Only 3 weeks after its first coronavirus infection was discovered, New York City became an epicenter of the Coronavirus Pandemic. As NYC remains in lockdown, the fight to save lives continues every day at hospitals throughout the city. How is New York coping with the Pandemic? What steps are New Yorkers taking to combat the crisis, and what can we learn from the experiences this great metropolis has been through? We ask Clinical Professor of Global Health at NYU, Dr. Jo Ivey Boufford.
The streets of New York are eerily quiet as the city remains in lockdown. But inside hospital ERs, battles are being fought every day. While the number of coronavirus cases and deaths in the state may have plateaued, they remain significantly high. Surrounded by death and the risk of infection, how do doctors and health care workers manage to keep working? We asked Dr. Tsion Firew, who contracted the virus and on recovery, immediately returned to the front lines to resume her duties.
As the novel coronavirus continues to spread around the world, it is now affecting the African continent, and the number of cases is rapidly rising. To make matters worse, East Africa has been hit by a massive locust swarm, making efforts to control the COVID-19 outbreak even more challenging. We asked Dr. Firew, a Special Advisor to the Ministry of Health in Ethiopia, how the country and other African nations are preparing for the pandemic.
As the U.S. slowly lifts restrictions after a two-month pandemic lockdown, things are not the same. Restaurants are re-opening with limited seating, face masks are required in public. But that's not all that has changed. Unemployment claims have hit 40 million, and the nation worries if jobs will ever come back to the same level before the pandemic. We asked Dr. Groshen about the impact of coronavirus on the labor market.
The killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers prompted tens of thousands of people to protest in cities across the U.S. and around the world. While violence and looting erupted in some areas, incidents of law enforcement officers using force on peaceful demonstrators have been witnessed, triggering debate not only about racial discrimination, but also about the role of police in our society. We asked civil rights lawyer, Damon Hewitt, how we can stop racism and police brutality.
It is university and college graduation season in the U.S., but this year, things are not the same. Some ceremonies are being held on-line, while others are taking place with graduates practicing social distancing. The pandemic has affected U.S. higher education in many ways. Looking to fall, students and parents in and out of the country are wondering what schools will look like when the new academic year begins. We asked Mr. Robert Franek, an expert on U.S. higher education, for his insights.
In many cities, the pandemic has changed the way people commute. Bicycle and scooter use has increased, while subway and bus ridership has declined. And as people have started to work from home, fewer cars are on the streets, leading to easing traffic congestion and air pollution. But will these issues return after the pandemic? Or is this an opportunity to reimage our transit systems? We talked to Sarah Kaufman, a transport and urban planning expert about the future of transportation.
In less than 4 months, voters will cast their ballots for the next U.S. President. But with the on-going coronavirus pandemic, an economic downturn and the Black Lives Matter movement, the 2020 election looks like no other. Polls show that President Trump is behind his opponent. Will his controversial policies like visa suspension and anti-China rhetoric really help to win back support? We talked with Rachel Bitecofer, an election forecaster and political analyst, about what could happen in November.
It has been 75-years since the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan that killed more than 210,000 people by the end of that year. Since then, the US and the Soviet Union, and other states, began an arms race that, to this day, has never ceased. Agreements and talks to reduce nuclear weapons have been put in place, but many have been failing in recent years. What have we learned in 75-years? Is the world safer from nuclear danger? We asked Daryl Kimball, Executive Director, Arms Control Association, for his insights.
As the Black Lives Matter protests continue across the U.S., there is another group fighting racism. Mirroring the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, the number of hate incidents against people of Asian descent has also increased, and slanderous rhetoric like "China Virus" and "Kung Flu" are stoking racial tensions. How can we combat this stigma, prejudice and racism? We asked Dr. Russell Jeung, founder of an online organization that keeps track of racial incidents in the U.S.
This year, as countries continue to grapple with the pandemic, there are many discussions about whether or not it is the right time to return to school. In the U.S., images of high school hallways packed with students not wearing facemasks went viral on social media, and in some states, schools have been forced to shut down shortly after reopening. But on the flipside, many students and their families are already experiencing difficulties with online learning. So, is this the right time to reopen schools? We asked the director of education UNESCO, Dr. Borhene Chakroun who joins us from Paris, France.
As the coronavirus pandemic still sweeps around the world with second waves already erupting in some countries, pharmaceutical companies and research institutes around the world are fast-tracking the development of COVID-19 vaccines. Some scientists say that vaccine trials and approvals take months or even years. However, US President Trump claims one will be available before the presidential election. So, when will we have a safe and effective vaccine? We tapped the knowledge of Johns Hopkins University's Dr. William Moss.
Many countries are rushing to secure COVID-19 vaccines for their own population's use, and wealthy nations are funding research to procure massive amounts of doses. Some developing countries are trying to secure vaccines, which may not yet be proven safe, raising concerns that there will be discrepancies in vaccine distribution. Should the most vulnerable people and countries have early access to vaccines? We talked to Dr. Moss once again about how global vaccine distribution will work.
Major League Baseball, National Basketball League, US Open Tennis and other major sports have resumed in the U.S. But with coronavirus safety restrictions in place, things are not the same, with fewer games, officials in masks, cardboard cutout fans and canned applause. Yet, despite these measures, some athletes have contracted the virus. So, is it worthwhile to hold sporting events, and what about the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics next year? We asked Sports Journalist, Matthew Futterman.
Recently more athletes are using their platforms to make political statements. Naomi Osaka wore 7 different masks at the US Open to honor victims of police brutality. LeBron James, a top NBA player, took a knee with teammates during the US National Anthem. As athlete voices become more powerful, sports leagues and corporate sponsors face a tough challenge. How far should protests go? Can sports and activism be separated? What about the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics? We asked sports journalist Matthew Futterman.
