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PODCAST

The IR thinker

The IR thinker features in-depth interviews with leading experts in international relations, foreign policy, and global affairs.The IR thinker is an independent, non-partisan and non-aligned platform. It hosts a wide range of perspectives on international relations but does not endorse any political party, government or ideological position.Since its first episode in 2023,The IR thinkerhas produced more than 100 episodes as a pro bono initiative established byMartin Zubko, an international relations

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All Episodes

1:00:30

Kazakhstan's First Nuclear Plant - Eldaniz Gusseinov...

The IR thinker ·

2025/05/26

Is nuclear power the future of Kazakhstan’s energy strategy? In this expert interview, Eldaniz Gusseinov explores public opinion, uranium production, civil society’s role, and the geopolitical stakes of potential contracts with Russia, China, France, and South Korea.Eldaniz Gusseinovis a Non-Resident Research Fellow at the Heydar Aliyev Centre for Eurasian Studies at Ibn Khaldun University (Istanbul), and co-founder of Nightingale Intelligence International, a political forecasting consultancy. He

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1:02:21

Russia Africa Relations - Steven Gruzd | 2025 Episode 7

The IR thinker ·

2025/05/14

In this insightful interview, Steven Gruzd, a leading expert on Russia-Africa relations, explores the multifaceted dimensions of Russia’s foreign policy towards Africa, from its Soviet legacy to contemporary geopolitical strategies. Delving into topics such as security, trade, energy partnerships, and soft power, this discussion offers a comprehensive analysis of Russia’s evolving role on the African continent.Steven Gruzdis the Head of the African Governance and Diplomacy Programme and the

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1:05:43

Japan's Decarbonisation Strategy - Walter James |...

The IR thinker ·

2025/05/08

In this wide-ranging interview, energy analyst Dr Walter James offers an incisive assessment of Japan’s path to net-zero by 2050. From strategic coherence and institutional constraints to LNG diplomacy, hydrogen ambitions, and civil society’s role, James unpacks the dynamics shaping Japan’s energy transformation. This conversation provides valuable insights into the political economy of decarbonisation in one of the world’s most energy-dependent industrial economies.Dr Walter Jamesis a political

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59:14

EU's Soft Balancing Governance - Andres Wivel | 2025...

The IR thinker ·

2025/03/24

In this episode, we’ll examine how the EU uses its political, economic, and institutional resources to influence global affairs, often without resorting to direct confrontation. In particular, we’ll focus on soft balancing governance model, and its implications.Anders Wivelis a Professor of International Relations at University of Copenhagen, Denmark.His most fundamental research interest is how small states overcome power asymmetry and vulnerability in international relations.Theoretically, his

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1:03:06

Norms and Autonomous Weapon Systems - Ingvild Bode |...

The IR thinker ·

2025/03/17

Join us for an insightful interview with Professor Bode as we dive into the AutoNorms project, exploring the evolution of international norms surrounding autonomous weapons systems (AWS). We discuss key findings, theoretical foundations, and the role of global security in shaping AWS governance.Ingvild Bodeis Professor of International Relations and Director of the Center for War Studies at the University of Southern Denmark.She is principally interested in analysing processes of policy and

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1:02:06

Research Methods & Shifts - Christopher Lamont | 2025...

The IR thinker ·

2025/02/25

In this interview, Dr Christopher Lamont discusses key methodological developments in international relations research, reflecting on the evolution from the first to the second edition of his work.He explores interdisciplinarity, mixed research methods, and the role of AI, offering insights into emerging trends and challenges in contemporary political analysis.Christopher Lamontis Dean of E-Track’s International Relations program and Vice Dean of the Graduate School of International Relations at

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1:03:53

Global Quest for Critical Minerals - Vlado Vivoda |...

The IR thinker ·

2025/02/17

The growing importance of critical minerals is reshaping global geopolitics, resource security, and international economic relations.As the world accelerates its transition towards clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing, the demand for critical minerals—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—has surged, raising new challenges for policymakers and industries alike.In this discussion with Dr. Vlado Vivoda, we will explore the key issues surrounding critical minerals, focusing

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1:07:45

Illusion of Hegemony - Christopher Mott | 2025 Episode 1

The IR thinker ·

2025/02/10

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr Christopher Mott on the shifting landscape of global hegemony, with particular attention to East Asia’s strategic and economic dynamics. We also examine the roles of middle powers, non-state actors, and evolving US foreign policy in shaping the future of international relations.Content: (1) Defining Hegemony: Historical Roots and Growth; (2) The Post-Hegemonic Age: Myth or Reality?; (3) China’s Hegemonic Ambitions: Emerging Strategies; (4)

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1:04:08

Virtue Eudaimonism: Ancient Wisdom for International...

The IR thinker ·

2025/01/03

In this insightful interview with Professor Mark LeBar, we explore how eudaimonism—a cornerstone of ancient ethics—continues to shape modern philosophical and practical discourse. Covering topics from virtue ethics and moral autonomy to AI ethics and global challenges, this conversation bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary issues, offering fresh perspectives on leadership, responsibility, and societal flourishing. Dive in to discover how eudaimonism remains relevant in navigating today’s ethical

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57:45

Japan's Political Uncertainty & International...

