In this conversation, Meenu Gupta and Steve Melhuish explore the complexities of measuring sustainability, the importance of human connection in progress and gender stereotyping from an early age. An exchange on drivers of economy in the east and the west of the world, the realities of developed and emerging economies and a peek into Steve´s journey from entrepreneurship to impact between Asia and Europe, round up this first part of a deep conversation.

Keywords

sustainability, climate crisis, impact investing, gender equality, social innovation, peace building, entrepreneurship, collaboration, metrics, authenticity

Takeaways

-Not everything that matters is measurable.

-Metrics can blind us to the human side of progress.

-Personal experiences can drive a shift towards impact.

-Cultural backgrounds shape perspectives on business and sustainability.

-The climate crisis requires urgent action and collaboration.

-Gender equality is crucial for effective leadership.

Sound bites

"What gets measured gets done."

"Can we measure peace?"

"How do we make lives better?"

Chapters

-Measuring What Matters: The Quest for True Sustainability

-The Human Side of Progress: Beyond Metrics

-A Personal Journey: From Entrepreneurship to Impact

-Cultural Connections: East Meets West

-The Climate Crisis: A Call for Action

An excerpt from a conversation between the host, Meenu Gupta and Dr. Ketakandriana Rafitoson.

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta engages with Dr. Ketakandriyana Rafitoson, a political scientist and human rights defender from Madagascar, discussing the urgent need for climate justice and the role of governance in addressing corruption and social justice. They explore the dynamics between the Global South and North, the importance of grassroots movements, and the necessity of empowering affected communities to lead the dialogue on climate change. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of justice, dignity, and democracy while also addressing the risks faced by activists and the ethical dimensions of transparency. Ultimately, they highlight the power of resistance and collective action as a source of hope in the face of global challenges.

In this episode of 'Between the East and the West', host Meenu Gupta engages with Barry Shaw, a senior associate for public diplomacy at the Israel Institute for Strategic Studies. The conversation delves into the complexities of public diplomacy, Israel's position in global discourse, and the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Barry shares his personal journey, experiences with antisemitism, and critiques of media narratives surrounding Israel. The discussion also explores the emotional weight of ongoing conflicts, the role of truth in public diplomacy, and Barry's vision for a peaceful future in Gaza through a protectorate model.

Keywords

Public diplomacy, Israel, Barry Shaw, peace, conflict resolution, media narratives, antisemitism, Gaza, historical context, dialogue

Takeaways

-Public diplomacy shifts the conversation from governments to individuals.

-Israel's narrative is often misunderstood in international discourse.

-Barry's perspective is shaped by historical Jewish suffering.

-The Oslo Accords were a significant turning point in the conflict.

-Yasser Arafat's legacy is controversial and complex.

-Media representation can distort the reality of conflicts.

-Antisemitism remains a pervasive issue in many societies.

-Education is crucial for fostering understanding and peace.

-A new model for Gaza could involve a protectorate system.

-Reality must guide public diplomacy efforts moving forward.

Sound bites

"We are fighting a death cult."

"Reality is a human value."

"Education, not indoctrination."