Altamar - Navigating the High Seas of Global Politics: Recent Episodes
Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen
Altamar is dedicated to curating an informative discussion on how global issues impact all of us. The show avoids the typical Washingtonian US bias and talks about accelerating changes from a global perspective by featuring diverse guests on a range of foreign policy topics. We aim to rise above the polarization that detracts from the public’s understanding of crucial global issues. Hosted by political analyst Peter Schechter and columnist Muni Jensen.
In a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, alliances are changing fast. The US, Russia, and China are using their influence to rally support from previously neutral countries. Increasingly, nations -- especially developing nations -- are forced to pick a side. Is non-alignment possible in an increasingly polarized world? Who are the fence sitters, and how long can they hedge their bets?
The Altamar hosts are joined by Matias Spektor, founder and professor at the School of International Relations at Fundacao Getulio Vargas. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the history of the Non-Aligned Movement.
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Several years into Brexit, the country has not found its footing politically, economically, and in its very soul. The UK is working to rebuild relationships with Europe while dealing with renewed calls for independence from Scotland and Northern Ireland. The economy has fared better than expected, even though inflation has resulted in a deep cost-of-living crisis. Rising economic inequality and anti-immigration sentiments add to the uncertainty.
The Altamar hosts are joined by Jon Sopel, former award-winning BBC journalist and television personality. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines unfavorable youth views on the monarchy and economy.
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Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine eroded the concept of neutrality as an effective policy in a polarized world. That’s especially true for countries in close geographic proximity to Russia. Recently, Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, ending 100 years of neutrality. With 830 miles of border between Russia and Finland, NATO’s newest addition changes the strategic balance in Europe. These major geopolitical shifts are likely to outlast the actual Russian invasion of Ukraine. What does that mean for the global world order?
The Altamar hosts are joined by Mika Sinuhe Wallinheimo, Finnish Member of Parliament since 2011. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the increasingly conservative youth vote in Finland and Sweden.
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These days, Mexico is one contradiction after another. For example, President Andrés Manuel Lopez Obrador – or AMLO, as he is called – declared a rhetorical war on the private sector, yet the economy is holding on pretty well – at least for now. On the tourism front, it’s one of the world’s booming tourist destinations, despite travel advisories warning of drugs and crime at popular destinations. And on trade, the government is on a protectionist streak, yet the North American Free Trade Agreement was renegotiated. What’s really going on in Mexico?
The Altamar hosts are joined by Jorge Guajardo, former Mexican diplomat and global savant. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines issues at the border between the US and Mexico.
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COVID-19 turned many workplaces and schools into virtual or hybrid environments. Artificial intelligence has become part of daily life with new products such as Chat GPT. The UK just had a hugely successful 4-day workweek trial. With all of these new developments, what is the future of work? But not every industry or every country will transform in the same way. We discuss what skills are needed, where and how we work, who will be the winners and losers, and, of course, how much of the world will actually change at all. Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Dany Bahar, an associate professor at Brown University and nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines inequalities in the service industry.
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Nigeria’s presidential vote constituted one of the most closely watched and significant elections of the year. One of the world’s top oil producers, Nigeria has suffered political and economic upheaval since its independence from the UK in 1960. In lead up to this election, young people were galvanized, and many hoped for change. But then, the election was defined by a small margin, low turnout, and rampant corruption. There were widespread accounts of voter irregularities, sporadic violence at polling stations, disorderly delays, and other logistical issues. Why doesn’t the enthusiasm for change actually bring change to Nigeria?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ayisha Osori, a Nigerian lawyer, international development consultant, and politician. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the rise of Nigeria’s galvanized youth.
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Country rankings – whether it’s about the economy, democracy, or environmental standards – are important for a country’s reputation. The Economist produces its annual Economic Rankings, which look at several economic factors to assess economic stability. Since COVID, the process of “measuring” countries has been turned upside down. The 2022 Economist Economic Ranking is a good example of the confusion. In the ranking, Turkey, on the verge of dictatorship and with sky-high inflation, ranks well above the US. Colombia was higher than Denmark. And Greece was the #1 economically successful country in the world. What determines these rankings at a time of deep economic uncertainties?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Callum Williams, senior economics writer at The Economist. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines Greece’s rise in several other rankings.
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OSINT is the gathering and analysis of publicly available data from unlimited and all-encompassing sources. This new tool is shaping the frontlines of war, terror, and other geopolitical threats.
Open Source Intelligence is a tool, and like any tool, its purpose and morality depend on how it’s used. Analysts use open sources to find illegal activity and identify threats. Bad actors use it to plan and target networks through hacking and cyberterrorism. Ukraine has used geo-location from Russian soldiers sending pictures back home to figure out the location of Russian troops. Companies benefit from it in employee screening, research, and analytics. OSINT is changing the nature of geopolitical threats – and the defense against them. How will this powerful tool be used next?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Arthur Bradley, Senior OSINT Analyst at Tech Against Terrorism. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines how open sources have changed the way we all consume news.
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Biodiversity is crucial for our planet’s food security, climate resilience, supply chains, and our economy. Half of global GDP relies on nature. Governments are scrambling to create policies on conservation – is it too little too late?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including the variety of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. It has growing economic value as most industries rely on healthy ecosystems. Companies are paying closer attention to biodiversity and environmental, social, and governance initiatives have become mainstream. After decades of inaction, international agreements and regulations are slowly becoming building blocks to a more sustainable world. Will this slow building of a protective wall suffice?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Collin O’Mara, CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines strategies to unlock financing for conservation and nature-based solutions.
News around the world centered on the violent protests in Brazil by those who rejected election results and sought to overthrow the government following the presidential transition (sound familiar?). The riots were – at best – a collapse of military preparedness or – at worst – included the help and connivance of the military and business elites. How stable is Brazil? Will another shoe drop?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ricardo Sennes, a political analyst and Brazil expert. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines how the Brazilian insurrection is yet more proof of the failure to regulate social media.
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2022 put energy in the headlines nearly every day. The list of interlocking energy issues is huge: Europe’s spiraling prices and gas shortages, the war in Ukraine and the cutoff of Russia’s oil and gas from world markets, canceling Nordstream 2, the rift between the US and the Saudis, COP 27 and the green energy transition to renewables are only a few of the issues that will spill over into this new year. – to name just a few.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by David Goldwyn, a globally recognized thought leader, educator, and policy innovator in energy security. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines two challenges for the global green energy transition.
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The big issues of our time transcend borders, countries, and geographies. This past year, power has become more diffuse. Many leading western countries are stifled by crises and polarization. New players are asserting themselves, taking a slice of the power pie. We identified eight macrotrends: shifting demographics, economic uncertainty, China’s stagnation, the green energy transition, the uncertain future of tech, the rise of Africa, ‘everything-washing,’ and women’s rights. What’s Tom Friedman’s list? What do you think of our list? What did we miss?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Tom Friedman, internationally renowned author, reporter, and NYT columnist. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines our eighth trend – changes in women’s rights around the world.
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As the first championship in the Middle East, the Qatar World Cup is both historic and controversial. Notwithstanding numerous bribing allegations, Qatar was selected as the first country in the Middle East to host the World Cup. And the political controversies have been on full display during the Cup – from LGBTQ rights to Iran’s protests, the world was watching. Are these political debates the new normal?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, a sports analyst and tech entrepreneur who traveled to Doha for the World Cup. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines FIFA’s controversial decision not to allow players to wear arm bands in support of LGBTQ+ rights on the field in Doha.
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Israel's longest-serving Prime Minister – Benjamin ‘Bibi’ Netanyahu – is back with a new strategy. This time, Bibi aligned himself with hard-right extremist parties to clinch a victory in a narrow election. His new allies are the ultra-nationalist Religious Zionist Party, who have expressed racist and homophobic propaganda. Will this new coalition add even more instability to this historically tumultuous region?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Gil Tamary, Chief International News Editor for Israel's leading news Channel, News 13. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines Israeli youth’s move to the far right.
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There was a lot at stake in the American midterm elections. The loss of the House will greatly impact Biden’s ability to accomplish his agenda in his last two years as president. But, Republicans did not win nearly as big as expected. The red wave was a fizzle. Democrats held on in important races and some unexpected upsets that led to doubts about Trump’s capacity to endorse candidates. What are the elections’ key takeaways?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Paul Maslin, a leading pollster and campaign strategist. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the Hispanic vote in the United States.
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There was a lot at stake in the American midterm elections. The loss of the House will greatly impact Biden’s ability to accomplish his agenda in his last two years as president. But, Republicans did not win nearly as big as expected. The red wave was a fizzle. Democrats held on in important races and some unexpected upsets that led to doubts about Trump’s capacity to endorse candidates. What are the elections’ key takeaways?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Paul Maslin, a leading pollster and campaign strategist. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the Hispanic vote in the United States.
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The Brazilian presidential election was a bickering, contentious and rancorous race between two opposing views of Brazil. Lula and Bolsonaro have dominated the country’s political story for over a decade, one a veteran politician with allegations of corruption, both beloved and criticized. The other an autocratic, right-wing populist with little regard for institutions. After a brutal and dirty campaign, leftist leader Lula emerged as the winner by a narrow margin. Will Bolsonaro respect the results? And what does this election mean for Brazil?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Lourival Sant'Anna, a Senior Fellow at the Brazilian Center of International Relations (CEBRI) and a journalist and International Affairs Analyst at CNN Brazil. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines fake news surrounding the campaigns.
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The Brazilian presidential election was a bickering, contentious and rancorous race between two opposing views of Brazil. Lula and Bolsonaro have dominated the country’s political story for over a decade, one a veteran politician with allegations of corruption, both beloved and criticized. The other an autocratic, right-wing populist with little regard for institutions. After a brutal and dirty campaign, leftist leader Lula emerged as the winner by a narrow margin. Will Bolsonaro respect the results? And what does this election mean for Brazil?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Lourival Sant'Anna, a Senior Fellow at the Brazilian Center of International Relations (CEBRI) and a journalist and International Affairs Analyst at CNN Brazil. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines fake news surrounding the campaigns.
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Shifting realities following Russia’s invasion have put Berlin in a tough position. Germany’s long history of trade and business with Russia has placed it deep into the crossfires of this conflict. Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing an energy crisis and a difficult governing coalition at home while being criticized for not doing enough to help Ukraine. How is Germany’s relatively new Chancellor handling these new dynamic threats? How will Russia’s war change Germany? And what’s next for Europe?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Liana Fix, a Fellow for Europe at Council of Foreign Relations. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines private sector ties between Germany and Russia.
