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."

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.

Keywords

Climate justice, corruption, governance, social justice, democracy, people power, global south, activism, transparency, human rights

Takeaways

-Climate justice is a pressing demand, not a choice.

-Corruption and misgovernance are prevalent in both Global South and North.

-Justice is multifaceted and requires a political and economic model centered on people.

-Democracy must allow for change and citizen expression through clean elections.

-People power is essential for challenging the status quo.

-The voices of affected communities must be amplified in global dialogues.

-Access to transparent information is crucial for community empowerment.

-Activists face significant risks but truth must be pursued courageously.

-Ethics and integrity are foundational to transparency and governance.

-Collective action and community engagement can reshape narratives and foster hope.

Sound bites

"Resistance is contagious."

"Justice doesn't come without costs."

"We can do better. We can do more."

Chapters

00:00 The Call for Climate Justice

04:41 From Local Activism to Global Advocacy

09:11 Corruption and Governance: A Global Perspective

14:25 Justice, Dignity, and Democracy

15:55 The Role of Governance in Social Justice

23:23 People Power: The Path to Change

27:57 Amplifying Voices of the Affected

35:44 Leading the Dialogue on Climate Justice

36:10 The Broken System and Climate Change

37:21 Empowering Affected Communities at COP

40:35 Access to Information and Rights

42:59 Recognizing Affected People as Agents

45:52 Navigating Risks in Advocacy

51:22 The Ethics of Transparency

55:14 Reclaiming Community and Collective Action

01:03:07 Hope Amidst Challenges

01:04:47 Future Aspirations and New Strategies

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta speaks with Kai Müller, the executive director of the International Campaign for Tibet, about his journey in advocating for Tibetan rights and the broader implications of solidarity and human rights. They discuss the evolving perspectives on China, the importance of understanding the Tibetan struggle, and the need for compassion and mindfulness in addressing global conflicts. Kai emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues and the responsibility of individuals and nations to act against oppression.

Keywords

Tibet, human rights, Kai Muller, International Campaign for Tibet, solidarity, China, Dalai Lama, advocacy, non-violence, compassion

Takeaways

-Even the smallest voice can disturb silence.

-Solidarity transcends geography and culture.

-We must reflect on our moral responsibilities.

-The view on China varies significantly across Europe.

-Tibet's struggle resonates due to its universal values.

-Human rights advocacy is an investment in hope.

-The Tibetan cause is supported by a global community.

-Compassion and kindness are essential human values.

-Education in mindfulness can change societal perspectives.

-The interconnectedness of global issues requires collective action.

Sound bites

"It's an investment into hope."

"Be kind to everyone."

"We all want to be happy."

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Small Voices

01:25 Kai Muller's Journey to Tibet Advocacy

04:32 Understanding Responsibility and Solidarity

10:51 The European Perspective on China and Tibet

18:37 The Origins of the International Campaign for Tibet

27:40 The Impact of Global Awareness on Tibet

38:30 The Universal Resonance of the Tibetan Struggle

47:24 Lessons from Tibetan Non-Violence

56:13 Mindfulness and Emotional Education in Conflict Resolution

59:32 Keeping the Human Face of Tibet in Policy Discussions

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta speaks with Stefan Wilhelm about the transformative power of social innovation and the importance of collaboration across cultures and sectors. They discuss the complexities of defining impact, the need to bridge divides between East and West, and the role of gender in social entrepreneurship. Stefan shares personal stories of how innovative solutions can change lives and emphasizes the necessity of trust and radical collaboration in achieving social change. The discussion culminates in a vision for 2030, highlighting the importance of building ecosystems that support sustainable development.

Keywords

Social innovation, impact measurement, health equity, collaboration, gender equality, diversity, inclusion, social entrepreneurship, community development, global health

Takeaways

-Impact is about sustainably changing livelihoods.

-There is a divide in healthcare access between East and West.

