Matters of State - Underreported Issues in World News & International Relations

By Young Professionals in International Relations

Education

What's Matters of State - Underreported Issues in World News & International Relations about?

Young professionals in Washington, DC get together weekly to discuss underreported global issues over drinks.

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Matters of State - Underreported Issues in World News & International Relations episodes:

03.09.2020
Sports Diplomacy
Sporting events such as the Olympics or the FIFA World Cup never fail to capture the world’s attention, no matter what other international events are going on. Governments have noticed sports as a global attention-getter and for decades have been...
02.17.2020
Spotlight: Mongolia
In this episode, we focus on Mongolia, one of the least densely populated countries in the world at 2 people per square kilometer. We outline the history of the country, its domestic politics, where it sits in relation to the...
02.10.2020
Human-Wildlife Conflict
In this episode, we speak with Mark Hofberg from the International Fund for Animal Welfare to talk about human-wildlife conflict. We discuss the inherent challenges that both humans and wildlife face while trying to simply exist in an increasingly hungry...
02.03.2020
The East African Community
In this episode, we discuss the origins, successes, and challenges of the East African Community, a political and economic bloc comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Dig Deeper Take a look at some of our favorite articles that we...
01.27.2020
Compromised Infrastructure
In this episode, we explore the history of compromised infrastructure, which countries are engaged in this kind of behavior, and what sort of advantages they seek to gain.
12.09.2019
Piracy
Over the past ten years, the world has seen a strong resurgence of piracy, particularly around the Horn of Africa. While international coalitions have largely succeeded in reducing the presence of piracy in that region, the activity has most recently...
11.25.2019
Estonia’s E-Residency
As we become more and more dependent on the internet, basic notions such a person’s country of residence are shifting. Estonia is the first country in the world to introduce an eResidency program, which allows people living anywhere in the...
11.18.2019
The International Relations of Video Games
In this episode, we discuss the impact of video games on international security and international relations. Video games have had a significant impact on critical topics in global affairs, such as anti-terrorism, cultural relations, and military training. Check out our...
11.04.2019
A Conversation with EU Ambassador to the US Stavros Lambrinidis
Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis represents the interests of the European Union in Washington, DC. Ambassador Lambrinidis has held previous positions as the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, the Greek Foreign Minister, and Vice-President of the European Parliament. In our discussion,...
10.21.2019
Made in Sweden: A Conversation with Elisabeth Asbrink
In this episode, we speak with author, Elisabeth Asbrink, who discussed her new book, Made in Sweden. Born and raised in Sweden to English and Hungarian parents, Elisabeth is an internationally renowned journalist, author, and playwright whose work has been...
10.07.2019
A Conversation with Ambassador Prudence Bushnell
In this episode, we speak with Ambassador Prudence Bushnell about her experience as a leading woman diplomat in the US foreign service. Amb. Bushnell provides an overview of the historical challenges for women in US diplomatic circles and offers an...
09.30.2019
Foreign Remittances
Each year, tens of millions of people migrate all over the world in search of safety, economic prosperity, or a better quality of life. Although split by national boundaries, many families still rely upon migrants for support, resulting in a...
09.23.2019
Hawala Houses
Millions of people around the world do not have access to formal banking or means of transferring money across borders. A popular substitute is the “Hawala House,” an efficient and informal alternative money exchange system. In this episode, we explore...
09.16.2019
Spotlight: North Macedonia
In this episode, we take a close look at the country of North Macedonia. Once a part of the former Yugoslavia, North Macedonia changed its name in February 2019 after years of tensions with its neighbor Greece. It has faced...
09.09.2019
Cyber Trafficking
In this episode, we speak with former George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs graduate students, Mehmil Zia and Rubi Corral Hinojos, about their capstone project focusing on cyber trafficking in Mexico. In particular, they dissect how human traffickers...
09.03.2019
Culinary Diplomacy
International relations are being conducted via digital communication more than ever. However, one aspect of international diplomacy has remained constant for thousands of years: the ceremony and tradition of sharing food and eating together. In this episode, we will explore...
08.26.2019
The Aftermath of Genocide: Reconciliation and Ignorance
In the sixth, and last, episode of our series on genocide, Again and Again, we discuss the aftermath of genocide. Throughout modern history, nations have taken vastly different approaches when attempting to “move on” from genocides. Some have established reconciliation...
08.19.2019
Preventing Genocide
In the fifth (and penultimate) episode of our series on genocide, Again and Again, we speak with Dr. Matthew Levinger, Research Professor of International Affairs and Director of the National Security Studies Program at the George Washington University’s Elliott School...
08.12.2019
Propagandizing Genocide
In the fourth episode of our series on genocide, Again and Again, we speak with Theogene Rudasingwa, former Chief of Staff to Rwanda President Paul Kagame (2000-2004) and former Ambassador to the United States (1996-1999). Rudasingwa, now living in exile...
08.05.2019
Forecasting and Preventing Genocide
In the third episode of our series on genocide, Again and Again, we talk about forecasting with Lawrence Woocher, research director at the Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Woocher discusses the...
07.29.2019
Lesser-Known Genocides
In the second episode of our series on genocide, Again and Again, we discuss the Circassian and Bangladeshi genocides of the 19th and 20th centuries, where nearly 3.5 million people were collectively murdered. Despite the large numbers of people murdered,...
07.22.2019
The Ten Stages of Genocide
The Ten Stages of Genocide is the first episode of our new series, Again and Again: A Series on Modern-Day Genocide. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Gregory Stanton, Chairman and Founding President of Genocide Watch and Professor at...
06.17.2019
Vanishing Fish: A Conversation with Dr. Daniel Pauly
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Daniel Pauly, an award-winning marine biologist at the University of British Colombia. Dr. Pauly speaks with us about his new book, Vanishing Fish: Shifting Baselines and the Future of Global Fisheries, which examines...
05.20.2019
Fentanyl
In 2017, the US Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency, often referred to as the opioid crisis. This crisis, which addresses the significantly imbalanced ratio of prescription drugs to the patient population, often overshadows the...
05.13.2019
Catalonia: A Conversation with Andrew Davis
