The Spring 2013 issue of New World looks at a range of technological innovations and their potential to contribute to tackling pressing global challenges, from food security to energy poverty.
Our cover story, 'Can technology save the world?', showcases eight inventions that could transform the lives of millions of people, particularly in some of the world's poorest countries. There are dozens of others we could have selected, from nanoparticle paint that turns any surface into a solar panel to three-dimensional ‘printing’ of organ tissue.
In five thought-provoking comment pieces, practical, legal and moral issues in technology policy-making are explored in more depth.
In his editorial, UNA-UK Chairman sets the scene for these debates, asking whether technology can make up for political deficiences. Professor Noel Sharkey calls for the prohibition of autonomous weapon systems, while Jonathan Hutson outlines how satellite imagery can help to document mass atrocity crimes. Dr Bhaskar Vira and Dr David Nally argue that some form of biotechnology is probably necessary to ensure future food security, while Dr Raul Zambrano of the UN Development Programme, writing on ICTs, underscores that we must think of technologies as a means to an end. To this effect, new development goals should not focus on access alone, but on quality and utility.
We are also delighted to feature an exclusive and wide-ranging interview with H.E. Liu Xiaoming, China’s Ambassador to the UK, who spoke to New World about security, development and UN reform issues, as well as the role of the BRICS countries. A feature on China and innovation is included too.
As ever, news from UNA-UK, its members and supporters is covered throughout the magazine. Gillian Briggs of UNA Birmingham branch writes on violence against women and how the branch marked International Women's Day. Natalie Chindipha, UNA Youth intern, reports on how our youth and schools supporters are taking on nuclear disarmament.
The full online version will follow shortly, including four 'web exclusive' articles.
In the meantime, please click here to access a PDF version of the magazine.
Please note that information on the 2013 UNA-UK AGM was sent to all paid-up and honorary members of the Association with this issue of the magazine. It was also circulated by email in late March, and is available on our website.
Click here to access the documentation.
