AAAS Science and Human Rights Program

Geospatial Technologies and Human Rights

The AAAS Science and Human Rights Program, with funding from the MacArthur Foundation, the Oak Foundation, and the Open Society Institute, is working to expand the applications of geospatial technologies to human rights issues through its Geospatial Technologies and Human Rights Project. Geospatial technologies include a range of modern tools, such as satellite images, geographic information systems (GIS), and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) that allow for mapping and analysis of multiple layers of georeferenced data. Analysis of such data can provide critical information on the impact of remote, isolated conflicts on civilians, environmental and social justice issues, indigenous rights, and more. Geospatial technologies can broaden the ability of non-governmental organizations to rapidly gather, analyze, and disseminate authoritative information, especially during times of crisis. They can also provide compelling, visual proof to corroborate on-the-ground reporting of conflicts and natural disasters affecting human rights.

SHRP partners with other human rights organizations to provide them with technical assistance in using geospatial technologies to strengthen advocacy campaigns, support legal cases, and enhance response coordination and prevention efforts. A brief background document, "What can geospatial technologies do for the human rights community?" details how geospatial technologies may assist human rights work. This website provides descriptions of case studies, methods in use, and other geospatial technology resources for human rights organizations.

Madoua, Chad. © Copyright 2006 DigitalGlobe Inc. All rights reserved