For the first of four podcasts in our special series on the coronavirus pandemic, we look at its economic consequences, from rising unemployment to a stock market crash on at least the scale of 2008. What responses have we seen from governments and central banks, and will they be enough to ensure a swift recovery once lockdowns are lifted? Will the inequality created by this crisis define a generation? Joining us to answer these questions are Prof. Jason Furman, Prof. Michèle Tertilt, Ian Bremmer and Dr Eric Feigl-Ding.

O’Driscoll is a former Irish rugby player, regarded as one of the best players in the history of the game. He captained the Irish national team from 2003-2012, and toured with the British and Irish Lions four times, before moving to a career in punditry with ITV and BT. He joins us today to talk about the Irish youth system and his experience of leadership within the game, and to relive some career highlights.

Prue Leith has been one of the biggest names in British food and hospitality since 1969, and is best known for her role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off. She joins us today to speak about her early life in South-Africa, her Michelin-starred restaurant in Notting Hill, and her work in education and food over the years.

For the first part of our discussion, we are joined by activists and protestors, Nathan Law and Eddie Chu. Following years of clashes with Beijing, Hong Kong politics is increasingly volatile. For the second part of our discussion, we are joined by Ambassador Kurt Tong and Regina Ip. Following years of clashes with Beijing, Hong Kong politics is increasingly volatile. As years of protests continue, what does the future hold for Hong Kong?

CW: This podcast contains references to sexual violence and assault Miriam Haley was one of the two main accusers in the 2020 trial of Harvey Weinstein, in which he was found guilty of third-degree rape and sentenced to 23 years in prison. As one of the only Weinstein victims to have a case make it to trial, Miriam joins us today share her story, and to address the challenges surviours of sexual assault and harassment face in coming forward.

Byanyima is a Ugandan engineer and diplomat, and the current executive director of UNAIDS. She previously served as the Executive Director of Oxfam International between 2013 and 2019, overseeing the organisation’s response to the Ebola epidemic. She joins us today to talk about her journey in Ugandan politics, and the lessons we can learn from the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

As the COVID-19 crisis continues, so does the Oxford Union’s commitment to host the conversations that matter. With our summer term held remotely, we have devised a full programme of podcasts. Tune in every Monday to Saturday, to listen to interviews with actors, journalists, activists and world leaders, along with our debate-style podcasts on issues ranging from the Refugee Crisis and Afghanistan, to Love Island. On Sundays watch out for our Weekend Specials, for some lighter relief. We hope you will listen in, and join the conversation.