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Unequal Worlds; an inequality research podcast
Unequal Worlds; an inequality research podcast episodes
- #29 Research Agenda for The Next Decade: Inequality – Transforming Marginality
In this episode of Unequal Worlds: A Research Podcast, we bring you a compelling keynote and panel discussion from the 2024 Bergen Exchanges on Law and Social Transformation. Titled "Research Agenda for The Next Decade: Inequality – Transforming Marginality," this episode features insights from leading experts.
Join us as we explore the complexities of globalised capital, the role of law in perpetuating and addressing inequalities, and the importance of a relational view of inequality. Key takeaways include the importance of legal certainty and equality before the law, the devaluation of spaces and people due to capital, and the need for a relational view of inequality that considers the interconnectedness of poverty and wealth.Listeners will gain insights into the challenges faced by vulnerable populations within the criminal justice system, the limitations of liberal reforms in addressing deep-seated issues, and the significance of continuous societal discussion and critique.
This episode is essential listening for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding and addressing the root causes of inequality. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will inspire new ways of thinking about and tackling inequality in our modern world.
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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1 hr 1 min - #28 Global Capitalism's Impact on Society and Environment: Insights from the 2024 Bergen Exchanges Book Launch
In this episode of Unequal Worlds, we discuss the intricate world of global capitalism by launching the book edited by Don Kalb titled "Insidious Capital: Frontlines of Value at the End of a Global Cycle." The episode was recorded during the 2024 Bergen Exchanges on Law and Social Transformation.
Explore the pervasive influence of capital on societies, the environment, and everyday life. From the financialisation in China to the rise of Trump in the US, our experts dissect the complex relationships between capital, class, and labour. Gain insights into the environmental degradation caused by unchecked capitalist development and the role of creativity and knowledge industries in today's economy.
Whether you're a student, researcher, or simply curious about the dynamics of global capitalism, this podcast offers valuable perspectives and critical analysis.
Join us as we navigate the dialectic of collusion and collision with capital, and uncover the hidden forces shaping our world.
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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45 min - #25 Navigating Green Finance: Challenges and Opportunities Explored at SDG Conference
In this episode, we dive into the dynamic discussions from the SDG Conference in Bergen, where experts explored the complexities and opportunities in financing the shift towards sustainability. Moderated by Natalia Buier, the session featured insights from Ruth Carlitz of the University of Amsterdam, Lina Strandvåg Nagell from Bellona Europa, and Yann Robiou du Pont from Utrecht University.
Key Highlights:
Climate Finance: Addressing Inequity and Aligning Investments with Needs: Ruth Carlitz discusses the disparity between climate change impacts and emissions, emphasising the responsibility of higher-income countries to support lower-income nations. She highlights the need for transparency and effectiveness in climate finance allocation.
Sustainable Finance: Unveiling the Taxonomy Tango: Lina Strandvåg Nagell delves into the complexities of defining “sustainable” finance and its role in industrial decarbonisation. She discusses Bellona’s involvement in the EU’s sustainable finance taxonomy and the challenges of balancing economic considerations with climate goals.
Equity and Ambition: Sharing the Burden of Emissions Reduction: Yann Robiou du Pont contrasts the aspirational nature of the SDGs with the legally binding framework of the Paris Agreement. He advocates for equitable distribution of emissions reductions and introduces the concept of “fair share” based on historical emissions, per capita emissions, and GDP per capita.
From Disputes to Solutions: Charting a Course for Effective Climate Action: The panellists address disputes surrounding green finance taxonomies and the diversity of instruments involved. They emphasise the importance of international support mechanisms, transparency in foreign aid, and comprehensive sustainability criteria.
Political Will and Beyond: A Multifaceted Approach to Climate Finance: The conversation transitions to political solutions, with a focus on international cooperation, leadership from high-emitting countries, and the inclusion of non-state actors and grassroots voices.
Scepticism, Capitalism, and the Road Ahead: The session grapples with the complexities of climate change scepticism and its impact on green finance. The speakers discuss the drivers of scepticism and the challenges of achieving ambitious climate goals.
