ECFR ON AIR

Jessica Hendrick welcomes Luka Filipović and Igor Bandović to discuss Serbia’s student-led protests and the limits of democracy promotion in the Western Balkans.This week on The Neighborhood, Jessica Hendrick is joined by Luka Filipović, research associate at the Institute for Contemporary History in Belgrade and co-author of the Re-Engage paper on Serbia, and Igor Bandović, director of the Belgrade Centre for Security Policy. Together they unpack how a deadly infrastructure collapse in Novi Sad ignited the country’s largest protest movement in decades, why horizontal trust in society is rising while vertical trust in institutions has collapsed, and what Serbia’s experience reveals about hybrid governance, geopolitical balancing, and Europe’s approach to enlargement.How has the gap between informal social solidarity and institutional legitimacy sustained Serbia’s hybrid regime? Why might the student movement’s leaderless strength ultimately limit its ability to deliver institutional change? What does “geopolitical shopping” tell us about Belgrade’s dealings with Brussels, Moscow, Beijing and Washington? And as debate intensifies over possible snap elections, what would it take for the ballot box to become a genuine pathway out of crisis rather than another episode within it? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of ECFR’s WOMENP podcast, Ellie Geranmayeh is joined by three leading Lebanese voices— Alia Moubayed, senior economist; Randa Slim, Middle East Programme director at the Stimson Center; and Maha Yahya, director of the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut—to unpack the consequences of a trilateral framework deal signed by Israel, the US and Lebanon.Lebanon is among the countries most impacted by America and Israel’s war against Iran. Following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Hezbollah resumed direct attacks against Israel in March, plunging the country back into conflict. Around 4,000 people in Lebanon have since been killed and over a million displaced, with Israeli ground forces now occupying parts of south Lebanon.In June, Israel, the US and Lebanon signed a historic—and controversial—trilateral framework deal, with the parties meeting again in July to discuss the implementation phase, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied parts of Lebanon. But with a ceasefire between the US and Iran unravelling, the durability of the Lebanon deal is unclear. Together, Ellie, Rania, Alia and Randa discuss whether the deal can bring lasting peace to Lebanon and how international players can support efforts to stabilise the country.Listen to all past episodes of ECFR’s WOMENP series.This podcast was recorded on July 16th, 2026.Bookshelf:The Best Kind of American: A True Story of Murder, War, and America's Undoing in the Middle East by Kim GhattasBeirut Blues by Hanan Al-ShaykhA House of Many Mansions: The History of Lebanon Reconsidered by Kamal Salibi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A seismic shift in Europe's outlook on Ukraine reveals a complex web of diplomacy, resilience, and strategic ambiguity. As the Ukraine conflict enters its fifth year, the question isn't just about battlefield gains—it's about what comes next. Are European leaders ready to explore backchannel talks, or is open negotiation still a distant dream? If you've been wondering how Europe is balancing steadfast support with cautious diplomacy, this episode sheds light on the subtle art of engaging with a most unpredictable adversary—the Kremlin.In this four episode series, Making Defence European Again, four of our ECFR fellows discuss analysis and advice on the future of European security.You’ll discover how Ukraine’s resilience on the battlefield is reshaping European support, why the EU and US are recalibrating their military and diplomatic strategies, and the nuanced debates over talking to Russia—whether at the top-level or through discreet channels. We break down the shifting political landscape, where the stability of Ukraine is increasingly viewed as vital for Europe’s security, yet public appetite for full EU integration remains cautious. Understand why economic sanctions, military aid, and behind-the-scenes negotiations are all part of the evolving chess game.This episode dives into the stakes of continued conflict, the risks of diplomacy now vs. waiting for a weaker Russia, and the broader implications for European security architecture. With expert insights on the internal politics of France, Germany, the UK, and Ukraine, you’ll learn why strategic patience could transform the future of this devastating war—and Europe’s place within it.The war in Ukraine shows that long-term resilience matters more than quick battlefield gains.Informal diplomatic signals can test an adversary’s willingness to de-escalate without making concessions.We discuss:▶︎Refusing all dialogue can strengthen an enemy’s narrative, while quiet diplomacy can preserve unity.▶︎The timing of negotiations matters less than having a clear purpose and strategy.▶︎European unity on Ukraine depends more on political will than on public consensus.Don’t miss the inside story on why the next moves could define the future of European stability—and how understanding the intricate diplomacy behind the scenes might just be your key to predicting what’s coming. Stay informed, stay prepared, and see beyond the headlines.2026 © A production from the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) This work was supported in part by a grant from the Open Society Foundations.☛ Resources & Links:Making defence European again – European Council on Foreign RelationsWhat the Iran war means for Ukraine – European Council on Foreign Relations☛ Speakers:★ Jana Kobzová, Co-director, European Security Programme, Senior Policy Fellow Jana Kobzová – European Council on Foreign Relations★ Paweł Zerka, Senior Policy Fellow Paweł Zerka – European Council on Foreign Relations ★ Marta Prochwicz Jazowska, Deputy Head, Warsaw Office, Policy Fellow Marta Prochwicz Jazowska – European Council on Foreign Relations★ Célia Belin, Head, ECFR Paris, Senior Policy FellowCélia Belin – European Council on Foreign RelationsThis discussion provides a comprehensive overview of the strategic challenges faced by Europe and actionable ideas for enhancing its security sovereignty amidst a complex geopolitical environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe stands at a pivotal moment in its security future — public support is higher than ever for investing in defence, yet deep challenges threaten to undermine that momentum. Are European leaders ready to capitalise on this rare window of opportunity before elections, economic crises, and geopolitical tensions redirect attention elsewhere?In this four episode series, Making Defence European Again, four of our ECFR fellows discuss analysis and advice on the future of European security.In this eye-opening episode, we explore the paradox of European defence: while polls show Europeans desire greater security and support increased military spending, lingering doubts, economic worries, and electoral fears complicate the path forward. Pawel, a polling expert at the European Council on Foreign Relations, reveals how recent shifts in public opinion—from wariness of the US to a cautious optimism about Europe—offer a strategic moment for leaders to push bold defence reforms.You'll discover:▶︎The surprising data showing Europeans simultaneously distrust the US and believe in their own collective security.▶︎Why Europe's perception of threats varies dramatically across countries—and how this influences their willingness to invest more in defense.▶︎How recent geopolitical turmoil — from Trump's threats to Russia's hybrid threats — has shifted public sentiment.Why this summer is critical: a rare alignment of public support, political will, and geopolitical urgency.▶︎The massive reforms needed for Europe to genuinely "make defence European again," including conscription and institutional changes.But missing this opportunity could have lasting consequences. Without decisive action, European nations risk squandering their mandate for stronger security in the face of rising threats and increasing electoral uncertainty. The stakes are high: innovate now, or fall behind in a world where only powerful, cohesive European defence can ensure stability.Perfect for policymakers, security enthusiasts, and anyone invested in Europe's future — this episode offers a strategic roadmap for turning public support into concrete, lasting change before the window closes.Join us to uncover how Europe’s moment for defence reform could be game-changing — if leaders step up.2026 © A production from the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) This work was supported in part by a grant from the Open Society Foundations.