By pulling out of international treaties and questioning the management of world organizations, President Trump seems to be pushing the U.S. to step back from its position as a global leader. Meanwhile, China's presence on the world stage is growing even amidst the pandemic by helping nations and institutions. So, what will happen after the US election? How will the President-elect's policies affect America's Asian allies? We asked Dr. Mike Mochizuki for his insights.
From concert halls and theaters to clubs and restaurants, many venues shutdown under the pandemic, depriving musicians and fans of the magic live music brings. But despite the lockdown, world-famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma picked up his instrument and began to play, sharing music remotely from his home to the world. Soon #SongsOfComfort became viral, providing a platform for artists, professionals or amateurs to express themselves. We asked Yo-Yo how music can help comfort us in these challenging times.
The US presidential election and the chaotic aftermath have shown how deeply divided the country has been. And it looks like it will take a long time to fill the ditch. Yo-Yo Ma was born in France and immigrated to the U.S. in his childhood. He has played for successive presidents and seen the transition in the country. Our host, Del Irani, asked Yo-Yo Ma how he sees America. How can he find hope in the U.S.? And what role music can play.
2020 has become a historic year for women. Senator Kamala Harris will be the first woman and person of color to serve as Vice President of the United States. Women also made significant gains in both the House and the Senate. Still, the number of women who will hold seats in Congress is only about 26%, far from equal representation. How can we enhance women's participation in politics? And why is it important? We asked Debbie Walsh, who has been helping women run for public office.
The year 2020 could go down in history. As the pandemic spread and the economy screeched to a halt, in the U.S., glaring income inequality and persistent racial disparities came to light. Then followed the contentious presidential election, further highlighting deep-seated divides. So, was 2020 the worst year ever? What can we learn from it? For our last episode of the year, we asked the renowned author Walter Isaacson for his insights and what history, and its great figures can teach us.
As COVID-19 vaccinations begin across the U.S. and the new president soon be inaugurated, what can we expect from 2021? Walter Isaacson, a well-known author of bestselling biographies, is our first guest of the year. Recently he volunteered for the Pfizer/BioNTech clinical trial, where new technologies were used to develop a vaccine, innovations created by scientists he is writing about in his new book. We asked Mr. Isaacson what we can learn from our history and these scientific breakthroughs.
The U.S. has long been a leader of democratic nations; a pillar of strength to its allies when facing communist countries or those with authoritarian leaders, although there are arguments concerning some of its foreign operations. But the events on January 6 may have lowered America's position. Some even say it was the darkest day in U.S. history. How will that day be remembered? What did it all mean? And how can the U.S. redeem its democratic standing? We asked Harvard historian Jill Lepore.
The first 100 days of a new administration is seen as a benchmark measuring a president's early success. President Joseph R. Biden Jr. is moving aggressively to implement his agenda such as the vaccination plan and economic relief package. Many goals require support from Congress. How can President Biden push through key policies and win bipartisan support to unite the country? We asked Capri Cafaro about the path President Biden may take.
For the last several years, a troubling trend shows global hunger is on the rise, with about 690 million people undernourished. And the coronavirus pandemic adds to the numbers. In 2020 the World Food Programme won the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to combat hunger. While this helped their mission, they still face many obstacles in their quest to eradicate hunger. We checked in with Valerie Guarnieri to see how the WFP is promoting food security under the pandemic and what is needed to reach their goals.
President Biden faces many foreign policy challenges. During Donald Trump's term, the U.S. pulled out from an array of international accords and institutions. While Biden proclaims, "America is back," it may take years to regain the world's trust. And just 10-days after the inauguration, Myanmar's military led a coup, potentially shifting power in the region and strengthening China's influence. We asked former NSC member Charles Kupchan how the Biden administration will shape their foreign policy.
President Biden will host 40 global leaders at the Leaders Summit on Climate. Environmental experts stress the urgency to limit earth's warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to mitigate the most pressing impacts of climate change. What does that number mean? What will happen if we can't reach this goal? After abandoning the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement, can the U.S. reclaim its leadership role? We asked Professor Mark Jacobson how things will differ this time when significant measures have still not been taken.
Scientists began warning us about climate change a long time ago. International discussions about reducing greenhouse gas emissions have been ongoing, but no significant steps have been taken. In the interim, temperatures keep rising in many places, and extreme weather events are more frequent. Some say it is impossible to completely withdraw from carbon energies. But Mark Jacobson has a plan to replace them with 100% clean renewables. We asked Prof. Jacobson how we can tackle this issue.
In late 2019, Akiko Iwasaki was alarmed about a new virus coming out of China. Reports revealed a possible respiratory infection which meant rapid transmission rates, and as she predicted, the virus soon spread worldwide. While vaccinations are now underway in the U.S. and other countries, variants have emerged, and cases are rising in some regions. So, are vaccines the light at the end of a long tunnel? Professor Iwasaki shares insights on vaccination, variants and the long-term effects of COVID-19.
In the U.S., Federal officials announced that fully vaccinated Americans no longer need to wear masks outdoors in small groups, when dining outside, or biking and running. As vaccination rates pick up, people are starting to do some things they had stopped doing because of COVID-19. This makes us wonder how much longer this pandemic will last? When will we achieve "herd immunity"? And when can we return to our pre-pandemic lives? We asked Professor Iwasaki about the prospects for the near future.
President Biden announced that the exit of US troops from Afghanistan would be completed by Sept. 11, 2021, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. But even after the US declaration, bombings have not ceased, and insurgencies cast a dark shadow on the country's future. What consequences will the withdrawal bring to the nation and to the U.S. itself? We asked Cheryl Benard, an expert on national security issues, post-conflict reconstruction, and author of books on Islamic countries.
