The Global Bears: Recent Episodes

International Relations Council of Berkeley

Topics in international relations presented to you by the Golden Bears from UC Berkeley!

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In this episode, members discuss over 15 bans on the social media platform known as TikTok around the world.

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In this episode, members discuss the history of China-Taiwan Relations, the economics of both, and the recent offer of financial support from China to Taiwan.

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In this episode, members discuss the past of Afghanistan, the recent suicide bombing incident, and the future of the country in relation to the international community.

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In this episode, podcasters Mark and Samantha discuss the recent outbreak of conflict in Myanmar.

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In the second portion of this special two-part episode series, podcasters discuss the history and current status of Europe's Alt-Right Parties.

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In this special two-part episode, podcasters discuss the history and current status of Europe's Alt-Right Parties.

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In this episode, podcasters Ben, Maya, and Samantha discuss the recent Russian Elections and the ongoing situation with Alexei Navalny.

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In this special edition episode, tune into the opinions of International Students on the Berkeley campus. Our team of podcasters interview international students on their opinions of American Politics.

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We invite you to listen in on a recording of IRCB's Diplomat Night Event with Ryan M. Gliha.

Ryan, with a rich diplomatic career and expertise in international relations, will share insights into careers and opportunities with the State Department. This event is a rare chance for students to learn from a seasoned diplomat about the paths available in diplomacy and international service.

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In this episode, two of our members have a 1:1 discussion about the African Sahel Alliance.

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In this episode, members discuss the Mattei Plan and it's implications.

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In this episode, podcast members Samantha and Ben discuss the recent nuclearization and change of military doctrine in Belarus.

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In this podcast episode, our members discuss how cultural aspects influence democracy and international relations between countries by looking at Pandas and China, and Pepsi-Cola and Russia.

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In this episode of the Global Bears Podcast, members discuss the ups and downs, wins and losses of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation hosted right in our own backyard, San Fransisco.

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In this week's episode, podcast members discuss the effects both economically and politically of Hurricane Otis in Mexico.

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In this episode, members discuss the recent shooting in Brussels, Belgium, and it's potentially problematic implications.

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October 23rd, 2023.

Within this episode, we review the current situation within Israel and the Gaza Strip from a historical and analytical point of view.

SENSITIVITY WARNING: While we understand that the current situation is entirely awful and hope for a swift and peaceful solution to the conflict, it is important to note that the International Relations Council of Berkeley is not openly taking a stance on this issue at this time. Our goal is to have a productive and informative discussion regarding the conflict. Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by the ongoing violence in the region.

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October 13th, 2023.

Delving into the ongoing discussion of Ukrainian aid amid the Russo-Ukrainian War, we examine the ongoing consideration of whether aid should persist and explore deeper questions surrounding the matter.

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In this episode, we explore what access to abortion is like all across the globe. From full restrictions to open choice for women, we explain and discuss the history of abortion access as well as current legislation of several nations.

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Throughout history, various civilizations and countries have exerted their power over their surroundings, creating unique empires that have left a lasting impact on the world. In this episode, we delve into the concept of political hegemony and its historical significance, focusing on several great empires that exemplify this concept. Furthermore, we explore the implications of these historical examples for contemporary debates about global power and influence, examining how the lessons of the past can inform our understanding of present-day geopolitical dynamics.

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Do you think the United Nations should Exist? In the half-hour special episode, Berkeley students share their thoughts on the UN's past actions and future outlooks. 

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In this episode, two members provide an update on some of the recent developments on the ground in the Russia-Ukraine War. We also explore how other countries across the world have reacted to the crisis. Finally, we conclude by going over our predictions for how the war will likely end.

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A brief overview of the current state of modern cybersecurity, and how it has become increasingly militarized. In particular, we look at how cyberwarfare is increasingly being integrated into the military and political strategies of China, Russia, and the US, and how it's usage varies dramatically depending on the overall geopolitical practices of each nation.

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In this episode, three members from The Global Bears Podcast discuss the spread of isolationist sentiments across the globe. From Brexit to the withdrawal of American troops in the Middle East, nations seek a delicate balance between economic/political cooperations and protecting their own interests. Meanwhile, China expands its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, a project that some has been labeled as predatory.

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Neutrality in international affairs is an active position to protect a country's citizens, regardless of the geopolitical, moral or ethical consequences. Today we look at Switzerland during the second world war, Mongolia during the 2000's and India during the Putin-Ukraine Crisis. 

Research and presentations by Lukas Leitzgen, Tiffany Liu and Maurice Ruttimann

Produced by Maurice Ruttimann

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In this episode we explore a number of topics concerning the controversies of international sports. We explore with other UC Berkeley students about the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Winter Olympics in China, the dual-nationality of players and much more!

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My discussions today were to illuminate how neighboring countries feel about the Invasion of Ukraine.  I also wanted to illuminate the hypocrisy of the West in their rightfully strong support of Ukrainian victims fighting an oppressive force. The excuses, that we shouldn't care since Middle East has only seen war, that US & NATO's war victims deserved it and had it coming since they were quote un-quote terrorists, and that the Middle East is not economically nor socially close with Europe are a farce. Merely used as propaganda to support aggression by the US and NATO, and rightfully condemn that of their enemies. I think Zachary's takeaway is what I want to end these 3 discussions with, that we should be diligent and aware of the narrative that is being presented to us, and think critically about it.

Podcast Produced by Maurice Ruttimann.

Voiced by Maurice Ruttimann

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Join us on another episode, with our very special guest Professor Michaela Mattes, an associate professor at UC Berkeley focusing on conflict management. We also hear from students on campus and their opinions on the current situation. 

Podcast produced by Maurice Ruttimann

Voices include Maurice Ruttimann, Tiffany Liu and Kaitlyn Lenkeit

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In this episode we explore the outcomes of COP26 from the perspective of the 4 largest polluters in the world. Join us in our analysis of the United States, European Union, China and India and their pledges.

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For the 26th time, world leaders met at the Annual United Nations Climate Change Conference to discuss the urgent need for change. In this episode we discuss the history of COP26, why it's urgent to make change now and what lies ahead.

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This week's podcast explores the most recent U.S airstrikes on Syria by the Biden administration. 

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In this week’s podcast, the Globe Bears discuss global vaccine distribution. We dive deep into what vaccines are out right now, what countries have bought vaccines, and how effective rollout is.

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In this week’s podcast, The Globe Bears discuss the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. With help from geopolitical analyst and geolocation specialist Rich Elmoyan, we ask all the necessary questions to understand the history of this conflict, who’s involved, and what’s at stake. In discussing the signing of the peace treaty, we explore why this conflict is still an ongoing crisis and why the world should be concerned with the international community’s lack of involvement. For more on this topic, check out Rich Elmoyan on Instagram @relmoyan!

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November 11th, 2020. Podcast #1: U.S Election Results 

In this week’s podcast, the team discusses the 2020 U.S Election. Topics discussed include Trump’s unwillingness to concede to Joe Biden, voter fraud claims, an overview of the electoral college, and swing states. Additionally, the team discusses the outcomes of both the Senate and House of Representatives elections. Finally, the team weighs in on the outcome of California Proportions and the reasons why progressive props have difficulty passing. 

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Meet four Golden Bears interested in international relations and excited to give our take on anything and everything IR!