☛ Resources & Links:Home alone: Europeans are ready to defend themselves – European Council on Foreign RelationsMaking defence European again – European Council on Foreign Relations☛ Speakers:★ Paweł Zerka, Senior Policy Fellow Paweł Zerka – European Council on Foreign Relations ★ Marta Prochwicz Jazowska, Deputy Head, Warsaw Office, Policy FellowMarta Prochwicz Jazowska – European Council on Foreign Relations★ Jana Kobzová, Co-director, European Security Programme, Senior Policy FellowJana Kobzová – European Council on Foreign Relations★ Célia Belin, Head, ECFR Paris, Senior Policy FellowCélia Belin – European Council on Foreign RelationsThis discussion provides a comprehensive overview of the strategic challenges faced by Europe and actionable ideas for enhancing its security sovereignty amidst a complex geopolitical environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the current state of European security, NATO's future, and the evolving role of the United States in protecting Europe. Experts from the European Council on Foreign Relations share their perspectives on threats, alliances, and strategic autonomy.In this four episode series, Making Defence European Again, four of our ECFR fellows discuss analysis and advice on the future of European security.Key topics discussed:▶︎The shifting US military presence in Europe and implications for NATO▶︎ The significance of Article 5 and European dependence on American capabilities▶︎ How Poland and other Eastern European countries are strengthening their military posture▶︎ The risks and opportunities of transforming European security architecture▶︎ The impact of American political unpredictability, especially under Donald Trump▶︎ The role of European Union and bilateral treaties in defense cooperation▶︎ Assessing whether Europeans can rely on NATO and how to enhance sovereignty▶︎ Recommendations for Europe to develop its own strategic defense capabilities2026 © A production from the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) This work was supported in part by a grant from the Open Society Foundations.☛ Resources & Links:https://ecfr.eu/publication/making-de...https://ecfr.eu/article/hold-the-line...☛ Speakers:★ Marta Prochwicz Jazowska, Deputy Head, Warsaw Office, Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/marta-prochwi...★ Jana Kobzová, Co-director, European Security Programme, Senior Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/jana_kobzova/★ Célia Belin, Head, ECFR Paris, Senior Policy Fellowhttps://ecfr.eu/profile/celia-belin/★ Paweł Zerka, Senior Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/pawel_zerka/ This discussion provides a comprehensive overview of the strategic challenges faced by Europe and actionable ideas for enhancing its security sovereignty amidst a complex geopolitical environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The future of Europe may be shaping up to look very different—and far more unpredictable. As France stands on the brink of a potentially historic election, experts reveal the high stakes and hidden risks that could reshape European unity, security, and global influence. If a far-right candidate like Jordan Bardella or Marine Le Pen takes power, what does that mean for NATO, European integration, and the continent’s strategic autonomy?In this four episode series, Making Defence European Again, four of our ECFR fellows discuss analysis and advice on the future of European security.In this episode, we dive deep into France's evolving political landscape amid rising nationalism, dissect the long-term implications for EU cohesion, and explore what Europe's neighbors should be preparing for. You'll learn how internal struggles within France could fragment alliances, weaken shared defenses, and upend the delicate balance of trust and cooperation—raising urgent questions for every European nation.We break down:▶︎The shifting sands of France’s presidential race and how elections historically alter European stability▶︎Why a far-right government might pursue a more unilateral foreign policy and “renegotiate” its role in NATO and EU defense▶︎How French electoral mechanics and public sentiment set the stage for a potential radical left-right showdown▶︎The implications of France’s domestic economic strains on its foreign policy priorities▶︎What European allies can do—early engagement, diplomacy, or containment—to mitigate unpredictable outcomesThis episode is essential watching if you’re concerned about the future of European security, the stability of NATO, or whether nationalism will tip the continent into new uncertainties. Whether you're a policy enthusiast, a security analyst, or simply curious about how France’s political shifts could echo across borders—you’ll find critical insights and a sobering look at what’s at stake.With expert insights from fellows tracking European politics, and strategic analysis from insiders who understand France’s complex journey—this conversation illuminates the risks, opportunities, and critical decisions that could shape Europe’s next chapter.Are we heading toward a more divided and isolated Europe? Or can early diplomacy and strategic foresight turn the tide? Tune in to find out—because what happens in France could determine Europe's future for decades to come.2026 © A production from the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) This work was supported in part by a grant from the Open Society Foundations.☛ Resources & Links:https://ecfr.eu/publication/if-bardel...https://ecfr.eu/publication/making-de...☛ Speakers:★ Célia Belin, Head, ECFR Paris, Senior Policy Fellowhttps://ecfr.eu/profile/celia-belin/★ Marta Prochwicz Jazowska, Deputy Head, Warsaw Office, Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/marta-prochwi...★ Jana Kobzová, Co-director, European Security Programme, Senior Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/jana_kobzova/★ Paweł Zerka, Senior Policy Fellow https://ecfr.eu/profile/pawel_zerka/ This discussion provides a comprehensive overview of the strategic challenges faced by Europe and actionable ideas for enhancing its security sovereignty amidst a complex geopolitical environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moldova is often held up as an EU enlargement success story. Beneath the reform headlines lies a country shaped by decades of economic pressure, Russian interference—and politics driven as much by survival as ideology.Jessica Hendrick speaks with Dumitru Alaiba, Moldova’s former deputy prime minister and minister of economic development and digitalisation, and Maia Machavariani, director of programmes at the Eastern European Centre for Multiparty Democracy working on the RE-ENGAGE project. Alaiba argues that Moldova is proof that “Russia can lose” after its repeated failed attempts to derail the country’s European trajectory. At the same time, RE-ENGAGE research reveals a gap: Moldovans still trust informal networks more than the state itself.Drawing on this, and Alaiba’s experience governing through war, energy blackmail, inflation and political destabilisation, Jessica, Maia and Dumitru discuss Moldova’s “final divorce from Moscow”, the stakes behind this weekend’s local election and what Moldova’s chairing of the Council of Europe reveals about Europe’s wider battle against disinformation and democratic backsliding.Why did Russia fail to derail Moldova’s recent election? What happens when citizens trust personal networks more than state institutions? And can EU-backed reforms build long-term democratic resilience in the country? