human rights

August 06, 2025

Japan’s Hiroshima marks the 80th anniversary of nuclear destruction

Survivors, bereaved families, representatives from over 120 nations and international organisations, and thousands of Japanese citizens and visitors gathered at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima to mark the 80th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing that killed over 140,000 people.

Irma Mecele, 15, Katie Chen, 17, Jamie Chan, 16, Klara Hammudeh, 16, and Reva Sobti, 17, report from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony

August 06, 2025

Hiroshima’s men and women disagree on Japan's persistent gender pay gap

There was a noticeable divergence between male and female respondents. Nearly all male interviewees expressed the belief that gender inequality is not a pressing issue in contemporary Japan. Female respondents painted a different picture.

Katie Chen, 17, Jennifer Yung-Coak,16, and Irma Mecele, 15, interview young people on gender inequalities

August 01, 2025

Refugee children face schooling and mental health barriers

The crisis facing refugee children is one of the biggest humanitarian challenges of today. Ongoing conflicts around the world in countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, South Sudan and Gaza have disproportionately impacted children, forcing millions to flee their homes.

15-year-old Helena Bruździak reports on some of the challenges facing the world’s most vulnerable people: refugee children

June 27, 2025

Why Pride Month matters: Honouring the journey and amplifying LGBTQ+ voices

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, but it can also serve as a launching pad for further discussion about discrimination and other hardships that are still prevalent today.

The Editorial Board acknowledges progress for the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in society and the setbacks they still face in 2025

June 27, 2025

‘The people of Artsakh deserve justice’: An interview with Mary Asatryan

In September 2023, Azerbaijan launched a large-scale offensive on Nagorno-Karabakh (also known as Artsakh), the ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan. The ceasefire that followed the intense fighting left tens of thousands of civilians displaced, forcing them to flee their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. Most fled to neighbouring Armenia.

17-year-old Nare Arushanyan from the Armenian Newsroom interviews a human rights expert about the struggles of refugees in Armenia

June 27, 2025

LGBTQ+ community face enormous challenges in Nepal, despite reforms

The LGBTQ+ community in Nepal has become more visible in recent years, particularly among young people, after the country’s Supreme Court validated marriage equality for same-sex and transgender couples in 2023. People have have begun to proudly come out in public, often using social media to express their true identities.

16-year-old Binita Nepali interviews prominent activists about LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal during Pride Month

June 13, 2025

What I learned while teaching teenage refugees, and why it matters

I didn’t expect to become a teacher at the age of 15. Yet, there I was, standing in front of a group of Ukrainian refugee students, afraid and stressed – what if I wasn’t good enough? What if they didn’t take me seriously? After all, I was just a teenager myself.

16-year-old Kexin Shi shares her experience of teaching English to Ukrainian teenagers in Poland

June 13, 2025

Why are women politicians treated so differently from men?

Last November, my family gathered to debrief the shocking results of the US election. Opinions were hurled across the dining tables, uncles and aunts competed to be heard over each other and, as the end of the night neared, the question of who was the better fit for the country – Trump or Kamala – still remained undecided.

17-year-old Reva Sobti is fed up with the games that women in politics are expected to play

June 06, 2025

Young girl activists are taking South Asia by storm, one cause at a time

Michelle Obama once said, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” Today, Harbingers’ Magazine spotlights four remarkable young female activists from South Asia who are proving that there’s no age limit either.

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova interviews four teenage activists from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

May 30, 2025

Finding joy in spite of war: Inside Warsaw's centre for Ukrainian children

A total of 100,000 refugee children and teens have attended the centre since it opened, Agata Gos, the centre’s director, told Harbingers’ Magazine. However, in July it will be closing its doors

15-year-old Helena Bruździak reports on a centre in Poland helping refugee children adapt to their new lives

May 30, 2025

Afghanistan’s digital revolution is transforming education

The rise of online education in Afghanistan has become a crucial lifeline for students, especially as access to traditional schools has become restricted. Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, girls are banned from secondary school and university, making Afghanistan the only country with such a policy – affecting over 1.4 million girls so far

21-year-old Ghutai from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains how online learning is a lifeline for young Afghans

May 09, 2025

What I learned from migrant workers in Singapore

“Singaporeans don’t like migrant workers,” says Puma, a 36-year-old Indian migrant worker who cooks in an Indian restaurant that is frequented by his fellow migrants. While it may not be a universal sentiment, his perception reflects a broader issue of social exclusion in the island nation

15-year-old Xu Zirong interviews migrant workers to discover how they are treated in a country that relies on them

May 09, 2025

Refugees and migrants, part 2: An international perspective

In March, we started a new Human Rights subsection at Harbingers’, called Crisis Zones. In our first article looking at the lives of displaced people around the world, we explained the difference between the terms ‘refugee’, ‘migrant’ and ‘asylum seeker’ as these are often used interchangeably, even though they have different legal meanings

In her second article, 16-year-old Kexin Shi looks at the problems facing migrants and the organisations helping them

May 02, 2025

From oil rigs to offsides: Saudi Arabia’s 2034 FIFA World Cup comes at a cost

In October 2023, Saudi Arabia was announced as the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. For some, it was a celebratory moment – proof that the kingdom had cemented itself as a rising giant on the international sports stage. For others, it was the latest chapter in what critics term a “sportswashing” campaign: using sport as a way of deflecting attention from human rights abuses

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explores how Saudi Arabia’s football dreams link to money, power and human rights

May 02, 2025

Girl, you’re weird… and I love it!

Have you noticed that recently girls are trying so hard to be different, by mismatching outfit pieces, saying quirky things, and trying to have niche interests? It seems to be mainly 14-year-olds and above. As a 17-year-old, I’ve been doing it too

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko explains the “weird girl’ trend that is embraced by every generation, but with a twist

May 02, 2025

Abortion in Sri Lanka: a danger if you do and a danger if you don’t

Every day, hundreds of Sri Lankan women risk their lives by having illegal abortions driven by poverty, stigma and the country’s draconian abortion laws. Harbingers’ Magazine interviewed a nurse who used to work in a maternity clinic and frequently had to deal with women suffering complications from illegal terminations

16-year-old Lisindi Liyanage explains legal and social attitudes towards abortion in Sri Lanka

April 25, 2025

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at universities: everything you need to know

In January, US president Donald Trump issued a flurry of executive orders including two that specifically targeted diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federal government. One specifically targeted actions by former president Joe Biden while the other basically ended DEI programmes within federal government

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert explains how Trump is cancelling DEI initiatives at US universities

