Dami Fakolujo
Staff Writer
A Nigerian-Canadian immigrant, Dami is a recent graduate of the Master of Arts program at Carleton University. His interests … More »
Editor’s Picks
Hollywood and the Dehumanization of Arabs
With Israel and Hamas under the media spotlight, Western media’s portrayal of the war on Gaza reveals ongoing, harmful biases and stereotypes against Arabs.
Sorrow, Tears, and Blood: An Overview of Nigeria’s Security Crisis
In the face of a worsening security crisis, the Nigerian government is failing to provide adequate safety for its citizens.
The EU’s New Pact is Funding Human Rights Abuses in Lebanon
The EU’s New Pact on Migration and Asylum is funding harsh border controls in Lebanon that violate human rights.
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Social Justice
UBC Student Speaks on SJC’s Legal Action Against Defamatory Stickers in Solidarity With Gaza
UBC Social Justice Centre is suing Hillel B.C. over defamatory stickers concerning the genocide in Gaza and continuing its solidarity with Palestine.
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.