-Fear and prejudice hinder collaboration across cultures.

-Innovative solutions can empower marginalized communities.

-Development aid narratives need to change to acknowledge local solutions.

-Radical collaboration is essential for social innovation.

-Gender equity in entrepreneurship leads to better outcomes.

-Women entrepreneurs often outperform their male counterparts.

-Diversity should encompass a range of identities and experiences.

-Inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and drives performance.

Sound bites

"Radical collaboration is key."

"Diversity is about being different."

"Trust is everything."

Chapters

00:00 Reimagining Social Impact

01:26 Defining Impact in a Complex World

02:32 Bridging East and West in Health Equity

05:38 Overcoming Fear and Prejudice

06:58 Innovative Solutions for Inclusion

09:54 Changing Narratives in Development Aid

12:12 The Need for Radical Collaboration

15:00 The Role of Gender in Social Innovation

19:07 Women Entrepreneurs: A New Perspective

21:51 The Dynamics of Aggression and Assertiveness

25:35 Understanding Diversity and Inclusion

29:50 The Essence of Belonging

34:15 Personal Moments of Impact

44:33 The Journey into Social Impact

48:42 Building Trust Across Borders

55:50 A Vision for 2030

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta engages with Juan, a Colombian human rights attorney, to discuss the pressing themes of peace, justice, and reconciliation in the context of Colombia's complex history of conflict. They explore Juan's personal journey into peacebuilding, the challenges faced in Colombia's peace process, the role of international cooperation, and the impact of drug policy on violence. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing humanity in conflict, the need for grassroots movements, and the lessons that can be learned for global peacebuilding efforts. Juan advocates for a shift in perspective towards nonviolence and the recognition of individual contributions to peace.

Keywords

Peace, justice, Colombia, conflict resolution, transitional justice, international cooperation, grassroots movements, drug policy, nonviolence, human rights

Takeaways

-Conversations around peace are increasingly relevant in today's world.

-Juan's personal experiences shaped his commitment to peacebuilding.

-Conflict is not simply black and white; it involves complex human experiences.

-Recognizing humanity in others is essential for achieving peace.

-Colombia's peace process faces significant challenges, including state presence and civil society engagement.

-International cooperation has limitations and should not replace local efforts.

-Drug policy significantly impacts violence and conflict in Colombia.

-Transitional justice in Colombia is a unique and holistic approach.

-Grassroots movements play a crucial role in peacebuilding efforts.

-Individual contributions to peace can create meaningful change.

Sound bites

"We must recognize humanity in the other."

"Peace is a revolutionary act here."

"If there is no hope, there is no tomorrow."

Chapters

00:00 The Relevance of Peace in Today's World

02:06 Juan's Journey into Peacebuilding

04:27 Understanding Conflict and Reconciliation

08:07 The Complexity of Human Experience

10:05 Recognizing Humanity in Conflict

12:00 Challenges of Colombia's Peace Process

14:26 The Unique Challenges of Colombia's Peace Process

21:15 The Role of State and Armed Groups

28:28 International Cooperation and Its Impact

35:29 Transitional Justice in Colombia

39:55 The Holistic Focus of Transitional Justice

44:26 Victim Participation in Justice

45:50 Grassroots Movements and Dialogue

47:27 Lessons from the Colombian Model

48:56 Misconceptions in International Peacebuilding

52:52 The Role of Nonviolence in Conflict Resolution

58:03 Reassessing Global Drug Policy

01:06:34 Individual Contributions to Peacebuilding

The second part of this conversation explores the need for inclusive approaches that recognize the contributions of diverse voices and the importance of joint evolution in creating welcoming societies. It also brings out the subject of migration at COP as well as the relevance of this summit.