While hundreds of people have been killed in Afghanistan in May, reports claim that the U.S. troop withdrawal is accelerating months ahead of the deadline set by President Biden. Responsible for the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas, concerns grow over the Islamic fundamentalist group, the Taliban's return to power. If they regain control, how will they govern and treat citizens, especially women and the people who helped the U.S.? We continue our conversation with Cheryl Benard for insights.
While Americans are enjoying the images and audio sent from the Mars rover, "Perseverance," news about China's Mars rover swept around the world. China has been rapidly accelerating its space program, launching the first module of its new space station scheduled to be completed in 2022, while the U.S.-led International Space Station's intended lifespan is set to finish in 2024. We asked Dr. Michio Kaku how significant these developments are and the outlook of China's future space ambitions.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos announced he will journey to space in July when Blue Origin, the rocket company he founded, conducts its first human spaceflight. 50 years after the first moon landing, interest in space exploration has been gaining momentum. In fact, the next U.S.-led international mission, the Artemis Program, plans to land the first woman and first person of color on the moon by 2024. But why now? What is the future of space exploration? Dr. Michio Kaku discusses these developments.
The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a key abortion case from Mississippi that could revoke the landmark case Roe v. Wade, that established the legal right to abortion some 50 years ago in the U.S. This comes amid appointments of conservative judges by former President Donald Trump. Currently, 6 of 9 Supreme Court judges are conservatives. Hearings start in October with the ruling expected in 2022. Prof. Ziegler predicts the court will likely overturn the constitutional right to abortion in America.
Abortion rights disputes aren't just in the U.S. Former President Trump's "Global Gag Rule" required that foreign NGOs receiving US aid could not perform or promote abortions. Furthermore, the U.S. and some 30 nations signed the "Geneva Consensus Declaration," that states, "in no case should abortion be promoted as a method of family planning." What effect have these measures had, and what is the status of abortion globally? Prof. Ziegler warns that with abortion rights, no victory is permanent.
Naomi Osaka will return to the court at the Tokyo Olympics after canceling major tennis matches. Many were surprised when she cited concerns about her mental health, and now Olympians could face similar stresses. The one-year postponement has made it hard for athletes to schedule training, and they may have anxieties about competing during a global health crisis. Professor Parham explains the pressures of elite athletes, and the mental challenges they face at the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Under Tokyo's Coronavirus State of Emergency, the city's venues for the Olympics have no spectators. Recently, Tokyo has seen a surge in the number of cases of the highly contagious Delta variant, first detected in India and now spreading across the globe. This development raises new questions. How deadly is the variant? How effective are the vaccines? Can the Olympic and Paralympic games be safely conducted? And, will this pandemic ever end? We asked epidemiologist Dr. Caleb Alexander to share his insights.
50 million people worldwide have dementia, with 10 million new cases emerging annually. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, but for 20-years, there have been no new drugs to tackle the disorder until now. In June, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Aducanumab, a new Alzheimer's medication. While this is a promising development, fierce debate surrounds its efficacy and approval process. FDA Advisory Committee member Dr. Alexander discusses this controversial drug.
With his uncanny ability to pitch and hit, baseball phenomenon Shohei Ohtani is often compared to Babe Ruth. Recovering from injuries in 2020, Ohtani is now having his best season with the Los Angeles Angels. He has earned respect from other sports professionals and has become a source of global fascination. But can he keep up the momentum and follow other Japanese MLB stars to the Hall of Fame? We asked sports writer Jeff Fletcher for his take on this "once-in-a-century" baseball player.
There have already been over 420 mass shootings in the US this year. And with the coronavirus pandemic causing lockdowns and requiring people to isolate for extended periods of time, there has also been an alarming increase in gun purchases, smaller number shootings, and domestic violence. We asked Robert Spitzer what is behind the rise in gun violence during the pandemic, and what strategies and solutions can help reverse this concerning trend.
When President Biden took office in 2021, he vowed to take action on gun control and end America's "gun violence epidemic." But with the US's long history of upholding the Second Amendment and the right to own firearms, along with the powerful influence of the gun lobby group the National Rifle Association, the fierce debate over gun rights continues. Dr. Robert Spitzer returns to discuss this complex issue, and if any recent laws or measures can be the breakthrough needed on gun control.
In September, 18-months after the coronavirus caused NYC theaters to shut down, the lights of Broadway will shine again as shows finally begin to reopen. Supporting thousands of workers, economically the industry took a big hit. Yet despite challenges, people found ways to continue their creative output and some productions found success online. While companies are thrilled to return to the stage, can Broadway safely welcome audiences back? We asked producer and writer Lee Seymour for his insights.
After 20 years in Afghanistan, America's "forever war" ended on August 30, but the exit was far from smooth. Weeks before the US withdrawal deadline, the Taliban seized control of the country, prompting tens of thousands to flee. Scenes of chaos and desperation at Kabul airport brought harsh criticism of the Biden Administration's handling of evacuations. How did things go so wrong? And what's next for the nation? Richard Fontaine shares his take on the future of Afghanistan under the Taliban.
When President Biden first took office, he promised US's allies that "America is Back." But his administration's mishandling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the more recent fallout with France over the AUKUS agreement has prompted concerns about the US's global security commitments and support of its military partners. Richard Fontaine returns to discuss Biden's foreign policy agenda and how the US can work more closely with its allies to retain its credibility and leadership role abroad.