The IR thinker ·

2024/12/28

In this engaging interview with Bill Emmott, former Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, we explore Japan's political uncertainty and its ripple effects on international relations. From the dominance of the Liberal Democratic Party to Japan's energy security challenges, Article 9 debates, and its role in the Indo-Pacific region, this conversation dives into the critical issues shaping Japan's global position in 2024. Watch as we discuss the US-Japan alliance, relations with South Korea, and Japan’s

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57:11

Business Negotiations in International Relations -...

The IR thinker ·

2024/12/22

This interview with Professor Will Baber explores how corporations wield economic power in foreign policy and trade negotiations. Discover the role of state-owned enterprises and corporate diplomacy in shaping global governance. Gain insights into interdisciplinary research and practical methodologies for understanding negotiation dynamics.William W. Baber is Professor at the Graduate School of Management, Kyoto University, Japan. He has combined education with business throughout his career. His

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59:08

Germany & Emerging Powers - Tomasz Morozowski | 2024...

The IR thinker ·

2024/12/10

Join Dr Tomasz Morozowski, a renowned expert from the Institute for Western Affairs in Poznań, as he discusses Germany’s evolving foreign policy towards emerging powers. Explore new frameworks, case studies, and the impact of the EU on Germany’s global strategy. Discover the challenges and opportunities shaping Germany’s long-term objectives in a dynamic international landscape.Dr Tomasz Morozowski holds a PhD in Political Science from Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland. Since 2015, he has

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1:03:25

Space Governance: Law and Power – Adam Bower | 2024...

The IR thinker ·

2024/12/05

Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr Adam Bower, as we delve into the complexities of space governance and its impact on international relations. In this interview, we explore the challenges of defining ‘outer space,’ the role of international treaties, and the governance of private actors in space exploration. Dr Bower sheds light on NATO’s satellite agreements, multilateral forums, and the implications of a multipolar world order on space policy. We also examine the contrasting approaches

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56:11

Russian and Ukrainian Nationalism - Fabian Baumann |...

The IR thinker ·

2024/12/02

In this interview, Dr. Fabian Baumann discusses his book Dynasty Divided: A Family History of Russian and Ukrainian Nationalism, exploring the Shul’gin/Shul’hyn family’s divergent national identities and their implications for understanding nationalism in Ukraine and Russia. He examines the historical evolution of nationalism, the role of family dynamics, generational divides, and the contributions of women within nationalist movements, offering insights into contemporary contexts.Dr. Baumann is a

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1:07:32

Energy Governance & Global South - Narendra Taneja |...

The IR thinker ·

2024/11/25

In this interview, Narendra Taneja discusses the shortcomings of major energy organisations like IEA, OPEC, and IRENA, and explores energy as a tool of geopolitical power. We also cover energy poverty in the Global South, renewable energy visions, and the foundations for a new energy governance framework. Learn about the skills needed for enhanced global energy governance.Narendra Taneja is a noted global thought leader on the policy, security and geopolitics of

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59:27

European Union Failures in Afghanistan - Oz Hassan |...

The IR thinker ·

2024/11/12

Join us as we explore the European Union’s role in Afghanistan with Dr Oz Hassan. This interview examines the challenges of implementing the ‘Bonn Model,’ balancing democratisation with security, and the EU’s engagement with Afghanistan’s neighbours. Discover the key lessons for the EU from its complex involvement in Afghan reconstruction and governance.Oz Hassan is a Reader of National Security in the Politics and International Studies Department at the University of Warwick. His research focuses

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1:05:33

North Korea Security & Geopolitics - Yangmo Ku | 2024...

The IR thinker ·

2024/11/05

In this interview, Professor Yangmo Ku explores the complexities of North and South Korean relations, addressing issues such as North Korea’s nuclear threat, arms build-up, and shifting perceptions of South Korea. The discussion covers regional dynamics, including North Korea’s cooperation with Russia, ASEAN’s stance, and Japan-South Korea security cooperation. Professor Ku also examines the potential influence of global powers like China and Russia on North Korean policies and narratives.Yangmo Ku

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1:02:36

India - Japan Relations - Srabani Roy Choundhury |...

The IR thinker ·

2024/10/29

In this interview, Dr. Srabani Roy Choudhury discusses the evolving dynamics of India-Japan relations in the Indo-Pacific, covering strategic initiatives like SAGAR, Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision, and defence cooperation. Key topics include the impact of Taiwan, Japan’s defence policy, and critical minerals collaboration. The conversation provides insights into geopolitical trends shaping the future of India-Japan partnerships.Dr. Srabani Roy Choudhury is a Professor of Japanese Studies

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59:33

Australia - China Relations - Philipp Ivanov | 2024...

The IR thinker ·

2024/10/22

In this insightful interview with Philipp Ivanov, we explore the evolving dynamics of Australia-China relations amid shifting geopolitical landscapes. The conversation covers key topics such as Australia’s security strategies, the impact of alliances like AUKUS and the Quad, and the role of the Belt and Road Initiative. With Ivanov’s expertise in public policy and China, this discussion offers a nuanced perspective on trade, education, and energy ties shaping the Indo-Pacific region.Philipp Ivanov

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58:36

Meritocratic Democracy: Confucian and Western...

The IR thinker ·

2024/10/15

In this interview with Assistant Professor Elena Ziliotti, we explore the contrasts between meritocratic democracy and traditional governance, drawing insights from both Western and Confucian political theories. Ziliotti discusses the strengths and weaknesses of political meritocracy, offering reflections on its applicability in diverse global contexts.Elena Ziliotti is a tenured Assistant Professor of Ethics and Political Philosophy at the Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands. She works

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104 results

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