Ian Spears

Afghan women march to demand their rights under Taliban rule during a demonstration near the former Women’s Affairs Ministry building in Kabul. (AP Photo)

September 26, 2021

The U.S. occupation of Afghanistan was colonialism that prevented Afghan self‑determination

Ian Spears, University of Guelph

How can we reconcile competing claims that colonialism of any kind is detrimental with the view that Afghanistan has been failed by the West?

This sculpture in London commemorates Nelson Mandela, who set up the African National Congress’ armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), in 1961 when he lost hope that passive and non-violent resistance to the apartheid government would bear fruit. (Creative Commons)

November 8, 2017

Why conflict can be necessary to bring about justice

Ian Spears, University of Guelph

Seeking justice, not peace, in our world changes the conversation about conflict. Conflict has proven integral to achieving a more equitable and secure society.

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