Hello DU Study Abroad Blog,

This week, we have started taking our courses specific to our sects of interest. As I mentioned last week, I am interested in Human Rights and how it connects to International Development. We have received an introduction to Human Rights and how it is viewed internationally, especially through the United Nations. We have also visited a governmental organization that is working to consider the Land Rights of Indigenous People. We visited a photographer’s studio to learn about the conflict in the neighboring country of Myanmar. Hearing about the conflict helped us see how Human Rights can be violated on a daily basis without any consideration of humanity and with the drive of imperialism. Currently, we are in the most northern part of Thailand at the Thai/Myanmar border. It feels surreal considering the issues that run rampant in the neighboring country. Before we got to the border, we visited an indigenous migrant community and learned about how they work with the government to sustain their culture while observing the national government’s policies. It has been a tough week because of all the heavy information we’ve been absorbing. We are working through it though. It’s extremely fascinating. 

Best,

Namugga Nakayiza

This was journaled while I was abroad but due to limited internet access, I couldn’t post them at the exact moment. Recorded on 10/13/23.