In this episode, we speak with Andrew Davis of the Catalonia America Council about recent discussions and events surrounding the Catalonia’s relations with Spain. Mr. Davis provides background and context for the ongoing discussions regarding Catalonia’s status with Spain and...
05.06.2019
Spotlight: Estonia
Estonia is a small, high-tech country with democratic values and a capitalist economy. It is also seen as a pivotal player for NATO, especially in cyberspace. In this episode, we will detail Estonia’s background and history, examine its cyber relations...
04.30.2019
Japan’s Emperor Akihito
Emperor Akihito of Japan is not your traditional emperor. In light of Akihito’s unconventional remarks hinting at a possible desire to abdicate, we spend this episode discussing the emperor’s place in Japanese government and culture. Dig Deeper Take a look at some of...
04.22.2019
Invasive Species
As humans have migrated around the world throughout the centuries, they often brought with them various animals and plants to help colonize this planet. Whether intending to establish sources for food in otherwise barren landscapes or unleashing unknown stowaway creatures,...
04.08.2019
Global Maternal Healthcare: A Study in Cultural Competency
In this episode, we speak with two recent graduate students from the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University here in Washington, DC, Prerna Balasundaram and Christina Parker, about their ongoing research on cultural competency in maternal...
04.01.2019
Spotlight: Western Sahara
Western Sahara is a non-self-governing territory on the northwest coast of Africa. Bordered by Morocco, Mauritania, and Algeria, the former Spanish colony has been under dispute since 1976. Ethnic tensions continue to erupt between the native Sahrawi population and Moroccan...
03.25.2019
The World of Virtual Reality
Virtual reality–commonly referred to as VR–is an emerging technology that will become increasingly more sophisticated and widespread in the 5G era. VR can improve education, revolutionize healthcare, and even bolster security services. At the same time, however, VR is also...
03.18.2019
Global navigation satellite systems
GPS is a critical part of our everyday lives and underpins much of the infrastructure surrounding us. But the GPS satellite system is just one of a growing list of so-called global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) that can provide space-based...
03.11.2019
International Relations of the Amazon
The Amazon is the world’s largest rainforest, covering 40% of South America and spanning eight countries and one territory across the continent. It is home to a broad array of languages and cultures that must find a way to ensure...
02.11.2019
The Heart of Nuba: A Conversation With Doctor Tom Catena
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Tom Catena, the current Chair of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, about his work at the Mother Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountain region of Sudan. The people of Sudan’s Nuba Mountains have long been...
02.04.2019
Spotlight: Lesotho
In this episode, we look into the history and current affairs of Lesotho, a country roughly size of Maryland that is landlocked in South Africa. Much of Lesotho’s history and culture has been shaped by its mountainous terrain, which historically...
01.28.2019
Olympic Terrorism
The Olympic Games have long been a symbol of sportsmanship and national pride. However, they can also be a target of terrorism. In this episode, we explore case studies of how organizations and nations have attempted to commit acts of...
01.14.2019
Spotlight: Papua New Guinea
In today’s episode, we put a spotlight on the island nation of Papua New Guinea. PNG, bordering Indonesia and Australia on the edge of the south Pacific ocean, is defined by its diversity. Incredibly rich in resources and cultures, Papua...
12.05.2018
Why Nations Fail
Professor Robinson joins us for a candid discussion about his book, ‘Why Nations Fail’. In it, he makes the case that the key differentiator between countries is “institutions.” Nations thrive when they develop “inclusive” political and economic institutions, and they...
12.03.2018
Uncontacted Peoples
How far do the limits of modern society reach? What is “modern society,” and who belongs to it? What happens when states, organizations, and other members of the “connected world” come into contact with groups that may have little intersection...
11.19.2018
Emergency Warning Systems
Emergency warning systems are used by countries across the world to alert citizens about a variety of incidents, from natural disasters to military threats. Modern emergency warning systems are taking advantage of new technologies such as text messaging to ensure...
11.05.2018
Ethiopia and Eritrea’s Sudden Peace
Ethiopia and Eritrea have been in near constant tension over the past several decades. In recent months, however, the two countries have ended their state of war and are working toward full normalization of relations. In this episode, we explore the...
10.29.2018
Bride Trafficking
The term “mail order brides” does not often invoke similar connotations to human trafficking, but bride trafficking is just that. Victims of this trade are forced to marry men they don’t know from foreign countries that are sometimes thousands of...
10.22.2018
National Apologies
Around the world, governments and nation-states have issued–and continue to issue–national apologies to victimized communities, populations, or countries. These apologies are often contentious and can cause ripple effects that influence foreign or domestic policies. In this episode, we discuss what qualifies...
10.08.2018
Water Scarcity
In this episode, we examine the growing issue of water scarcity that has begun to plague cities and regions around the world. From California to Cape Town to Sao Paulo, we assess the causes and effects of water scarcity, and...
10.01.2018
Hello, Shadowlands – Organized Crime in Southeast Asia
In this episode, we speak with journalist Patrick Winn about his book, Hello, Shadowlands. Our conversation explores the various organized criminal groups, terrorist organizations, and even vigilante groups operating within Southeast Asian countries. Patrick provides insights into some of the...
09.17.2018
Australia’s Leadership Change
The top leadership job in Australia is like a revolving door: since 2007, not a single Prime Minister has been able to serve a full term. But why is this? Join us for a discussion on how the Australian political...
09.10.2018
Ambassador Reuben Brigety on the African Union
Established in 2001, the African Union (AU) represents all African countries in the pursuit of economic development, human rights and security, and good governance. Africa is the youngest continent in the world with a booming population and several emerging economies,...
08.27.2018
Afghanistan, Poppy, and Saffron
Afghanistan is the world’s largest supplier of heroin and opium. The Afghan government, United Nations, and other international stakeholders have tried endlessly to prevent Afghan farmers from growing poppy, the plant used to produce heroin, but farmers often find themselves...
08.20.2018
Sinking States
The U.S. Department of Defense calls climate change a threat multiplier, but for some countries it is an imminent and existential threat. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are particularly at risk, facing the possibility of their nations literally go under in...
08.13.2018
Sand Mafias
Sand is the world’s second most consumed natural resource and a critical component of the world’s construction and manufacturing industries. Some governments have attempted to regulate excessive sand dredging, which has led to the rise of black market “sand mafias.”

