Graduate Institute What Matters Today

In this episode, we will explore the significance of academic freedom, the challenges it faces globally, and the ways in which researchers and academics can defend and promote this essential liberty. We'll also discuss the broader implications of restricting academic freedom on society and our understanding of various phenomena. Our guest today is Julie Billaud, an Associate Professor of anthropology and sociology here at the Geneva Graduate Institute. Julie is an anthropologist with a background in socio-legal studies. She is also the co-founder and one of the editors of Allegra Lab and is the co-convener of LAWNET (the Network for the Anthropology of Law, Rights and Governance) and a member of the Working Group on Human Rights and Academic Freedom of the European Association of Social Anthropology.

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted challenges and strategies of one of the most influential nations on the global stage: China. We'll examine the evolving relationship between China and the United States, highlighting key moments and decisions that have impacted their interactions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to grasping the broader implications for global politics and economics. Our guest for this episode is Jan Francis Kiely, Senior Lecturer, International History and Politics here at the Geneva Graduate Institute.Jan is a historian of modern China particularly interested in aspects of religion, social morality, law, justice, conflict and its resolutions in the twentieth century. He comes to the Institute from the Chinese University of Hong Kong where he was Professor and Director of the Center for China Studies.

In this episode, we'll explore the key moves made by Trump in regions such as the Middle East, Ukraine, Europe, and Latin America. We'll examine how these actions reflect his broader "America First" doctrine, highlighting common themes and strategies that underpin his decisions across these diverse regions. We'll also take a historical perspective, comparing Trump's foreign policy actions to those of previous U.S. presidents. We'll also look at global reactions to Trump's policies and their impact on international relations. Our guest for this episode is Cyrus Schayegh, Professor and Chair of the International History and Politics Department here at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

In this episode, we dive into the intricate world of tariffs, focusing on the measures implemented by Donald Trump. We'll explore the rationale behind these tariff increases, comparing them to historical precedents in U.S. history. Our discussion will cover the direct and indirect impacts on the U.S. economy, including effects on growth, employment, and consumer prices. We'll also examine China's retaliatory actions and their potential consequences for trade relations and the Chinese economy. Additionally, we'll consider the broader economic repercussions for other affected countries, such as Canada, Mexico, and the European Union, and discuss how these tariff measures might influence global trade and the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Our guest for this episode is Johannes Boehm, Professor of International Economics here at the Geneva Graduate Institute and also a research fellow of CEPR (London) and CEP, LSE. He conducts research and teaches on topics related to international trade, industrial development, growth, firms, as well as on macroeconomics and environmental economics.

In this episode, Gian Luca Burci discusses the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) under President Donald Trump, examining the reasons cited in the executive order and its broader ramifications. The conversation covers the legal, financial, and political complexities of this decision, including its impact on global health initiatives, particularly in Africa. The guest also explores potential repercussions of the withdrawal on U.S. influence within the WHO, the challenges faced by international health governance in Geneva, and the possible role of China in filling the void left by the U.S. retreat. The episode concludes with a reflection on the resilience of American democracy amid these changes.

In this episode, we explore the intersection of gender and politics in the context of Donald Trump's re-election. Our guest, Dr. Nicole Bourbonnais, Associate Professor of International History and Politics and Co-Director of the Gender Centre at the Geneva Graduate Institute, offers her insights on how gender dynamics influenced the election outcomes. We discuss the significance of Susie Wiles' appointment as the first woman White House Chief of Staff and the broader implications of Trump's women cabinet picks. Additionally, we examine the impact of the overturning of Roe v. Wade on the gender voting gap and its effects on the election results. Dr. Bourbonnais also shares her perspectives on the potential international repercussions of Trump's election for gender dynamics and what we can expect from gender equality advocates during his second term. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the critical role of gender in contemporary politics.

