As part of a larger research project, Prof. Livingston is currently investigating the effects of new technologies on human rights and their protection in areas of limited statehood. The lecture focused on his initial research findings. In it he referred to Margaret Keck and Kathryn Sikkink’s “Boomerang Model,” as well as the “Spiral Model” developed by Risse, Ropp, and Sikkink. Prof. Livingston emphasized that obstacles between states and various non-state actors hindering the enforcement of human rights can be circumvented or overcome by technological advancements. Satellite technology, for example, can use ever more precise recording capacities to discover and address human rights abuses.

The event was moderated by Dr. Gregor Walter-Drop and was very well attended. Following the lecture, a heated discussion took place on the opportunities and limits of new technologies in protecting human rights. Prof. Steven Livingston will remain at the SFB 700 as a visiting scholar until the end of the year to discuss his research further and support the work of the SFB.

A video recording of the event is available in our media center.