During the pandemic lockdown, technology and screens became a lifeline as we shifted to virtual schooling, working from home, and connected to friends and family remotely. But as online screen time increased, so did parents' concerns about their children's mental and physical health and the adverse effects of advertising and social media. So, what has been the impact of all this extra screen time, particularly on children? We asked Mayo Clinic pediatrician Dr. Nusheen Ameenuddin.
July 2021 was the world's hottest month ever recorded. And data now undeniably shows that carbon pollution is fueling more extreme weather events such as wildfires, floods, drought, rising sea levels, hurricanes and other natural disasters around the globe. So, how do we prepare for these increasing climate events? Catastrophic risks expert Alice Hill explains how taking steps towards climate adaptation and resilience and forming a national plan of action can help tackle this critical issue.
Scientists warn if countries do not commit to emissions reduction pledges, we could reach the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming threshold, with no turning back. While we often hear about the impact a warming planet has on the environment, climate change is a threat multiplier exacerbating other societal tensions such as migration and security. Alice Hill returns with insights on these issues and discusses how global leaders will address these problems and more at the upcoming COP26 UN climate change summit.
In 2045 America could become a majority-minority nation, with whites making up less than 50% of the population. Yet while the US has long been a country of multi races, ethnicities, cultures and religions, diversity has often been muted. In tandem with this demographic shift, social movements are demanding more diversity in political, social and cultural arenas. Eddie Glaude Jr. talks with us about race in the media, why representation matters, and the ongoing fight for a more just world.
In a recent US Senate hearing, tech giant Facebook came under scrutiny when a whistleblower revealed that the firm prioritized growth and profits over consumer safety. It was further implied that Facebook influenced the rise of hate speech, misinformation and even violence. As social media companies continue to be key institutions in the 21st century digital public sphere, we need to pay attention to the dangers they pose. Jack Balkin shares his ideas on how social media might be regulated.
Every day billions of people use Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple (GAFA). Their meteoric rise and ability to collect vast amounts of data have also brought them enormous power and influence. However, lack of real competition, weak government controls, and little accountability have raised concerns that big tech firms may undermine democracy itself. Jack Balkin returns to discuss restructuring big tech incentives and encouraging GAFA to play a more beneficial role in the public digital sphere.
Despite seeing a robust economic bounce back to near pre-pandemic levels, prices in the US have surged over last year, causing concerns over inflation along with labor shortages and significant increases in the housing market. And with consumer spending focused on goods rather than services, global supply chains have all but come to a standstill. So, what is behind these unusual shifts, and how do they factor into the US economic recovery? Chicago Booth's Austan Goolsbee breaks it down for us.
The new coronavirus variant Omicron has fueled international health concerns and could hinder economic recovery efforts worldwide with renewed restrictions, travel bans, ongoing supply chain issues and rising prices. Chicago Booth Economics Professor Austan Goolsbee returns to discuss the variant's impact on the global economy and whether 2022 will see the world emerge from the pandemic and finally put us on a firm path to economic recovery.
As US President Biden comes to the end of his first year in office, despite his administration's efforts at tackling the coronavirus pandemic, and passing the $1 trillion infrastructure bill, his job approval ratings are falling. How will his rating affect the U.S. midterm elections, only 12-months away, and what impact would this have on world politics and America's standing as a global leader. Political scientist and Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer shares his insights.
2021 saw the world still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic as it affected more areas of society, igniting tensions over vaccine diplomacy and disrupting the world economy. Alongside the health crisis, we have also seen strained US-China relations over Taiwan and other issues while Russia tests the US and its allies on Ukraine. Eurasia Group's Ian Bremmer looks at the risks we contended with in the past year and weighs in on geopolitical hazards we should be watching out for in 2022.
We are now in our third year of living with Coronavirus, and with infection rates of the highly contagious Omicron variant surging worldwide, we are facing more challenges. In the US, President Biden has announced that more at-home COVID tests and high-quality masks will be made available for all in an effort to keep businesses and schools to open. But, will these health measures go far enough to bring Omicron under control? Epidemiologist Jay Varma shares his view.
Since the Coronavirus emerged, it has mutated into 5 concerning strains, with the most recent variant, Omicron, spreading globally at an alarming rate. And experts say it is not a matter of if but when future infectious disease outbreaks will occur. So, what lessons have we learned from the past few years, and how can countries and international organizations be better prepared for future pandemics? Epidemiologist Jay Varma returns to the show to offer insights.
Silicon Valley in Northern California has long been the global center of the biggest tech companies. A hotbed for innovation and entrepreneurship, the region attracts hundreds of startup firms and is home to one of the largest concentrations of venture capital in the US. What are the secrets to its astounding success? And with growing competition from China, how can Silicon Valley maintain its number one status as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship? Margaret O'Mara shares her perspective.
Data indicates that there has been a nearly 30% increase in drug overdose deaths in the US during a 12-month period between 2020-2021. How much of this alarming increase is related to the pandemic, and could the disruptions caused by COVID-19 provide an opportunity to rethink the US's approach to drug treatment and policy. Nora Volkow joins us from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
For 2 decades, the US has been battling an unprecedented opioid epidemic. Fueled mainly by a precipitous rise in legal prescriptions for highly addictive painkillers, the number of opioid deaths in the US now has reached half a million. Experts warn that if we don't take more effective action, these potent opioids could kill millions more. Nora Volkow of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse joins us again for a deeper look at this issue.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been the great disruptor of our time, upending our lives and changing the world economy. One impact we are currently experiencing is rising inflation as the costs of goods and services increase. Furthermore, global debt is at its highest in half a century, while the gap between rich and developing countries continues to widen. World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart joins us to put these issues in perspective.
