Book sheds light on global human rights

The U.S. could learn a lot from other countries when it comes to human rights, according to a new book by Alison Brysk, UC Irvine political science professor. In “Global Good Samaritans,” Brysk provides a comparative look at human rights practices around the world. Canada sits at the top of the list, partly due to its compassion toward refugees and generous foreign aid. The book praises Sweden and the Netherlands as historic leaders in human rights and highlights Japan and South Africa as up-and-coming promoters of human rights. Brysk discussed the book at the International Studies Association’s annual meeting Feb. 17 in New York.