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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

1:20:00

Belt and Road Initiative - Ivo Ganchev | 2023 Episode 24

The IR thinker ·

2023/08/14

Join us in this comprehensive discussion with Dr. Ivo Ganchev as we delve deep into the intricacies of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). From understanding its primary objectives to addressing concerns surrounding debt diplomacy, Dr. Ganchev provides enlightening insights into BRI’s governance, funding, and its position on the global stage. Plus, we explore the relationship between BRI, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and consider the implications of competitors like the

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58:24

Iranian-Azeri-Israeli Geopolitics - Alexander...

The IR thinker ·

2023/08/08

Delve into the intricate dynamics of Iranian-Azeri relations in this insightful video. From historical context to contemporary geopolitics, we explore crucial facets that shape this multifaceted relationship. Uncover the role of the Azeri minority in Iran, Iran’s cautious stance towards Azerbaijan, the significance of the Huseyniyyun Brigade, the strategic implications of the Zangezur corridor, and the geopolitical influence of the Caspian Sea. Discover Iran’s discreet involvement in Azerbaijan, its

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1:17:45

Saudi Arabia Geopolitics - Aziz Alghashian | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/08/01

Join us as we delve into an insightful discussion with Dr. Aziz Alghashian, a renowned scholar on Middle Eastern politics, focusing particularly on Saudi Arabia. We explore the nation’s role as a defender of the Muslim world, its custodianship of Mecca, and how Western diplomacy often misunderstands its unique identity. Dr. Aziz Alghashian is a captivating Saudi scholar who delves into the enigmatic realms of Saudi foreign policy. Having secured his PhD from the University of Essex in 2019, he has

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1:01:27

Researching Rich Russians - Elisabeth Schimpfössl |...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/27

In this insightful episode, we delve deep into the intriguing world of Russia’s high society, exploring various facets from philanthropy to generational divides. Join us as we discuss the motivations behind Elisabeth’s research into Russian wealth and how she engaged with the country’s affluent individuals. Discover why topics such as politics and business were purposely avoided, and learn about the fascinating responses and reactions Elisabeth encountered during her interviews. Hear Elisabeth’s

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56:16

Arctic Geopolitics - Klaus Dodds | 2023 Episode 20

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/25

Join us in this insightful conversation with Professor Klaus Dodds, as we traverse the complex landscape of Arctic geopolitics.Professor Dodds is an Executive Dean for the School of Life Sciences and Environment, and Professor of Geopolitics at Royal Holloway, University of London. Klaus is also a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, Royal Geographical Society, Regional Studies Association, and Hon. Fellow of British Antarctic Survey. Public positions including acting as a specialist adviser to

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42:59

Israel and Cyberthreats - Chuck Freilich | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/20

Join us as we delve into the cyber threat landscape in Israel and its international implications in our engaging discussion with Professor Chuck Freilich. We examine how Israel has fortified its cybersecurity infrastructure, its approach towards offensive cyber operations, and the role of the Cyber Directorate. We then explore the future of cybersecurity in Israel, considering the balance between robust defence and civil liberties. Geopolitical shifts and their effect on Israel’s cyber defence

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1:03:31

Fukushima: It's Not Over Yet - Maxime Polleri | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/18

Explore the intricate dynamics of the Fukushima disaster in this episode. We’ll dissect its diplomatic repercussions, global energy policy impact, and the change it brought to Japan’s nuclear R&D. Understand the controversy behind Fukushima’s radioactive water release, and the Japanese government’s crisis communication. We end by reflecting on the lessons humanity can learn from this disaster and discuss the management of radioactive sites worldwide. A must-watch for anyone interested in the

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1:02:44

Kazakhstan: Education & International Relations -...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/12

Embark on an enlightening journey into the intricate fabric of higher education within Kazakhstan. Our discussion traverses the evolution of Kazakhstan’s academic landscape, encompassing the advent of foreign universities, prevalent academic languages, and governmental support for innovative endeavours. We scrutinise the impact of international students, particularly within PhD programmes, whilst also acknowledging the distinct influence of Islam on the educational framework. Further topics include

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1:09:43

Wagner Group Unmasked - John Bruni | 2023 Episode 16

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/10

Join us for a deep-dive into the Wagner Group, Russia’s enigmatic private military contractor. We explore its origins, significant missions, and complex operations in the volatile landscapes of Ukraine. We examine bizarre conflict situations, revealing surprising strategic missteps and their impact on Russian military morale. Lastly, we discuss the aftermath of the Wagner Group’s mutiny and the implications for Russia’s socio-political landscape and the Federal Security Service (FSB). Dive into this

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1:00:35

Israel: Haredim versus Datiim - Michael Freedman |...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/06

“Haredim” and “Datiim” are Hebrew terms used to describe two distinct groups within Jewish society in Israel and around the world. What are their views on the State of Israel? The term “Haredi” comes from the Hebrew word for “trembling” or “fearing”, and is often used to refer to “ultra-Orthodox” Jews. Haredim are characterised by their strict adherence to Jewish law (Halacha) and the segregation of their communities from mainstream society. They often have a particular focus on religious study, and

