Viral Utterances of Grief and Empathy: A Case Study of Two Major Moments of Social Shock in Bangladesh (2024–25)

In the modern era of accessible digital technology, certain spontaneous utterances of common folks, spoken in moments of distress, moral dilemma, or crisis, reach wide audiences through social media like Facebook and become viral expressions of collective emotion, grievance, or solidarity. This study examines how four viral utterances from two major moments of social shock in Bangladesh, which happened in July 2024 (student uprising regarding a political issue) and in 2025 (the Milestone School aircraft tragedy), became viral and transformed into symbols of social justice, human rights advocacy, and public consciousness. Using discourse analysis, cultural semiotics, and affect theory, the study analyzes how expressions such as “Pani lagbe, pani?”, “Why have you killed my son?” “They are my children too...” and “I knew you would come” became markers of moral courage, solidarity, and public grief. To complement the qualitative analysis, a short questionnaire was distributed among 86 university students to explore how these utterances were interpreted and how users perceive the role of Facebook in transforming private emotions into public symbols. Responses on a 5-point Likert scale reveal that participants overwhelmingly viewed these utterances as expressions of empathy, resistance to inequality, and calls for social justice rather than mere personal cries of distress. The findings demonstrate that viral speech acts in Bangladesh’s digital public sphere can mobilize emotional communities, amplify marginalized voices, and contribute to broader discourses on human rights and peacebuilding

Brazil’s Indigenous Peoples Articulation (BIPA) Statements on the EU–Mercosur FTA (2019–2025): Human and Environmental Security Implications

Drawing upon the decolonial approach within Peace Studies, this paper assesses human and environmental security issues identified in all statements adopted by Brazil's Indigenous Peoples Articulation (BIPA) and published on its webpage concerning the EU-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement. The five official statements issued by BIPA throughout the twenty-five-year negotiation period were located and analyzed, with all documents having been identified within the 2019–2025 period. Employing Content Analysis (CA), utilizing ATLAS.ti software, the paper is structured in two main parts. First, it establishes the decolonial theoretical framework, specifically the Indigenous perspective in Peace Studies, and contextualizes it within current struggles involving Indigenous peoples in Brazil. Second, it systemizes the coding results from the analyzed documents to identify potential implications. The central hypothesis posits that BIPA was predominantly opposed to the EU-Mercosur agreement, emphasizing in its discourse how the strengthening of economic sectors, such as agribusiness and mineral extraction, has the potential to undermine Indigenous land rights and the protection of environmental reserves. The findings reveal a consistently critical position toward the agreement, evidenced by the predominance of the Human and Environmental Security issues category, which accounted for 68 units out of the 117 multiple associations across all subcategories within the coded data. These findings highlight the academic debate on the agreement's potential to exacerbate human insecurity, threatening the livelihoods of Indigenous communities in Brazil

Echoes of Ahimsa: The Historical Roots of Indian Philosophy of Peace and Its Relevance in Present Times

The idea of Ahimsa (non-violence) has been a central theme in Indian thought and a key principle in building peace for centuries. This paper traces the historical journey of Ahimsa–from its early mentions in Vedic texts and the Upanishads to its more explicit expressions in Jainism, Buddhism, and the Bhagavad Gita. A significant turning point came during the rule of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. After the Kalinga War, his edicts promoted tolerance, social welfare, and nonviolent diplomacy, demonstrating how Ahimsa influenced governance and relations between states. In later centuries, the Bhakti and Sufi movements spread the message of non-violence and compassion in everyday life, encouraging harmony among diverse communities. In the modern period, Mahatma Gandhi gave Ahimsa a new meaning–as a way to resist injustice peacefully. His idea of Satyagraha not only guided India’s struggle for independence but also inspired global movements such as the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa. This paper examines how Ahimsa transcended religious and cultural boundaries to become a principle for resolving conflicts, preserving the environment, and promoting intercultural dialogue. It draws on methods from history, philosophy, political science, and peace studies to argue that Ahimsa offers a valuable approach to addressing today’s challenges–such as climate change, communal conflicts, and ethical concerns in emerging technologies. By revisiting these past moments, this study demonstrates that peace is not merely the absence of war; it is also the presence of harmony. It is an active process based on empathy, fairness, and shared responsibility. The Indian philosophy of Ahimsa still offers lessons for building fairer and more sustainable paths to peace in the 21st century