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Shifting realities following Russia’s invasion have put Berlin in a tough position. Germany’s long history of trade and business with Russia has placed it deep into the crossfires of this conflict. Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing an energy crisis and a difficult governing coalition at home while being criticized for not doing enough to help Ukraine. How is Germany’s relatively new Chancellor handling these new dynamic threats? How will Russia’s war change Germany? And what’s next for Europe?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Liana Fix, a Fellow for Europe at Council of Foreign Relations. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines private sector ties between Germany and Russia.
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Giorgia Meloni will be Italy’s first woman leader and first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. The rise of the Brothers of Italy party is a case study in the continued prominence of culture war politics and the implosion of centrist parties. Just how radical will Meloni’s government be?
The country progressing under the steady, technocratic and respected leadership of Mario Draghi has just done a shocking U-turn. Italy just elected a coalition under the leadership of the far-right Brothers of Italy party. Giorgia Meloni will be the next Prime Minister of the Italian Republic, its first woman leader, and the first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. While campaigning, she positioned herself as more moderate, backed away from the party’s neo-fascist roots. Meloni made anti-LGBTQ, anti-immigrant and anti-US comments, but has since moderated her tone to attract younger voters. She has also been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine and regularly criticizes Putin. However, other members of the incoming ruling coalition are vociferously pro-Putin. What will be the direction of the new Italian government?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Erik Jones, Director of the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies at the European University Institute. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines youth apathy and low voter turnout.
Giorgia Meloni will be Italy’s first woman leader and first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. The rise of the Brothers of Italy party is a case study in the continued prominence of culture war politics and the implosion of centrist parties. Just how radical will Meloni’s government be?
The country progressing under the steady, technocratic and respected leadership of Mario Draghi has just done a shocking U-turn. Italy just elected a coalition under the leadership of the far-right Brothers of Italy party. Giorgia Meloni will be the next Prime Minister of the Italian Republic, its first woman leader, and the first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. While campaigning, she positioned herself as more moderate, backed away from the party’s neo-fascist roots. Meloni made anti-LGBTQ, anti-immigrant and anti-US comments, but has since moderated her tone to attract younger voters. She has also been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine and regularly criticizes Putin. However, other members of the incoming ruling coalition are vociferously pro-Putin. What will be the direction of the new Italian government?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Erik Jones, Director of the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies at the European University Institute. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines youth apathy and low voter turnout.
Immigration seems unsolvable in the United States. The number of immigrants crossing the border has been spiking since at least 2013, haunting several presidents. The Trump administration was criticized for being inhumane. The Biden administration took a friendlier stance, but border traffic has increased exponentially. To make a political point and burnish their right-wing credentials, the Republican governors of Texas and Arizona (and now Florida) are sending tens of thousands of migrants to cities such as Washington, DC, and New York. Beyond the political stunt, border states are overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of incoming migrants. How does this issue get solved?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Andrew Selee, president of the Migration Policy Institute. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the political fight around immigration in the United States.
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Immigration seems unsolvable in the United States. The number of immigrants crossing the border has been spiking since at least 2013, haunting several presidents. The Trump administration was criticized for being inhumane. The Biden administration took a friendlier stance, but border traffic has increased exponentially. To make a political point and burnish their right-wing credentials, the Republican governors of Texas and Arizona (and now Florida) are sending tens of thousands of migrants to cities such as Washington, DC, and New York. Beyond the political stunt, border states are overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of incoming migrants. How does this issue get solved?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Andrew Selee, president of the Migration Policy Institute. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the political fight around immigration in the United States.
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Western nations are struggling to cope with the onslaught of international and national crises from climate to a tide of authoritarianism. Developing countries have an even harder time as they face greater inequality with fewer resources to help their citizens. Government and international bodies have been unable to find lasting solutions to the economic, social, and political tensions. It’s time for bold ideas and strategic action. Lord Mark Malloch Brown, former UN deputy secretary general and UK government minister, thinks that the world needs a new Marshall Plan. Is an old success story a template for renewed action?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Mark Malloch-Brown, president of the Open Society Foundations. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines public support for a large-scale global program.
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Western nations are struggling to cope with the onslaught of international and national crises from climate to a tide of authoritarianism. Developing countries have an even harder time as they face greater inequality with fewer resources to help their citizens. Government and international bodies have been unable to find lasting solutions to the economic, social, and political tensions. It’s time for bold ideas and strategic action. Lord Mark Malloch Brown, former UN deputy secretary general and UK government minister, thinks that the world needs a new Marshall Plan. Is an old success story a template for renewed action?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Mark Malloch-Brown, president of the Open Society Foundations. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines public support for a large-scale global program.
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The emergence of Monkeypox stress-tested the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic – and, again, the world is failing the challenge. Health institutions seem unprepared to deal with this new health scare, especially one that targets a stigmatized minority and involves complicated national security issues around vaccine stockpiles. As a result, information from health authorities around the world is uneven, and the responsibility has fallen largely on the global media to report on spread, vaccine availability, and access to care. As public health officials predict more pandemics in the future, is there a pathway to a more efficient international response?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nurith Aizenman, NPR’s correspondent for Global Health and Development. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the stigmatization of the LGBTQ+ community during the initial HIV/AIDS panic.
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The emergence of Monkeypox stress-tested the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic – and, again, the world is failing the challenge. Health institutions seem unprepared to deal with this new health scare, especially one that targets a stigmatized minority and involves complicated national security issues around vaccine stockpiles. As a result, information from health authorities around the world is uneven, and the responsibility has fallen largely on the global media to report on spread, vaccine availability, and access to care. As public health officials predict more pandemics in the future, is there a pathway to a more efficient international response?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nurith Aizenman, NPR’s correspondent for Global Health and Development. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the stigmatization of the LGBTQ+ community during the initial HIV/AIDS panic.
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In 1947, free from British control, India and Pakistan split based on religious majorities – Hindu and Muslim. Soon thereafter, the two countries went to war over control of the Jammu and Kashmir provinces. Since then, the conflict escalated into confrontations on multiple fronts, with global implications. After all, both countries are nuclear powers. What is on the horizon with shifting global alliances (think: the US and China)? After Ukraine and Taiwan, is this region the world’s third tripwire?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Shamila Chaudhary, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the South Asia Center at the Atlantic Council. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines young militants in the Kashmir region.
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The term “free trade” has fallen out of favor in recent years. Trade disputes, economic uncertainty, and a growing income gap have stoked a global protectionist fire. Nationalist parties across the world have flourished on a trade-unfriendly agenda. Latin American leaders run campaigns on “renegotiating” trade agreements. The Trump Administration’s loud anti-trade agenda, which led to the US leaving the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and an average 25% tariff on goods produced in China have proven difficult to reverse. What will the world look like with an increasingly protectionist agenda?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Chad Bown, Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the increase in child labor around the world for the first time in 20 years.
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The term “free trade” has fallen out of favor in recent years. Trade disputes, economic uncertainty, and a growing income gap have stoked a global protectionist fire. Nationalist parties across the world have flourished on a trade-unfriendly agenda. Latin American leaders run campaigns on “renegotiating” trade agreements. The Trump Administration’s loud anti-trade agenda, which led to the US leaving the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and an average 25% tariff on goods produced in China have proven difficult to reverse. What will the world look like with an increasingly protectionist agenda?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Chad Bown, Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the increase in child labor around the world for the first time in 20 years.
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By 2050, Africa’s population will double; by 2100, one of three people on the globe will be African. While it’s hard to generalize in a continent so diverse, Africa has seen a lot of progress over the past twenty years. Economic growth and manufacturing expanded. Infrastructure was built. Social services such as education and healthcare improved. Millions were pulled out of poverty in countries like Kenya and Tanzania in the East and Nigeria and Ivory Coast in the West. However, new threats such as COVID-19 and soaring food prices because of the Russia-Ukraine War could be a new tipping point for millions on the brink of extreme poverty. Millions of Africans predict that the future will be worse than the present, opening the door to instability and violence. What is the outlook for this gigantic and complex continent?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Dr. Jakkie Cilliers, a well-known Africa analyst and founder of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS). Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the youth brain drain across the continent.
ISS recently published integrated forecasts of Africa’s development prospects and potential; found here- futures.issafrica.org.
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This is the first time that the left will rule in this democracy of 50 million historically conservative people, who have now expressed a deep desire for change. Gustavo Petro, a controversial former guerrilla, congressman, and Mayor, beat a rich and eccentric populist who ran from the right. Petro promises a radical transformation of Colombia’s economic model. Can he deliver?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Miguel Silva, advisor, author, lawyer, and former Secretary-General of the Presidency in Colombia. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic examines the overwhelming youth support for Petro.
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This Summit of the Americas only served to underscore the fractures on the continent. Instead of resetting its relations with Latin American countries, the US seemed further apart than ever from the continent. The hotly debated RSVP list left out some major players, such as Mexico’s President Lopez Obrador. With countries facing such different internal and external challenges, what is next for the hemisphere?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Luis Alberto Moreno, former President of the Interamerican Development Bank and the author of recent book Vamos. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic reminds us that on social issues such as abortion rights and legalization of marijuana, Latin America is far more progressive than today’s political debate in the United States.
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Global food insecurity was already an issue. Years of heightened climate change cut global production by about 20%. Then, a war happened. Russia and Ukraine together normally account for almost a third of the global production of wheat and are the main providers of barley, sunflowers, and maize. Human Rights Watch has warned that many countries have seen disruptions in their imports of wheat, but also fertilizer, vegetable oils, and other key commodities. Let’s add to that the rising cost of fuel to transport the food. According to the World Food Program, as a result of the expounding crises, global hunger may increase to up to 20%.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined Jack Nicas, the Brazil bureau chief for The New York Times. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine exacerbating food shortages.
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As Russia escalates its merciless attack on Ukraine, there is much talk of a newly reunited West taking a collective position and presenting a strong front against Putin. But is consensus real? All over the world, we are seeing large percentages of voters embracing a populist candidate with autocratic tendencies. From Marine Le Pen in France, Duterte in the Philippines, and even the lingering political presence of Trump in the United States. Has democracy lost its appeal among voters?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Moisés Naim, a globally syndicated columnist and author of the recent book The Revenge of Power. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into youth civic participation around the world.
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In the first weeks of the war, we heard reports that brand after brand was closing their doors in Russia. Oil giants shut down their rigs, and tech companies unplugged their servers, sending workers home. Luxury good brands joined the exodus, sending powerful values-ridden press releases. The wave of global companies leaving Russia has not stopped. Taking a stance on political issues is an escalation of corporate behavior in the last decades, moving toward active corporate social responsibility. What does the exodus mean for the Russian economy? Has a new standard been set for corporate responsibility and a stakeholder economy? And, finally, what does this mean for the few international companies that have refused to leave?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by DJ Peterson, Founder and President of Longview Advisors. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into personal sanctions of Russian goods.
