The Problem in Systems Change Work If you are fighting to change systems that keep us divided, living with inequity, and continuously being dehumanized, you need to accept that conflict will arise. It’s inevitable. After over 20 years of formal training in conflict resolution and practice, I’m gobsmacked by how many people… Continue reading Difficult Conversations: The Key to Systems Change
Author: Jo Rodrigues
The Cost of Gaslighting in Development and Aid Work
One of my first memories was around age 4, when my dad, born and raised in India and later immigrated to Canada, explained the British Empire’s colonization of India. I felt the injustice. Since then, I’ve been fighting for myself and other marginalized people to be seen as: human and deserving of… Continue reading The Cost of Gaslighting in Development and Aid Work
Advocacy Strategies for Forgotten Crises – Part 2
Last week, I shared what I discussed on a panel about ‘Forgotten’ Crises and Implications for Women, Peace, and Security. This is part two of that series, where I share my answers to two more questions: What kinds of advocacy strategies work, and what should we all be doing more of? While… Continue reading Advocacy Strategies for Forgotten Crises – Part 2
Why are some crises forgotten? Part 1
In 2025, I was on a panel to discuss ‘Forgotten’ Crises and Implications for Women, Peace, and Security. It was hosted by the Research Network on Women, Peace and Security in Canada. Below are my speaking points While I wasn’t able to cover all forgotten crises, I hope that the takeaways create conditions… Continue reading Why are some crises forgotten? Part 1
Shared Accountability?
Integral to any job is the ability to communicate when things are going well and when they are going badly. But communicating is hard. Especially when it comes to determining who is responsible for communicating feedback. When you don’t know, communication gaps occur, and this contributes to making workplaces toxic. Who’s… Continue reading Shared Accountability?
How to Implement Human Rights in Turbulent Times
Early this year, I spoke at a Symposium where the question, “How is Women, Peace and Security Being Taught? was asked. In attendance was an international group of academics, military and women’s civil society. To answer the question, I had to name our context. It’s one where: USAID was suddenly shut… Continue reading How to Implement Human Rights in Turbulent Times