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jessica Hendrick welcomes Sophie Gueudet, research fellow at the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies working on the RE-ENGAGE project, and Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, Ukrainian member of parliament and chair of the Parliamentary Committee on EU Integration to explore how external crises and internal fractures—from oil price surges triggered by the Iran conflict to Hungary’s veto politics inside the EU—are testing paths to accession.Drawing on RE-ENGAGE’s four-scenario framework, the conversation examines whether Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine are moving toward deeper integration, or drifting into fragmentation and uncertainty.Jessica, Sophie and Ms. Klympush-Tsintsadze explore how energy shocks, political divisions and stalled EU decision-making are reshaping regional trust, resilience and strategic direction. As pressures mount, the credibility of the enlargement process—and the EU’s role as a geopolitical anchor—is being called into question.What signals should Europe be watching for to understand where the region is heading? At what point do repeated crises stop being temporary disruptions and start reshaping the system itself? And if trust in the EU’s enlargement process erodes, who—or what—steps in to fill that gap?Further reading:RE-ENGAGE Eastern Europe Strategic ForecastRE-ENGAGE country case study on GeorgiaRE-ENGAGE country case study on MoldovaThis podcast was recorded on March 30th 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yemen is once again in a shifting geopolitical landscape: amid the increasing risk of military conflict between the US and Iran, rising tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and mounting instability across the Red Sea. In this episode of the WOMENP podcast, ECFR visiting fellow Cinzia Bianco welcomes Yasmeen Al-Eryani, co-executive director, knowledge production at the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies and Maysaa Shuja al-Deen, senior researcher at the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies. Together, they unpack what these developments mean for Yemen’s fragile political trajectory and wider regional security, and their key implications for Europe. The discussion explores how mounting instability can be contained and what the international community can do to strengthen legitimate governance structures in Yemen—thereby reviving a credible political process. Listen to all past episodes of the WOMENP series.  This podcast was recorded on February 25th 2026.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of ECFR’s WOMENP podcast, Ellie Geranmayeh welcomes Aslı Aydıntaşbaş, associate senior policy follow at ECFR, Dina Esfandiary, Middle East geoeconomics lead at Bloomberg Economics and Yasmine Farouk, Gulf and Arabian Peninsula project director at International Crisis Group, to discuss regional perspectives around the current turmoil in Iran, following deadly protests and growing calls for US military intervention. What can be expected from the US military build up in the Middle East and the revival of Iran-US talks in Oman? What is Turkey’s position? And how likely is it that Arab Gulf powers can prevent a new war in the region? Listen to all past episodes of the WOMENP series.This podcast was recorded on February 9th 2026.  Must-read and must-see items suggested by experts: “What Iran’s Dead Loved and Fought For” by Arash AziziIran protests coverage (Washington Post) by Nilo Tabrizy, Yeganeh Torbati, Meg Kelly, Imogen Piper, Asal Abasian“The Fall of the House of Assad” by Robert F. WorthThe Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran DesaiTaraneh: A Documentary by Directed by Pegah Ahangarani Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the EU’s enlargement debate, attention usually centres on Brussels—legal benchmarks, progress reports and diplomatic bargaining. But in countries hoping to join the bloc, politics is often decided via informal power networks, fragile institutions and the everyday effort of navigating uncertainty. This week, The Neighbourhood shifts from the top-down to the ground level as Jessica Hendrick speaks with Morten Bøås, research professor at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI), who is leading RE-ENGAGE’s comparative fieldwork across Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Serbia and Ukraine. Together, they take listeners behind the scenes of how the project gathers original data in places shaped by war, protest and political pressure. Methods range from training local university students to conduct trust surveys to vignette experiments that test how citizens respond to crises and competing external “relief packages” from China, the EU, Russia and Turkey. What do early findings reveal? What does “trust” really look like in a hybrid regime? How can the EU design programmes that people actually feel, rather than reforms they never see? And what should Brussels learn about democracy promotion to avoid repeating past mistakes?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellie Geranmayeh speaks with Syrian minister Hind Kabawat about the country’s turbulent first year after Assad, the challenges ahead, and her push to bring more women into leadership during Syria’s reconstruction.In the latest episode of the WOMENP podcast series, Ellie Geranmayeh welcomes Hind Kabawat, Syria’s minister of social affairs and labour. Almost a year after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, the new government faces both transformational opportunities and serious challenges. Syria’s once-notorious political prisons have been shut down, a preliminary national dialogue has begun, elections have been held, and the country has secured unprecedented sanctions relief. Yet major setbacks remain: the economy is under severe strain, and violent clashes have erupted between armed groups and government forces, as well as with Israel.In this episode, we discuss where Syria stands after the turbulent events of the past year. What are the country’s most urgent priorities for achieving meaningful stability? How are regional and global powers shaping Syria’s immediate future, and what does the new government expect from Europe? As the only female minister in the current cabinet, Kabawat also reflects on her drive to bring more women into positions of power as Syria rebuilds.Listen to all past episodes of the WOMENP series here: WOMENP special websiteBookshelf:The Enemy Syrians by Fawaz HaddadMa' Yarweeha (No Water to quench their Thirst), by Najat Abdul Samad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s controversial 28-point plan to end the war in Ukraine has rattled Western capitals and could jeopardise Ukraine’s sovereignty. In this episode of Ukraine inside out, Leo Litra and Lesia Ogryzko are joined by Eric Ciaramella, senior fellow in the Russia and Eurasia programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Jana Kobzova, co-director of ECFR’s European Security programme, to discuss the development and its implications.What are the potential consequences of the proposed plan, and do Ukraine and Europe still hold any leverage? What are the risks of considering European security as a mere transactional deal? And how might credible security guarantees for Ukraine look like if NATO membership is off the table?Tune in for an insightful conversation that uncovers the intricate balance of power, explores potential avenues to prevent a bad deal, and explains what it all means for the future of Ukraine and Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The Neighbourhood shifts from the “why” of enlargement to the “how”—specifically, how reforms are unfolding on the ground and what drives progress or stagnation. The 2025 Enlargement Package presents a mixed picture: Ukraine and Moldova are racing ahead, while Serbia and Georgia are lagging. The EU itself is struggling with internal divisions and reform fatigue.Jessica is joined by Tiago Antunes, senior policy fellow with ECFR’s European Power programme, Leo Litra, visiting fellow at ECFR and senior fellow at Kyiv’s New Europe Center and Engjellushe Morina, senior policy fellow with ECFR’s European Security programme. Together, they discuss what this year’s enlargement report says about political will, institutional resilience and the everyday impact of enlargement.How can the EU make conditionality more credible? Are EU reforms changing behaviour in governments, institutions and people’s lives? And how can Brussels keep the reform energy alive?This episode was recorded on November 12th 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ukraine’s battlefield has transformed