Episode #36: Keir Starmer’s Strategic Dilemma over the Chagos Handover to Mauritius
In this episode, we sat down with Ángel Rodríguez Moreno to explore how shifting international dynamics have frozen UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s landmark deal to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Originally framed as a bold step in reshaping British foreign policy and addressing colonial injustices, the agreement now faces major obstacles after Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency and the election of Navin Ramgoolam in Mauritius. We discuss how concerns over Diego Garcia’s strategic military role, legal tensions over sovereignty, and the humanitarian crisis surrounding stranded asylum seekers have all complicated the situation, leaving Starmer’s credibility and global ambitions hanging in the balance.Don't forget to read Ángel's article here: https://raiagroup.org/cold-relations-trump-starmers-chagos
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Episode #35: France in Political Deadlock: How Macron’s Election Strategy Deepened Division
In this episode, we’re joined by Elisa De Angelis to unpack the political crisis facing French President Emmanuel Macron after the 2024 snap elections. Intended to stabilize France’s political landscape, the vote instead deepened divisions, collapsed coalitions, and triggered widespread unrest. We explore how Macron’s leadership is being tested — from controversial immigration reforms to the use of Article 49.3 — and what it all means for France’s democratic future and role in the EU.Don’t forget to read Elisa’s article here: https://raiagroup.org/macron-cold-navigating-france-political-crisis
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Episode #34: Kenya in Crisis: The Finance Bill that Shook Ruto’s Presidency
In this episode, we sat down with Lilli-Sage Bayes to dive into the political turmoil surrounding Kenyan President William Ruto’s controversial 2023 Finance Bill. What began as an attempt to tackle Kenya’s mounting debt through tax hikes quickly sparked nationwide protests, judicial opposition, and public backlash. We explore how these events have weakened Ruto’s political leadership and cast doubt on his economic promises. With unrest growing and key institutions pushing back, we look at what this crisis means for Ruto’s political future and regional stability across East Africa.Don't forget to read Lilli's article here: https://raiagroup.org/unrest-erupts-as-rutos-finance-bill-freezes-in-kenya
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Episode #33: RAIA's Origin Story with RAIA Director Dario Hasenstab
In this special episode, we sat down with RAIA's director and co-founder, Dario Hasenstab, for an insightful conversation about the origins, evolution, and future of RAIA. We talked about the history of the organization, the idea behind it, as well as its vision and mission in international affairs.Don't forget to check out our new articles at RAIAGroup.org and to follow us on social media to receive updates on all our new contents.
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Episode #32: Climate Leaders 101: Carlos Manuel Rodríguez's Environmental Leadership in Costa Rica
In this episode, we sat down with Francisco Jeldres and Valeria Flores Siles to explore the groundbreaking work of Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, a three-time Costa Rican Minister of Environment and Energy and current CEO of the Global Environment Facility. Rodríguez’s innovative Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) program has revolutionized conservation efforts in Costa Rica, increasing forest cover, protecting biodiversity, and reshaping how the world views environmental incentives. We discuss how his leadership has influenced global conservation policies and what lessons can be drawn from his approach to balancing sustainability and economic development.This episode is the fourth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Francisco and Valeria's article (https://raiagroup.org/carlos-manuel-rodriguez-turns-up-the-heat-on-global) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
We are RAIA(ffairs), your podcast for stepping up in international affairs. Get informed on the stories and worries of political leaders, the 'behind the scenes' of decision-makers, and how politics impact and change your life. Join your host Nicola, along with a new guest every episode, to discuss the individual policy-maker of the week.
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