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The conservative Serbian Progressive Party easily won the elections at the presidential, parliamentary, and municipal levels. Vucic and his party have already ruled for over ten years. He stays in power with a comfortable mandate but with a difficult geopolitical agenda, stuck between Russia and the EU. Serbia has been an EU candidate since 2009 while also maintaining strong ties to Russia. The War in Ukraine puts Vucic in a difficult position. Serbia voted in favor of a UN resolution condemning the invasion of Ukraine but has declined imposing sanctions. Is Serbia moving West or East?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Majda Ruge, Senior Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into current “Serbia’s moving to the Right” rhetoric.
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Impressive economic growth and development made ASEAN an increasingly important geopolitical block. In the past few decades, China invested heavily in Southeast Asia through its Belt and Road Initiative and strengthened its ties with the ten countries. The result has been widespread economic growth, greater trade and investment flows, and growth in education and technology. Recently, the US, Japan, and Australia created a counterforce to China, building an agenda around climate change issues, new investments in infrastructure development, and on issues of security and regional diplomacy. How will ASEAN balance the conflicting global interests in their region?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Niharika Mandhana, the Wall Street Journal’s Bureau Chief for Southeast Asia. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the youth-driven tech boom throughout Southeast Asia.
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The economic sanctions are unprecedented in both size and scope. The strongest blow was dealt by freezing assets of Russia’s Central Bank and the largest Russian sovereign wealth fund. Without reserves, the ruble has fallen to historic lows. To further isolate Russia, many countries have expelled Russian banks from SWIFT services and have targeted specific sanctions on top banks, key Russian oligarchs, as well as on President Putin and his inner circle. No sanctions regime – including the nearly half-century of sanctions on Cuba -- has been so completely unrelenting. But is this new economic weapon a two-edged sword in a globalized world?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the impact of sanctions on the Russian people.
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Egypt’s revolt from Britain occurred decades before any other African or Asian country managed to throw off the yoke of British, French, Belgian, German colonial power. For years, this act of revolution propelled Egypt to a position of regional and global policy leadership – from its role as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, the pioneer of pan-Arabism, and, of course, the first country to make peace with Israel. Now, human rights abuses and restrictions of freedoms have placed the most populous Arab country in a bad light with its Western allies.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Karim Haggag, a career Egyptian diplomat with over 25 years of service. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into human rights violations and a lack of freedom within civil society in Egypt.
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Now, countries with poor human rights records are using wealth to clean reputations and advance personal gain. Sportswashing - coined by Amnesty International in 2018- describes how countries clean their reputation by becoming the epicenter of global athletic events. Sportwashing is the newest example of the intertwining of sports and politics. And 2022 is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged sporting years in recent memory.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, Altamar’s sports correspondent, and a sports and technology entrepreneur. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the West’s failure to deal with the rise of ‘sportswashing.’
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Italian Prime Minister Draghi, former European Central Bank head, managed to keep the country’s economy growing, its vaccine calendar in check, and his popularity strong both at home and abroad. Italy has also managed 248 billion Euros in recovery granted by the ECB. Even though The Economist’s prize of “Country of the Year” prize was not very competitive this year, Italy’s 2021 track record is surprisingly good.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Arturo Zampaglione, New York correspondent for La Republicca of nearly 20 years. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the lagging nature of women’s representation in Italian politics.
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Extreme right-wing ideology is spreading. As France prepares for presidential elections in April, two candidates on the far-right are vying to replace current centrist President Emmanuel Macron. The right-wing darling Marine Le Pen and the even more extreme Eric Zemmour drive a daily political agenda of xenophobia, anti-globalization, anti-elites, and anti-immigration. This isn’t just a French phenomenon. Right-wing parties are becoming extremist in much of the West-- from Scandinavia to Spain and across the ocean to America. Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Alain Frachon, senior columnist and former Foreign Editor of Le Monde. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into where today’s youth is headed on the political spectrum as anti-capitalist sentiment increases.
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The year ahead is a difficult one for Latin America as the region tries to reverse its democratic and economic backsliding. A new generation of leaders is on its way to power.
2022 has a critical electoral calendar in Latin America, as elections loom ahead in Brazil, Colombia, and Costa Rica. In Chile’s recent presidential elections, the country voted for a 35-year old former student protestor, Gabriel Boric, who promises transparency and new economic hope. In recent years, the region is again in a deep decline after considerable progress in the early 2000s; and the pandemic has only exacerbated social rifts and inequality. Can younger leaders bring solutions?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Juan Gabriel Valdés, Chile’s former Foreign Minister and a true expert on his country and Latin America as a whole. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the growing strength of progressive youth in Latin American politics.
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This year has been an absolute whirlwind of the Good, the Bad, and the Scary. Our end-of-year episode’s positive highlights include the scientific collaboration that led to vaccines for both COVID and malaria, a growing consensus on climate change, an emphasis on holding China accountable, and the end of the Trump era. Our drawbacks are the ever-growing concerns of COVID as it continues to run rampant around the world, geopolitical fears in Taiwan, Ukraine, and Iran that threaten future peace, and the world economy’s state of instability.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ryan Heath, author of Global Insider, POLITICO’s excellent global newsletter and podcast, and a truly global expert who looks into his crystal ball to predict the trends of 2022. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic tackles the ‘scary’ of 2021, which touches on social media’s ever more polarizing effects on society.
The London Interbank Overnight Rate (LIBOR) – one of the world’s longest-lasting financial benchmarks – disappears this month. It’s just one of the many signs of a new uncertainty in economics. Rising inflation, high energy bills, real estate crises in China, lockdowns, supply chain breakdowns, and labor shortages are creating an unusual economic storm. How will all of this affect the world economy and geopolitics in the new year?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by James Politi, Washington Bureau Chief of the Financial Times, to help us sort out the confusing world economy. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the fact that millennials are seeing inflation for the first time in their lives.
It’s been 30 years since the Soviet Union fell. With the dismantling of communism, the US became the sole superpower. Market economies and liberal democracies became the new norm. But, Russia has once again reverted to old habits. Russia is an authoritarian superpower and one of the West’s principal antagonists. What is in Russia’s imminent future? What will Russia look like in ten years? Will Putin ever leave?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Julia Ioffe, former Moscow correspondent for The New Yorker and Foreign Policy and an outspoken voice on Russia, to help us understand where Russia goes in the next decade. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into Russia’s youth and the Kremlin’s repression of young “new Communists.”
National security is more complex than ever before. The dangerous rivalry between the US and China continues to grow. The Middle East’s balance of power is shifting. And threats to democracy are deepening around the world. Not to mention, the heightened cybersecurity risks due to heightened dangers of hacks and data thefts from the COVID-era’s teleworking and virtual gatherings. Where do we begin?
In a special edition of Altamar with Johns Hopkins University’s Hopkins at Home, hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by John McLaughlin, former Deputy Director and Acting Director of the CIA and world expert on security to dissect the growing security challenges the US faces over the next decade. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic highlights the new frontier of security threats: cyberthreats in space.
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After 18 months of COVID and a turbulent geopolitical map, this crucial global convening of leaders will set the stage for the environmental future of planet Earth. COP is coordinated by the UN and produced the Paris Accord five years ago. Now, many of the world’s top leaders are back to discuss what happens next.
COP 26 comes at a time of huge energy confusion. Energy prices are off the charts, and there simply is not enough clean energy to meet the world’s needs. What can we expect from this meeting?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Michael Jenkins, President and CEO of Forest Trends and former Associate Director for the Global Security and Sustainability Program of the MacArthur Foundation. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the impact and role of youth in a time where climate policy is crucial.
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First the Panama Papers in 2016, then the Paradise Papers in 2017, and now the Pandora Papers. The massive leaks expose financial maneuverings and corruption at the world’s highest levels. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists worked with more than 140 media organizations on its biggest-ever global investigation. Data reveals hidden wealth, tax avoidance, and money laundering by the world’s most rich and powerful. But not all of these practices are illegal. What constitutes the legality and ethics behind these hidden financial activities?
The Pandora Papers highlight the blurred lines between legal and illegal financial practices. Clearly, those most empowered to end financial “grey areas” are also those most heavily invested in prolonging secret accounts for their own benefit. The dozens of politicians exposed are already experiencing political pain from voters, giving way to more populist extremes. What does that mean for democracy itself?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Mark Pieth, founding president of the Basel Institute on Governance and a leading voice on anti-corruption practices. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses technological advances to protect whistleblowers who expose these shady practices.
Everyone’s looking at Germany. Not because its general elections are typically an exciting affair, but because Chancellor Angela Merkel is stepping down after more than a decade and a half at the helm of Europe’s most powerful nation. Germany’s youth wanted a female, young, climate activist to take her place, but the leader of a likely coalition will be Social Democrat Olaf Scholz.
Beyond Germany, this election is realigning EU politics. There are questions about whether France’s Macron will step into the Merkel vacuum, but he is up for re-election and isn’t known for consensus-building strengths. Beyond Macron, however, it is hard to think of an alternative. Will the values and unity of the EU remain strong?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ramiro Villapadierna, former Executive Director at Instituto Cervantes and longtime Central European journalist based in Berlin. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the disappointment of young German voters who desperately wanted the Green Party in power.
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Social activism and conscious consumerism are on everyone’s mind. Should businesses be taking stances on the social justice debate of the day?
Given the repeated failures of government to resolve long-festering issues such as widening inequality, injustice, and racism, corporations have now become more engaged in pushing social causes. Is this simply good marketing?
At a time when Millennials and Gen-Zers demand more social “woke-ness,” companies are quickly jumping on the opportunity to demonstrate their activism as a way to stand out in the market. Some of it appears legitimate – think of Patagonia, Ben and Jerry, and Nike’s recent support of Colin Kaepernick. Other corporate actions elicit a more cynical response Think of British oil giant BP renaming itself to become “Beyond Petroleum” or Phillip Morris railing against smoking. So, we delved deeper. How far should activism really go? How do we differentiate between genuine mission orientation vs. corporate propaganda to make more profits for shareholders?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Vivek Ramaswamy, author of Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America’s Social Justice Scam, who argues the case that politics has no place in business. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic takes us on a journey: the founding of Immigrant Food, Washington, DC’s first cause-casual restaurant with an embedded social justice mission.