since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022: from hobby quadcopters to drone and robot units in almost every brigade. In this episode, Lesia Ogryzko and Leo Litra speak with Lyuba Shupovich, CEO and co-founder of Dignitas Fund, and Gustav Gressel, a former ECFR senior policy fellow. Together, they discuss how technology, like drone and electronic warfare, is redefining military tactics—and what Europe can learn, having faced several Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace.What would a multi-layered, cost-effective air defence against drones look like? How quickly can Ukraine train NATO countries? And how can both Europe and Ukraine fix their financing gaps to reduce their dependency on Chinese components?This episode was recorded on September 24th 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Leo Litra and Lesia Ogryzko welcome Élie Tenenbaum, director of the Security Studies Center at the French Institute for International Relations, and Oleksandr Sushko, executive director of the International Renaissance Foundation in Kyiv and long-time observer of Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic integration, to explore if—and what—the recent NATO summit delivered for Ukraine. The gathering in The Hague reignited debates about the alliance’s future—and whether its European pillar is finally stepping into a leadership role. And, with Ukraine’s full NATO membership still out of reach, the country continues to seek strong security guarantees and deeper integration with Western defence structures.Can a “coalition of the willing” can fill the gap? How can Kyiv position itself in a rapidly evolving transatlantic landscape? And what does Europe assuming more responsibility for its own security mean for Ukraine?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amid much speculation surrounding Ukraine’s future—including ceasefires, peace talks and broader geopolitical shifts—ECFR has launched a new podcast mini-series that brings Ukrainian perspectives to the forefront.  In this opening episode, hosts  and Lesia Ogryzkowelcome Fredrik Wesslau, distinguished policy fellow at the Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies, and Volodymyr Yermolenko, editor-in-chief of UkraineWorld and president of PEN Ukraine, to explore the roots and evolution of Ukraine’s remarkable societal resilience. Together, they unpack how Ukrainian society has adapted, how global developments—from the return of Dondald Trump to attempts at peace talks—are perceived on the ground, and what the rest of Europe can learn from Ukraine’s experience. How did Ukraine remain so strong in the face of a full-scale invasion? What enabled Ukraine’s whole-of-society resistance? And what sustains Ukraine, over three years on? This episode was recorded on June 20th 2025  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of the WOMENP podcast series, Ellie Geranmayeh welcomes Dina Esfandiary, Middle East geoeconomics lead at Bloomberg; Yasmine Farouk, Gulf and Arabian Peninsula project director at International Crisis Group; and Dania Thafer, executive director at the Gulf International Forum. Together, they discuss how Arab Gulf monarchies used Trump’s latest visit to demonstrate their regional leverage—for example, Saudi Arabia leader Mohammad bin Salman emerged as a clear mover and shaker in brokering a historic meeting on Syria.But did Saudi Arabia also make gains on the Palestine-Israel conflict? What are Qatar’s expectations as regional mediator on both the Gaza conflict and the Iran file? And how are Arab Gulf monarchies seeking to influence Trump on his deal-making attempts with Iran? Listen to all past episodes of the WOMENP series here: WOMENP special website BookshelfDesert Kingdoms to Global Powers New Order in the Gulf: The Rise of the UAEAtlas of AI: Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial IntelligenceOur Women on the Ground: Essays by Arab Women Reporting from the Arab WorldLove Stories on Al-Asha Street Pieces in motion: Rebalancing power in a new Levantine order Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the WOMENP podcast series, ECFR’s Ellie Geranmayeh speaks with Dr. Manal Radwan, advisor to the Saudi foreign minister and long serving diplomat. Together they unpack the impact of Donald Trump’s election for the wars in the Middle East and considers how Riyadh will position itself. Will the kingdom be able to push for a ceasefire in Gaza? What's the end game in Lebanon? Can the normalisation track between Saudi Arabia and Iran continue under Trump? And what are Riyadh's priorities for its bilateral security partnership with the US? Radwan also shares her reflections on her decades of engagement with peace negotiations in the region. Bookshelf Radwa Ashour Grenada TrilogyMornings in Jenin The book smuggler Ibn Arabi Small Death  WOMENP special website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But political and geopolitical challenges, as well as the covid-19 pandemic, have diminished Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard, Janka Oertel, and Alicja Bachulska try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on the topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans.  --   In this episode we are joined by Yan Xuetong, director of the Institute of International Studies at Tsinghua University and one of the world’s most renowned scholars on realism in international relations, to discuss the trajectory of the international order and China’s response to it. What do Chinese leaders mean when they talk about “great changes unseen in a century”? How might China respond to the US strategy of “small yard, high fence”? And what is the role of populism in the emerging global order?  The Essence of Interstate Leadership: Debating Moral Realism edited by Yan Xuetong and Fang Yuanyuan Leadership and the Rise of Great Powers by Yan Xuetong   This podcast was recorded on 16 April 2024.     Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe’s Africa policy was greatly affected by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, especially as energy and food supply became weaponised as a Russian tool of aggression. In response, stronger bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation is needed between African organisations and countries and Western actors. Both parties should continue to accelerate existing objectives, like the 2030 Agenda, debt, sustainable development, health security, energy independence, political instability, and democracy and human rights. All these priorities, if well implemented through the G7 mandate, could also help Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni to finally succeed in tackling migration through a multilateral approach rather than a purely domestic one.  In this episode, Elisabeth Sidiropoulos, chief executive of the South African Institute for International Affairs, and Maddalena Procopio, senior policy fellow at ECFR’s Africa programme, discuss how Meloni could advance her policy ideas on Africa through the G7 presidency.This podcast was recorded on 30 May 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

