The author, an active Labour Party member, reflects on David Lammy’s book ‘Tribes,’ which explores tribalism’s impact on society and politics. Lammy’s investigative journey into his diverse ancestry shapes a narrative of social mobility and personal struggle, culminating in political engagement as a Black MP. The writing is honest and compelling, appealing to a broad audience.
The Chatham House meeting discusses South Korea’s foreign policy under President Lee Jae-myung, emphasizing a pragmatic approach amid complex global dynamics. Key challenges include managing relationships with the U.S., China, and North Korea. The panel examines how the Lee administration navigates geopolitical tensions and seeks to maintain strong international alliances while adapting to rapid changes.
View More Chatham House: South Korea rethinks its foreign policy: Is it ditching the US for China?
The Chatham House meeting, chaired by Annette Bohr, features authors Edward Lemon and Bradley Jardine discussing their book on China’s influence in Central Asia. The conversation encompasses China’s role, historical ties, regional nationalism, and the impact of protests. The complexities of relationships with Russia, the US, and other nations are highlighted, alongside issues of human rights and regional stability.
View More Chatham House: China’s Struggle for Influence in Central Asia. How is Beijing aiming to reshape the region?
The post dedicates Vangelis’s “One More Kiss, Dear” to Labour MP Jessica Morden for her dedication to the Caldicot and Newport East area since 2005. The author reflects on their friendship and her support in mental health advocacy. They encourage political engagement and wish everyone a Merry Christmas, highlighting the importance of community representation.
View More Vangelis – One More Kiss, Dear (for Jessica Morden MP)
The content outlines China’s historical journey from the late Ming dynasty to the modern era under President Xi Jinping. It emphasizes key events such as the Qing dynasty, opium wars, rise of communism, and China’s transformation into a global superpower. The book serves as an accessible introduction to understanding China’s contemporary significance.
View More Review: The Oxford History of Modern China – by Jeffrey N. Wasserstrom
This Chatham House event is chaired by Hayder Al-Shakeri, MENA Programme. On the panel are: Merissa Khurma, CEO AMENA Strategy, Mondher Tounsi, University of Oxford, Nissrine Ait Haji, Entrepreneur and Youth Activist. This is about how Gen Z are shaping protests in North Africa specifically in Morocco and Tunisia. How…
View More Chatham House: How Gen Z is reshaping protest in North Africa
PHOTO: The new Syrian Government Today’s Chatham House meeting is chaired by Raya Jalabi, Middle East Correspondent, Financial Times. On the panel are: Dr Haid Haid, MENA Programme, Rime Allaf, Syrian writer, formerly Chatham House and Dr Ibrahim Al-Assil, Belfer Center, Harvard University. It is a year since the rapid…
View More Chatham House: One year of Syria’s transition: Progress, challenges and prospects
This Chatham House roundtable discussion is chaired by Hugo Dixon, Reuters. On the panel are: Galip Dalay, Turkey Initiative, MENA Programme and Natalie Sabanadze, Russia and Eurasia Programme. Galip and Natalie have done a report on ‘Russia’s Black Sea Strategy’. The entire European security architecture is under scrutiny in the…
View More Chatham House: What does Russia want in the Black Sea region?
The Christmas Lights were turned on yesterday evening in Caldicot Town Centre. There were speeches by local Labour Party political representatives, Catherine Fookes MP and John Griffiths MS There was a live performance by Severn Tunnel Band. Severnside Labour stall Catherine Fookes MP, John Griffiths MS and Cllr Angela Sandles…
View More Christmas Lights Caldicot 2025
The Chatham House event focused on the UK’s defense obligations and spending, highlighting concerns about readiness for potential conflicts, particularly with Russia. Discussions emphasized the need for urgent action to enhance defense capabilities, accountability in spending, and a national dialogue on strategic priorities. Comparisons to Germany and Poland revealed the UK lagging in defense investment.
View More Chatham House: Can the UK afford to fight a war?
The Chatham House meeting highlighted Ukraine’s perilous situation amidst military pressure from Russia, energy crises, and a political corruption scandal involving $100 million in kickbacks. The persistence of crony capitalism undermines trust and impacts EU relations. Reforming governance and law enforcement is critical for rebuilding post-war Ukraine and addressing systemic corruption.
View More Chatham House: How corruption threatens war effort in Ukraine, and what is the remedy?
The Labour Government is conducting a music project survey that takes about five minutes to complete. It’s aimed at fans, music lovers, and industry professionals to gather input and support for the UK Music Industry. Participation is encouraged as it provides a platform for democratic expression.
View More Labour Government Fan-led Review of Music (via Jessica Morden MP)
The Chatham House event, led by Dr. Renad Mansour, highlighted challenges in Iraq’s upcoming elections, including sectarian politics and government formation. The presidency is expected to be awarded to a Kurdish party, but significant obstacles remain, including political fragmentation and public disillusionment, as citizens seek improved governance and basic services.
View More Chatham House: Iraq’s 2025 Elections: What comes next?
The Chatham House event discusses the relevance of the United Nations amid global challenges. Speakers Rebeca Grynspan and Sir Mark Lyall Grant emphasize the impact of nationalism, trade wars, and the need for reform. Grynspan, nominated for UN Secretary-General, advocates for proactive diplomacy and the importance of multilateralism in a changing world.
View More Chatham House: A new multilateralism. How are the UN and other global organizations adapting to a new world?
Donald Trump’s engagement with Belarus’ leader Lukashenka raises concerns about empowering Russia and affecting Ukraine policies. While some view this as a pragmatic approach, critics argue it undermines Western sanctions and strengthens a totalitarian regime. The dynamics surrounding the release of political prisoners highlight ongoing geopolitical complexities and the challenge of promoting democracy in Belarus.
View More Chatham House: Is Donald Trump right on Belarus?