April 18, 2025

How Trump’s new America is changing my plans for the future

Like many, I have often imagined myself living in the United States – the land of the free, where millions work towards the American dream. However, Trump’s version of America makes me question whether I still want to live there in the future

16-year-old Lola Kadas explains why President Trump is failing the American dream

April 18, 2025

‘I’m with my students till the end’: A Ukrainian teacher’s fight to survive a school bombing

During my visit to Ukraine in the summer of 2024, I met one of the most courageous people I know: Lyudmila Sakovich, the vice principal of Lyceum Oriana in Lviv. Lucy, as she likes to be called, has worked in education for 14 years – eight of them at this school – teaching Ukrainian, Polish and literature

17-year-old Klaudia Bacza visits a bombed school in Lviv and interviews the vice principal

April 11, 2025

Why Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind is my role model

Scarlett O’Hara is not only one of the most famous fictional female protagonists of all time, but one of the most controversial too. The main character of Margaret Mitchell's epic novel Gone With the Wind has been a subject of debate since the book was first published in 1936

17-year-old Ashley Solace argues that we should admire and applaud Scarlett, despite her many flaws

April 04, 2025

Ex-Philippine president Duterte appears at ICC hearing for crimes against humanity

Former Philippine president Duterte was arrested by the authorities of the Republic of the Philippines before being transferred to the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC)

16-year-old Samantha De Mesa reports on Duterte’s arrest on killings linked to the ‘war on drugs’

March 28, 2025

Refugees, asylum seekers and migrants: What’s the difference?

The terms ‘refugee’, ‘asylum seeker’ and ‘migrant’ are often used interchangeably to describe displaced people, despite having distinct legal meanings. This article – the first of two on the subject – aims to explain the differences between those terms, which is crucial for discussing migration policies and human rights

16-year-old Kexin Shi breaks down the legal terms related to migration

March 28, 2025

From South Korea to the US: Why the 4B movement is taking over

The 4b movement focused on women’s agency, which originated in South Korea in the early 2010s, is now spreading across the world, particularly in the US. The movement is based on the belief that men are inherently dangerous and women should avoid any type of relationship with them

18-year-old Ashley Solace examines the growth of a radical feminist movement in the US

March 28, 2025

‘New Speakers’: Trying to save an indigenous South American language from extinction

The indigenous South American language Guarani is on the brink of extinction, but the New Speakers project run by the Universidad Nacional del Nordeste (UNNE) in Argentina aims to revitalise it. Giustina Gallardi, 18, from Corrientes, has joined the project to learn Guarani, with the hope of deepening her connection to her culture, her environment and herself

17-year-old Anita Stepanyan explains how a project in Argentina is teaching the language and culture of the Guarani

March 28, 2025

Afghan women fight for sport amid digital distractions

For Afghan women, sport has long provided a rare opportunity to break free from societal constraints. Amid traditional pressures and limited freedoms, participating in sport promotes physical health and offers self-expression and empowerment. However, two significant challenges – societal restrictions and digital distractions – threaten to limit their participation

17-year-old Sama explains the barriers preventing Afghan girls from getting involved in sport

March 13, 2025

Redefining femininity: Who is rugby and TikTok star Ilona Maher?

Say hello to Ilona Maher, a 28-year-old American rugby player and TikTok star, who has captured hearts worldwide. Recently, she gained recognition as the runner-up of the US show Dancing with the Stars, an American dancing competition

17-year-old Maria Mitko profiles the US Olympic athlete, an inspiration for girls worldwide

March 13, 2025

Education is vital for Afghanistan’s youth, especially in rural areas

In Afghanistan’s rural areas, education is a rare treasure often out of reach due to isolation, poverty and cultural barriers. A UNESCO report from 2024 reveals that 1.4 million Afghan girls have been denied schooling, with 1.1 million fewer children attending school compared to 2020, before the Taliban took over

19-year-old Nabila explains how youngsters in poor rural areas struggle to get an education

March 07, 2025

Young women react to new law on female military conscription in Denmark

The Danish Parliament changed the law on military conscription in Denmark last year, extending the length of service from around four months to 11 months, increasing the annual number of conscripts from 4,700 to 7,500, and requiring women to be equally subject to conscription as men. The eligibility of candidates is based on their physical and mental health

16-year-old Camille Hasbani interviews girls in Denmark on military conscription for women

March 07, 2025

Menstruation and the experience of Nepali girls amid many taboos

Although menstruation is a natural process, it has negative connotations in some communities around the world. Menstruating women are considered impure and unclean, and face strict taboos about what they can and can’t do. This happens in certain parts of Nepal

15-year-old Samuna B.K. talks to girls in Nepal about the beliefs and practices around menstruation

March 07, 2025

Tanzanian government takes steps towards gender equality but women and girls still face challenges

When Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president and the only woman head of state in Africa in 2021, women and girls around the country were hopeful. In the course of her presidency, Hassan has made a lot of changes within the country, including encouraging more participation from women in political processes. However, there remains a fundamental difference in opportunities and access to rights between men and women

15-year-old Lydia Gaspar explores the improvements and challenges within women's rights in Tanzania

March 07, 2025

Five overlooked female journalists who highlighted injustice across the world

Journalism, like many others, is a field dominated by men, and while there are more and more female journalists, it is still far from equal. In 2020, the Global Media Monitoring Project found that it would take 67 years to close the gender gap

17-year-old Maria Mitko introduces five women who broke the glass ceiling in journalism

February 21, 2025

Floods, landslides and rising temperatures: How climate change is impacting Nepal

Global warming refers to the long-term warming of the entire planet. It has increased significantly over the last century as a result of the combustion of fossil fuels

16-year-old Binita Nepali explores how the climate crisis is affecting her homeland of Nepal

February 21, 2025

Stripped: Women’s lives under the Iranian regime

On 2 November, a student at Iran’s Azad University had her headscarf and clothes violently torn by Basji volunteers – a terrorist paramilitary group that attacks and detains those who protest against the Iranian regime.

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the brutal reality of women's lives under the Iranian regime

February 14, 2025

‘Duty drives us to act’: How Jordan’s state, business and society support Gaza’s civilian population

The most emotional experience for me was talking to kids from Gaza, who were diagnosed with cancer and whose treatment was arrested by the war. Access to medical help in Gaza is extremely limited. The Gaza’s health ministry claims that more than 110,200 people have been injured in the war. Thousands are also ill as a result of water and food shortages, and poor sanitation

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh interviews those receiving and providing aid for Gaza

February 14, 2025

When the world was silent, these Artsakh mothers spoke out

Azerbaijan began its nearly ten-month blockade on 12 December 2022, when it cut access to the Lachin Corridor, known among Artsakh residents as ‘The Road of Life’, as it is the only route connecting their ancestral homeland to Armenia and the outside world.

