The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, is a transformative foreign policy project aimed at enhancing China’s global influence through trade routes reminiscent of the Silk Road. While it has received mixed responses, particularly from Western nations, it offers countries alternatives to Western hegemony, promoting economic development but also raising geopolitical tensions, especially with rival powers like India and Russia.
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.
View More Review: Tribes by David Lammy
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
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
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
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?
Asaad al-Shaibani, Syria’s foreign minister, outlines post-civil war plans to rebuild international relations and internal governance. The new regime aims for inclusivity, economic investment, and transitional justice while addressing community trust. He emphasizes a pragmatic approach towards rebuilding, focusing on diplomatic ties, especially with the UK and Turkey, amidst regional challenges.
View More Chatham House: A foreign policy for the new Syria
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
Inequality encompasses disparities in power and wealth, particularly between developed and developing nations. The manufacture of smartphones highlights these imbalances, as cobalt, essential for production, is mined under harsh conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Consumers benefit from these gadgets while overlooking the exploitation and social injustice faced by marginalized workers.
View More Inequality and Social Justice
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?
Drawing on material from two out of the three strands of DD102 study materials, discuss some of the ways in which differences and inequalities can both change and persist over time. The two topics I have chosen from two strands are City Road, Cardiff from the introductory strand, which looks…
View More Differences and Inequalities
The analysis of the 2011 ‘Blackberry’ riots in England reveals conflicting perspectives on the role of inequalities. Conservatives view the riots as lawlessness driven by moral decline, while radicals highlight socio-economic disenfranchisement as a key cause. This essay urges addressing underlying inequalities to prevent future unrest rather than merely punishing the rioters.
View More 2011 Blackberry Riots, United Kingdom
The power of big retail significantly influences consumer choice by dominating market availability and pricing, while also dictating product selection and trends through advertising. This impact can restrict diversity, favoring larger brands over smaller producers. Ultimately, although consumers may perceive ample options, big retail often shapes their purchasing decisions and overall shopping experience.
View More Consumer Choice and the Power of Big Retail
The content discusses the concept of ‘making and remaking’ through the experiences of three individuals on City Road, Cardiff. Nof Al-Kelaby showcases resilience by adapting his business to new demographics. Shari Hall enhances local businesses through her blog, fostering virtual connections. John exemplifies the challenges of homelessness, highlighting complex social dynamics.
View More Connections and Disconnections on City Road, Cardiff