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.
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?
John Kerry, the former U.S. Secretary of State and Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, spoke at Chatham House post-COP 30. He emphasized urgent climate action, criticizing political denialism and highlighting bipartisan cooperation’s significance. He noted significant progress in clean energy investments and the need for global commitment, particularly from major emitters like China.
View More Chatham House: John Kerry, 68th United States Secretary of State, speaks at Chatham House
Zeinab Badawi’s book offers an Afrocentric perspective on African history, challenging colonial narratives and highlighting the contributions of African civilizations. It discusses figures like Mansa Musa and Shaka Zulu, emphasizing the region’s advanced cultures despite historical exploitation. The text encourages readers to explore a non-mainstream understanding of Africa’s rich heritage and contemporary issues.
View More Review: An African History of Africa – by Zeinab Badawi
Chairman Mao remains a polarizing historical figure and key communist thinker alongside Marx and Lenin. The ‘Little Red Book’ is a widely influential text that shaped leftist movements globally, emphasizing the importance of the masses in history. Despite Mao’s controversial legacy, the book’s simple yet profound ideas continue to provoke thought and discussion.
View More Review: Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung “Little Red Book”
The Chatham House meeting, in collaboration with SNF Agora Institute, discussed the pressures facing democracy today amid rising authoritarianism and declining public confidence. Key topics included youth engagement, technological impact on democratic practices, and the need for practical reforms, particularly in the MENA region. The conversation highlighted the importance of resilience, collective action, and the voices of young people in shaping a more effective democracy.
View More Chatham House: Democratic resilience in a disrupted world
Mike Pence shared insights on U.S. foreign policy at Chatham House, emphasizing the importance of strong transatlantic ties amid rising global tensions with Russia and China. He highlighted the need for America to lead while addressing issues like public debt and immigration reform. Pence asserted that strong alliances and values are crucial for global stability.
View More Chatham House: Mike Pence, 48th Vice President of the United States, speaks at Chatham House
The meeting discusses the UK’s aid budget amid global aid cuts, primarily due to reduced US funding. Speakers emphasize the geopolitical impact, highlighting how aid affects conflict resolution, health, and climate issues. They call for renewed commitment to development, addressing poverty, and the need for a cohesive international framework, especially regarding the UN.
View More Chatham House: Aid in an age of security: What should the UK’s global priorities be?
Recent violence in Libya highlights Turkey’s growing political and military influence there. Turkey aims to be a regional power, pursuing security assistance and economic interests. Despite temporary conflict resolution efforts, tensions persist, raising concerns about a potential war. Turkey faces dilemmas with local power dynamics while navigating complex foreign relationships and corruption risks.
View More Chatham House: Turkey’s evolving role in Libya
Chatham House is an esteemed think tank where I engage in discussions on international issues, particularly on Venezuela. Today’s meeting covers U.S. policies and Trump’s view on Venezuelan narcotrafficking, which many believe lacks foundation. The session explores regional influences, Cuba’s potential role, and the broader implications for U.S.-Latin America relations.
View More Chatham House: Member’s Question Time: Is the US pushing regime change in Venezuela? Why now?
I was invited to join this Labour Party Zoom meeting about the NHS with a presentation by Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health. Wes talked about how the NHS has been at the centre of this country’s politics since its formation in 1948. He spoke of the dangers of…
View More Labour Party Zoom Meeting on NHS with Wes Streeting, Health Secretary
Today we were out doing #LabourDoorstep in my home ward, Dewstow Ward, Caldicot. This was for Catherine Fookes‘ election campaign to become Labour Party MP for Monmouthshire. We were only a small team. I was joined by John from Caerphilly and also Cllrs Angela Sandles and Henry Higgins from Severnside…
View More Labour Doorstep, Dewstow Ward, Caldicot
On a sunny spring day, a small team participated in #LabourDoorstep in Magor, supporting Catherine Fookes’ campaign for Labour MP in Monmouthshire. Joined by Cllr Henry Higgins and Bridie Sedgebeer, they took a rural walk, reaching several isolated properties, emphasizing the importance of every vote.
View More Labour Doorstep, Magor, Monmouthshire
Jane Mudd was elected as the new South East Wales Police and Crime Commissioner for Labour. I assisted her campaign through canvassing efforts. A celebratory event in Newport featured local Labour leaders. The new Corn Exchange venue is promising for music events, and I enjoyed a nice pint at the nearby rock bar.
View More Jane Mudd PCC Election Victory, Corn Exchange, Newport