What's Matters of State - Underreported Issues in World News & International Relations about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Matters of State - Underreported Issues in World News & International Relations episodes:

Sports Diplomacy

Spotlight: Mongolia

Human-Wildlife Conflict

The East African Community

Compromised Infrastructure

Piracy

Estonia’s E-Residency

The International Relations of Video Games

A Conversation with EU Ambassador to the US Stavros Lambrinidis

Made in Sweden: A Conversation with Elisabeth Asbrink

A Conversation with Ambassador Prudence Bushnell

Foreign Remittances

Hawala Houses

Spotlight: North Macedonia

Cyber Trafficking

Culinary Diplomacy

The Aftermath of Genocide: Reconciliation and Ignorance

Preventing Genocide

Propagandizing Genocide

Forecasting and Preventing Genocide

Lesser-Known Genocides

The Ten Stages of Genocide

Vanishing Fish: A Conversation with Dr. Daniel Pauly

Fentanyl

Catalonia: A Conversation with Andrew Davis

Spotlight: Estonia

Japan’s Emperor Akihito

Invasive Species

Global Maternal Healthcare: A Study in Cultural Competency

Spotlight: Western Sahara

The World of Virtual Reality

Global navigation satellite systems

International Relations of the Amazon

The Heart of Nuba: A Conversation With Doctor Tom Catena

Spotlight: Lesotho

Olympic Terrorism

Spotlight: Papua New Guinea

Why Nations Fail

Uncontacted Peoples

Emergency Warning Systems

Ethiopia and Eritrea’s Sudden Peace

Bride Trafficking

National Apologies

Water Scarcity

Hello, Shadowlands – Organized Crime in Southeast Asia

Australia’s Leadership Change

Ambassador Reuben Brigety on the African Union

Afghanistan, Poppy, and Saffron

Sinking States

Sand Mafias