UBC Reports | Vol. 49 | No. 4 | Apr. 3, 2003

kudos

Pitman Potter, professor of Law and director of the Institute of Asian Research, and a team of researchers from 12 universities in Canada, China, Japan, Australia and the United States have received nearly $2.5 million from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada to examine cultural factors that influence international law.

Potter will lead a research team of experts in anthropology, sociology, dispute resolution, commerce and law to compare how international human rights and trade laws are applied in Canada, China and Japan.

Potter believes that accommodating the needs and expectations of different cultures will help prevent disputes such as those over trade regulations put forward by the World Trade Organization or those related to human rights policies proposed by the United Nations. The research will also help guide Canadian decision-makers as they strive to address diverse cultural needs.

The International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy (ICCLR) at UBC has received $1.75 million over five years through the Canadian International Development Agency to implement international standards in China’s criminal justice system.

The ICCLR will work with its Chinese partner organizations to transfer knowledge about the application of international standards regarding criminal procedures, substantive criminal law and the administration of criminal justice to Chinese experts and officials. Activities will include training sessions, workshops, case studies and analysis.

ICCLR has carried out CIDA-supported work in China for the past seven years and has worked to promote the rule of law, making reforms to the administration of justice, establishing a legal aid system and enhancing human rights in China.

UBC’s Public Affairs Office and the Alumni Association received six awards at the 21st Annual Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District VIII Juried Awards competition.

The UBC 2002 “Some people think…” campaign took gold for best radio ad campaign while the 2002 Annual Report earned a bronze award. Trek magazine was honoured as best overall magazine and took silver for best article and bronze for design.

Telestudios’ Martin Dee received a bronze award for individual photography for his picture of HRH The Queen and UBC President Martha Piper, which appeared in the Oct. 10, 2002 volume of UBC Reports.