18-year-old Alyona Sargsyan shines a light on refugee women’s fight for their rights

February 07, 2025

Trump 2.0: Trump’s anti-immigration rhetoric turns into action

Trump has now officially taken office and already begun putting his plans into action, signing a flurry of executive orders regarding immigration. Some are as extreme as vowing to end birthright citizenship – the automatic citizenship that is given to anyone born in the US. This is a constitutional right that has long been protected by the 14th Amendment, and the president cannot overturn it alone. More than 20 states have already challenged the order

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the immigration policies that could shape the future of the US

January 31, 2025

Trump 2.0: What is the future for reproductive rights in the US?

Given Trump’s notoriously inconsistent statements over the years on abortion and broader reproductive rights, it is difficult to create a full and accurate analysis of what might happen once he is in office.

17-year-old Olivia Campbell looks at reproductive rights in the US, with a focus on Project 2025

January 31, 2025

Welcome to the new Afghanistan Newsroom

In Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s restrictions have silenced the dreams of many young girls, a resilient group of students refuses to give up on their aspirations. Despite being denied access to education, including a recent restriction on being midwives or nurses, these ten determined girls are boldly pursuing their goals, from becoming doctors and business leaders to journalists

Ten female LEARN Journalism Club students writing for Harbingers’ Magazine share their hopes

January 24, 2025

‘I want the world to hear our story’: The hope of Artsakh’s displaced

During the blockade, schools were forced to close due to a lack of funding, food, gas or electricity. Children’s right to education was undermined, and the number of deaths increased. Despite these inhumane conditions, young people did everything to be useful to their homeland; the desire to live and preserve our homeland was above all. One of those was Gaya Sargsyan – now aged 30 – who gathered other young volunteers to hand out food and aid during the blockade

18-year-old Laura Danielyan talks to youth leader Gaya Sargsyan about the pain of the Artsakh blockade

January 24, 2025

Ex-president Duterte under scrutiny for Philippine war on drugs

Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against drugs left thousands dead. Now he’s facing the consequences

15-year-old Samantha De Mesa reports on the inquiry into human rights violations in the Philippines

January 10, 2025

Exploring Nepal through its tradition of multiple genders and matriarchal values

The 88-minute film explores Nepal’s matriarchal heritage through the figure of Ajima, a grandmother goddess in the Tantra tradition who embodies wisdom, protection and fertility

17-year-old Jefferson He reviews the 2024 documentary Ajima and 6 Gender Identities

January 10, 2025

Gen Z on feminism: ‘Your definition is not my definition’

When asked “What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘feminist’?”, respondents provided a wide range of instant reactions in Harbingers’ recent survey of Gen Z attitudes. From positive associations such as “equality” and “empowerment” to more critical terms like “annoying”, “radical” and “anti-man”

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert reports on Harbingers’ survey into teen attitudes towards feminism

January 10, 2025

Five overlooked female composers from the 11th century to now

‘Where words fail, music speaks’ – a tribute to the power of music, from the famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Yet, as is the case for many professions, music has been historically dominated by males, with female composers’ incredible contributions often overlooked and forgotten

18-year-old Ananya Prasanna shares the stories of five female musicians who deserve to be famous

January 03, 2025

Dreaming big: three teenagers join Sri Lanka’s women’s football team

Three talented young girls from a rural seaside village in Sri Lanka have joined the country’s under-17 national women’s football team in a triumphant conclusion to a story about beating the odds

15-year old Hesandi Ravisinghe talks to a trio of inspiring players from a seaside village

December 12, 2024

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Women’s Desk section

Every article published in Women’s Desk this year has left its mark, but a few stand out for their exceptional writing or compelling subject matter or worldwide relevance. As the Women’s Desk Section Editor, I’ve compiled a list of five articles that I think everyone should read, presented in chronological order

17-year-old Maria Mitko shines a spotlight on her favourite Women's Desk articles from the past year

December 06, 2024

Journalism is under threat across the world – and that impacts us all

Independent reporting is about asking the hard questions. Probing deeper to find the truth. Holding those in power to account. It is fundamental to democracy, acting as a watchdog against an overmighty executive. At its best, it allows marginalised people to have a voice in society. It provides a forum for the discussion of ideas. Ultimately, no journalist should be detained simply because they are reporting on the truth

17-year-old Gavriella Epstein-Lightman is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Human Rights

December 06, 2024

Armenia’s new domestic violence legislation is good, but not good enough

In Armenia, as in many parts of the world, real progress against domestic violence requires both legislative action and societal change. Strengthening legal definitions, expanding victim protections, challenging gender norms and increasing support for survivors are all essential steps in Armenia’s ongoing journey toward a safer society

17-year-old Nare Arushanyan interviews the head of Armenia’s leading domestic violence support group

November 29, 2024

My experience as a teenage refugee from Artsakh

Post-war life changed the person I am. It makes you question your whole existence; you appear to be in an identity crisis, which is even worse when everyone around you is in trauma. But I don’t want to identify myself with that devastating experience. Rather, when I think about Artsakh, I remember the warm and happy years that I spent there

18-year-old Lana Tonyan shares the trauma of fleeing her homeland to a new life in Armenia

November 29, 2024

Who is Vietnam’s new leader, To Lam?

To Lam was named the new leader of Vietnam earlier this year, first in the chiefly ceremonial role of president, then in the key position of general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). So who is the man who has been travelling to meet world leaders to balance ties, and what are his plans for his country?

17-year-old Camila Savelieva profiles Vietnam’s new leader and his policies at home and abroad

November 22, 2024

What does Sri Lanka’s new female prime minister mean for the country’s young girls?

What does Dr Harini Amarasuriya appointment as prime minister – only the third woman to hold this position – mean for Sri Lanka? Harbingers’ Magazine spoke with young women and girls in Galle on the significance of the prime minister's appointment

16-year-old Lisindi Liyanage talks to young Sri Lankans about a prime minister of many firsts

November 15, 2024

Social media’s redefinition of ‘girlhood’ is Gen Z’s way of perpetuating the patriarchy

While feminism asserts that all genders have equal intellectual capacity, the ‘girlhood’ trend that has been proliferating on social media since 2023, especially TikTok, advocates that women are incompetent in all facets of life, from financial decisions to nutrition, and endorses detrimental habits

16-year-old Noa Gomberg is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Women's Desk

November 07, 2024

The return of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show: rebrand or ruse?

