Strengthening global integrity and ethics: UNODC finalizes series of new university modules under the Education for Justice initiative

Some 30 academics from across the globe recently gathered at the European Public Law Organization (EPLO) to finalize and sign-off on a new series of UNODC university modules, which will be launched as an online tool next month. The 14 modules, which are designed to be used by lecturers in any part of the world, aim to boost teaching around integrity and ethics. The gathering at the end of April was the second expert meeting dedicated to the modules, following an initial one also held at the ELPO in November 2017. The modules ultimately seek to enhance students' ethical awareness and commitment to acting with integrity, and equip them with the necessary skills to apply and spread these norms in life, work and society. 

Smuggling of migrants: a complex human and legal issue to be taught at university with new UNODC modules

In recent years, mainstream media has experienced a surge of coverage on large migration and refugee flows, ranging from reports on the risks migrants and refugees face throughout their journeys to reach safety, to the actual abuse and exploitation that some of them experience in transit and destination countries. The issue tends to provoke vivid discussions in political circles, social networks and other media platforms, but while awareness has arisen and opinions abound on the subject, there is little solid understanding of the different crimes experienced by migrants and refugees throughout their journeys.

Chuka, the unique video game empowering girls against gender violence

27 March 2018 - "Chuka, Break the Silence", one of UNODC's most innovative projects, was launched to great acclaim this month, in an event which gathered educational experts, game developers, psychologists and Government representatives in Mexico City's iconic Centre of Digital Culture.

The creative, bespoke video game helps young girls develop ways to respond to psychological, physical and sexual violence,  while raising boys' awareness and helping them recognize such situations. By playing as the character Chuka, a 13-year old female YouTuber and gamer who encounters haters and monsters in a nightmare, children learn to be assertive and to take actions which help them defeat various forms of gender-based violence.