Since the early 2000s, most US and European companies have cut significant costs by moving manufacturing operations to China and Southeast Asia. Because of COVID disrupted supply chains, growing tensions and trade disputes between China and Western nations, and backlash over China’s dismal human rights records, companies are seeking diversity. As CEOs are rethinking their supply chain strategies and looking to new areas, the Caribbean and Central American regions are positioning themselves as attractive, close-to-the-US global manufacturers. Will this new practice be a fad or a long-term solution?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Roberto Álvarez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, to explain this new concept of “nearshoring.” Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses how governments must do more to prepare their young population for nearshoring.
Calls for freedom and change ring in Cuba as the country faced the most widespread, violent protests since 1959. What spurred these demonstrations and what lies in store for the island’s future?
Exhausted by food shortages, lack of opportunity, and a declining economy, protests exploded across the island as people – from novelists and singers to cooks and nurses – took to the streets to call for freedom from the authoritarian regime. The world was taken by surprise by the scope and size of the Cuban people’s defiance. Despite years of oppression and a complete lack of political freedom, Cubans don’t seem to merit more than a shrug from many Western governments. Why? The U.S.’ decades-long embargo hasn’t succeeded in isolating Cuba, but rather the U.S. Other countries – from Canada to Brazil, Spain, and China – have invested heavily for years on the island. The embargo has become the Havana authoritarian government’s favorite political crutch.
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by José Miguel Vivanco, Director of the Human Rights Watch’s Americas division and a clear voice in defense of human rights, to dig into the complexities of Cuba. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses how social media allowed young Cubans to use the internet as a tool for protest.
America’s “longest war” has again entered the spotlight as the Biden Administration announced a complete withdrawal of U.S. military forces. Nicknamed ‘the graveyard of empires,’ Afghanistan has defeated many global powers – the British, the Soviets, and now the Americans. The U.S. leaves after having spent close to $800 billion and lost countless lives. The Taliban’s growing presence is worrisome, not least because of its grip on civilian life in the country. Now, with the lack of military and security forces, who will fill the power vacuum?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Edward Girardet, an expert on Afghanistan and editor of Crosslines Global Report and President of the International Centre for Humanitarian Reporting, to sort out what lies in store for the future of Afghanistan. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses how the U.S. withdrawal will affect human rights, particularly the lives of Afghani women and girls.
The worldwide vaccination effort has deepened the fault lines between rich and poor countries. While more developed countries are welcoming a long-anticipated reopening, developing countries continue to live a hellish public health crisis. The global initiative, COVAX, spearheaded by the WHO, GAVI (the Vaccine Alliance), CEPI, and UNICEF, aims to provide participating countries with equal access to vaccines. But it’s not that simple. The global effort is riddled with obstacles from vaccine hesitancy, trade restrictions, lockdowns, political conflict, and lack of cooperation from richer countries. How can this international partnership succeed?
In a special edition of Altamar with Johns Hopkins University’s Hopkins at Home, hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Bill Moss, Executive Director of the International Vaccine Access Center, to delve into the international efforts of vaccine distribution amid a global pandemic. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the educational, social, and psychological adversity facing young people because of constant school closures all around the developing world.
With the end of Copa America and the Eurocup, and the Olympics starting soon, sports are on everyone’s mind this Summer. Most sports now share various commonalities: a huge influx of money from sponsors, venture capital and huge corporations, injured athletes, corruption, and political ambition. Sports have become an arena for countries, companies, investors, fans, broadcasters, and athletes to jostle in a global free-for-all to prove who’s on top. Is it all too much?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, co-owner of sports biotech and data science leader Orreco, to sort out the intricacies of the sports industry. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses women in sports, in both the developing world and wealthy countries, as well as the challenges, changes, and future opportunities they face.
Europe is in flux – on the one hand, the French and German elections are on the horizon, and their outcomes seem ever more uncertain, Eastern European EU governments are becoming increasingly undemocratic, and Britain is gone forever. On the other hand, vaccinations are finally getting traction; the EU is injecting robust funds to spur economic recovery, and Mario Draghi, Italy’s Prime Minister, is taking an increasingly active role on the continent. What is the outlook for post-Brexit continental Europe?
Recent summits such as the G-7 in Britain and the Geneva summit were great photo-ops, but they failed to address some big challenges: competition with China, and relations with Russia, for instance. We talk about a ‘united Europe,’ but when it comes to critical issues, how united are the Europeans, really?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Erik Jones, Director of European and Eurasian Studies at the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies at The Johns Hopkins University, to discuss the impending changes in Europe this year with two major elections on the horizon. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the “lost generation” of Europe that has faced economic crises, educational disruption, and more.
After a total reign of fifteen years, Netanyahu has been ousted and replaced with what can only be described as a ‘pretzel coalition government’ with parties ranging from the center-left to the right and even a member from an Arab Islamist group. But Bibi isn’t going down without a fight. Imitating Trump, he alleges election fraud, warning of the dark presence of a deep state conspiracy and calling for protestors to fill the streets to fuel his claim to power. Can this new coalition last? And will the new government be able to fend off Netanyahu’s attacks and create a compelling agenda of change?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Gil Tamary, Chief International News Editor and Commentator for Israel’s Channel 13 News, to discuss a post-Bibi world and what that means for the future of Israel. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the estrangement many young American Jews feel towards Israel.
As the U.S. opens up and people are beginning to dine out and travel, the Biden Administration is betting on much-needed economic growth. But the current U.S. economy is sending a confusing mix of signals with a plethora of contradictions: labor shortages and unemployment, and rising prices but low-interest rates. Notwithstanding the daily debates about reducing unemployment benefits and many experts warning about the dangers of inflation, the Administration is pressing forward with a $6 Trillion budget proposal that injects stimulus in infrastructure, climate change, elder care, child tax credits, and much more. Will ‘Bidenomics’ save America’s confusing economy?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Caroline Atkinson, former Head of Global Policy at Google and Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economics in the Obama Administration, to discuss the contradictory nature of the U.S.’s economy and what comes next. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses the economic trends of young workers.
For the past decade, Latin America enjoyed economic growth as many countries moved towards more equality, economic prosperity, and personal freedoms. But the pandemic wreaked havoc in the region as even the most stable countries are straining as old and new wounds surface. Can Latin America muddle through as it has in the past?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by
Ricardo Avila, former Editor in Chief of Portafolio, Colombia’s respected business publication, and author of Latin America and the Domino Effect, to discuss the growing crisis in Latin America. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic looks at how the region’s downturn has impacted Latin American youth.
The Oscars this year were the most diverse and unusual, but they also had the worst ratings in history, with less than 10 million viewers—a record low! Awards seasons are not the same anymore now that Netflix has managed to snag 7 Oscars this year. And in a world that is becoming more globalized, global entertainment has changed people’s lives and perspectives. Do streaming platforms pose a dangerous threat to business as usual in Hollywood?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Silvia Bizio, a correspondent for Italy’s most important daily and weekly publications: La Repubblica & L’Espresso, to understand the future of the film industry. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic discusses how the future of TV is all about streaming platforms and immersive experiences.
In 2015, Iran and P5+1 (US, UK, France, Germany, Russia, and China) brokered a deal known as the JCPOA in an effort to achieve nuclear de-escalation. In return for pausing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the West’s economic sanctions would be lifted. But in 2017, the Trump administration abruptly pulled out of the deal, and Iran retaliated by resuming its nuclear program. With JCPOA talks resuming in Vienna amidst heightened tensions, is a pathway towards denuclearization possible?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Vali Nasr, former dean of The Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and a leading Middle East expert, to understand the changing dynamics of Iran. Altamar’s ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic delves into the influence of Iran’s youth on politics and Iran’s upcoming presidential elections.
In 2020, the world came to a shrieking halt. Empty airports, deserted roads, and grounded airplanes were the story of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. Now, as COVID vaccines become more available, we echo the commonly asked question by children: Are we there yet? Countries are making moves toward reopening, and European airlines are beginning to see large upticks in summer ticket sales. Should the travel industry begin to cheer, or is it a little too soon to call this a ‘win’?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Céline Fornaro, Head of the European Industrials team at UBS Securities, to understand the changing nature of travel. Altamar’s new segment, ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic, takes a deeper look into ‘responsible travel’ and the new social trend of ‘travel shaming’ among younger generations.
Russia seems to garner one success after the next: its bold space travel program, successful vaccine creation, and global distribution efforts, and a powerful military. Despite a weakened economy overly dependent on oil and gas, growing internal dissent, and no real foreign policy strategy, Russia remains a force to be reckoned with. Winston Churchill warned us that “Russia is never as weak or as strong as she looks.” So what’s really happening?
Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Jill Dougherty, the former CNN Moscow Bureau Chief and a Russia expert at the Woodrow Wilson Center, to better understand Russia’s true power. Altamar’s new segment, ‘Téa’s Take’ by Téa Ivanovic, discusses the growing youth dissent and its importance for Russia’s future.
Is the grass always greener on the other side? The cannabis industry is now expected to become a $300bn industry in the next 10 years. Nations are beginning to initiate a global conversation about the “regularization” of marijuana. Does it mean decriminalization, legalization, or something else? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Benjamin-Alexandre Jeanroy, CEO of Augur Associates, a former consultant for the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, and co-founder of Echo Citoyen, to discuss the worldwide economic effects of the cannabis industry. Altamar is also joined by Téa Ivanovic for Téa’s Take as she provides insight into the criminal justice system and big pharma in relation to cannabis legalization and decriminalization.
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Our world has turned upside down as we navigate a pandemic, civil unrests, economic hardship, climate destruction, fragile governance…it all spells chaos. Madeleine Albright, the first female US Secretary of State and founder of the influential Albright Stonebridge Group, joins Altamar in a conversation about the world’s problems – and opportunities. We take her on a global tour – from America’s political and social instability to China’s rising power and everything in between. And we also ask the self-described ‘optimist who worries’ whether there’s anything she’s optimistic about right now. Former Secretary of State Albright is also a former UN ambassador, Georgetown professor, and seven-time New York Times best-selling author who has witnessed – and shaped -- the transformation of modern international relations from the front row.
The US abdicated its place on the global throne after the Trump administration replaced the international order with transactional, bilateral relationships, largely leaving the US on the outside looking in. President Biden campaigned on a return to a multilateral foreign policy and rejoined many global initiatives on his first day in the Oval Office. Ivo Daalder, President of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and co-author of the gripping “The Empty Throne: America’s Abdication of Global Leadership,” joins Altamar to talk about America’s future and its place in the global arena. Daalder was formerly the U.S. ambassador to NATO, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, and director for European affairs at the NSC under President Bill Clinton.