The aesthetic of the lingerie brand – deemed sexy and appealing, but also toxic and narrow-minded by some – was meant to be transformed into a supposedly body-positive and more inclusive version

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei argues that the lingerie company rebrand is another marketing opportunity

October 24, 2024

Moving on from the past: Abortion should be a constitutional right

Ahead of the US election, abortion rights are a crucial issue for many young women—including myself. Here's a look back at the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v Wade, the consequences so far, and where presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand on abortion

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains the controversy around abortion rights in the US

October 17, 2024

Behind the apron: Are TikTok’s ‘trad wives’ truly traditional?

The ‘trad wife’ trend is not realistic. Hannah Neeleman and Nara Smith’s lifestyles are not attainable by the average person. Ask your grandmother if her traditional marriage included rolling in the field with her freshly made sourdough or, more realistically, performing a lot of tiring manual labour to look after the family and house

14-year-old Helena Bruździak explores the social media trend and its implications for feminism

October 03, 2024

Refugee women in Armenia build community through knitting

The Shuhel group, supported by the feminist peacebuilding NGO Women’s Center Shushi in Yerevan, provides a space for refugee women to build community and knit, sew, embroider and sell their handcrafted quilts, jewellery, and other goods

18-year-old Alyona Sargsyan explains how an initiative in Yerevan offers a safe space for women

October 03, 2024

Our nation’s backbone is caught in the crossfire of racism

Not going to lie, getting subjected to crossfire racism sucks. Not only do you realize that “this person is racist”, but being a victim of crossfire racism can make a person feel like their only identity is their presumed race, which has severe implications on both the mind and the body

16 year-old Reva Sobti is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024

August 29, 2024

Why corporal punishment is still common in Sri Lankan schools

Corporal punishment of children as a means of discipline has been prohibited in Sri Lanka, but is still regularly used in schools, with the excuse that it is part of the country’s culture

15 year-old Hesandi explores the status of corporal punishment in Sri Lankan schools

August 22, 2024

A must-read: White Torture shares the agony of women prisoners in Iran

I urge you to pick up this book, to stand with Narges Mohammadi, who has risked so much to publish these testimonies, and the courageous women who have shared memories of their darkest days

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reviews Narges Mohammadi’s book on women prisoners in Iran

August 22, 2024

How Armenian teens have adjusted to a new life, a year after fleeing home

Almost one year ago, in September 2023, the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, home to a significant Armenian population, fell under Azerbaijani control, prompting a mass exodus of more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to Armenia. Five refugee girls now living in Yerevan share what has the past year been like

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert interviews five refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, now living in Yerevan

August 22, 2024

What a female president means for Mexico and the world

Sheinbaum’s presidency marks an important milestone in the history of Mexico. Up until this point, Mexico was a country run by men, known for its persistently high levels of violence, especially against women

17 year-old Maria Mitko explores the potential impact of Claudia Sheinbaum’s groundbreaking election win

August 15, 2024

Chili, half-smokes, and history: Interviews in DC’s greatest landmark

Before even stepping into Ben’s Chili Bowl, there is the sense of walking into history. More than just a culinary landmark, though, Ben’s is a testament to the perseverance and community of the District of Columbia

17 year-old Justin Sau visits Ben’s Chili Bowl, a cultural staple in US civil rights history

August 08, 2024

How can America learn from Netflix’s Sex Education?

The show's success and relevance is not just due to its own quality, it's also because American sex education is not as effective as it should be. A lack of comprehensive sex education doesn’t mean a more or less conservative new generation — it means a less educated one

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores the problems with sex education programs in the US

August 06, 2024

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan marks an important change in the country’s development. As these women continue to break barriers and redefine societal roles, they create a legacy of empowerment and growth

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova showcases stories of the dynamic women powering a new world in the heart of Bishkek

August 06, 2024

How five overlooked female inventors changed our lives for the better

Women have made a significant impact on the world for hundreds of years. Their inventions may be widely known or used, from navigating us across the globe to saving time and lives. But do we know the faces of those behind them?

17-year-old Maria Mitko shares the stories of the women behind some of our world’s inventions that have helped change our lives for the better

August 01, 2024

Forgotten herstory: five female scientists who changed the world

When I’m looking through my textbooks, I often see prominent male scientists described as ‘the father of.’ The same doesn’t go for women involved in discoveries, who are often hidden behind their male counterparts

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna shines a light on women in maths, palaeontology, chemistry and biology

July 17, 2024

The ‘pink tax’ – another hidden weapon in the oppression of women

The so-called ‘pink tax’ may not be an actual tax, but it is an audacious and harmful way for businesses to make profit at the expense of women through misogynistic marketing schemes

16 year-old Camilla Savalieva explains what the ‘pink tax’ is and its consequences for women

June 27, 2024

How Gen Z adopted LGBTQ+ slang

You might have heard of ‘slay’, ‘tea’, ‘shade’ and ‘queen’... but do you know where they originate from? Gen Z and millennials use these terms, in a variety of situations, from complimenting and hyping up their peers to expressing disrespect or disgust. But few seem to actually know where this slang came from

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz explains the origins of modern-day slang in queer subculture

June 20, 2024

Poland’s LGBTQ+ policies must change to protect its youth

In the most recent Rainbow Map ranking Poland ranked last among EU members, and not for the first time. In a country that deems being queer unnatural how are young people supposed to feel safe in this environment?

17 year-old Maria Mitko decries Poland’s position as the ‘most homophobic country’ in the EU

June 20, 2024

Harrison Butker's speech feels like a scene from The Handmaid’s Tale

In a public speech full of misogynistic, homophobic and hateful comments, an NFL player has sparked widespread criticism. While free speech is a fundamental right in the US, at what point does it cross the blurry line into hate speech

14 year-old Helena Bruzdziak on a commencement by US football star and its misogynistic message

June 13, 2024

How human rights advocate Sima Samar inspired me to never give up

Sima Samar is a strong supporter and advocate for her people, and girls like me are continually inspired by her work to make our futures better. Girls can take note of these qualities, despite the restrictions they may face, and become great leaders

16 year-old Swita expresses admiration for Afghan human rights activist Sima Samar, and discusses the key attributes of a good leader

June 13, 2024

‘Say it loud, gay is proud’: A brief history of Pride Month

It’s June, which means that it’s Pride Month! Although it is still an ongoing battle to ensure equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, we have come a long way since the early days of the Pride movement. So let us take some time to discuss the origins of this incredible celebration of queerness