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Ocular Biometry for Cataract: A Systematic Review

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising tool in the modernization of ophthalmic practice, particularly in ocular biometrics for cataract surgery. This review explores how AI can optimize the accuracy and personalization of human eye biometrics, which are crucial for diagnosis, surgical planning success, and the reduction of intra- and postoperative complications. The research was conducted through a systematic review using the PRISMA methodology across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eight studies were included that met eligibility criteria, focusing on machine learning tools and other AI approaches. The results show that AI improves the prediction of biometric parameters, such as the power and position of intraocular lenses, in addition to identifying risk factors and optimizing resources, especially in contexts with limited infrastructure. AI-based models outperformed traditional methods, from advanced calculations to accessibility in remote regions. The review concludes that AI has transformative potential in ophthalmology, although challenges such as methodological validation, generalization, and ethical regulation remain. The study's implications include advancements in clinical practice and the need for public policies that promote the ethical and effective use of these technologies

Navigating Strategic Waters: Hydropolitical Disputes and Pathways to Peace in South Asia’s Indus and GangesBrahmaputra River Basins

South Asia’s Indus and Ganges-Brahmaputra river basins, vital for over 1.9 billion people across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, are flashpoints for hydropolitical conflicts driven by geopolitical tensions, competing water demands, and climate change. India’s 2025 suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) amid the Kashmir dispute has disrupted data-sharing and arbitration, escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Concurrently, India-Bangladesh disputes persist over the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty’s 2026 expiration, the unresolved Teesta River issue, and China’s upstream Brahmaputra damming. Secondary data from policy documents, diplomatic records (2015–2025), hydrological reports, and academic literature indicate that 68% of stakeholders support regional cooperation, yet mistrust and India’s upstream dominance hinder progress. Climate change, with glacial melt and erratic monsoons, exacerbates water insecurity. This study advocates for neutral mediation, data transparency, and climate-resilient governance, with targeted peacebuilding strategies for India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh, to transform conflicts into cooperative opportunities. Without urgent diplomatic efforts, these disputes pose a threat to regional stability. This study is primarily based on a thematic analysis approach and incorporates discourse where relevant. Drawing on scholarly insights, principal findings reveal the potential of environmental peacebuilding, joint data sharing, and regional platforms to transform water conflicts into opportunities for collaboration

Migration and Immobility in Afghanistan: Understanding Drivers, Consequences, and Their Implications for Peace

This study examines both processes of migration and immobility in Afghanistan by focusing on two groups: Afghans currently residing within the country and Afghan migrants living abroad in Türkiye, Australia, the United States, Pakistan, India, Kyrgyzstan, and France. Utilizing a quantitative methodology, a purposive snowball sampling strategy was employed; two separate 20-question surveys were developed to assess demographics, drivers of migration or immobility, and the resulting impacts on participants’ lives. The questionnaires were provided in English and Dari to maximize accessibility, and data were collected from 56 respondents aged 18 and above (n=34 residing in Afghanistan; n=22 residing abroad) during May and June of 2023. The study concludes that both migration and immobility significantly impact employment, income, social life, mental health, well-being, and access to public services, including healthcare, education, and legal services. Furthermore, migration and immobility influence the sending and receiving of remittances, the overall living situation of Afghans, and the broader prospects for peace. This study fills the gap in immobility literature within the context of Afghanistan and contributes to a deeper understanding of the drivers and consequences of population movement and its implications for peace. In light of the post-August 2021 migration wave, this study provides data for policymakers and academics in the fields of migration, immobility, and peace studies, while advocating for support for both migrants and those who remain in the country

Performance et limites des logiciels de traitement d’images satellitaires dans le contexte ouest-africain : une comparaison entre ENVI, ERDAS Imagine et Orfeo ToolBox (OTB)

