Abstract

Satellite image analysis for human rights: monitor, document, prevent
Track: Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Affairs
Authors: Einar Bjorgo

In recent years there has been a significant increase in the use of GIS and satellite imagery for human rights applications. With this technology now becoming more accessible to NGOs and activist groups, a new landscape is evolving. Access to free and commercial satellite imagery brings new possibilities to document facts that can be used for advocacy as well as in an operational context to help protect and respect human rights globally. This paper illustrates how UNOSAT, the Operational Satellite Applications Programme of UNITAR, is working in support to UN sister agencies and NGOs by delivering timely satellite image derived analysis related to human rights. The goal of this work is to monitor and document human rights violations while assisting advocacy efforts that can mitigate harm and ultimately help prevent such violations. Practical examples from several recent cases are presented in the paper.