17 year-old Christian Yeung outlines the history of Pride Month

June 06, 2024

Marriage equality is the one thing that will last from 14 years of Tory rule

The current election campaign proves that over the last decade, marriage equality has become such a strong part of Britain that no one dares to challenge it. This is a striking change compared to the election campaign of 2010, when only Lib Dems unequivocally supported marriage equality

17 year-old Jefferson He looks back on a key LGBTQIA+ policy as the UK prepares to vote

May 30, 2024

Meet five Harbingers’ students displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia

To “highlight the wealth that has been lost,” five teenage girls who fled Artsakh in the autumn of 2023 have joined the Armenian Newsroom of Harbingers’ Magazine

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the background to Harbingers’ new Armenian newsroom

May 02, 2024

Women-only spaces are necessary, not sexist. Here’s why

While opponents can claim that the exclusion of men amounts to sex discrimination, many argue that women-only spaces are a solution to gender inequality. These places prioritise women’s well-being and ultimately, have no negative effect on anyone

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the importance of women-only spaces and announces the launch of the Women’s Desk at Harbingers’

April 25, 2024

We are bored: Gifted students need challenge to thrive

Gifted and Talented programs have helped students worldwide to enrich their learning. MACC, the Vancouver school program which accelerated the pace of the standard curriculum, has now been redesigned to shorten the support provided to students

18 year-old Erin Walshaw talks about her experience as a gifted student in Vancouver – and the problems she faces

April 18, 2024

Womansplaining mansplaining

Mansplaining. If you’re a woman, I can almost guarantee that you sighed at that word. Societal history has allowed for sexism to take route but there are steps we can take today to reevaluate and correct these behaviours

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains mansplaining and how to break the cycle

April 11, 2024

How volunteers are helping to serve as a ‘beacon of hope’ in Afghanistan

Two years after the Taliban’s supposed temporary ban, another academic year has started, leaving girls in Afghanistan at a greater disadvantage. Inspired by the efforts of organisations to provide education to girls and women, I volunteered and witnessed the difference they can make

17 year-old Zohra on the resilient efforts of local organisations in providing life-changing opportunities to girls and young women in Afghanistan

March 22, 2024

‘Her name was Liza.’ Violence against women is on the rise worldwide

Recent shockwaves over the brutal rape and murder of a women in Warsaw reiterate the dangers women face globally. It seems the United Nations SDG goal to ‘achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’ is far from being achieved by its 2030 date

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh reports on the global implications of a recent crime in Warsaw

March 22, 2024

What young Afghan women want to achieve in the world of technology

Despite bans on women’s education and rights in Afghanistan, technology is enabling them to look beyond their restrictive environment to gain more knowledge and chase their dreams

13 year-old Naziya surveys Afghan women on the potential of technology as a tool of income and education

March 08, 2024

Singaporean LGBTQ+ community still faces a ‘long road ahead’ despite constitutional changes

Despite a shift in governmental policies towards the LGBTQ+ community, discrimination still exists. The government continues to advocate for family units being strictly heterosexual to ‘protect’ the marriage constitution

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang explores progressive steps towards equality

March 01, 2024

From stadiums to screens: the alarming rise of racism in football

With the ongoing 2023–24 football season, it becomes crucial to address instances of racism, which were one of the most commonly reported forms of discrimination last season

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain on persistent racism in football

March 01, 2024

Why growing up as a young woman is scary: A teen’s perspective from Poland

Despite the global progress made in women’s rights in the past few decades, Poland still has a long way to go. The country’s strict abortion laws, gender pay gap and prescribed lifestyle for a woman’s future fills me with fear

17 year-old Maria Mitko on the daunting reality of womanhood

February 23, 2024

Why disabled individuals ‘do not exist’ in Ukraine

You do not truly realise the extent of your detachment from reality until you encounter a person with a disability and notice the systemic conditioning that leads us to believe that disabilities limit individuals

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines proactive steps to inclusivity

February 23, 2024

‘Our world cannot afford to wait’ - International calls for peace intensify over Israel-Gaza war

The Israeli military has begun targeting Rafah, a southern city housing more than a million displaced Palestinians with “nowhere to go.” With around half of Gaza’s population finding shelter in the city, this has the potential to drastically escalate the humanitarian crisis in the region

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the current calls for humanitarian relief

February 09, 2024

Media depicting women holds one main aim: Giving a space for women to be judged

Defining a woman starts with using words like ‘trailblazer’ and ‘independent’ and ‘controversial’. A set of words is quite a small frame to describe everything that a person could be

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil’s award-winning essay on Women’s Rights

February 09, 2024

US immigration authorities on alert following Honduras migrant caravan crossing

Immigration emerges as a hot topic yet again in the lead up to the 2024 US presidential election and if a new bill is passed by Congress it “would be the biggest changes to immigration law in nearly 40 years” threatening the conditions to asylum

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the growing pressure at the border

January 26, 2024

Unattainable ‘angel status’. Patriarchy still skews the narratives of women in power

From fashion breakdowns to dating habits, selective media reporting has long attempted to reduce women in the spotlight to harmful gender stereotypes’

17 year-old Alia Saphier critiques the media’s continual repression of women

January 19, 2024

Ropes or Syringes: A Closer Look at the Death Penalty in Singapore

An ethical question on the justification of the death penalty has been debated for decades if not centuries. With a majority 73.7% in public support, I was curious to find out for myself why so many Singaporeans backed a seemingly inhumane punishment

17 year-old Nicole Jin surveys locals on the morality of crime prevention

January 12, 2024

Houseless in California - Experiencing a Human Rights Crisis

Reddick, who shared with me his stories, doesn’t just live on the streets. He’s also incredibly spiritual, has a passion for music and fashion, wants to work hard, and wants to financially support and be there for his daughter while she grows up, instead of becoming a sporadic visit

17 year-old Siri Atluri in conversation with a houseless individual

January 05, 2024

Israel-Gaza War: The multifaceted conflict that has resulted in decades of suffering

The recent conflict between Hamas and Israel has defined a bitter chapter in Israel-Palestine’s history. As the toll rises, the urgency of international attention is highlighted against a backdrop of ceasefires and broken truces

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the history of the modern conflict

December 22, 2023

Helping hands - How Afghan girls are instrumental in providing education

Organisations such as LEARN have been helping girls get an underground education by providing online classes such as science and web design lessons. Through their help and kindness, the power to offer opportunities to others is then passed on into our hands