xThe green transition requires massive investments in energy, digital, and transport connectivity to fill the gap in developing countries. At the same time, infrastructure projects are becoming weaponised by rival powers seeking to extend their influence abroad through the construction of railways, undersea cables, or renewable energy plants. China has been the pioneer in this effort, through its massive investment plan, the Belt and Road Initiative. The G7, conscious of the necessity to answer China’s infrastructural offensive and to mend ties with the global south, has launched the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investments. Italy, as G7 president, aims to be a bridge builder – literally and metaphorically – and is developing routes alternative to those sponsored by China. In this episode, Alberto Rizzi, policy fellow at ECFR and author of the recent report on the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, and Mohammed Soliman, director of the strategic technologies and cyber security programme at the Middle East Institute, discuss the importance of infrastructures and connectivity in the current fragmented global order.This podcast was recorded on 16 May 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rise of AI has shaken national debates on regulations and security, pushed the European Union towards an unprecedent legislative measure, the AI Act, and driven competition between great and emerging powers. AI had also the potential to be a pandora’s box for new risks and challenges, especially amid the unstable geopolitical environment. Based on the results of the Hiroshima AI process, the final declaration on AI from Japan’s G7 presidency, prime minister Giorgia Meloni has prioritised the issue of AI in Italy’s 2024 presidency.In this episode of our ‘Meloni goes multilateral’ podcast series, Maria Rosaria Taddeo, professor of digital ethics and defence technologies, programme director at the Oxford Internet Institute, and ethics fellow at the Alan Turing Institute, together with Gabriele Carrer, journalist and former ECFR visiting fellow, discuss how to tackle such challenges.This podcast was recorded on 3 June 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two years into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the international community remains deeply divided on how to react to Putin’s aggression. Disagreements have characterised the European position, prompting strong criticism about the European Union’s incapacity to react, act, and lead with a strong and united position. In the United States, measures to support Ukraine have also been blocked because of bipartisan division; China still sends weapons-related exports to Russia; and many countries take strong pro-Russia positions. Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni’s support to Ukraine has surprised many observers who did not believe in her commitment to a free and sovereign Ukraine. As the war becomes one of attrition, she should use her G7 presidency to harmonise and expand its role, not only in condemning Russia, but also on supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction.In this episode, Arturo Varvelli, who heads the Rome office at ECFR, and Lesia Ogryzko, an ECFR visiting fellow and head of the International Cooperation Department of the RISE Ukraine Coalition and a fellow at the Centre for Defence Strategies, discuss what to expect from Meloni on support to Ukraine.This podcast was recorded on 9 May 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How has the war impacted the way Russians think about their identity and their future? Are some signs of major change already visible? What are the possible scenarios for change and what would trigger them?ECFR’s podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, explores the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To explore how the war has transformed Russia's society and political culture and outline possible scenarios for its medium to long term political trajectory, our host Kadri Liik is joined by ECFR visiting fellows Mikhail Komin, Ksenia Luchenko, and Kirill Shamiev.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But political and geopolitical challenges, as well as the covid-19 pandemic, have diminished Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard and Janka Oertel try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on the topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans. --  In this episode, we are joined by Angela Zhang, associate professor of law at the University of Hong Kong and director of the Philip K.H. Wong Centre for Chinese Law, to discuss China’s big tech regulation. Angela talks us through big tech companies’ far from frictionless relationship with the Chinese state. How is China regulating its big tech firms? What role do these firms play in China’s competition with Europe and the United States? And what are the lessons for Europe’s own attempts at tech regulation? High Wire: How China Regulates Big Tech and Governs Its Economy by Angela Zhang  Wuhan: How the COVID-19 Outbreak in China Spiraled Out of Control, by Dali L. Yang This podcast was recorded on 21 May 2024.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we understand current-day Russia against the background of history? Is the monopolisation of power and lack of checks and balances on a level unique to Russia? Was Russia’s foreign policy trajectory predestined and if not, what were the crucial turning points that brought it to where it is today? And is Russian foreign policy changing irreversibly?   ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, explores the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To look at the history of Russia’s foreign policy and what its future might be, our host Kadri Liik is joined by ECFR visiting fellow Kirill Shamiev and Sergey Radchenko, Wilson E. Schmidt distinguished professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In September 2024, the United Nation’s Summit of the Future is set to take place – a crucial moment to mend “eroded trust” between peoples, countries, and generations. Europe's role on the world stage is constantly adapting to the fluidity of the global geopolitical space. Traditional views of multilateralism are being rethought, and Europe is exploring its role in fostering meaningful international cooperation on many global issues.  In this final episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Richard Gowan, UN director at the International Crisis Group and Arancha González Laya, former Spanish foreign minister and current dean of the Science Po Paris School of International Affairs. They revisit previous discussions of the Europe Listens series and, looking ahead, ask how the European Union can continue playing a meaningful role on the global stage. This podcast was recorded on 19 March 2024. Other episodes of this show: Europe Listens – seasons 1-3 Further reading: Pact for the Future: Zero draft by Germany and Namibia as co-facilitators of the UN Summit of the Future Multilateral values: European ideals under pressure by Richard Gowan How the World Lost Faith in the UN by Richard Gowan Trump-proofing Europe: How the continent can prepare for American abandonment by Arancha González Laya et al. Multilateral Matchmaker by Carla Hobbs, Rafael Loss, Jana Puglierin, and Pawel Zerka  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To achieve the ambitions of the European Green Deal, the European Commission insists that healthy oceans and a sustainable maritime economy are crucial. With rising demand for minerals from various sectors, including to advance the green transformation, many expect we are on the brink of the biggest gold rush in history – deep beneath the ocean surface. In this episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Pradeep Singh, environmental lawyer and fellow at the Research Institute for Sustainability in Potsdam. What are the key resources in the seabed? Is deep seabed mining more of an opportunity or a risk? How can the European Union and its global partners help to guard against the known and unknown dangers of deep seabed mining?  This podcast was recorded on 4 March 2024. Other episodes of this season: Episode 1: Protecting the high seas with Essam Yassin MohammedFurther reading: The European Union and seabed mining by Pradeep A. Singh, Virginie Tassin Campanella, and Frank Maes A “deadline” expires: Quo Vadis, International Seabed Authority? By Pradeep Singh The country with nothing left to lose by Christina Lu Resolution on Norway’s recent decision to advance seabed mining in the Arctic by the European Parliament  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Around 70 per cent of our planet is covered by the ocean, of which two-thirds fall beyond national jurisdiction. After decades of discussions and negotiations, states adopted the so-called High Seas Treaty in September 2023. The treaty aims to increase the governance of the world’s oceans and tackle common challenges such as environmental degradation, illegal fishing, and preserving our marine resources sustainably.   