Dialogue on Bringing Science and Scientists to Human Rights

Date: Wednesday 24 June 2009
Time: 12:00 noon ET; 9:00 a.m. PT; 4:00 p.m. GMT
Duration: 1 hour

View the webinar on demand!

The first of its kind at AAAS, this webinar was a unique opportunity for those interested in the intersections between science and human rights. AAAS President Dr. Peter Agre and a panel of experts discussed the ways in which scientists currently impact human rights work, and what the community can do to further those efforts through the application of science and technology.

Whether using forensic and genetic sciences to identify victims of mass atrocities, electronic encryption technologies to protect human rights communication, or satellite imagery to document human rights violations, science-based solutions are essential to solving human rights problems. The AAAS Science and Human Rights (SHR) Program has since 1977 pioneered many of the solutions that are now indispensable instruments in the human rights tool kit.

But there is so much more we can do—and we need your help.

During the webinar, the panel discussed several human rights issues and shared the ways in which scientists are making an impact—and areas in which more can and should be done. Also, the panel explored the many opportunities available for scientists to contribute to human rights work such as volunteering at human rights organizations that are in need of scientific expertise.