The Impact of International Law on Bird Conservation

Over the past century, one of the international community’s primary objectives has been environmental conservation.[1] Through the power of international law, nations and international organizations have drafted and implemented agreements aimed at protecting the planet and its many inhabitants.[2] One subset of international environmental conservation, however, has received relatively little attention: bird conservation. The conservation … Read more

The Legality of the United Nations Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti

In October 2023, the United Nations (“UN”) Security Council authorized a Multinational Security Support (“MSS”) mission to Haiti in response to escalating gang violence, instability, and political turmoil in the country.[1] In order to understand the present crisis in Haiti, it is important to consider its long struggle with development. In January 2010, a 7.0-magnitude … Read more

Legal Protections for Climate-Displaced Populations in Small Island Nations

Small island nations such as Tuvalu and Kiribati face existential threats from rising sea levels, leading to forced displacement.[1] Unfortunately, current international legal frameworks fail to protect these climate-displaced populations adequately. The 1951 Refugee Convention does not recognize climate migrants, leaving island nations without clear resettlement pathways.[2] As climate change accelerates, rising sea levels threaten … Read more

Safe Streets or Shaky Standards? The Fallout of El Salvador’s ‘Mano Dura’ Policy

El Salvador—the smallest Central American country with a population of 6.8 million[1]—is known for its rich culture and tasty foods.[2] However, behind the peaceful volcanoes and landscape lie a slew of controversies that stem from President Nayib Bukele, who has recently been re-elected.[3] After a 2022 gang massacre—which left eighty-seven dead—President Bukele has ruled by … Read more