Cet article présente une analyse comparative de trois logiciels majeurs de télédétection (ENVI, ERDAS Imagine et Orfeo ToolBox) utilisés pour la classification supervisée d’images satellitaires dans le cadre de la cartographie de l’occupation du sol et d’utilisation des terres. L’objectif est d’évaluer leurs performances respectives en tenant compte des approches méthodologiques, des fonctionnalités, ainsi que des avantages et limites de chaque outil au Mali. La méthodologie repose sur une double approche combinant une revue de la littérature et une analyse expérimentale basée sur le traitement d’images Landsat 8 OLI acquises en 2024 et appliquées à la commune de Doumanaba, dans la région de Sikasso (Mali). La classification supervisée a été réalisée à l’aide de l’algorithme du maximum de vraisemblance sous ENVI et ERDAS Imagine, et de l’algorithme Support Vector Machine (SVM) sous OTB. L’évaluation de la précision des résultats s’appuie sur les matrices de confusion, la précision globale et l’indice de Kappa. Les résultats mettent en évidence des différences significatives entre les logiciels. OTB se distingue par une meilleure discrimination des classes et une réduction des confusions spectrales, avec une précision globale de 0,94 et un indice de Kappa de 0,91, contre 0,89 et 0,87 pour ERDAS Imagine, et 0,87 et 0,85 pour ENVI. Bien que les trois outils produisent des résultats satisfaisants, OTB apparaît comme le plus performant dans le contexte étudié. Le choix du logiciel dépend des objectifs, des moyens disponibles et de l’expertise de l’utilisateur. OTB est une solution gratuite et efficace pour la cartographie thématique et la recherche scientifique.   This article presents a comparative analysis of three major remote sensing software packages (ENVI, ERDAS Imagine, and Orfeo ToolBox) used for supervised classification of satellite imagery in the context of land use and land cover mapping. The objective is to assess their respective performance by considering methodological approaches, functionalities, as well as the advantages and limitations of each tool. The methodology is based on a dual approach combining a literature review and an experimental analysis using Landsat 8 OLI imagery acquired in 2024 and applied to the municipality of Doumanaba in the Sikasso region (Mali). Supervised classification was carried out using the Maximum Likelihood algorithm in ENVI and ERDAS Imagine, and the Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm in OTB. Classification accuracy was evaluated using confusion matrices, overall accuracy, and the Kappa index. The results reveal significant differences among the software packages. OTB stands out for its superior class discrimination and reduced spectral confusion, achieving an overall accuracy of 0.94 and a Kappa index of 0.91, compared to 0.89 and 0.87 for ERDAS Imagine, and 0.87 and 0.85 for ENVI. Although all three tools produced satisfactory results, OTB proved to be the most effective in the study context. The choice of software depends on the objectives, available resources, and user expertise. OTB is a free and efficient solution for thematic mapping and scientific research

Distorted Values, Disturbed Minds? Who Are We Becoming Online? Digital Disorientation and the Quest for Inner Peace

In today’s hyper-digital environment, peace can no longer be reduced to the absence of physical conflict–it must also include the preservation of mental clarity, ethical orientation, and emotional stability. The study investigates the phenomenon of digital disorientation in Georgia, where rapid digitization, globalized media flows, and limited media literacy intersect to challenge individuals’ psychological resilience and moral coherence. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach that integrates 180 survey responses and 12 in-depth interviews, the study employs fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fs/QCA) to identify the configurations of digital behavior, emotional stress, and coping strategies that contribute to or protect from the erosion of peace of mind across generations. Findings reveal that high screen time, emotional overwhelm, and value confusion, particularly when combined with weak coping mechanisms, are consistently associated with reduced psychological stability. In contrast, the presence of deliberate coping strategies and a sense of ethical clarity mitigates digital overload, even among high-use individuals. Qualitative insights further highlight generational contrasts in media interpretation, emotional response, and moral negotiation. The research emphasizes the need to reconceptualize peacebuilding for the digital age–repositioning ethical clarity and psychological resilience as essential pillars of 21st-century peacebuilding