On February 24 2022, the world as we know it, changed forever. Russia began an unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Angela Stent, Senior Fellow of Brookings Institute, who has been watching Russia for more than 40 years analyzes what's behind President Putin's invasion.
It has been more than a month since Russia invaded Ukraine, with no end in sight to the conflict. While the US and the West continue to support Ukraine with military aid and sanctions against Russia, these measures have not deterred Russia from moving forward with its assault. With no sign of Russian readiness to end the hostilities at the diplomatic table, what options do the US and NATO have left to end the crisis? Charles Kupchan joins us to share his insights.
As the fighting continues in Ukraine, millions of civilian refugees are fleeing Ukraine for neighboring countries and other parts of Europe. Meanwhile, the US and their NATO allies remain united in their stance against Russian aggression, but how far are they willing to go, and to what extent has the conflict weakened Russia and Putin's standing in the world? Political Scientist Ian Bremmer breaks down the current situation and looks at the risks the crisis could bring to the rest of the world.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, 30-years of European peace and stability was shattered. While most nations condemned Russia's actions, China claims to have taken a neutral stance. However, China has criticized sanctions levied against Russia and implied that they are Russia's ally. So, should the West be concerned about the growing Sino-Russian relationship, and could the partnership further destabilize the global order? Ian Bremmer returns to offer his analysis.
Renowned author and expert on international politics Francis Fukuyama, made several predictions on the outcome of the Russian-Ukraine conflict a few weeks into the invasion. Based on his own experiences in Ukraine, Fukuyama explains why he believes that Russia is "headed for outright defeat" and "sudden collapse" in Ukraine. Looking at more recent developments, we asked Fukuyama how he thinks the conflict will end.
Authoritarianism, right-wing regimes and populist movements have been sweeping the globe while liberal democracies, including some of the biggest, like the US and India, are deteriorating. With Russia's invasion, Ukrainians may not only be defending their people and homeland but also democratic values and national sovereignty, a fight relevant to the world. Francis Fukuyama returns to discuss the growing global struggle between authoritarian government and democracy.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, many foreign policy experts thought Russia would dominate and the conflict would be short-lived. But with the combination of a weakened Russian military, the resilience of the Ukrainian people, and support from the West, the conflict is drawing out longer than expected. With a negotiated outcome unlikely, Richard Haass offers his views on how the West should prepare for a prolonged battle and bring an end to the crisis.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, polls released by Russia's leading independent pollster show Putin's approval ratings hit 80%. What is driving these ratings and how long will they last? And with increased sanctions and the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, how do ordinary Russian citizens view the crisis, and how are they coping with their daily lives? We asked Moscow-based journalist Andrei Kolesnikov about the current mood in Russia and whether Putin could lose his people's support.
Vladimir Putin has maintained a tight control of Russia for over 2 decades. But now, with the so-called "special operation" or the invasion of Ukraine, is the support of Russian citizens and politicians shifting, and how much longer can Putin remain in power? Moscow-based journalist Andrei Kolesnikov discusses what will stop Putin's invasion and what hopes are there for Russia and its people after the country emerges from the conflict.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has caused alarming security concerns across Europe, prompting some countries to increase defense spending while other previously neutral and non-aligned nations said they would consider NATO membership. So, what will it take to bring stability back to Europe, and how can the US help bring peace to the region? US-Russian affairs expert Thomas Graham shares his insights.
Global wheat prices have hit record highs, and port closures have disrupted grain exports, further consequences of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Supply shortages are also increasing food insecurity in poorer countries, many of which are already suffering high hunger levels because of the pandemic. How much worse will the global food crisis get, and what can be done to mitigate its impact around the world? Caitlin Welsh shares her insights.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine is reverberating across the world. In the Asia-Pacific, China continues to standby its "no limits" friendship with Russia, while some countries aligned with the US and the West and others have had to weigh their interests carefully and choose sides. Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd analyzes the complexities surrounding the Asian-Pacific countries' responses to the ongoing conflict and breaks down its impact on the future balance of power in the region.
The Chinese Communist Party is likely to re-elect its current leader President Xi Jinping for a historic third term at the Party Congress scheduled later this year. What changes could we see in China's diplomatic and security strategies if Xi Jinping's leadership continues, and what is his vision for China? Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd weighs in on how the US and other democratic countries should deal with China under Xi Jinping to maintain stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Russia-Ukraine crisis has been a stark reminder to the world that nuclear weapons could be used in war. Early in the conflict, President Putin put Russia's nuclear forces on high alert and warned the West not to underestimate the risk of a nuclear conflict over Ukraine. How much of a threat is nuclear proliferation, and how can we mitigate the risk of nuclear war? Former US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller offers her expert insights.
NATO's 30 member states, along with partner countries in the Asia-Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, will gather in Madrid, Spain, for an important summit. On the agenda will be discussions about how to deal with Russia's ongoing aggression toward Ukraine, NATO's responsibility for Europe's defense, and China's expanding influence in the Pacific. Former Deputy Secretary General of NATO Rose Gottemoeller analyzes the summit's significance and implications for future policy.
In the US, the Consumer Price Index, a measure of inflation, hit a 40-year record, prompting the US Federal Reserve to raise interest rates by 0.75%. Inflation, however, is a global economic problem and in recent weeks the costs of goods and services have been surging in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the developing world. What exactly is causing global inflation, and how can we tackle it? Economist Adam Posen offers his expert analysis and insights.
In the last months, we have been facing a severe global energy crisis, with Russia's invasion of Ukraine further straining global energy supply security and driving up prices. Many countries are now facing the need to ramp up production and buy fossil fuels, a strategy in stark contrast to promises to reduce carbon emissions. Former Assistant Secretary to the US Department of Energy Jonathan Elkind discusses how we can enhance energy and increase climate security.
