The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) launched a new coalition bringing together scientific associations/societies/academies, individual scientists, human rights organizations, and activists with a goal of furthering scientific support for human rights issues. Opening the launch were three distinguished speakers, including Mary Robinson, former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and former President of Ireland. EarthRights International Burma Project Coordinator Matthew Smith spoke on a panel on the role of science in ERI’s acitivities. ERI Campaigns Coordinator Paul Donowitz welcomed the coalition, remarking that “the scientific community has tools and methodologies that can assist in the promotion and protection of human rights. We can learn much from scientists, and their stringent process which will help increase corporate accountability for human rights and environmental abuses, especially in the extractive industries. We look forward to building strong relationships with the scientific community.”