In this episode, we are joined by Cyrus Schayegh, Professor of International History and Politics at the Institute, and Chair of the department - to provide a comprehensive overview of the situation in Syria. We'll delve into the historical context, the roles of various international actors, and the broader implications for the Middle East and beyond. Join us as we unpack the layers of this ongoing crisis and consider the future prospects for Syria and its people.

In this episode of What Matters Today, Professor Cyrus Schayegh explores the potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under Donald Trump’s second term and their impact on the Middle East. He examines Trump's transactional diplomacy, his support for Israel, and the evolving dynamics of regional powers like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. The discussion highlights the complexities of U.S. engagement in a more multipolar Middle East and the broader implications for global geopolitics as America balances its focus between the region and its strategic rivalry with China.

In this episode of What Matters Today, we examine the evolving landscape of global economics under the new Trump administration. We'll explore the potential shifts in inflation trends, fiscal policies, and trade relations that could shape both the domestic and international economic environment. We'll discuss how these changes might influence global trade dynamics, and economic partnerships, particularly focusing on regions closely tied to the US economy. Additionally, we'll take a historical perspective to compare this moment with previous periods of political and economic uncertainty, seeking lessons that might illuminate the path ahead. Our guest for this episode is Rui Esteves, Professor of International History and Politics at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

In this episode, we examine the global impact of last week's U.S. election results, with Donald Trump re-elected as president. To shed light on the implications for international relations, economic stability, and American influence, we are joined by Jussi Hanhimäki, Professor of International History and Politics here at the Geneva Graduate Institute. In this conversation. Professor Hanhimäki explores how this election may shape the United States' role in the world—its alliances, foreign policy direction, and influence over global markets. We discuss the challenges and opportunities the U.S. faces in a rapidly changing global landscape, as well as how American leadership affects both allies and adversaries. The goal of this episode is to provide a deeper understanding of what this new administration means for global stability, diplomatic relations, and the interconnected nature of domestic and foreign policy.

Welcome to this episode of What Matters Today, where we delve into the complexities of the current crisis between Israel and Lebanon. As tensions escalate, Lebanon faces profound challenges to its stability, governance, and ability to provide essential services. In this episode, we explore how the ongoing conflict is reshaping the Lebanese state, examining the government’s response, the factors influencing its decisions, and the critical role of public opinion—especially concerning Hezbollah’s involvement. We’ll also consider how Lebanon’s position at the heart of regional tensions might lead to shifts in alliances and potentially transformative changes within its own political landscape. To help unpack these pressing issues, we are joined by Christiana Parreira, Assistant Professor of International Relations and Political Science here at the Geneva Graduate Institute. Christiana joined the Institute in 2022, following her role as a Post-doctoral Associate in the Department of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University and a Pre-Doctoral Associate with the Middle East Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School.

In this episode of What Matters Today, we dive into the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Israeli army has intensified strikes on Hezbollah targets, leading to devastating civilian casualties. We explore the complex historical and geopolitical context behind this escalation and ask critical questions: Is Lebanon at risk of becoming the next Gaza? Could Israel face a prolonged conflict, and how might this impact Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership both at home and abroad? We also discuss the potential short- and medium-term consequences for the Middle East and consider how the United States may position itself in this evolving conflict. Our guest is Cyrus Schayegh, Professor of International History and Politics, and Chair of the Department of International History and Politics at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

Imagine a world leader facing the possibility of arrest for war crimes. Today, that scenario is not fiction but reality. The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. These charges, linked to the Gaza conflict, have sent shockwaves through international politics and law.While the ICC has previously indicted other heads of state, this case marks a significant development in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. In this episode of What Matters Today, we dig into the intricate details of this unprecedented move. We'll explore the ICC's mandate, the specific allegations, and the profound implications for global diplomacy and justice.Joining us is Professor Paola Gaeta, a renowned expert in international law here at the Geneva Graduate Institute.Professor Gaeta has an extensive background in international criminal law, international humanitarian law, and human rights. She is also a member of the editorial board of the Journal of International Criminal Justice and has published widely on these subjects. With her help, today’s episode will navigate this complex and controversial topic with her deep expertise and insights.