To kick off the third season of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Essam Yassin Mohammed, director general of WorldFish and senior director of aquatic food at CGIAR, a global partnership that unites international organisations engaged in research about food security. What are the most pressing challenges when navigating the realm of ocean governance? What other developments or multilateral initiatives in ocean governance are on the horizon for the European Union and its allies?This podcast was recorded on 28 February 2024. Other episodes of this season: Episode 2: Exploring the deep seabed with Pradeep SinghFurther reading: 2024: A turning point for transforming aquatic food systems by Essam Yassin Mohammed A momentous milestone for the ocean and global biodiversity by the High Seas Alliance Protecting the ocean, time for action by the European Commission Multilateral Matchmaker: Outer-space and maritime security governance by Rafael Loss  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the mood in Russian society after two years of war? How can we understand what is happening? Expressing meaningful dissent can land Russians in jail, yet a huge number of people attended the funeral of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, taking huge personal risk. In this episode, we discuss public opinion in Russia in the run-up to the presidential election and after Navalny’s death.     ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, explores the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To examine public opinion in Russia, our host Kadri Liik is joined by Ksenia Luchenko, ECFR visiting fellow, and Alexei Levinson, head of the sociocultural research department at the Levada Center.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we delve into how the Russian economy transitioned into a wartime economy. What does the structure of the Russian economy and the 2024 state budget reveal about Putin's strategy? Does the Kremlin possess sufficient resources for a long war? Will Russia persist in gradually nationalising remaining foreign assets? Will the government seize the assets of Russian business figures who have not explicitly endorsed the war? How does this affect the sentiment of large and small businesses in Russia? ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, explores the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To dive deeper into Russia’s economy during war, our host Kadri Liik is joined by Mikhail Komin, ECFR visiting fellow, and Andrei Yakovlev, economist and fellow at German research institute Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we analyse who is really in charge of the Russian military and its nuclear weapons. The answer is far from simple. Does Putin have overwhelming control or does the military have a decisive say? What are the implications of civil-military relations on Russia's foreign policy, defense reform, and domestic politics? And who ultimately controls the Russia’s nuclear weapons? ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, explores the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To investigate who controls the Russian military and security services, our host Kadri Liik is joined by Kirill Shamiev, ECFR visiting fellow, and Pavel Podvig, director of the Russian Nuclear Forces Project. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The fourth episode of ECFR’s WOMENP mini-series, recorded during the 2023 Doha Forum, looks at the regional reverberations of the war in Gaza, particularly from the perspective of key Arab Gulf monarchies such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The podcast unpacks how these countries have reacted to the 7 October attacks and the subsequent war in Gaza, the prospects of ongoing normalisation deals and negotiations between Arab Gulf monarchies and Israel, domestic dynamics in these countries, and potential future scenarios. How is Qatar managing the new cycle of violence in Israel and Palestine, and what role has it played? How have different Gulf countries positioned themselves on the war in Gaza? What is the state of Saudi-Israeli negotiations following the 7 October attacks?In this episode, ECFR’s Cinzia Bianco speaks to Dania Thafer, executive director of the Gulf International Forum and lecturer at Georgetown University and Elham Fakhro, associate fellow at the Middle East and North Africa Programme, Chatham House.This podcast was recorded on 11 December 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do Russian officials "coexist" with the war nearly two years after the invasion? How has the bureaucratic system adapted to the requirements of the war? Do officials who openly endorse the invasion or are deployed to work in occupied territories receive better roles or resources ? Does the relative efficiency of the Russian bureaucracy boost the Kremlin’s capacity to sustain the conflict?ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, will explore the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To investigate the role of Russian bureaucrats, our host Kadri Liik is joined by ECFR visiting fellow Mikhail Komin and Russian political scientist Ekaterina Schulmann. Bookshelf: Legislation as a Political Process and Practical Political Science: A Guide to Contact with RealityNomenklatura by Voslenskiy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Russian Orthodox Church is supporting Russia’s war on Ukraine in its sermons, sending priests to the front, and collecting humanitarian aid for soldiers and the occupied Ukrainian territories. It is also involved in the administration of the occupied territories and in promoting propaganda narratives abroad. So why did the head of the Church, Patriarch Kirill, bet on Putin? How influential is the Church in Russian politics and society? What will happen to it after the war and will it survive Putin's regime? ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, will explore the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. To dive deeper into the role of the Russian Orthodox Church, our host Kadri Liik is joined by ECFR visiting fellow Ksenia Luchenko and Alexander Agadjanian, a senior research fellow at Yerevan State University. Bookshelf: Daniel Stein, Interpreter: A Novel | Ludmila Ulitskaya La Sainte Russie contre l’Occident Everyday Religiosity and the Politics of Belonging in Ukraine | Catherine Wanner Understanding World Christianity: Russia | Alexander S. Agadjanian (Author), Scott M. Kenworthy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On 1 September, Russian high schools transitioned to new "patriotic" history textbooks authored by one of Russia's staunchest conservatives, former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky. How do these textbooks mirror the core tenets of the Russian regime's ideology? What stance do they take on figures like Stalin, the dissolution of the USSR, and Russia’s war in Ukraine? What narratives will Russian students be exposed to based on these textbooks? How has the Russian and Soviet history curriculum changed in the past?ECFR’s new podcast on Russia, “Under the Overcoat”, will explore the deeper trends beneath the surface of daily politics. For a closer look at history, our host Kadri Liik is joined by ECFR visiting fellows Ksenia Luchenko, Kirill Shamiev, and Mikhail Komin. Bookshelf: The House of Government: A Saga of the Russian RevolutionSoldiers and the Soviet State: Civil-Military Relations from Brezhnev to Gorbachev | Timothy J. ColtonEverything Was Forever, Until It Was No More: The Last Soviet GenerationAlexei Yurchak Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The third episode of ECFR’s WOMENP mini-series looks at domestic dynamics and the human rights situation in Iran a year after nationwide protests erupted following the death of a young woman, Mahsa Jina Amini, in police custody. The podcast unpacks how power dynamics between state and society have shifted since, and its implications on the country’s leadership. How have Iranians continued with acts of resistance and civil disobedience despite the large scale crackdown by authorities? How has the West has responded, and what more can European countries do to tangibly support activists and human rights defenders inside Iran?In this episode, ECFR's Ellie Geranmayeh speaks to Tara Sepehri Far, Iran and Kuwait researcher, Middle East and North Africa division, Human Rights Watch; Sussan Tahmasebi, executive director, FEMENA; and Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa Programme, Chatham House. This podcast was recorded on 30 August 2023. Suggested reading by experts: The Protests Inside Iran’s Girls’ Schools by Azadeh Moaveni Iran’s Hijab-Industrial Complex by Kourosh Ziabari We-change.org, by multiple authors The Uncaged Sky by Kylie Moore-Gilbert Bureaucraft: Statemakers in Amman