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The storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6 was a national disgrace that upended America’s predictably peaceful transitions of power. It also unleashed widespread debate over classification as a coup – or if the attack was a riot, uprising, and insurrection. Semantics and academic distinctions aside, the hard part is just beginning, as the United States seeks to serve out justice and heal. Moisés Naím, the internationally-syndicated columnist, best-selling author, and distinguished fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, joins Altamar to explain how U.S. democracy could recover – and the ongoing risks at home and abroad. Naím is the host and producer of “Efecto Naím,” an Emmy-winning international affairs program, and was also the editor-in-chief of Foreign Policy magazine for fourteen years. Previously, Naím served as Venezuela’s Minister of Trade and Industry in the early 1990s, director of Venezuela’s Central Bank, and executive director of the World Bank.
https://altamar.us/coup-in-america
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Two years after the fall of the Islamic State’s caliphate in Syria and Iraq, jihadist militants are making huge inroads in Africa. As the continent battles the coronavirus and poverty, Islamist attacks are spreading across the Sahel and beyond – with far-reaching consequences for the rest of the world. Mary Harper, the BBC’s Africa Editor and expert on violent radical Islam in Africa, joins Altamar to explain the impacts of Africa’s surging terrorist activity. Since the early 1990s, Harper has reported on the continent from conflict zones such as Somalia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Sudan, South Sudan, Algeria, and the two Congos. She has written for The Economist, Granta, The Guardian, The Times, and The Washington Post and is the author of the book “Everything You Have Told Me is True” about the East African jihadist group Al-Shabaab.
http://altamar.us/terror-spreads-in-africa
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Good news has been in short supply these days. From the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic to racial violence and polarization, it seems like the world is taking a global gut-punch. But despite the massive challenges ahead, is humanity overall still on the up-and-up? Charles Kenny, Director of Technology and Development and Senior Fellow at the Center for Global Development, joins Altamar to explain why the doom-mongers are wrong. His current work focuses on gender and development, the role of technology in development, governance, and anti-corruption. He is the author of numerous books on improving the world. His latest, “The Plague Cycle,” explores humankind’s struggles with infectious disease.
https://altamar.us/the-global-case-for-optimism/
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2020 can’t end quickly enough. After months of political polarization, economic impoverishment, and calamity for so many, coronavirus vaccines are rolling out, and the world is pondering a new reality. Change begets change – but what kind? DJ Peterson, president and founder of the research and consulting firm Longview Global Advisors, joins Altamar to help forecast world politics, global markets, and technology for next year and beyond. Previously, Peterson built and led the Corporate Advisory Services practice at Eurasia Group and was a political scientist at the RAND Corporation. He frequently writes for top-level business audiences and appears in publications such as Bloomberg Businessweek, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, and CNN.
https://altamar.us/2021-the-rebound-year/
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The official forecast for Latin America is glum. The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a regional recession, dragged down social indicators, and killed hundreds of thousands of citizens. The United Nations predicts 9.1% negative growth in 2020 and 231 million Latin Americans in poverty – a 15-year backslide. Widespread discontent has led to mass protests and political unrest. Democratic erosions, from populism to authoritarianism, are on the rise in countries like Brazil, Peru, El Salvador, and Mexico – as regimes in Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua clamp down. Can Latin America rebound amid so many challenges? Ricardo Ernst, the Baratta Chair in Global Business and co-director of the Global Logistics Research program at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, makes the case for optimism. He argues that a shift in how the region approaches issues like productivity, public policy, and politics will bring a brighter future. Ernst is also the managing director of Georgetown’s Global Business Initiative and the Latin American Board, as well as executive director of the Latin America Leadership Program.
https://altamar.us/disarray-hope-in-latin-america/
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President-elect Joe Biden intends to ditch Donald Trump’s “America First” doctrine the day he steps into office on January 20. But vows to embrace multilateralism, respect diplomatic channels and restore U.S. leadership on the world stage face a host of challenges. The new Biden Administration will square off with a familiar adversary in Moscow, a more assertive China, a nuclear-armed North Korea, and a multitude of hotspots around the globe. The alienation of long-time allies and the proliferation of power vacuums make it harder to tackle climate change, international trade, and the ongoing pandemic. All this while his new administration will have its domestic hands full amid historic polarization, discord over racial injustice, and skyrocketing COVID cases. Will Biden recapture the U.S.’ traditional seat at the head of the global table? Ed Luce joins Altamar to explain that it won’t be so easy for the next administration to step back into the western driver’s seat simply. Luce is an associate editor of the Financial Times, as well as its chief U.S. commentator and columnist based in Washington, D.C. Previously; he served as the outlet’s Washington bureau chief and as its South Asia bureau chief based in New Delhi.
https://altamar.us/the-world-awaits-joe-biden/
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When you think of modern-day secessions, the struggles of Catalonia, Scotland, Kashmir, and Kurdistan typically come to mind. But Papua New Guinea (PNG)’s autonomous region of Bougainville is farther along than most to achieving independence. Following a bloody civil war that ended two decades earlier, 98% of some 250,000 Bougainvilleans voted for independence in December 2019 in a historic but non-binding referendum. Bougainville’s recently-elected president, a former rebel commander, will now lead independence negotiations. But the small island territory, sitting on a wealth of copper and gold, can’t escape larger geopolitical battles -- world powers like China, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand are interested and involving themselves in Bougainville’s independence movement. Shane McLeod, a Research Fellow at the Lowy Institute’s Australia-PNG Network, joined Altamar to shine light on Bougainville’s efforts to join the club of sovereign states. He is an expert on Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands and has written extensively on Bougainville. Formerly a senior editor at ABC News in Sydney, he has managed several flagship radio programs and covered the Asia-Pacific region as a foreign correspondent.
https://altamar.us/bougainville-the-world-next-country/
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The 2020 showdown between Donald Trump and Joe Biden is nearing its grand finale during one of the most challenging times in history. The outcome could send the United States on vastly different paths as a geopolitical player, an economic engine, and the custodian of global security. The stakes are higher than ever, and the world is watching the polls ahead of November 3rd. The numbers point to a Biden presidential victory and Democrats winning the Senate and House of Representatives. But can polls be trusted? After 2016, when public opinion research wrongly predicted a Hillary Clinton presidency, people are more skeptical than ever of forecasts. Today’s chaos makes it harder than ever to predict results amidst a raging pandemic, unprecedented levels of early voting, mail-in ballots, flaws in the postal system, incendiary social media atmospherics, and foreign disinformation campaigns. Expert pollster Rob Autry joins Altamar to explain the state of the race and polling industry. Autry was previously a partner of one of the Republican party’s most prominent polling companies before starting his own firm, Meeting Street Insights. He has served as the pollster and strategist for Presidents, Senators, and dozens of members of Congress.
https://altamar.us/america-election-and-the-question-of-polls/
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For the first time in decades, two Gulf nations (the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain) have formally established relations with Israel – diplomatic, economic, technological, and beyond. Further isolating Iran, additional Arab nations could soon follow suit. The agreements also point to a major shift in the Middle East: the rise of modern Gulf states as regional leaders and powerbrokers in the Arab world. To help explain the impact of the Abraham Accords and “the Gulf Moment,” we are joined by prominent Emirati academic and political commentator Abdulkhaleq Abdulla. He is a longtime professor of Political Science at United Arab Emirates University, was a Senior Fellow at the London School of Economics, and served as Chairman of the Arab Council for Social Science. Abdulla was also director of the Gulf Research Unit, Sharjah for 10 years. His research focuses on political changes in the Gulf and the Arab World. Abdulla is the author of several books, and his latest, titled “The Gulf Moment,” focuses on the emergence of the six Arab Gulf states.
https://altamar.us/arab-realignment/
For a while, it seemed that the European Union lost some of its international luster. The world’s largest economy has been busily bogged down by internal divisions and domestic woes: financial crunches, Brexit, the ongoing migrant crisis, and nationalist populism. But now, something new is in the air. Europe is taking decisive action and making serious inroads into global politics. EU leaders are signing deals with China, taking on Russia, and recently passed a €750 billion recovery package to combat the internal effects of coronavirus. To make sense of the continent’s seeming resurgence, we are joined by Dr. Daniela Schwarzer, director of the German Council on Foreign Relations. Previously, Schwarzer was the senior director of research for the German Marshall Fund in the U.S., for which she also headed its Europe program in Berlin. Schwarzer has also led the research group on European integration at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs and worked as an opinion page editor and France correspondent for Financial Times Deutschland.
https://altamar.us/europe-surprising-global-reset/
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In the barren reaches of the Himalayas, Chinese and Indian patrols keep coming to blows. In June, a deadly clash left 20 Indian soldiers, and an unknown number of Chinese soldiers were killed in their worst cross-border violence in decades. Now, in a marked escalation of tensions, the two nuclear-armed states are accusing each other of firing warning shots at the frontier. Both sides have rushed in tens of thousands of reinforcements, backed by artillery, tanks, and fighter jets. And as New Delhi and Beijing butt heads 14,000 feet above sea level, China is building up its presence in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and other contentious points along the Indian Ocean. Indian citizens are protesting and boycotting Chinese-made goods. Dhruva Jaishankar, Director of the U.S. Initiative at the Observer Research Foundation, joins Altamar Podcast and explains what the fallout means for the region and the rest of the world. He is also a non-resident fellow at the Lowy Institute in Australia and previously worked at Brookings India and the German Marshall Fund. His commentary appears regularly in Indian and international publications, including The Hindu, The Atlantic, and Foreign Policy, and he has collaborated on multiple books and journals.
https://altamar.us/gunshots-in-the-himalayas/
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The deadly blast that rocked Beirut on August 4 left at least 200 Lebanese dead, thousands injured, and hundreds of thousands homeless. Even before that, Lebanon’s economy was in freefall, and tensions were high over chronic corruption and mismanagement. Now, amid devastating physical and political aftershocks, Lebanon is careening toward an unpredictable future. In response to mass protests, the Prime Minister and entire government cabinet have resigned, throwing the country into even greater chaos. Paul Salem, one of the world’s leading experts on the Middle East, joined Altamar to discuss if Lebanon can recover – and can it tackle its underlying flaws and limitations? Salem is the President of the Middle East Institute (MEI), a think tank that evaluates political change, transition, and conflict within regional and international relations of the Middle East. Salem was the former founding director of the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut, as well the Lebanese Center for Policy Studies, Lebanon's leading public policy think tank.
https://altamar.us/beirut-burning/
With Brazil’s enormous economy and Mexico’s proximity to the U.S., both are contenders to become economic titans on the world stage. But the nations are burdened by endemic poverty, violence, corruption, and an overzealous central state. And their populist leaders – Brazil’s right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro and Mexico’s traditional leftist President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico – have both downplayed the gravity of the COVID-19 pandemic amid skyrocketing infection rates. These two regional economic locomotives could come screeching to a halt – leaving their citizens and the region in disarray. Michael Reid, senior editor at The Economist and author of the magazine’s Bello column on Latin American affairs, joined Altamar to discuss Mexico and Brazil’s challenges and post-pandemic futures. Born in England and based in Madrid, Reid has lived in Latin America for years, covering the region for outlets like The Guardian and BBC.
https://altamar.us/populist-opposites-brazil-and-mexico/
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The international hunt for a COVID-19 vaccine is the most consequential medical challenge of the 21st century. The race is marked by both intense collaboration among scientists and fierce competition between governments – particularly between China and the US. As coronavirus cases mount and economies limp through lockdowns, nations are not just competing for a life-saving vaccine – they’re jockeying for political glory and a leg up on the rest of the world. And even after a vaccine is developed, count on clashes over adequate and ethical distributions. Professor Lawrence Gostin joins Altamar to discuss the geopolitics of the global vaccine race – and how countries can mitigate winner-take-all risks. Gostin is the Director of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University and Director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Center on National and Global Health Law. He is also a Professor of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University.