On January 6, the world watched in shock as rioters stormed the US Capitol in an attempt to keep President Trump in power, threatening America's democratic system. This event was soon followed by the historic US Supreme Court decision to overturn constitutional rights to abortion after nearly 50 years. What is the future of US democracy, and can Americans overcome the deep divisions they face? Harvard University Constitutional Law Professor Laurence Tribe shares his insights.
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan raised tensions in the Taiwan Strait as China held military drills and fired ballistic missiles that reached Japan's exclusive economic zone. What are the reasons behind Beijing's reactions, and what should the US's strategic position be towards Taiwan? China expert Bonnie Glaser discusses impact of these events and how the US and its Asia-Pacific allies can prepare for rising tensions over Taiwan.
In an aggressive bid to curb further inflation, the US Federal Reserve has raised interest rates by 0.75 percentage point, for the third time in a row this year. While the hike centers on the US economy, it has widespread global implications prompting stock market declines and currency devaluations, particularly in Asia. JPMorgan Chase's Chief Economist and the Head of Global Economic Research, Bruce Kasman offers his analysis.
North Korea has ramped up its missile testing in 2022 and concerns are growing that North Korea may conduct a seventh nuclear test in the coming months, posing a threat to the world. What is the US strategy for denuclearizing North Korea, and how should countries in the Asia-Pacific region, such as Japan and South Korea, respond? Expert in Korean Peninsula and Japanese affairs, Bruce Klingner, offers his opinions.
The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP27, will be held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, this November. With the increasing severity and frequency of weather-related disasters worldwide, COP27 is shaping up to be an important event. Global energy policy expert and veteran COP attendee David Sandalow shares his thoughts on which pressing issues will be at the forefront of the COP27 and what role the US and Japan are expected to play at the conference.
China is currently the largest emitter of carbon dioxide and is responsible for a quarter of the world's overall greenhouse gases. To tackle climate change, President Xi Jinping announced that China would aim for carbon neutrality by 2060. What is China's plan to decrease emissions, and how can the US and Japan cooperate with China to fight global warming? Climate policy expert David Sandalow shares his perspective on this critical issue.
China's President Xi Jinping has secured a historic third term as the nation's leader. At the National Congress of the Communist Party, he expressed his commitment to building China into a "great modern socialist country." What is Xi's vision for China, and how will the leadership bring back economic growth after strict COVID lockdowns? Vice President for International Security and Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute, Daniel Russel shares his views.
During the last ten years of President Xi Jinping's rule, China's diplomatic style has shifted to a more aggressive approach that has intensified the deterioration of the US-China relationship. Now that President Xi has tightened his grip on power with a third term as leader, what is the future of China's foreign policy? Vice President of the Asia Society Policy Institute, Daniel Russel offers his insights.
Amid tensions between the US and China, Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met for an in-person summit in Bali, Indonesia for the first time since Biden became US President. In recent years issues related to the economy, trade and security concerns over Taiwan and the South China Sea have been closely watched, especially by US allies and Asia-Pacific nations. Former US National Security Council senior official specializing in Asia policy, Michael Green, offers his analysis.
China is Australia's largest trading partner. But China's political influence on Australian society and security concerns in the region are some issues that have been straining relations between the two nations in the last few years. So how will Australia's strategy toward an increasingly assertive China impact the Asia-Pacific geopolitical landscape? Michael Green, a former senior US National Security Council official specializing in Asia policy, shares his insights.
At the COP27 climate change summit this year, countries agreed to set up a fund to compensate vulnerable nations for climate-induced disasters. But, the critical issue of curbing carbon emissions remains unresolved. So, how can we further strengthen climate actions? Former UN Secretary-General and tireless global advocate for climate adaptation and resilience, Ban Ki-moon, offers this advice.
Founded in 1945, the United Nations' core aim is to maintain world peace and stability. However, with Russia's continuing aggressions against Ukraine, questions about the UN's effectiveness have been raised. One particular challenge has been that Russia's veto power in the UN Security Council has limited efforts to take more action. So, how can the UN strengthen its ability to solve global issues in a divided world? Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon shares his insights.
50 years after man first landed on the Moon, US space agency NASA plans to establish a hub for sustainable human presence on and around the Moon with commercial and international partners and launch other missions to Mars and beyond. But with growing competition from the Chinese program, a global space race is on. With cooperation from Japan and Europe, can the US maintain its leadership role in space? NASA Administrator Bill Nelson shares his outlook on the future of space exploration.
In response to mass public protest, the Chinese government has eased its strict zero-COVID policy and reopened its borders. What impact will China's reopening have on its economic growth, and what are the implications for Asia and the global economy? Brookings Senior Fellow and leading expert on China's economy and US-China relations, David Dollar, shares his insights.
In 2021 Islamic group, the Taliban, returned to power in Afghanistan. Since then, women's right have deteriorated, limiting education for girls, and barring most women from work, causing despair among young people in the country. Despite being stripped of their rights, facing threats of violence, and becoming prisoners in their homes, women in Afghanistan are quietly fighting back. Exiled Afghan journalist Zahra Joya offers insights.
Triggered by the death of an Iranian woman Mahsa Amini, who was in custody after her arrest in Tehran by the morality police for allegedly not wearing her headscarf properly, protests erupted across Iran, especially among women and girls, while long-standing grievances have added to a wave of public anger against the Islamic regime. What is different about these current protests, and could they bring about a meaningful change in the future? Iran watcher Negar Mortazavi discusses the situation.
In March US regulators abruptly shut down Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, becoming the most significant bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis. What caused the two banks' sudden collapse, and what impact could this have on the global banking sector? Senior Fellow in Economic Studies at Brookings Institution, Aaron Klein, weighs in on the matter.