A Balancing Act for a Sustainable Future: The session concludes with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in financing climate action. The speakers highlight the need for transparent and equitable finance allocation, systemic changes in financial flows, and political solutions to address climate change effectively.
Join us as we explore these pressing issues and discuss innovative strategies for mobilising investments in sustainability. This episode reinforces the importance of collaboration and innovation in overcoming the challenges of green finance.
Tune in to gain insights and be part of the conversation on navigating the complexities of green finance for a sustainable future. 🎧
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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1 hr 14 min - #27 Populism and the Far-Right Manifestation on the African Continent
In this episode, host Wesley Maraire sits down with Satang Nabaneh from the University of Dayton to explore the rise of the illiberal right within the African continent through the lens of the human rights framework. They discuss the complexities of how conservative values, religious extremism, and authoritarian tactics manifest in different African countries, drawing comparisons with global trends.
Satang provides a historical overview of The Gambia’s transition from a secular state to an Islamic state under authoritarian rule, highlighting the ongoing challenges even in a democratic dispensation. The discussion covers the role of law and violence in the rise of the illiberal right, with examples from Kenya and Uganda, and examines the push factors driving these movements, such as religious sentiments and cultural traditions.
The conversation also addresses the hope for those fighting against the rise of illiberalism, emphasising the importance of strategic, intersectional organising and movement building within Africa. Satang shares insights on the need for critical self-reflection and the adaptation of human rights frameworks to local contexts.
For more on Satang Nabaneh’s work, check out her latest book:
- Choice and Conscience: The Politics of Abortion in Africa
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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1 hr 10 min - #26 The Annual GRIP Lecture 2024: Exploring the Rise of the Far-Right
In this episode, we bring you highlights from the Annual GRIP Lecture held at Ulrikes Aula, University of Bergen. This year’s lecture, titled “The Politics of Inequality and the Rise of the Illiberal Right: A Global Perspective,” was curated by Don Kalb, Academic Director at GRIP, and featured keynote speaker Walden Bello, a distinguished international sociologist.
Walden Bello provided a deep dive into the rise of the illiberal Right across the Global South and North, examining how leaders like Narendra Modi, Jair Bolsonaro, Viktor Orban, and Rodrigo Duterte exploit economic insecurities and societal anxieties to advance their agendas. Bello’s analysis of authoritarian processes and right-wing mobilisations offered a profound understanding of these global issues.
The lecture featured case studies illustrating how far-right leaders use fascist charisma and populist sentiments to resonate with audiences. Bello discussed the role of neoliberalism and globalisation in fuelling the rise of the far-right, particularly among disenfranchised rural communities and disillusioned white working-class voters.
Join us as we explore these critical discussions and gain insights into the rise of the far-right and its impact on global politics.
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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55 min - #24 Global Threats, Local Battles: Tackling the Rise of Illiberalism
In this episode, we delve into the critical discussions from the 2024 SDG Conference Bergen, where GRIP organised a session titled “Tackling the Rise of Illiberalism.” This session brought together students, researchers, and academics to explore the chilling effects of far-right populism on educational systems worldwide.
Key Highlights:
Neoliberalism’s Vulnerabilities: Andrea Pető from Central European University discusses how neoliberal ideologies, with their emphasis on competition and metrics, create academic vulnerabilities. She highlights the far-right’s attacks on gender studies, critical race theory, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, and the broader implications for academic freedom and democratic societies.
Subtle Signs, Profound Impact: Amy Kapit from Scholars at Risk warns of seemingly minor changes, such as restrictions on posters or event cancellations, as early warning signs of eroding liberalism. Her organisation tracks global attacks on academic freedom, emphasising the interconnectedness of illiberalism with democratic backsliding.
Building Resistance, Fostering Solidarity: Şansal Güngör Gümüşpala from the University of Victoria shares firsthand experiences of the chilling effect of illiberalism in Turkey, highlighting the importance of building strong community ties and fostering open dialogue within academia.
Reclaiming the Narrative: Jens Jungblut from the University of Oslo examines the role of neoliberal policies in undermining academic freedom, citing privatisation as a key factor. He discusses how populist parties prioritise shaping education content to promote national identity and traditional values over academic exploration.