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The New Frontier is new again: after years of stagnation, emerging players have reignited the space race in the 21st century. Dramatic technological advances and lucrative business models have changed the conversation, and private companies are making up for lost time. Countries like Japan, China, India and the Emirates are jumping in, too, expanding the borders of geopolitics to new heights. George Whitesides, CEO of the spaceflight company Virgin Galactic, joined Altamar to discuss the future of space travel. The interview came on the heels of a major announcement – Virgin Galactic and NASA are opening a private astronaut program with public accessibility. Previously, Whitesides served as NASA’s Chief of Staff after working on Obama’s transition team for the agency. He’s also served as the Executive Director of the National Space Society and is an advisor for companies and organizations such as the FAA Space Transportation Division, COMSTAC, the Space Generation Foundation, and the Zero Gravity Corporation, among others.
https://altamar.us/space-is-back/
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The killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis has sparked a worldwide reckoning over violent policing practices. “Black Lives Matter” has become a global rallying cry against racism and police brutality alike. By certain metrics, U.S. policing is a success – major cities enjoy low crime rates. But it’s impossible to ignore calls for justice as governments arm police forces with military-grade equipment and super-sized budgets. Protests have given a megaphone to demands for dramatic institutional changes to policing. Is there a better way to keep the world’s cities and populations safe? Dr. Clifford Stott joins Altamar to explain the global principles for smarter policing – and why U.S. policing is an outlier from the rest of the world. He is the Director of the Policing Academy at Keele University in the UK and specializes in crowd behavior, riots, hooliganism, and public order policing. He has advised the EU, the European Commission, various police departments, and the English Football League on crowd management and policing.
https://altamar.us/defund-the-police/
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China has made a dramatic turnaround since COVID-19 battered the world’s second largest economy. Beijing is flexing its geopolitical muscles abroad while implementing business reforms to woo foreign companies. But while China intends to position itself as the pandemic’s ‘victor’, Beijing faces global scrutiny and a tense trade war with Washington. Will international resentment towards China mean that supply chains and manufacturing begin to steer away from the Asian powerhouse? Or will economic reforms convince foreign investors to stay? James McGregor joins Altamar to discuss the intersection of Beijing’s business reforms with its political agenda. McGregor has lived in China for three decades and is the chairman of APCO Worldwide, Greater China. He is the former chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China and is now an advisor to AmCham on U.S-China business trade politics and policy. Previously, McGregor served as The Wall Street Journal’s bureau chief in Taiwan and in Mainland China. He has also authored numerous books on China.
https://altamar.us/will-china-win-the-cold-war/
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As the coronavirus pandemic ravages health and economic structures, the World Health Organization (WHO) is under fire. Amid international spats, politicians have scapegoated the UN agency – and more credibly criticized it for underestimating the dangers of COVID-19. The Trump Administration has now announced that the US is quitting the WHO, accusing the 194-member organization of becoming a puppet of China. Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security, joins Altamar to urge a restructuring of WHO to allow monies from private foundations and to counter China’s influence by bringing in a country like Taiwan, a public health leader. He explains the strengths and limitations of the WHO – and the dangers of defunding the global health watchdog. Dr. Adalja is an expert on emerging infectious diseases, pandemic preparedness, and biosecurity. Dr. Adalja is also an Associate Editor of the journal Health Security, co-editor of the volume Global Catastrophic Biological Risks, and a contributing author for the Handbook of Bioterrorism and Disaster Medicine.
https://altamar.us/the-world-health-wars/
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After months of quarantines, some countries are beginning to shift out of confinement. But the world we knew is already a thing of the past. The health pandemic has laid bare global disparities and the vacuum of international leadership while accelerating nationalist and authoritarian trends. The ripple effects of COVID-19 are likely to amplify further throughout global trade, politics, and economics. Richard Haass, President of the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Altamar to discuss the features of a post-coronavirus world. His new book, The World: A Brief Introduction, provides a window into foreign relations of the present and future. Haass is a veteran diplomat, and global policy expert. During his career, he served as the key US player in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, South Asia. One of America’s truly global voices, Haass is the author or editor of fourteen books on US foreign policy.
https://altamar.us/the-world-according-to-haass/
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The COVID-19 crisis has put the oil industry on life support. International appetite for oil is in freefall as ships, cars, planes and people hit pause around the world. Historic production cuts to control crashing prices proved too slow to turn the tide. Governments that depend on oil exports to pay for education, health, and food are staring into the abyss. Besides economic pain, depleted revenues could spell humanitarian impacts, security concerns and political unrest. Meanwhile, the new reality has major ramifications for consumers, the environment and global relations – with winners and losers on all sides. Energy expert Francisco Monaldi joins Altamar to break down the new global reality for oil. Monaldi is Rice University’s fellow in Latin American energy policy at the Center for Energy Studies and a lecturer in energy economics. He has taught at Harvard, Stanford and Tufts as well as many universities worldwide, in addition to consulting for multilateral institutions, governments and companies. Monaldi is the author of multiple publications on oil and its impact on politics and economics.
https://altamar.us/the-end-of-oil/
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Over four decades, Iran’s hardline regime has faced enormous challenges. The nation is struck by one of the world’s most severe outbreaks of COVID-19. Iranians are heaving under the weight of U.S. economic sanctions since the Trump Administration abandoned the U.S.-Iran nuclear deal. Earlier this year, a U.S. airstrike killed Iran’s influential military commander, Qasem Soleimaini. But Iran’s religious autocracy has proven remarkably durable, continuing to attack Western interests, pursue regional ambitions, and accelerate its nuclear program. Jarrett Blanc, senior fellow in Geoeconomics and Strategy at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, joins Altamar to explain Iran’s resilience. Blanc served as the State Department’s lead for Iran nuclear implementation under President Obama, including the landmark Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Blanc was also the Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan.
https://altamar.us/tension-and-turmoil-in-iran/
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COVID-19 is poised to explode in developing countries and emerging markets – which have far fewer resources to combat the pandemic. Social distancing is practically impossible, health systems are ill equipped, malnutrition and poverty are often rampant, and vulnerable economies will falter. Political instability, xenophobia and social unrest present additional risks as the coronavirus spreads. Robert Guest, Foreign Editor of The Economist, joins Altamar from London to explain the challenges of Coronavirus to poorer countries – and the role that wealthier nations, international institutions and corporations must play to help the developing world regain their economic footing. Previously, Robert covered the African continent for the magazine for seven years. A former correspondent in Washington, Johannesburg and Tokyo, he is an accomplished author, opinion leader and frequent TV political analyst.
https://altamar.us/the-poverty-pandemic/
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Fifth Generation (5G) technology's speed and reliability promise to revolutionize the world’s economy and communications. But, perhaps also upend its politics. Low-cost data and boosted mobility will connect people on a mass scale. Industries, schools, militaries and hospitals will have newfound access to artificial intelligence, robotics, streamlined supply chains, and automation. Looming large over 5G are also its pitfalls: security risks, privacy concerns, alleged health threats, and a hefty price tag. Tom Wheeler, former head of the Federal Communications Commission, joins Altamar to break down the technology’s opportunities and challenges to the global balance of power. Wheeler has been involved with telecommunications networks and policies in the public and private sector for over four decades, including the adoption of Net Neutrality, privacy protections for consumers, and increased cybersecurity.
https://altamar.us/5g-progress-or-peril/
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Heat waves, storms, droughts, and mass wildfires have dominated global headlines. But beyond loss of life and material damage, climate change is creating resource scarcities, displacing populations, and creating new international tensions. How can countries around the world tackle the national security risks of climate change? John Conger, Director of the Center for Climate and Security, explains how climate change weighs on global issues and security. Conger is an expert on the military implications of climate change and a Senior US Advisor to the International Military Council on Climate and Security (IMCCS). Previously, he worked in the US Department of Defense on energy, installations and environmental policy, served for 12 years on legislative staffs in Congress, and was as an aerospace engineer and defense analyst supporting the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
https://altamar.us/climate-emergency-and-global-insecurity/
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Israelis head to the ballot box –again– on March 2 in hopes that Prime Minister Netanyahu or challenger Benny Gantz’s Blue and White party can form a new coalition government. The backdrop is rife with drama: “Bibi” faces a criminal corruption investigation but was thrown an electoral bone in the form of Donald Trump’s lopsided Middle East Peace Plan. Meanwhile, the Syrian exodus to Turkey and the death of Iran’s General Qasem Soleimani have upended the region. Top Israeli reporter Gil Tamary joins Altamar to break down the political landscape through an independent lens. Gil is the Washington bureau chief for Israel’s Reshet News. He has worked for Israel’s Broadcasting Authority, Israel Public Radio and as anchor and chief editor of “Good Morning Israel”.
https://altamar.us/israel-endless-election/
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Since the coronavirus entered the global vocabulary, its international reach has been staggering. Tens of thousands are sick, hundreds have died, and dozens of countries report infected patients – prompting quarantines, travel restrictions and curfews worldwide. Supply chains and tourism are taking a hit, and China’s central bank has pumped $242.74 billion into the financial system to prop up weakening growth. Nurith Aizenman, National Public Radio’s correspondent for Global Health and Development, dives into the geopolitical implications of coronavirus and what can be done to prevent global pandemics. Aizenman is also a former writer at The Washington Post and Editor for The New Republic.