The popular video-sharing app TikTok is causing concerns around the world. Some US lawmen want to ban TikTok outright, citing that its 150 million US users could become powerful espionage tools for the Chinese government. How much of a threat is TikTok, and what can the US and other countries do to secure data and information on social media apps? Information security expert James Lewis offers his insights.
US-China tensions are rising in the lead-up to Taiwan's January 2024 presidential election. While the US reaffirmed its strong ties to Taiwan with President Tsai's visit to the US, China continues to try to gain influence over Taiwan from its side. Where do US-China relations stand now, and what can the US and its allies do to keep peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait? Ryan Hass, former National Security Council director for China, Taiwan and Mongolia, joins the conversation.
At this year's G7 Hiroshima Summit, one topic leaders will discuss is nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. But with Russia's nuclear threats in the conflict with Ukraine, North Korea's ballistic missile tests, and China's increasing nuclear arsenal, these goals have become challenging to achieve. How can we rein in proliferation and create global cooperation toward nuclear disarmament at this critical time? Former Deputy Secretary General of NATO, Rose Gottemoeller offers her insights.
Among the many issues on the table at the G7 Hiroshima Summit, Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine will be one of the most critical. What kind of message can we expect the G7 leaders to send to Russia? And what role can NATO members and other countries play to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine and bring stability to Europe? Former Deputy Secretary General of NATO, Rose Gottemoeller, joins the discussion.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly evolving and already impacting our lives. Generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT have become widely used, and AI has helped improve processes and efficiency in many industries. But with these advances are serious concerns. Are we moving too fast in adopting AI without understanding the ramifications of this new technology, and what are the implications for society? Eric Schmidt, former CEO and Chairman of Google, offers his insights.
While advances in AI have created many societal benefits, some experts warn that AI's unchecked power could threaten human existence. And with the costs of AI innovation being so high, there are concerns that control of this technology will be in the hands of a few. What guardrails do we need to secure the future of AI, and how will it shape geopolitical competition? Former CEO and Chairman of Google, Eric Schmidt, weighs in on the discussion.
While China's military carried out "aggressive" maneuvers in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, the US and China engaged in "candid and constructive" high-level meetings at events in Asia. Recent actions by China have many asking when will tensions between the two global powers thaw. Where are US-China relations headed, and how will this impact Japan and other US allies in the Indo-Pacific? Richard Haass, President of the Council on Foreign Relations, shares his opinion.
The Indo-Pacific has become a focal point of the US and China's geopolitical interests as both global powers ramp up economic investment, strategic influence and security measures in the region. While the US, Japan, Australia and India formed the Quad, many Indo-Pacific nations are opting for a multi-alignment approach. What is the US strategy in the Indo-Pacific, and how will it achieve its goals? Richard Haass, President of the Council on Foreign Relations, joins the discussion.
As Ukraine began its counter-offensive against the Russian forces, the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization, marched towards Moscow in a short mutiny that shocked the world. Meanwhile, NATO leaders and their allies gathered for their annual summit and pledged long-term support for Ukraine. Where do things currently stand in the Russia-Ukraine conflict? And what are the implications for the world, especially Asia? Eurasia Group's Ian Bremmer offers his insights.
While the 2024 US presidential election is still more than a year away, campaigning is already heating up. At this point, Joe Biden is expected to be the Democratic Party nominee, and despite legal troubles, Donald Trump is the current front-runner for the Republicans. How will the two political parties' campaigning affect US policymaking and influence US relations with Asia? Eurasia Group President and political scientist Ian Bremmer shares his analysis.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un displayed his latest intercontinental ballistic missiles in a military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice. Meanwhile, the US and South Korea renewed their alliance and will strengthen trilateral cooperation with Japan. How concerned should we be about North Korea's recent nuclear developments, and is it possible to negotiate with the Kim regime? North Korea analyst Jenny Town joins the discussion.
Leaders of the US, Japan and South Korea met at a first stand-alone summit where measures for tackling security concerns over China and North Korea were addressed. How will this trilateral cooperation contribute to regional stability, and what is needed to implement policies and ensure the framework lasts? Christopher Johnstone, Japan Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, provides insights.
Recognizing that some of its most important economic partnerships and national security interests are rooted in the Indo-Pacific, the Biden administration is focusing more on the region. How is the US strengthening its relationship with India and other Indo-Pacific countries, and what role can Japan play in shaping the future of the region? Former Director for East Asia, US National Security Council, Christopher Johnstone, joins the discussion.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin met for a rare summit where they reportedly discussed expanding cooperation on military technologies. What did Kim seek to gain from the summit, what was achieved, and what are the implications for neighboring Asian countries, the US and the rest of the world? Senior Adviser and Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Sydney Seiler offers his analyses.
Preceded by the launch of a "tactical nuclear attack submarine," North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un attended a paramilitary parade with his daughter this September to mark the 75th anniversary of the country's founding. Since taking over from his father in 2011, how firm is Kim Jong Un's grip on power, and how should the US and its Asian allies respond to his accelerating nuclear program? Former US National Intelligence Officer for North Korea, Sydney Seiler, offers his opinion.
Following Hamas's attack on October 7, Israel has expanded their ground operations in the Gaza Strip despite increased calls for a pause in fighting to allow humanitarian aid to reach Palestinian civilians. What are the geopolitical implications of the Israel-Hamas conflict? How does it affect the US, a strong supporter of Israel, and what influence does it have on Asia and the world? Eurasia Group president Ian Bremmer offers his analysis.
