On this inaugural series of Hot Talks, where we invite experts to discuss key themes pertinent to diplomacy in international development, we sit down with Chiara Soletti of the Italian Climate Network to discuss recent threats made by the Bolsonaro administration in Brazil against both the Amazon and the indigenous populations. We discuss the potential threat to the global climate that this move could have and highlight the opportunity that is present for both businesses and NGOs in taking up the role where government may be missing.
Episode 19: Trump slashes US foreign aid budget - why it's a bad idea
On 11 March 2019, US President Donald Trump slashes the 2020 Budget to US foreign affairs and international aid. This was done in effort to make room for costs to accommodate his proposal of the US-Mexico wall which led to the 35 day US government shutdown early this year. But in his attempt to make America 'great again', he's actually making it much worse, especially in regards to the power which USAID and development programs can yield for American image abroad. We dive in further into today's episode to explain why.
Episode 9: Paul O'Brien of Oxfam on the importance of NGOs working with political will
On today's episode, we speak with Paul O'Brien, VP for Policy and Advocacy at Oxfam America to discuss the importance of NGOs understanding political will in order to push forward both advocacy campaigns and development programs. Often seen as two roads that don't cross, Paul O'Brien goes over why it is important for NGOs to have more political savy when engaging with governments for a more sustainable outcome.
Episode 8: The Top 5 to Watch in 2019
It's a new year, yet surprisingly old conflicts and baggage keep following. 2018 was a dynamic year and no doubt remnants of past events will inspire potential events in 2019. In this episode, we provide you with "The Top 5 to Watch in 2019" in both business and global affairs to guide you on opportunities and risks in both sustainable development and diplomatic engagement.
Episode 3: Keeping up with Rwanda
More than 20 years since the horrific Rwandan Genocide leaving around one million Rwandans dead, the country has made a complete 360 degree change, becoming East Africa’s most up-and-coming emerging economy. Listen in to this quick overview and find our how Rwanda is committed to both global growth through sustainability and dynamic development.
Episode 1: What is diplomacy in international development?
In our inaugural episode, we define the key theme in this podcast - diplomacy in international development - and explain why it is vital for international businesses and affairs.