Obstacles à la réussite des infirmiers et sages‑femmes à la certification : Résultats d’une enquête et observation auprès de 3 écoles en Casamance naturelle (Sénégal)

Introduction: L’examen de certification organisé par le ministère de la Santé et de l’action sociale reste la seule voie d’obtention du diplôme d’infirmier ou de sage-femme d’état au Sénégal. Malgré la multiplication des écoles de formations cet examen connait de nos jours un très faible taux de réussite annuel de l’ordre de  moins de 5% au cours des dernières années. Pour tenter de comprendre les raisons de ce faible taux de réussite nous avons mené une enquête auprès de 3 écoles de formations dans la Casamance naturelle. Méthodes: Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective transversale de type descriptive deux mois après la proclamation des résultats de l’examen de certification des étudiants des sciences paramédicales (infirmiers et sages-femmes d’état) Cette étude s’est déroulée dans la Casamance naturelle au sein de 3 écoles de formation ou nous avons interrogé les étudiants les enseignants et l’administration.  Résultats: Les résultats de cette étude montrent que plusieurs facteurs expliquent le faible taux de réussite des étudiants infirmiers et sages-femmes des écoles de santé de la Casamance naturelle aux examens de certification. Parmi ceux-ci figurent l’insuffisance de la gestion pédagogique, le manque de matériel didactique, le manque d’enseignants permanents, le critère non rigoureux de recrutement des enseignants vacataires, l’insuffisance de l’encadrement des étudiants ainsi que la non évaluation des enseignements et les enseignants.  Conclusion: Au terme de ce travail de recherche, il ressort que le faible taux de réussite des étudiants en sciences infirmières et obstétricales à l’examen de certification dans les écoles de santé de la Casamance naturelle résulte d’un ensemble de facteurs interconnectés à savoir des insuffisances dans la qualité de l’encadrement pédagogique, le manque d’équipements et de matériel didactique, la non évaluation des enseignants ainsi que les critères de recrutement non rigoureux.   Introduction: The certification examination administered by the Ministry of Health and Social Action constitutes the sole pathway to obtaining the state diploma for nurses and midwives in Senegal. Despite the proliferation of training institutions, this examination has consistently demonstrated a remarkably low annual pass rate, falling below 5% in recent years. To investigate the determinants of this poor performance, a survey was conducted across three training schools in the Casamance region. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study was undertaken two months following the publication of the paramedical sciences certification examination results (for state-registered nurses and midwives). The study was conducted in three training institutions within the Casamance region, involving interviews with students, instructional staff, and  administrative personnel. Results: The findings indicate that the low pass rate among nursing and midwifery students from Casamance health training schools on the certification examination is multifactorial. Contributing elements include deficiencies in pedagogical management, a lack of teaching materials and equipment, an insufficient number of permanent faculty members, non-rigorous recruitment criteria for adjunct instructors, inadequate student supervision, and the absence of formal evaluation mechanisms for both teaching quality and instructor performance. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the low certification examination pass rate for nursing and midwifery students in Casamance health training schools stems from a constellation of interrelated factors. These encompass shortcomings in the quality of pedagogical supervision, a deficit of equipment and didactic resources, the lack of instructor evaluation, and non-stringent recruitment criteria for teaching staff

Cultural Values and Retail Investor Behavior under Market Volatility: A Cross-Country Panel Analysis (2002–2021)

This study examines how national culture influences financial market development and volatility across 18 countries from 2002 to 2021. Integrating Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, particularly Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI) and Individualism (IDV), with market indicators such as capitalization, trading volume, and turnover, the analysis explores how socio-cultural factors interact with global risk conditions measured by the VIX index. Using fixed-effects and dynamic panel regressions, the results show that higher individualism is associated with deeper and more liquid markets, while greater uncertainty avoidance constrains trading intensity but supports more stable capitalization. Global volatility negatively affects liquidity, yet its impact is moderated by cultural characteristics, with stronger effects observed in emerging economies. These findings highlight that financial development is not purely institutional or macroeconomic but also culturally embedded. The study underscores the importance of tailoring financial policies to societal norms to enhance market efficiency and resilience amid global uncertainty