In an effort to ease rising tensions between the two superpowers, the US and China's leaders, Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met at a recent face-to-face summit. While the meeting achieved some goals, such as resuming military communications, concerns over issues including export controls are not yet resolved. What is the future of US-China economic relations? Former US Trade Representative, Michael Froman joins the discussion.
To counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific, 14 countries, including the US and Japan, gathered on the sidelines of the 2023 APEC meeting to negotiate the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. While agreements on trade are yet to be concluded, consensus was reached on "clean" and "fair" economy. How will the US-led initiative affect countries in the region? Michael Froman, former US Trade Representative, shares his insights.
Key achievements at the COP28 UN climate change conference in Dubai included an agreement to transition away from fossil fuels. But on our current trajectory, can the world limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and what are the most urgent climate issues to be addressed in 2024? Former Deputy Special Envoy for Climate at the US State Department, Jonathan Pershing evaluates COP28 and the focus for COP29.
American democracy comes under the spotlight this year with the US Presidential election being held in November with a likely rematch between current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. What is the current state of American democracy, will the election process impact its future, and what ramifications will unfold for global democracy? Democracy expert Larry Diamond, Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, offers his opinion.
2024 is a high-stakes election year around the world, with over 4 billion people being eligible to vote. Taiwan recently selected a new president, and key elections will be held in the US and India. How will the unfolding dynamics of elections reshape the global democratic landscape? Are we facing a crisis in global democracy, or does it require more time to develop? Larry Diamond, Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution and the Freeman Spogli Institute at Stanford University, offers insights.
Rising tensions in multiple regions now challenge the world. Conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine continue to complicate the geopolitical landscape. What are the implications of these conflicts for the US and its allies? What does this mean for the future of global order and US leadership? Joseph Nye, Emeritus Professor and former Dean of Harvard's Kennedy School of Government, discusses these issues.
As China and India increase their presence in the Indo-Pacific, the regional power balance is shifting. The US and Japan have been deepening their security alliance and strengthening cooperation with countries in the region to adapt to the changing dynamics. What is next for the Japan-US alliance? How can the two nations, with Indo-Pacific countries, bring stability to the region? American foreign policy expert and former US Assistant Secretary of Defense Joseph Nye offers his insights.
At this stage, the 2024 US presidential race will likely be a rematch between current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. However, the candidates' unpopularity is a concern for Americans across the political spectrum. What issues will shape the 2024 election and its outcome? Elaine Kamarck, US electoral expert at the Brookings Institution and Democratic National Committee member, joins the program.
Despite ongoing legal troubles, former President Donald Trump will likely win the Republican presidential nomination. And as the presidential election gets closer, his influence over the party grows stronger. How is Trump attracting supporters and changing the Republican Party, and what implications does this have for the future of US politics? Republican pollster and political consultant Whit Ayres shares his insights.
At the recent National People's Congress, Chinese leadership announced an economic growth target of around 5% for 2024. Also, the law was revised to call on the government to uphold Xi's guiding principles and to ensure continued leadership by the Communist Party. What is President Xi Jinping's strategy, and how should the US and its allies respond? China policy expert Elizabeth Economy, senior fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution, offers her analysis.
Rapid development in AI technology has triggered concerns about its risks, such as deep fakes and rogue AI. Landmark AI rules to address these issues have recently been adopted in the EU. However, the debate on regulation is still ongoing. What are the emerging AI risks? And how can we regulate them to avert potential crises? Yoshua Bengio, founder and scientific director of Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, explains.
The development of AI systems that can learn and reason like humans is advancing. However, as big tech companies increase their influence, concerns over the concentration of power are growing. How will AI transform our future, and how important is global cooperation with countries like China in ensuring that AI benefits all societies? Yoshua Bengio, founder and scientific director of the Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, offers his insights.
During an official visit to the US, Prime Minister Kishida and President Biden reaffirmed the US-Japan Alliance and cooperation on defense and security. A trilateral summit was also held with Philippine President Marcos, bolstering the three countries' partnership amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. How significant was this visit, and what impact could the outcomes have on security in the Indo-Pacific? Former National Security Council member Christopher Johnstone shares his insights.
As global events affect the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific, the Japan-US Alliance continues to be one of the most important partnerships. The two nations have committed to expand their engagement and address the world's most pressing challenges. Richard Armitage, former US Deputy Secretary of State, discusses the significance of the Japan-US Alliance, how it has developed over the years and the alliances' role as a global leader.
China's pressure in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait is increasing uncertainties in the Indo-Pacific as developments in the Middle East and Ukraine are adding instability to the region. What are the biggest risks, and how can regional players like the US, Japan and India cooperate to mitigate them? Former US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, who has been deeply involved in US security policy in the Indo-Pacific, offers his insights.
Once the realm of Cold War superpowers, today, space agencies worldwide, including the US, China and Japan, are competing in lunar exploration. Why has the moon become a focal point, and how is the landscape of space exploration changing? Former Executive Secretary of the National Space Council Scott Pace explains.
Trade tensions between the US and China are on the rise. President Biden recently announced a range of new tariffs on Chinese products that could affect about 18 billion dollars' worth of Chinese imports. How will China respond? What are the implications for US-China relations and the global economy? And how could these trade policies be affected by the US presidential election? Leading expert on US-China commercial relations, Scott Kennedy, offers his insights.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are heating up again as North Korea recently sent giant balloons filled with trash and waste into South Korea and continues to launch ballistic missiles. What future provocations might North Korea undertake and how can the US, Japan and South Korea form closer trilateral cooperation to prevent a potential conflict escalation? Former US National Security Council member and leading expert on the Korean Peninsula and East Asia, Sue Mi Terry, offers her insights.