17 year-old Zohra on the inspiring goal of helping young people follow their dreams

December 15, 2023

WHO, paying $250 to sexual assault victims in DRC, proves the world justice system is broken

More than 80 aid workers sent to handle the Ebola outbreak in the DRC have been accused of involvement in a sexual assault scandal. And in the end, those without privileges are left with so-called compensation and a traumatic memory for the rest of their lives

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko condemns World Health Organisation’s sexual assault scandal

December 15, 2023

Nepal's historic equality milestone: First LGBTQ+ couple celebrate receiving marriage certificate

Last month marked a historic milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal, as the country officially documented the first same-sex marriage. Surendra Pandey, reflecting on this ground-breaking act said “this is a huge achievement not only for us but for all sexual and gender minorities”

16 year-old Jefferson He reports on minorities' rocky path towards legal marriages

December 08, 2023

Dreaming of home: How Armenian teenagers navigate the exodus and loss of Nagorno-Karabakh

Through interviews, the impact of the humanitarian catastrophe on children, young people and families culminated in a shared dream to someday return to their homelands

16 year-old Jefferson He chronicles the humanitarian crisis in Armenia, from the takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), and its profound impact on the youth

December 01, 2023

A ‘silent genocide’ in DRC is impacting millions of lives

In the heart of Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands as a nation marred by a history of conflict and a tapestry of complexity. Described as ‘the silent genocide’, an ongoing conflict in the eastern region has cast a spotlight on the escalating tensions

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova breaks down the escalating tensions in the DRC

November 24, 2023

Compared to dogs or children, women struggle in the Ukrainian army

Women are a vital part of Ukraine’s future victory but female soldiers continually face restrictions on their basic needs. Instead, women are treated as an object of entertainment rather than living, breathing, and equally capable human beings

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against the discrimination of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

November 24, 2023

How Claudia Goldin inspires me by shattering barriers in the male-dominated realm of economics

Goldin presented a previously unheard-of hypothesis arguing that access to the contraceptive pill played a vital role in accelerating the revolutionary increase in female workforce participation, doubling in size between 1960 and 1980

18-year-old Nadia Diakowska on the inspiration from this year’s Nobel Prize winner in Economics

November 24, 2023

Since 1960, the contraceptive pill has revolutionized women's lives. One woman financed the research

The invention of the pill not only gave women the opportunity to plan parenthood, it revolutionized Western societies in gender equality. The pill allowed women to stay in education longer, and pursue professional careers

17 year-old Flora Lodd on the history and future of hormonal contraception

November 03, 2023

The Thalidomide scandal. A history of greed and neglect that shaped contemporary clinical trials

Thalidomide was a tragedy that is often forgotten and a clear violation of human rights, but it shaped the strenuous clinical trials that take place today. Without the toll of Thalidomide, drug production may not be as safe as it is today

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna on the lesson from pharmaceutical scandal

October 27, 2023

Denying treatment because women could get pregnant? That’s a new level of toxic absurdity

Women cannot be stripped of basic services, like healthcare, because of their so-called ‘function’, and the word ‘woman’ should not be synonymous with ‘mother’

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against curbing women’s rights in the US

October 20, 2023

At 12, I promised myself a hysterectomy. That’s how ignorance of menstrual health tortures girls

Young girls like me will continue to suffer because periods are taboo and we are told period cramps are supposed to hurt. The pain of endometriosis is instead chalked up to female sensitivities, low pain tolerance, and the joys of womanhood

17 year-old Erin Walshaw was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

October 20, 2023

History of Australia’s offshore detention camps makes me sickened by my country

Christmas Island is a pristine pocket of land in the Indian Ocean, just below Java, where you will find crystal clear waters, beautiful stretches of white sand beaches, heavenly weather and a long history of human rights violations

15 year-old Tanya Chi essay was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Humanities

October 20, 2023

‘Deranged cultural standards’ - How Sri Lanka’s misogyny is impeding its economic recovery

McKinsey Global Institute estimates that advancing gender equality in Sri Lanka could add $64 billion to its GDP by 2025

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska analyses a negative feedback loop between inequality and poverty

October 20, 2023

Are they ‘women politicians’ or politicians? - the challenges women still face in global governance

As a young woman with an aspiration to join the political world in the future, I couldn't believe the public impudence, the unacceptable behaviour one is signed up to tolerate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the gender bias in politics

September 30, 2023

Flowers for the Future enables Afghan students to “bloom”

Amidst challenges posed by the Taliban’s restrictions, the support from individuals around the world and organisations like FFF are “a source of inspiration”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimanova interviews the student-run organisation that supports the ‘rights of students across the world to education’

September 15, 2023

Ukraine’s leniency towards sexual assault is irreconcilable with our nation’s European aspirations

A recent crime in the Zakarpattya region of Ukraine has proven once again how prevalent the problem with punishment for sexual violence is in the Ukrainian legal system

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on misogyny embedded in Ukraine’s legal system

September 08, 2023

Trump administration disregard Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last words

"My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed” - the final words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to her granddaughter, has seen the former justice’s worst fear brought into reality

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the notions of progress

August 25, 2023

Inside Greek refugee camp Ritsona’s mission to ‘safeguard human rights’

At Ritsona refugee camp, a group of asylum seekers gathered to share their stories about how they reached Greece, how the camp is supporting them, and the struggles they face which included frustrations with the asylum procedure

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits and speaks with members of Ritsona refugee camp

August 25, 2023

How the UK Cost of Living Crisis is affecting migrants

Since 2021, the economic situation in the UK has started to worsen, and this has affected many people, both citizens and non-citizens. However, while the government is providing some support to British citizens, migrants are being overlooked

17 year-old Jakub Hejka interviews Polish migrants on the Immigration Health Surcharge

August 25, 2023

'Invisible to the Ukrainian legislation' - What it means to be queer in Ukraine

The question of LGBTQ+ rights in Ukraine is now more important than ever, as lots of these people are defending the country every day, and apart from that, are equally Ukrainian citizens who deserve to be recognized as such

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews Ukrainian legal activists Tania Kasian and Maxim Potapovych

August 10, 2023

Sexual assault should not have a timer

The whole case is another terrifying example of how the justice system worldwide fails victims of sexual assault once again and promotes inconsequential violence, as well as gaslighting the victims into silencing their stories and experiences

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko looks at a recent sexual assault case in Italy

August 09, 2023

Women’s World Cup inspiring a new generation of girls into the sport

The Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is on track to receive the highest attendance numbers for the tournament to date, with interest in the women’s game on the rise