Keywords

Migration, climate change, community engagement, integration, philanthropy, policy making, sustainable cities, global governance, societal transformation, diversity

Chapters

- Rethinking Integration in Diverse Societies

- Integration and Evolution in Society

- Joint Evolution and Sharing Perspectives

- Policymaking Amidst Tensions

- The Role of Diverse Voices in Policy

- Climate Migration and Urban Inclusion

- COP and Climate Migration Discussions

- Challenges and Opportunities in Climate Action

- Breaking Silos for Effective Collaboration

This conversation explores the multifaceted issues surrounding migration, including its root causes, the role of local communities, and the importance of philanthropy and policy making in addressing these challenges. Dr. Raffaella Schweiger discusses how migration is often viewed through a narrow lens, while it is deeply interconnected with climate change, social cohesion, and global governance. The dialogue emphasizes the need for inclusive approaches that recognize the contributions of diverse voices and the importance of joint evolution in creating welcoming societies.

Keywords

Migration, climate change, community engagement, integration, philanthropy, policy making, sustainable cities, global governance, societal transformation, diversity

Takeaways

-Migration is a complex issue influenced by various global factors.

-The majority of migration is voluntary, not forced.

-Local communities play a crucial role in supporting migrants.

-Successful integration requires understanding and valuing diverse perspectives.

-Philanthropy must adapt to be more inclusive and collaborative.

-Policy making often lacks representation from affected communities.

-Joint evolution between newcomers and host societies is essential.

-Climate migration is a growing concern that needs proactive solutions.

-COP discussions are beginning to include migration issues more prominently.

-Building coalitions is key to addressing interconnected global challenges.

Sound bites

“Coalition building is key to progress."

"Climate migration is a growing concern."

"We need to maintain spaces for dialogue."

Chapters

00:00 The Global Migration Landscape

09:19 Understanding Root Causes of Migration

17:00 Community-Led Responses to Migration

23:38 Innovative Approaches in Integration

40:57 Philanthropy and Political Engagement

This conversation explores the legacy of Olof Palme, the state of democracy in 2025, and the role of the Olof Palme International Center in promoting peace, democracy, and social justice. It discusses the challenges of corporate responsibility in the face of international aid cuts, the importance of sustainability beyond greenwashing, and the need for collective action and youth engagement in social change. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of accountability in climate agreements and the power of local activism to drive global change.

Keywords

Olof Palme, democracy, international aid, sustainability, corporate responsibility, youth engagement, dialogue, community, climate justice, peace

Takeaways

-Olof Palme's legacy continues to inspire democratic values worldwide.

-The Olof Palme International Center focuses on peace, democracy, and social justice.

-Corporate responsibility is crucial in the context of international aid cuts.

-Sustainability efforts often lack genuine commitment and can be seen as greenwashing.

-Community and collective action are essential for real change.

-Youth engagement is vital for driving social and political change.

-Dialogue is necessary, even in the face of conflict and violation of rights.

-Common security requires a set of rules respected by all nations.

-Binding regulations are needed to hold countries accountable for climate commitments.

-Local activism is the foundation for creating meaningful change.

Sound Bites

"Peace and dialogue is our point of entry."

"Sustainability is often a cosmetic exercise."

"Collective organizing creates real change."

"Youth are more dynamic in political change."

"Dialogue is always needed."

"Trust should be enough for climate agreements."

"We need binding regulations for climate justice."

"Get active in your local community."

Chapters

00:00The Legacy of Olof Palme

03:08Democracy in 2025: A Reflection on Olof Palme's Ideals

05:59The Role of the Olof Palme International Center

08:50Corporate Responsibility and International Aid

12:08Sustainability, Peace, and Corporate Greenwashing

14:57Community, Individualism, and Collective Action

18:12Youth Engagement in Social Change

20:58The Importance of Dialogue in Conflict Resolution

23:53Building Bridges: Youth, Trade, and Community

26:51Success Stories: Grassroots Movements and Policy Change

29:53Common Security and International Accountability

32:56The Need for Binding Climate Regulations

35:51A Call to Action: Local Activism for Global Change