https://altamar.us/coronavirus-contagion-and-chaos/
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Vladimir Putin has been in charge at the Kremlin, one way or another, for the last 20 years. As speculation grew over who would take over after his presidential term ends in 2024, Putin surprised Russians and the world by introducing a constitutional proposal that could lay the groundwork for staying in power for life. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dmitri Medvedev resigned and was promptly replaced. How has Putin managed to hold onto power amid a faltering economy and growing pro-democracy opposition – and what is his next move? Andrew Weiss joins Altamar to help explain Putin’s legacy and future. Weiss leads the Russia practice at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Previously, he was director of the RAND Corporation’s Center for Russia and Eurasia and served as director for Russian, Ukrainian and Eurasian Affairs on the National Security Council staff. He is a prolific writer and commentator on Russian politics.
https://altamar.us/putin-leader-for-life/
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UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson led the Conservative Party’s sweeping victory last month with a campaign to officially leave the European Union (EU) by January 31, 2020. The Brexit story has been told and re-told countless times in political terms – but now comes the economic and social reality. In practical terms, Brexit’s ripples are just starting. Free trade agreements with the EU and U.S., the future of London as a financial center, the impact for companies and people, and the real, day to day changes in the country’s business climate, are all still up in the air. Caroline Atkinson, former Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economics to President Barack Obama and former Head of Global Policy for Google, joins Altamar to explain the complex economic, financial, and business ramifications of Brexit. Atkinson has also held senior roles at the International Monetary Fund, the U.S. Treasury Department, and the Bank of England, and worked as a journalist for The Washington Post, The Economist, and The Times of London.
https://altamar.us/britain-shaking-off-the-brexit-blues/
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Climbing rates for gold have sparked a growing wave of illegal mining, leaving illicit activity and abuses in its wake. From the Amazon to Sub-Saharan Africa, drug trafficking and organized crime connected to gold prospecting is on the rise. Gold-producing regions too often suffer from weak governing bodies and scant oversight, which means lax protections for workers, environmental degradation, and local corruption. Mark Pieth joins Altamar to help shed light on the gold industry's intricate labyrinth of miners, bankers, traffickers, and enablers – and how to clean it up. Pieth is the head of Basel University’s Institute on Governance, Professor of Criminal Law and Criminology at Basel, and author of Gold Laundering: The Dirty Secrets of the Gold Trade and How to Clean Up.
https://altamar.us/dirty-gold/
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2019 has been a whirlwind of upheaval around the world: the rocky U.S.-China trade relationship, tiny Guyana’s oil bonanza, protests in Hong Kong, the return of Peronism to Argentina, growing cyberwarfare and worldwide attacks on press freedom. It begs the question – what does 2020 have in store? We identified the top five trends we believe will shape the international political stage in 2020: citizen unrest, the decline of the West, the climate emergency, end of privacy as we know it, and the new face of trade. Joining us to debate this list, prolific author and journalist David Rothkopf peers into the crystal ball and discuss the global issues to track in the coming year. Rothkopf served as U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade during the Clinton Administration and is also a visiting scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
https://altamar.us/a-look-ahead-where-is-2020-going/
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Twenty-five years after apartheid officially ended in South Africa, the country is in the news for all the wrong reasons: one of the highest unemployment rates in the world at 58%, junk status government bonds, slowing GDP growth, and violent crime. Can President Cyril Ramaphosa of the African National Congress turn things around as his administration approaches its first-year anniversary in office? Ann Bernstein, who heads the Centre for Development and Enterprise, South Africa’s leading policy center for social and economic development, joins Altamar to explain how the nation can tackle the myriad of challenges. Bernstein was a member of the Transition Team and later the Board of the Development Bank of Southern Africa, and is the author of “The Case for Business in Developing Economies.”
https://altamar.us/south-africa-slump/
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In 2015, Exxon Mobil discovered in Guyana one of the largest oil and gas reserves in decades. It is slated to begin production in early 2020. While this bonanza promises countless opportunities for the tiny South American country, it remains to be seen whether Guyana has the infrastructure in place to manage the massive influx of new petroleum revenue. Will it follow the successful examples of Norway or Botswana and avoid the so-called “Resource Curse” – or fall victim to its own good fortune? David Goldwyn, world-renowned energy guru and Chairman of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center’s Energy Advisory Board, explains how Guyana can establish guardrails to combat corruption and transform revenue streams into newfound prosperity for its citizens.
https://altamar.us/guyana-sudden-riches/
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On December 10, Argentina will inaugurate Alberto Fernandez as President amid a medley of economic woes: recession, inflation, poverty, foreign debt and currency devaluation. But how the longtime previously-behind-the-scenes political operative for the Peronist party plans to tackle the crisis remains a mystery. Fernandez was vague and elusive about his proposals on the campaign trail. Ben Gedan, director of the Woodrow Wilson Center's Argentina Project and former South America director on the National Security Council at the White House, explains what we can expect from the incoming administration. Despite Fernandez’s decisive victory over center-right incumbent Mauricio Macri, there are more questions than answers about the direction he will take the South American giant.
https://altamar.us/unsteady-argentina/
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Ukraine is popping up everywhere these days, from President Trump’s impeachment process to Russia’s hidden-in-plain-sight occupation of the former Soviet state’s Crimean region. Why does it seem like one of Europe’s poorest countries is punching above its weight in global headlines? Former US Ambassador to Ukraine Steven Pifer joins Altamar to help look past the daily news cycles and break down the country’s geopolitics. Pifer, an expert at the Brookings Institution in Washington DC and fellow at Stanford University’s Institute for International Studies, explains why Ukrainian President Zelensky must avoid America’s domestic clashes and push through his reformist agenda.
https://altamar.us/whats-the-deal-with-ukraine/
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Understanding President Erdogan’s military offensive against Kurdish forces in northern Syria requires a breakdown of Turkey’s politics, internal strife and shifting identity. Ece Temelkuran, renowned Turkish journalist and author of How to Lose a Country: The 7 Steps from Democracy to Dictatorship, joined Altamar just before the momentous developments. Temelkuran shows how “Erdogan treated an illness in Turkey with another illness,” the origins of his Middle East policies, and why the strongman ruler still needs a popularity boost.
https://altamar.us/the-turkey-paradox-understanding-erdogan/
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP Hindu nationalist party won a landslide reelection in May 2019 – but political and economic unrest are shortening the honeymoon. After years of sharp economic upturn and high growth, India has been underperforming since late 2018. Nisha Biswal, President of the U.S. India Business Council at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and former Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, joins Altamar to explain the sluggish Indian economy and how Modi’s government can tackle structural economic issues to achieve growth.
https://altamar.us/slowdown-in-india/
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Cyber crises are everywhere you turn now – from Russia’s interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections to company-wide data breaches. But as technology and bad actors keep shifting, governments around the world are struggling to keep up. Dr. Mark Kuhr, former advisor to the National Security Agency and co-founder of Synack, an industry-leading security platform, explains the challenges for cybersecurity – and why the solution doesn’t have to be Big Brother.
More at https://altamar.us/the-future-of-cybersecurity/
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President Donald Trump’s attempt to buy Greenland from Denmark was met with amusement and derision. But as climate change opens new frontiers, the Arctic region is becoming the world’s hottest real estate. The icy tundra is now a geopolitical playing field where global powers are, with varying success, trying to stake a claim. Former Vice Commandant Peter Neffenger spent four years leading Arctic strategy at the U.S. Coast Guard. He warns that the United States and Europe have fallen far behind Russia and China in the race to control vast untapped natural resources, rare mineral deposits, and new trade routes. While the glaciers melt, there’s no thaw in sight for the Arctic power struggle.
https://altamar.us/battle-for-the-arctic/
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The politics of Venezuela are intoxicating. Mass corruption, Russian troops, international sanctions, and tweetstorms from Senator Marco Rubio, John Bolton and so many others make for vivid headlines. But amidst the scandal and intrigue, the plight of Venezuelans forced to flee Nicolas Maduro’s regime has failed to attract the same attention. David Smolansky, chair of the working group on the Venezuelan migration and refugee crisis at the Organization of American States, joins Altamar to discuss the overlooked aspects of Latin America’s largest refugee crisis in history.
https://altamar.us/venezuela-other-crisis/
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The 7.4 million citizens of Hong Kong are living their most serious political event since the 1997 handover to mainland China. The spark of a protest over an extradition bill has morphed into a broader search for democratic rule in Hong Kong – with major geopolitical implications for China and the United States. Scott Kennedy, Freeman Chair in China Studies and Director for the Project on Chinese Business and Political Economy at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), discusses what’s next for the “Special Administrative Region.”
https://altamar.us/hong-kong-crisis-goes-global/
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Angela Merkel will step down as German Chancellor by 2021 – if not sooner amid growing health concerns. With no clear successor, her firm control over Germany’s economy, commitment to centrist democracy, and stabilizing influence in Europe’s foreign policy are all at risk. Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson, International Correspondent for NPR in Berlin, joins Altamar to discuss the vacuum of leadership amid a perfect storm of German and European politics. As politicians at home compete to fill the void, the continent faces Eurosceptic populist leaders, Trump’s trade threats, and challenges from Russia and China. Who can fill her shoes?
More at https://altamar.us/germany-life-after-merkel/
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Russia is a major world power under the nationalistic and personality-driven leadership of Vladimir Putin. The former KGB agent hasn’t hesitated to form alliances with the world’s least desirable regimes to expand the nation’s influence and reach. How far will Putin go to see Russia the top of the international food chain? Angela Stent, Director of the Center for Eurasian, Russian, and East European Studies at Georgetown University and author of Putin's World: Russia Against the West and with the Rest, joins Altamar to unpack Putin’s geopolitical calculus – and what it means for the United States.
More at https://altamar.us/putins-long-game/
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Six months into office, Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro faces diminishing political capital, a tense relationship with Congress, tumbling markets, and an increasingly radicalized group of supporters – not to mention scorn from the international community. What do Bolsonaro’s woes mean for a nation in desperate need of reform? Patricia Campos Mello, award-winning journalist and senior columnist at Folha de São Paulo, analyzes how Bolsonaro can address the challenges facing Brazil amidst dismal approval ratings and corruption investigations.
More at https://altamar.us/is-brazils-bolsonaro-sinking/
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Japan’s story is a geopolitical roller coaster. Entering the 21st century, the land of the rising sun found itself in deep political and economic malaise, and China was positioned to displace it. But the country has embarked on a major comeback, thanks in large part to Prime Minister Abe Shinzo’s “Abenomics.” Matthew Goodman, senior vice president and senior adviser for Asian economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), joins Altamar to discuss Japan’s return to relevance, President Trump’s state visit under the new Emperor Naruhito, and what we can expect from Japan in the coming years.