Welcome to this joint Who is voting in 2024 and What Matters Today podcast episode. A quick word about both of these series. Who is voting in 2024 is a series produced by the Geneva Graduate Institute’s Albert Hirschman Centre On Democracy focusing on the multiple elections taking place in 2024.What Matters Today, which is produced by the Institute’s Communications department, is a current affairs podcast series featuring Geneva Graduate Institute faculty and international experts commenting on the most pressing global issues.Our guests today are Mukulika Banerjee and Gopalan Balachandran.Mukulika is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She specializes in political anthropology and election cultures, among other areas. Having just returned from a few weeks in India, she brings a valuable "on the ground" perspective to this discussion.Gopalan is the Co-Director of the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy and a Professor of International History and Politics at the Geneva Graduate Institute. His areas of expertise include globalization, emerging countries, and diasporas, among others.

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking legal case in Switzerland where the European Court of Human Rights addressed the intersection of climate change and human rights violations. We analyze the arguments presented in the case and the court's evaluation of their claims, highlighting the significance of establishing governmental accountability in climate policy. We also discuss the broader implications of the ruling for global climate justice and human rights protection, and offer insights into the actions governments, including Switzerland, must take to mitigate climate change and safeguard the rights of all citizens.Our guest is Anne Saab, Associate Professor in International Law at the Geneva Graduate Institute. 

From the bustling streets of Moscow to the corridors of power in the Kremlin, Russia stands at a critical crossroads. Recent events have cast a shadow over the nation, leaving citizens and observers alike questioning the future of democracy and governance. As part of our ongoing election series, in this episode of What Matters Today we delve deep into the heart of one of the most consequential events in contemporary Russian politics: the recent election.  Join us as we unravel the complexities, explore the implications, and seek to understand what lies ahead for Russia and the world."Our guest today is Dr. Vassily Klimentov, Faculty Lead, Applied Research Projects, Conflict, Peace, & Security Track here at the Institute

On 29 December, following the conflict between Israel and Hamas, South Africa appealed to the International Court of Justice under the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. Last month, the International Court of Justice ordered a series of provisional measures against Israel. In this episode, we delve into the recent ruling and explore a series of critical questions surrounding this landmark decision. Our guest today is Nico Krisch, Professor of International Law, and Head of the International Law Department at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

The main United Nations agency responsible for aid to Palestinians, also known as UNRWA, is in the eye of the storm, as an unprecedented humanitarian disaster unfolds in the Gaza Strip. Some employees of UNRWA are accused by Israel of having been involved in the Hamas attacks of 7 October, 2023. Since these allegations were made public by the agency itself, several Western countries, led by the USA, have suspended their funding. Our guest for this episode is Riccardo Bocco, Emeritus Professor in Anthropology and Sociology at the Geneva Graduate Institute

Dans cet épisode de "What Matters Today", Jérôme Duberry, directeur exécutif du Tech Hub, interviewe la professeure Lyse Langlois, directrice générale de l'Observatoire international sur les impacts sociétaux de l'intelligence artificielle et du numérique (OBVIA) à l'Université de Laval. Ils explorent le thème de l'éthique au cœur de l'intelligence artificielle, basé sur le dernier rapport publié par l'OBVIA. Lyse Langlois souligne l'importance de l'éthique appliquée et de la responsabilité collective dans un contexte d'évolution rapide de l'intelligence artificielle, mettant en garde contre une approche de checklist qui pourrait détourner l'éthique vers une simple formalité. Elle préconise des cours d'éthique obligatoires et le développement de la compétence éthique comme une aptitude, favorisant la délibération et la sensibilisation continue pour guider l'évolution de l'éthique de l'IA. Plus d'infos sur: - l'Institut: graduateinstitute.ch - l'OBVIA: https://observatoire-ia.ulaval.ca