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1:16:38

Syria & 12 Years of War - Christopher Phillips | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/07/04

Syria – does the name resonate? There was a time when news from Syria dominated the media landscape, yet it has gradually receded from the headlines. So, what is the current situation in Syria? Undoubtedly, twelve years of warfare will have left significant impacts on the nation. But what of the geopolitics? What roles do Turkey and Russia play? What is the status of Islamic State fighters and President Bashar al-Assad? Which entities currently exert control within Syria? Christopher Phillips is a

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57:54

New Russian Constitution - Petr Safronov | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/06/29

In this in-depth interview, we delve into the proposed new Russian constitution project led by Dr Petr Safronov, driven by a republican political philosophy. Unpacking the reasons for this seismic shift, we discuss the various contributors to this constitutional change and the fundamental role of the republican political philosophy. We contrast the strengths and weaknesses of the current constitution, delve into its integration within the Russian legal framework, and discuss the need for a new

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1:07:11

Serbia & Aleksandar Vucic - Vesko Garcevic | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/06/26

In this in-depth interview, we explore, with the esteemed scholar Professor Vesko Garčević, President Aleksandar Vučić’s foreign policy approach in Serbia, examining his management of diplomatic relations, his impact on Serbia’s EU aspirations, and his navigation of geopolitical tensions between the East and West. Vesko Garčević is a prominent Montenegrin diplomat, having served as the Ambassador of Montenegro in Brussels (NATO), Vienna (OSCE), Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with

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1:14:20

Dramatic Scottish Politics - Andrew Liddle | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/06/22

Delve into the intricacies of Scottish politics in an exclusive interview with Andrew Liddle, exploring the profound influence of the SNP, Brexit repercussions, the ever-looming question of independence and much more. A primary objective with this episode is to provide an educational exploration of Scottish politics for students and international audience. By gaining an understanding of Scotland’s internal politics, we can more thoroughly comprehend its international relations. Andrew is a weekly

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50:42

Kosovo Crisis 2023 - Helena Ivanov | 2023 Episode 10

The IR thinker ·

2023/06/15

Recent tensions between Serbia and Kosovo have flared anew following a raid by Kosovo’s police on Serb-dominated areas in the north of the region, which included the seizure of local municipality buildings. This incident ignited violent clashes between Kosovo’s police and NATO-led peacekeepers on one side, and local Serbs on the other, resulting in dozens of injuries on both sides. In response, Serbia has increased the combat readiness of its troops stationed near the border. It prompts the

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56:19

Chinese Stratagem & Leadership - Hei Sing Tso | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/06/12

Can we gain a better understanding of Chinese political leadership by using the Chinese stratagems? We can gain insights into Chinese political leadership by understanding the Chinese stratagems, also known as the 36 Stratagems. These are a set of proverbial phrases that are often used to describe strategies used in politics, war, and civil interaction. While they do not map directly onto modern political actions, their principles can often be seen underlying the strategies and tactics used

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53:19

Decoding Political Myths in Russia - Bo Petersson |...

The IR thinker ·

2023/05/05

Academic research on political myth is sparse, and the body of literature that does exist is dispersed among many different scientific fields. Roland Barthes, 1957 book Mythologies, is regarded as a pioneer of this idea. He was building on Ferdinand de Saussure’s initial sign analysis, often known as “semiology”. Thus, what does the concept of political myth mean? I am joined by professor of political science, Bo Petersson, from Malmö University, Department of Global Political Studies. Prof

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54:23

Students Shaping the World (Schwarzman Scholars) -...

The IR thinker ·

2023/02/27

On this episode of “IR thinker”, I was curious about the role of students in international relations, their contribution to diplomacy and problem-solving platforms such as international institutions and professional organizations. Thus, I interviewed Max Browning from Scotland, recently awarded with the Schwarzman Scholars’ scholarship for the best world future leaders. Max Browning is the Founder and Chairman of One Scotland, a charitable initiative bringing future leaders together through cultural

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1:01:33

Talking with Terrorists - Anne Speckhard | 2023...

The IR thinker ·

2023/02/14

A woman who interviewed over 800 terrorists worldwide, helped established rehabilitation programmes in Iraq and worked with leading international institutions to understand terrorism, extremism and hate crime. It’s been my privilege to speak with Dr. Anne Speckhard about terrorism and extremism. Anne’s New Book – Homegrown Hate: Inside the Minds of Domestic Violent Extremists. Content: (1) First Interview with a Terrorist; (2) First Interview Questions and Preparation; (3) Being a Woman While

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1:06:56

Serbia - Russia: Energy & Politics - Vuk Vuksanovic |...

The IR thinker ·

2023/02/04

Serbia and Russia, what a great topic to discuss with Dr. Vuk Vuksanovic who is a senior researcher at the Belgrade Centre for Security Policy and an associate at LSE IDEAS, a foreign policy think tank within the London School of Economics and Political Science. We divided this episode into two parts: “Energy relations” and “Political ties”. Content: (1)Gazprom’s Role in the Serbian Energy Security; (2) Gazprom’s Investment in Serbia; (3) Diversification of Serbian Gas Supplies (Azerbaijan); (4)

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