Category: Features

A broad and encompassing theme, this group of posts muse over global connections and challenges – from human rights and dignity, to countering terrorism, to the role of international organizations in all this.

UN Commission on the Status of Women 2017

CSW 61 Parallel Event On its fifth anniversary of hosting Side and Parallel Events at the United Nations, Commission on the Status of Women, Montage Initiative celebrated the role of youth leadership in advancing gender equality by showcasing its student immersion trip to India. Youth speakers from the Student Advisory Board discussed how the inclusion…

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Commemorating Women Worldwide

“No more being afraid to speak the truth, no more fending off sexual advances from an employer or person in power, no more pay disparity. The time is now.” “We are not waiting to be saved. We are saving ourselves.” In a quest to find the stories and voices missing, Danai Gurira went to war-ridden places to learn from some of the women who had suffered the most. Gurira’s inspiration for her character and work was the bravery and strength of these women to carry on no matter what, and to continue to make a difference for those around them – to rebuild communities and nations, thereby becoming leaders in their own way.

UN CSW 59: Women, Conflict, Kashmir

“Peace is no longer an option. It’s the only option left for global survival.” – Dr. Meera Khanna At the ‪#‎CSW59‬, Dr. Meera Khanna, Vice Chair of the Guild of Service, shared the suffering of women and widows in the Kashmir Conflict. She drew attention to the tragedies that women, particularly widows, face. The event…

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On Travel and Living Abroad

Within 18 months, I lived in 4 (arguably 5) cities, within 3 countries, and 2 different continents. Such travel is not too rare among  those working in international affairs, like human rights or economic development. After this period, I write my most personal piece yet about living in different places and some of its associated challenge.

All Together: Making a Difference through International Relations

Many, including I, used to think that the UN is the ideal place to make a difference on the global scale. Upon a closer examination, the UN has many shortcomings. But on a broader perspective, one sees its true value. The UN works to make a difference for the people struggling the most using partnership with civil society and individuals on a global level.