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain covers the recent historic achievements of the sport

August 04, 2023

Greek newspaper Migratory Birds helps refugee teenagers ‘fly high’

It was the initiative of 15 Afghan teenage girls and one Greek girl, who decided it was time for the refugee population to be truly heard. The project’s aim is to introduce young refugees to the principles of journalism and media while helping them to integrate into the Greek community

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews experts at youth magazine Migratory Birds

July 21, 2023

Days that marked Afghan girls’ lives

There are days in everyone’s lives that they mark the most regardless of being good or bad. Five students of the journalism learning project at Harbingers’ Magazine – Shanhaza (17), Swita (16), Zainab (13), Naziya (13) and Zohra (17) – interviewed each other to find out about the days that impacted them the most

13-17 year-old OXSFJ and LEARN Afghan students share their life experiences

July 21, 2023

How eco-friendly art is empowering refugees in Greece to raise awareness of crises

Art has been used throughout history as a powerful tool that documents time and evokes emotions. On the Greek island of Lesvos, it is helping refugees raise awareness of their ongoing struggles

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits Humade Crafts Workshop

July 07, 2023

Meet five Afghan girls who dream big for their future

After the Taliban seized power in August 2021, they banned girls from receiving a high school education. Despite these hardships, they are still determined to achieve their goals

13-17 year-old students of the OXSFJ & LEARN Afghan Project share their aspirations

July 07, 2023

Youth revolted in France after police shot 17 year-old boy

Over the course of last week, violent riots have wreaked havoc in Paris and its suburbs. The protesters burned cars, vandalised police stations and even let animals from the Paris Zoo out. Rioters have torched 2,000 vehicles since the start of the unrest

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on French protests against police brutality

June 23, 2023

Russian aggression will add another layer to Ukraine’s intergenerational trauma

It is impossible to understand the impact the current Russian aggression will have on Ukrainian society without taking into account the scars left by the Holodomor, World War 2, and Chornobyl

16-year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews mental health expert Lidiia Kasyanchuk

June 23, 2023

US Supreme Court ruled against Alabama’s violation of the Black voters rights

In a surprise to many civil rights activists the US Supreme Court judges struck down the electoral map of the state of Alabama because it discriminated against Black voters by a five-to-four decision

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko reports on the Congress decision

June 16, 2023

Poles have had enough! Opposition leader Donald Tusk galvanises Poland’s fight for its democracy

The liberal-democratic Civic Coalition (KO), with the former president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, at the helm, has a chance to take power in Poland. Its electoral campaign was launched with an anti-government rally against the opposition

16 year-old Stanislaw Sankowski explains why 500,000 people marched through Warsaw

May 19, 2023

Sudan’s military power struggle results in humanitarian catastrophe

Homes and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed. UNHCR disclosed that “densely populated residential areas of Khartoum, Bahri, Omdurman and towns in Darfur and North Kordofan are facing electricity cuts, a lack of healthcare and basic services, while running out of food, water and medicines”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the current situation in Sudan

April 07, 2023

Unchangeable US police force is responsible for countless unjustified deadly arrests

In order to stop this cycle of repeated police brutality, the system must be changed. Acts, such as the George Floyd Justice in Policing bill should be passed and encouraged

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova looks at the consequences of excessive force in the case of Tyre Nichols

April 07, 2023

Report revealed deeply concerning strip-search practice on thousands of children in England and Wales

The 363-page report, which looked at the standards of behaviour and culture of the Met, not only highlighted the ‘significant racial disproportionality’ in the strip searches of children by police but also revealed shocking cases within the police force

16 year-old Jinn Ong on the results of the Children’s Commissioner report

March 17, 2023

What exactly is Justice? The flawed concept behind the death penalty in the US

Organisations such as the Innocence Project work to liberate the innocent, avoid wrongful sentences, and establish systems of justice that are fair, humane, and impartial for all. There have already been 375 cases of exoneration in the US due to new DNA testing, including 21 people serving on death row.

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the importance of re-examination of evidence

March 17, 2023

The fight for trans rights in the UK continues

The Scottish bill aimed to reform gender recognition guidelines got vetoed but the UK government. In response to the UK’s intervention, Stonewall, a British charity that supports LGBTQ+ youth throughout the United Kingdom, said: “These are not the actions of a government that can stand on the international stage as a credible defender of LGBTQ+ rights.”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports the current policy on gender recognition

March 03, 2023

‘Girls go missing, schools are closed down, teachers persecuted’. Fight for education in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan

Pashtana Dorani is the founder of an organisation running 'illegal' underground schools for girls in Afghanistan. She knows first-hand the struggles girls and those teaching them face since the US and their allies withdrew and the Taliban regained control of the country

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews Afghan human rights activist

March 03, 2023

‘Know your DNA’ databases could fall into the wrong hands. Policymakers should regulate it

Even with all precautions employed, there is always a chance of getting hacked. Nothing indicates that ancestry DNA databases store personal data in any different place than the information about one’s DNA

18 year-old Gleb Mishin explains the cybersecurity dangers behind DNA testing

February 09, 2023

Lessons have not been learnt, international law is not stopping Russia

The notions of genocide and crimes against humanity are two essential building blocks for international law and vital parts of the efforts to protect human rights. In his 2016 book East West Street, British writer and lawyer Philippe Sands explains the origins of these notions

Aleksandra Lasek on the constraints of the international criminal law system

December 18, 2022

Italy’s direct help for Ukrainian refugees is rooted in its EU membership

A question arises: does Italy have double standards and treat people differently depending on where they come from? Or is there a reasonable explanation for the difference in attitudes towards the two groups of refugees?

17 year-old Marco Morchio on difference in Italy's approach to conflicts in Syria and Ukraine

October 31, 2022

‘It feels like I am living someone else’s life’, says Viktoriya, teenage refugee from Ukraine

When the war started, I felt confident and fearless. I believe because we had to move fast and think fast, my adrenaline was boosted, and this made me experience confidence. Over time, I calmed down and processed the situation. As I realised that my life was not stable anymore, my home was not safe, a feeling of fear started to develop

17 year-old Viktoriya Lysenko is interviewed by HRB's Italy correspodent Marco Morchio

October 24, 2022

Standing by Mahsa Amini. Iran’s rise against oppression is yet another youth’s call for change

The Iranian theocracy is only a particularly outrageous, outdated, and brutal example which stands against the background of many different governments facing increasing scrutiny from their young citizens

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the necessity of support for the Iranian protesters

October 17, 2022

How war affected young Ukrainians - and what you can do about it?