More at https://altamar.us/japan-a-return-to-relevance/
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Nearly half of the world’s voters cast ballots in April and May of 2019, from Spain and South Africa to India and Indonesia. But in a world that is putting strongmen in office and where governments are weaponizing social media – are elections still the best thermometer of democracy’s health around the globe? Ian Bremmer, political scientist and president of Eurasia Group and G-ZERO Media, discusses how the democratic system can be strengthened amidst political polarization and voter disenchantment.
More at https://altamar.us/is-voting-passe-more-elections-less-democracy/
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Iceland is heralded around the world as a success story of social policy experiments and for its remarkable recovery from the global financial crisis – all with just over 300,000 inhabitants. Thóra Arnórsdóttir, former Icelandic presidential candidate and managing editor of Kveikur, the island nation’s only investigative journalism television program at the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service, joins Altamar to help us move beyond the headlines and fairy tales, into the lessons and challenges of this unique country.
More at https://altamar.us/iceland-financial-bust-to-fairytale-success/
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The free press is at war with challenges not seen in a generation. Strongmen leaders around the world have declared the media enemy number one while “fake news” sows discord and confusion online. The press as an institution is struggling to fulfill its primary role: acting as the fourth estate to hold the powerful accountable. Altamar is joined by Sheila Coronel, an award-winning journalist and Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor at Columbia University’s School of Journalism, to discuss the global war on journalism.
More at https://altamar.us/?p=660&preview=true
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Africa has achieved one of the fastest and most sustained growth rates in the past years, with economic forecasts surpassing other developing and emerging regions. A new scramble to open bilateral relations with African nations saw more than 320 embassies open across the continent between 2010 and 2016. John McDermott, Africa Correspondent for The Economist and Zemedeneh Negatu, Global Chairman of the Fairfax Africa Fund, engage in a lively debate on how Africa can balance growth and inequality and the role of the United States and China in the continent’s development.
More at https://altamar.us/africa-awakens/
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President Trump has pulled America out of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty, ending decades of nuclear cooperation between the U.S. and Russia. Jeffrey Lewis, Director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, explains how this nuclear middle finger to the world benefits Moscow, risks a Cold War-style arms race, and has grave repercussions far beyond the two superpowers.
More at https://altamar.us/nuclear-middle-finger/
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After a tariff war and months of recriminations, Chinese and U.S.
officials are finalizing a trade deal. But uncertainty lingers. Bob Davis,
Senior Editor for the Wall Street Journal, explains whether Donald
Trump and Xi Jinping have reached a real agreement – or just a
temporary truce.
More at https://altamar.us/us-china-trade-is-this-the-real-deal/
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Mexico’s AMLO is wildly popular, but there are strains everywhere. His bromance with President Trump and his fragile relationship with the business community could sour quickly. Will AMLO’s personality-driven politics undermine his support? Former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Roberta Jacobson explains why the country could be in for a bumpy ride.
More at https://altamar.us/amlos-mexico-100-days/
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Can a new form of Pax Americana ever emerge post-Trump? Ivo Daalder, President of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and co-author of The Empty Throne: America's Abdication of Global Leadership, discusses the void left behind as the United States turns inwards and rebuffs multilateralism – and why an internationalist United States could ultimately re-emerge from this nationalist moment.
More at https://altamar.us/empty-throne-does-the-world-miss-us-global-leadership/
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The first signs of fracture are beginning to show in Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu’s once unassailable political coalition. Charismatic rivals from the left and the right are striking out on their own, emboldened by a potential indictment of the Israeli Prime Minister. But Gil Tamary, Washington bureau chief for Israel’s independent Reshet News, explains why “Bibi” might very well come out victorious on Election Day April 9.
More at https://altamar.us/israels-elections-bye-bye-bibi/
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The clock is ticking on Brexiting Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union. Prime Minister Theresa May’s EU deal was defeated in Parliament and time is running out on a formal exit plan to avoid catastrophe. Lord Mark Malloch Brown, former UK government minister and Chairman of Best for Britain, an organization pushing for a new Brexit vote, explains what happens next and why a new referendum could just be Britain’s saving grace.
More at https://altamar.us/ugly-brexit-whats-next/
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The EU says Italy is "sleepwalking into instability.” For the populist Lega and Five Star parties, a fight with Brussels is just what the doctor ordered. Italy isn’t going to Brexit anytime soon, but Italy’s support for the European project is under strain.
More at https://altamar.us/reconcilable-differences-italy-eu/
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From “Person of the Year” to the “Didn’t See This Coming” award, Peter and Muni hand out Altamar’s 2018 accolades. Turning towards 2019, Council of Foreign Relations president shares pointed views on why a Chinese takeover is far-fetched, multilateralism isn’t dead yet, and the threat of global “drift” is on the rise.
More at https://altamar.us/2019-year-drifting-dangerously/
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Canada has emerged as in independent voice and flagbearer of international liberalism. But concessions in the new US-Mexico-Canada agreement have sparked a backlash back home. The jury’s still out on the benefits of marijuana legalization. Will Canadians tire of Trudeau’s “yoga democracy”?
More at https://altamar.us/canada-cool-confident/
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Mauricio Macri was the darling of international investors after twelve years of radical Peronism. Now Argentina’s economy and center-right President are reeling. Economist Brad Setser of the Council on Foreign Relations predicts a massive and painful recession next year, a potential default after Argentina’s presidential elections, and a risk of global impact. But does economic meltdown have to spell political chaos too?
More at https://altamar.us/argentinas-looming-doomsday/
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After Jair Bolsonaro’s big win in Brazil, Altamar confronts the question everyone is asking: what’s next? Some of his most notorious campaign proposals may be stymied by Brazil’s powerful congress, but radical rhetoric combined with political gridlock can prove just as damaging.
As bad news springs up from every corner of the world, Ethiopia under PM Abiy Ahmed is sprinting in the opposite direction. What’s going on? And can it last? Featuring special guest Tsedale Lemma, founder and editor-in-chief of the Addis Standard.
Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent Saudi journalist and constructive critic of crown prince Mohammad bin Salman, was brutally murdered on October 2 in Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul. This egregious attack on a thoughtful voice of reason has devastated us at Altamar, as we were lucky enough to have Jamal on as a guest in February to discuss the new crown prince and Saudi Arabia's future under him. We're re-releasing our interview with Jamal as tribute to a man who so deeply cared for his country, and who wanted nothing more than to see it go down the right path.
As scandal roils the Church, what does this all mean for the future of Pope Francis? And for the future of Catholicism? Vaticanologist Jimmy Burns joins this week to discuss.
As migration flows grow around the world, is a negative impact on politics an inevitability? Or have we just convinced ourselves that it is? Andrew Selee and María Peña join this week to discuss.
With the world in upheaval, how are we to respond to the most global challenge of them all? Featuring special guests Amy Harder and Giulio Boccaletti.
Mexico’s soon-to-be president has been called a Marxist, a pragmatist, a Mexican Trump, and a Mexican Chávez. So who really is Andrés Manuel López Obrador? And what kind of president will he be? Mark Feierstein and Carlos Bravo Regidor join this week to discuss.
Trump isn’t only buddying up to our enemies—he’s also alienating our friends, and in the process making the Atlantic wider by the day. Edward Luce and Nathalie Tocci join this week to discuss the extent of the damage and what we can expect for the future of the transatlantic relationship.
Nothing brings the world together like World Cup season…right? Ahead of Russia 2018, this week's episode brings a deep dive into soccer, politics, and the politics of soccer, with special guests Roger Cohen of The New York Times, and Nick Sprague of Braskem and love.futbol.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative now spans nearly every continent, and countries are eagerly lining up for a share of the trillions of dollars Beijing is doling out. But is there more to this infrastructure plan than meets the eye? Featuring NYU Shanghai professors Rodrigo Zeidan and Ivan Rasmussen.
Narendra Modi came into office on big promises, and four years later, he’s got more failures than successes under his belt. But the big question is: do Indian voters even care? Sadanand Dhume joins this week to discuss what’s gone right in Modi’s first term, what’s gone wrong, where he stands today, and where he might stand during elections next year.
With Viktor Orbán stronger than ever, Hungary’s leader offers a clearly replicable recipe for building an autocracy out of a democracy. Cas Mudde, an expert on populism and the mechanics of the far right, joins this week to discuss.
The face of warfare is changing, and Moscow is embracing it full-throttle. With the digital age giving Putin's Russia a wealth of new ways to pursue longstanding objectives, how is the West to respond? At the same time, are we overestimating the Kremlin's sophistication? The Carnegie Endowment's Andrew Weiss joins this week to discuss.
As Trump announces new tariffs, could this shift toward protectionism spark a wave of inward-looking trade policy around the world? Or could we see precisely the opposite happen? Peter and Muni talk to Andrés Velasco, Chile’s former finance minister, to get a sense of the danger, and to discuss strategies for making free trade politically popular.
Syria's civil war has long ceased to be civil. The last two months have been a gut-wrenching reminder of how internationalized this conflict has become. As regional and world powers become more deeply entrenched, is there any way out of this tinderbox? Peter and Muni discuss with Joyce Karam, the Washington correspondent for Al-Hayat and The National, who's been following this war since its inception.
A massive anti-corruption investigation has taken down some of Brazil’s most powerful people, including former president Lula, who’s still polling first in this October’s general election. What will become of his candidacy? What has allowed Brazil’s judiciary to become so effective? And is this all as positive as it seems from the outside? Political risk analyst Andrea Murta and legal scholar Diego Werneck Arguelhes join this week for a deep dive into the scandal that has captivated the world.
Breaking down the competing narratives surrounding Saudi Arabia’s controversial new crown prince.
With polarization ever more noticeable and traditional parties performing dismally, what does the future hold for the European experiment?
Latin America’s monster electoral calendar in 2018, with a focus on what promise to be particularly contentious elections in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombi
A region most Americans were introduced to just last month following the death of four Green Berets in Niger.
A deeper look at the Iran nuclear deal, and the potential consequences of decertifying Iran’s compliance in the midst of extremely heightened tensions in the Middle East.
China’s 19th Communist Party Congress and what clues it can give us regarding China’s international role in the years to come.
Between Catalonia’s unauthorized independence referendum and Madrid’s ill-advised response, Spain’s future looks anything but certain.
Pyongyang is watching closely what happens with the Iran nuclear deal, and that scrapping it now could dash any hopes for a diplomatic solution to the conflict with North Korea.
Our southern neighbor and how Trump’s America-first, Mexico-last rhetoric could change the North American continent as we know it.
Putin has been mythologized in the West, where observers paint him as a singularly capable puppetmaster.
Altamar, a Spanish term for "high seas," is a new foreign affairs podcast hosted by Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen to navigate our tumultuous global politics with expert insights, special guests, and an honest conversation about why foreign policy should matter to each and every one of us.