and Baghdad by José Ciro Martínez, Omar Sirri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The global space economy is worth a whopping $469 billion, and growing fast. Commercial interests are proliferating; more and more countries are launching satellites into space. Some African leaders aspire for their continent to become a knowledge, technology, and manufacturing hub for this new space age and to leverage space technologies to advance economic development. They are looking for global partners to join them in this quest.In this episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Ruvimbo Samanga, a space law and policy advisor at Access Partnership, a global tech advisory firm. How can Africans and Europeans benefit from cooperating on space access and technologies, and what pitfalls should they look out for? What is “space junk” and how might a clean-up effort work in practice? And how can the EU’s space law best promote responsible behaviour on Earth and in outer space?This podcast was recorded on 7 July 2023.Other episodes of this season:Episode 1: Overcoming the global digital divide with Jane Munga Episode 2: Combatting online disinformation with Flora Rebello ArduiniFurther reading:Why Africa needs to be in space by Val MunsamiSpace innovation in Zimbabwe and beyond: Interview with Ruvimbo SamangaAfrican space strategy for social, political and economic integration by the African UnionMultilateral space: A European space oddity by Rafael Loss and Silvia Samorè Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On 8 January 2023, following a contentious national election, protestors attacked government buildings in Brazil’s capital. The riots were preceded by years of online disinformation, targeting lawmakers and the country’s electoral process. Striking parallels with the storming of the US Capitol two years prior underline the role that transnational networks play in pushing disinformation globally, and that of big tech standing idly by (at best).In this episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Flora Rebello Arduini, campaign director, disinformation researcher, and big-tech watcher at Ekō, a global non-profit organisation advancing corporate accountability. How does online disinformation affect Brazilian politics? What role do social media giants play in spreading fake news? And how can companies, legislators, and civil society in Brazil and Europe stem the tide of AI-powered disinformation in the future?This podcast was recorded on 16 June 2023.Other episodes of this season:Episode 1: Overcoming the global digital divide with Jane Munga Episode 3: Governing outer space with Ruvimbo SamangaFurther reading:Stop the steal 2.0. How Meta is subverting Brazilian democracy by SumOfUs (now Ekō)Everyone saw Brazil violence coming. Except social media giants by Mark ScottGendered disinformation: 6 reasons why liberal democracies need to respond to this threat by Ellen JudsonDemocratic defence: How Italy can lead the fight against Russian disinformation by Gabriele Carrer, Teresa Coratella and Silvia Samorè Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Digital technologies are set to transform African economies. Yet, only 40 per cent of Africans accessed the internet in 2022 – well below the proportion in the world’s other regions. Technological as well as socio-economic factors drive this digital divide, and US-Chinese competition risks making it worse.To kick off the second season of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Jane Munga, a fellow in the Africa Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former digital policy advisor to the government of Kenya. What are the most pressing priorities for African countries to overcome the global digital divide? How does Europe’s digital diplomacy compare to US and Chinese tech giants’ approaches? And what is Africa’s vision for “digital sovereignty”?This podcast was recorded on 8 August 2023.Other episodes of this season:Episode 2: Combatting online disinformation with Flora Rebello Arduini Episode 3: Governing outer space with Ruvimbo SamangaFurther reading:How the United States can effectively implement its new Digital Transformation with Africa initiative by Jane MungaHow Will U.S.-China Tech Decoupling Affect Africa’s Mobile Phone Market? By Jane Munga and Kyla DenwoodMeasuring digital development: Facts and figures 2022 by the International Telecommunication UnionThe geopolitics of technology: How the EU can become a global player by Julian Ringhof and José Ignacio Torreblanca Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second episode of ECFR’s WOMENP mini-series considers the geo-economic trends in the Middle East and emerging opportunities following recent developments, such as the detente between Iran and Saudi Arabia and the new government in Iraq almost one year after its formation. Does Iran seek and stand to benefit economically from the opening with the Arab world? How do broader dynamics, including the United States’ sanctions framework limit these prospects? In which areas would investments by the Gulf Cooperation Council in Iran benefit the Iranian people? Will Iraq be a testing ground for economic cooperation? In this episode, ECFR’s Ellie Geranmayeh speaks to Nadereh Chamlou, non-resident senior fellow, Atlantic Council and Sheikha Najla Al Qassimi, director of the Global Affairs Division, Dubai Public Policy Research Centre (B’huth). This podcast was recorded on 12 July 2023. Suggested reading by experts: Liberalism and Its Discontents by Francis Fukuyama A political economy of the Middle East by Alan Richards and John Waterbury On China by Henry Kissinger Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But political and geopolitical challenges, as well as the covid-19 pandemic, have diminished Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard and Janka Oertel try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on diverse topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans.  --  In this episode, we are joined by research assistant professor of political science at Tsinghua University, Duan Jiuzhou, who is an expert on the Middle East and North Africa with a special interest in civil-military relations and the political economy of development. Duan talks us through how Chinese scholars view the dynamics in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as China’s role in the region. Which countries do Chinese experts view as the major players? What does the Saudi-Iranian detente mean for China’s ambitions as a global peace-broker? And what does the development of Chinese-Middle Eastern relations mean for the world order in the coming decade?China-Egypt Relations During the BRI Era and Beyond by Duan Jiuzhou in Routledge Handbook on China-Middle East RelationsInitiative and Visions: Synergy between Development Strategies of China and the Arab States in Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies by Duan Jiuzhou & She Gangzheng This podcast was recorded on 19 May 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But political and geopolitical challenges, as well as the covid-19 pandemic, have diminished Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard and Janka Oertel try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on diverse topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans.   --   In our fourth episode, we are joined by one of China’s leading scholars in Sino-American relations and east Asian security, Professor Wang Dong, from the School of International Studies and the Institute for Global Health and Development at Peking University. Wang talks us through the current tensions between Washington and Beijing, as well as giving his thoughts on their future trajectory. What are the main reasons for the deterioration of bilateral ties between China and the United States? How can the international community ensure that the tensions do not spiral out of control? And what is the role of the EU in the accelerating China-US rivalry? The Case for a New Engagement Consensus, by Wang Dong Avoiding the 'Thucydides Trap': US-China Relations in Strategic Domain, by Wang Dong and Travis Tanner (eds.) Reglobalisation: When China Meets the World Again, by Wang Dong and Cao Dejun This podcast was recorded on 5 June 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first episode of ECFR’s WOMENP mini-series brings together leading experts to discuss what can be expected from Iran and Saudi Arabia’s de-escalation after the two countries signed an agreement to normalise relations last March and following the recent Arab League Summit. What are Iran and Saudi Arabia hoping to achieve with this deal, especially in view of the US election next year? What factors changed to lead Saudi Arabia to the table? Is there consensus in Iran on the de-escalation and normalisation with Riyadh? How does the region view Iran following the latest nationwide protests? In this episode, ECFR’s Ellie Geranmayeh speaks to Roxane Farmanfarmaian, lecturer in international politics, Cambridge University; Yasmine Farouk, non-resident scholar, Middle East Program, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; Dania Thafer, executive director, Gulf International Forum; and Sanam Vakil, director, MENA programme, Chatham House. This podcast was recorded on 22 May 2023. Must read and see items suggested by experts: The SwimmersIran-Saudi Arabia reconciliation can help the Middle East's climate change fight, by Ellie Geranmayeh English, by Sanaz Toosi Women, Peace and Security – Gulf Perspectives on Integration, Inclusion and Integrity, by Dania Thafer Creative Insecurity, by Dania Thafer Grand Delusion, by Steven Simon Holy Spider Leila's BrothersArabicity - Contemporary Arab Art, Edited by Juliet Cestar, Rose Issa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beyond the UN formats, countries around the world are forging hundreds of bilateral and multilateral agreements to advance the clean energy transition. India has emerged as a prominent player in these initiatives, with prime minister Narendra Modi describing his country’s potential in green energy as no less than a “goldmine”. Since 2016, India and the EU have set up new schemes to deepen their green technology partnership, and they could go even further. In this episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Dhanasree Jayaram, assistant professor of geopolitics and international relations and co-coordinator of the Centre for Climate Studies at Manipal Academy of Higher Education in Karnataka, India. How do India and the EU benefit from cooperating on green technology, and what issues and potential obstacles should they need be mindful of? What role do grassroots initiatives and India’s private sector play in advancing its green transition? And what is the relation between democracy and climate action? This podcast was recorded on 22 March 2023. Further reading: Building green hydrogen value chains in the Indo-Pacific: Prospects for EU-Japan-India cooperation by Ramu C. M. and Dhanasree Jayaram India’s 2023 National Green Hydrogen Mission The EU “Green Deal”: An opportunity to strengthen EU-India relationship by Souvik Bhattacharjya Circuit breakers: Securing Europe’s green energy supply chains by Agatha Kratz, Janka Oertel and Charlie Vest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Action on climate financing is long overdue. Inadequate mitigation and adaptation have already led to substantial loss and damage in the most vulnerable countries. But the scale of investment required to mitigate global warming is beyond the capacity of rich governments, far less developing countries. To square this circle, Barbados’s prime minister, Mia Mottley, last year made a bold proposal: the Bridgetown Initiative. In this episode of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Avinash Persaud, special envoy on climate finance to Mia Mottley. How can the Bridgetown Initiative prevent nations on the climate frontline getting trapped in endless cycles of disaster and debt? What role can private-sector capital play in combatting climate change? And how can transformative ideas succeed in international climate diplomacy? This podcast was recorded on 4 April 2023. Further reading: Breaking the deadlock on climate: The Bridgetown Initiative by Avinash Persaud Speech at the opening of the COP27 World Leaders Summit by Mia Mottley The 2022 Bridgetown Initiative We’ll always have Paris: How to adapt multilateral climate cooperation to new realities by Anthony Dworkin and Mats Engström Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Climate change is an immediate existential threat to the coral islands that make up the Maldives, one of the lowest-lying countries in the world. Recent predictions estimate that, by 2050, rising sea levels could render 80 per cent of the country uninhabitable. By 2100 – in just 77 years time – the entire country could be submerged. None of this is news to the Maldives. To kick off this series of Europe Listens, ECFR’s Rafael Loss and Jana Puglierin welcome Shauna Aminath, the Maldives’ minister of environment, climate change, and technology. What are the most pressing priorities for the Maldives in the fight against climate change? Is international climate diplomacy delivering for those nations on the climate frontline? And what to expect from COP28 later this year? This podcast was recorded on 3 May 2023. Further reading: Climate risk country profile: Maldives by the Asian Development Bank Adaptation gap report 2022 by the UN Environment Programme Decarbonisation nations: How EU climate diplomacy can save the world by Susi Dennison and Mats Engström Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But political and geopolitical challenges, as well as the covid-19 pandemic, have diminished Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard and Janka Oertel try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on diverse topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans.  --  In our third episode, we are joined by Pan Chengxin, associate professor of international relations and public policy at the University of Macau and one of China's leading scholars of quantum relational theory and its application to world politics. Pan talks us through an innovative way of looking at international relations using quantum physics, specifically the concept of quantum holography. What is quantum holography and how does it change our understanding of basic concepts like power? How can we better understand the rise of China under this conceptual framework? And what are the potential implications of this quantum view of the world for how we deal with global challenges like climate change? - China’s Rise and Rethinking International Relations Theory by Chengxin Pan and Emilian Kavalski (Eds.)- Enfolding Wholes in Parts: Quantum Holography and International Relations in European Journal of International Relations by Chengxin Pan- Reclaiming Substances in Relationalism: Quantum Holography and Substance-based Relational Analysis in World Politics in Millennium: Journal of International Studies by Chengxin Pan- Quantum Mind and Social Science: Unifying Physical and Social Ontology by Alexander Wendt - Wholeness and the Implicate Order by David BohmThis podcast was recorded on 21 February 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China is becoming ever more important to global affairs. But the covid-19 pandemic, as well as political and geopolitical challenges, mean that Europeans’ ability to engage with Chinese thinkers and understand their views and ideas about the world has diminished. In this mini-series, Mark Leonard and Janka Oertel will try to change that by engaging in conversations with some of the best Chinese academics, researchers, writers, and journalists on diverse topics in Chinese internal debates that matter most to Europeans.---In this second episode, our host Janka is joined by Liu Hongqiao, an independent policy consultant and award-winning journalist focusing on China’s emergence and its global impact on the environment, biodiversity, energy, and the climate. Together, they will discuss China’s role at COP27 and the country's outlook on its energy transition. How is China doing in regard to its ‘dual-carbon’ goals set for 2030 and 2060? What kind of climate narratives can be found in China? And finally, where does the country see itself on the global stage of climate policy and what does this positioning mean for the rest of the world? Hongqiao Liu: Can China achieve its ambitious climate pledges? | TED Countdown: https://buff.ly/3WFzCML Liu Hongqiao articles: https://buff.ly/3PNlI8P This podcast was recorded on 28 November 2022. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.