I know that our stories might seem bizarre, scary, and unrelatable. But everyone can try to understand and relate. And everyone can help - even other young people, and teenagers from around the globe. Why? To support those in need

Maria Rybak shows how the war has influenced lives of young Ukrainians and how powerful world-wide support is

October 17, 2022

Volunteering at KL Plaszow Museum gave me a chance to fight the Nazi dehumanisation

To many, the concentration camp in Plaszow remains an unknown piece of history. A mere nine-person team at the KL Plaszow Museum and Memorial Site are working to change that. While I had the privilege of being the museum’s first volunteer, the KL Plaszow team hopes to recruit more as they continue working towards their opening in 2025

17 year-old Jonathan Wong on the meaning of voluntary work

October 07, 2022

The Witcher - a feminist manifesto or a misogynistic tale?

Sapkowski’s saga is not only a fantasy tale - it is also a social commentary. That’s why the TV adaptation has brought into the limelight various types of discrimination, prejudice, and hate-rooted violence

Aleksandra Lasek inquires into the success of Yennefer of Vengerberg as a feminist role model

September 30, 2022

Herbal Insurgency: Wielding Knowledge to Heal and Harm Under Southern Enslavement

Through their knowledge of healing and harming, enslaved people were able to create small but vital spaces of healing and alternative power within the totalizing structures of Southern enslavement laws

William Derek Pacini examines the history of herbal expertise as a form of resistance and a means to freedom

September 18, 2022

Art of humanity. Why Lithuanian Jews took part in the fight against apartheid in South Africa

Once kindness becomes prevalent, it appears to be spreading. Human relations develop as we experience the inevitability of life - whether it is peace or war, core human values remain the same. A formation of a crystal – I think of an artwork I saw in Kaunas, depicting the bonding of ions and atoms which make the crystal grow - is parallel to how human relations develop.

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on the lesson from an art festival in Kaunas, Lithuania

September 13, 2022

Another Generation of War in Armenia. Living Everyday to the Fullest

In my village, we can hear any movements in the Azerbaijani military position. Such a close presence of the adversary army has negatively affected the mental state of the villagers, especially the young

Syuzanna Gyumshudyan examines the mental health of her peers two years after the bloody war over Nagorno Karabakh

August 25, 2022

‘An eye-opening experience’. Diary of a volunteer helping refugees at the Polish-Ukrainian border

When I arrived in Przemysl, a quaint little town on the Polish-Ukrainian border, I did not know what to expect. I wanted to provide help in any way I could, although I thought my lack of a shared language with the Ukrainians would largely limit my role

17 year-old Jonathan Wong about his time volunteering in Przemysl

August 08, 2022

Women’s Euro 2022, a success and an inspiration to the female youth

It is very refreshing to see how female sport is gaining more recognition and the respect it deserves. Women's football is the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it will be interesting to see how female athletes and sport will develop over the next decade

Timur and Sofiya report on public opinions towards Lionesses’ win in the final

August 08, 2022

I doubt that Liz Truss will make girls’ lives better. Here’s why

If elected she has the capabilities to make significant headway in the progression of women’s rights, however based on her history of ineffectual action, it is unlikely for her to make tangible change within the UK

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse considers how Women’s rights in Britain will be harmed under Liz Truss leadership

August 05, 2022

Feminism after the girlboss: anxiety of the bimbo

Bimboism claims to be a leftist-adjacent, anti-capitalist, pro-sex work, pro-LGBTQ feminist movement which attracts significant controversy on TikTok

Sophie Elliott explains ‘bimbo Tok’ in the context of modern feminism

July 09, 2022

War in Ukraine from the inside

My life, just like the life of other Ukrainians, has been divided into “before” and “after”. Before the 24th of February, I couldn't believe that in the twenty-first century people would be capable of starting an actual war

16 year-old Diana Kuksova reveals how it is to live as a teenager during war

July 05, 2022

It is teenage girls who will be affected the most by abortion bans in the US

The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case, which removed the right for abortion in the US was done by a group which is 80 percent male, 80 percent white and 100 percent in their 50s or older. The societal group which is going to be affected by the change, is the complete opposite.

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the implications of overturning Roe vs Wade

June 22, 2022

Medicare for All: a debate

Seeing a million citizens die due to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with an economic crash and rising unemployment, just highlights the importance of the Medicare for All debate. Could this program transform our healthcare system for the better – or would it further harm our economy?

Dylan Yip lays out opposing stances on the Medicare for All debate in the United States.

May 27, 2022

‘Minimum inclusion gives huge joy’, says Sylwia, mother to a 14-year-old with autism

It is impossible to predict Julia's future but the outlook is grim. The state does not support centers that educate neurodivergent young adults as almost all types of support for adults with disabilities are scrapped by austerity measures.

Eva Smolokovskaya inquires into Poland’s non-existent system to include people with disabilities within society

January 24, 2022

Every bit as real that the reader hopes the story were pure fiction. The Fortune Men review

Nearing the 70th anniversary of the court murder commited in Wales, we realize that not much has changed these past decades.

Noemi Elliott reviews Nadifa Mohamed’s novel

January 20, 2022

With the notion of progress gone, gender equality is slowly dying in Poland

Since 2015, the ruling Law and Justice party has rejected the notion of progress which had characterised the Second Republic of Poland - despite the fact that it is the same Second Republic that the same Law and Justice politicians consider to be the embodiment of ideal Polish society.

Aleksandra Lasek on Poland's nationalists' lack of political consistency

December 01, 2021

Even if refugees are lured by Belarus, it is not a reason for Poland to violate international law

"From the legal point of view, the problem is that the practice of pushbacks is illegal. When the person appears on the Polish territory and applies for asylum, then the asylum application should be processed and the person should have the right to stay in Poland until the final decision is reached."

Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights’ lawyer Jacek Bialas in conversation with Levon Nurijanyan explains why Poland's push-backs of migrants are illegal

November 26, 2021

The @feminist Instagram account took femvertising to the next level

When I look for activism content, I don’t wish to be discreetly tricked into buying a t-shirt, no matter how sustainable it is or what share of the profit goes to good causes.

Eva Smolokovskaya questions the ethics of the @feminist, a social media account with 6.4 million followers

October 21, 2021

At Ritsona Camp it has been three years since child refugee Leila was last inside a classroom

There is no reason for the refugee children in Europe to be denied an effective and equal education.

Polina Aksenenko and Parwana Amiri about the consequences of spending on walls instead of buses at Ritsona Camp in Greece.

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