ALLIES

Stories of human rights violations by private military contractors (PMCs) have surfaced in many conflicts abroad, notably by U.S. contractors at Abu Ghraib and at other prisons in Iraq and Afghanistan. How can countries who employ PMCs and the international community hold PMCs accountable for their actions? Join ALLIES this Wednesday as we discuss how to regulate PMCs via international frameworks and other methods to prevent future human rights violations from occurring.

As always, no prior knowledge is required and background readings will be provided at the meeting.

International cooperation on climate change has always been a challenge. Following the signing of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, many countries have yet to fulfill their commitments. Questions continue to arise on how countries can be held accountable to stopping climate change and protecting the climate from natural disasters. Join ALLIES on December 4th in Eaton 206 as we discuss how international cooperation can be implemented when it comes to climate change and the ethics of environmental intervention.

In the 1800s, European states divided up Africa into colonies for themselves. Now in the 21st century, many foreign nations, particularly China and Russia, have taken an interest in investing in African nations and forming commercial ties with them. Join ALLIES this Wednesday, November 13 at 8pm in Eaton 206, as we discuss how foreign investments and partnerships with African nations are changing the global political landscape and affecting these nations domestically. As usual, no prior knowledge is necessary and background readings will be provided at the meeting.

In 2016, the UK voted via a referendum to leave the European Union. Three years later, the UK still remains a member of the EU as Prime Minister Boris Johnson attempts to negotiate a Brexit agreement that satisfies Parliament before the next Brexit deadline of October 31st. Join ALLIES as we discuss what the potential effects of Brexit will be for both the UK and remaining EU countries this Wednesday at 8pm in Eaton 206. As always, no prior knowledge is required and there will be background readings handed out during the meeting.

We hope to see you there!