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Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a UAV which measures an individual’s breathing and heart rate whilst flying 60 metres above them. The technology could help save lives during crises, but also has the potential to be weaponised by conflict actors (ABC).
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Mary Wareham of Human Rights Watch writes that comments from political leaders about not seeking to acquire fully autonomous weapons are not the same as a commitment to preventing fully autonomous weapons from being created and used. She argues that binding legislation is needed to help counteract the risks posed by AI in conflict (Human Rights Watch).
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Youtube is still deleting videos which may contain evidence of war crimes in Syria. The secrecy around Youtube’s algorithm for automatic deletions is making it more difficult for researchers and human rights advocates to catalogue and preserve evidence and to challenge deletions (Fast Company).
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3D printing is helping MSF Reconstructive Surgery Hospital in Jordan to meet the need for prosthetic limbs for Syrian refugees. The technology allows individually tailored prosthetics to be printed within 24 hours and at a fraction of the cost of conventional manufacturing processes. MSF began the trial in early 2017 (New Atlas, MSF).
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In recognition of International Women’s Day, Humanitarian Open StreetMap Team have listed ways volunteers can support women and girls through their work, from mapping in Tanzania to mentoring young female YouthMappers in Nigeria (Humanitarian Open StreetMap Team).
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The Open Technology Fund’s Usability Lab is adding new services to their catalogue of open source circumvention and digital security tools. The new additions include secure usability and UX consultations, usability testing, user research and assistance in developing style guides (Open Technology Fund).
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UN Global Pulse is trialling automated analysis of public radio discussions in Uganda. The Radio Content Analysis Tool can be used to complement conventional information collection methods (such as surveys or focus groups) for gauging community sentiments and important issues, and enhance early warning systems (UN Global Pulse Lab, Dispatch).
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Government-owned Yahsat and IEC Telecom Group have launched YahClick WiFi, a wifi service designed for NGOs in remote locations. The service is designed to be deployable within 24 hours, offers up to 16 Mbps and can be run off solar power or grip panels with battery back-up (SatelliteProMe).
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A researcher is attempting to not just transport food aid via drone, but to build a drone from food aid. Nigel Gifford wants to make a partially-edible drone which is also capable of carrying cargo (Forbes).
Thoughts, comments or something missing which you think should be on this list? Feel free to get in touch at contact[at]humanitech.news.
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