Moving Forward: The session concludes with a call to action for fostering spaces for diverse voices and critical discussions. The speakers stress the importance of rethinking higher education’s structure and values to create a more inclusive learning environment and defend academic freedom and democratic principles.
Join us as we explore these pressing issues and discuss innovative strategies for resisting illiberalism and safeguarding academic freedom. This episode underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts across disciplines and borders to confront these global challenges.
Tune in to gain insights and be part of the conversation on defending the foundations of democratic societies through academic freedom. 🎧
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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1 hr 14 min - #23 Authoritarianism, Inequality, and the Far Right: Unpacking Brazil’s Political Landscape with Thomas Salem
In this episode of Unequal Worlds, host Wesley Maraire speaks with Tomas Salem, PhD fellow at the University of Bergen’s Department of Anthropology, about the rise of the far right in Brazil. The conversation explores the political, economic, social, and religious forces fueling this movement, focusing on its deep connections to corruption, economic inequality, and the militarisation of police operations.
Salem discusses how political cosmology, populism, and religious movements, particularly Pentecostal churches, have shaped Brazil’s far-right rhetoric, while social media platforms like WhatsApp spread misinformation and mobilise support. The episode also delves into the Pacification project in Brazil’s favelas, examining its racial and economic implications, authoritarian policing practices, and complex relationships with drug gangs and residents. Finally, the discussion highlights the global relevance of these dynamics, especially in relation to inequality, spirituality, and discontent among marginalised populations.
Tune in for a deep dive into Brazil’s political landscape and the broader implications of far-right movements worldwide.
You can read Tomas’ new book titled ‘Policing the
Favelas of Rio de Janeiro’ for more insights. It is free and open access!Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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***************************************************56 min - #22 The Unequal Burden of Climate Change: Prof Michael Grubb on Climate Finance
In this episode of Unequal Worlds, we dive deep into the pressing challenges and innovative solutions surrounding the global green transition. Host Wesley Maraire and guest Michael Grubb explore the evolving landscape of climate finance, political solutions, and the critical role of private investment in advancing low-carbon projects in developing countries.
Key Topics Covered:
- The transformation of office buildings in South Africa into independent power producers through solar energy, reflecting a global shift towards renewable energy.
- The political and financial intricacies of the $100 billion climate finance goal for developing countries, including the role of public and private investment.
- How leveraging windfall profits from the energy crisis can significantly boost climate finance and accelerate clean energy investments.
- The potential impact of debt forgiveness and the critical need for targeted solutions in the fight against climate change.
- Strategies for transferring renewable energy technology to regions rich in resources but lacking in technology infrastructure, focusing on Africa’s potential.
🎧 Listen Now: Join us as we navigate these crucial topics and uncover how new political solutions and visionary initiatives can reshape our approach to climate finance and ensure a fair green transition for all.Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!
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58 min - #21 Complex Realities: Alpa Shah on Poverty, Inequality, and Democracy in India
In this episode of Unequal Worlds, we speak with Alpa Shah, an anthropologist and lecturer at the London School of Economics, about the complex issues of inequality, democracy, and activism in India.
Shah begins by discussing the importance of democracy in protecting minority rights and questions whether this ideal is being upheld in India. She also highlights the complexity of the term "decolonisation" and warns against its potential hijacking by extremist forces.
The conversation then turns to the challenges of labour unionisation in India, particularly in representing informal sector workers. Shah notes that unions often focus on formal sector labour, leaving out a significant portion of the workforce.
Shifting to the intersectionality of various forms of inequality, Shah introduces the concept of "conjugated oppression." She emphasises the need for mobilisation efforts that address multiple forms of inequality simultaneously.
Shah also discusses the impact of her research on both academic and public audiences. She notes that her work has raised awareness of inequality and discrimination in India, particularly among the Indian diaspora. She also mentions that her research has reached higher levels of policymaking, such as the United Nations.
The conversation concludes with a mention of Shah's upcoming book, "Incarcerations," which is set to be released in March 2024.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the challenges of inequality and discrimination in India, the importance of intersectional mobilisation, and the impact of academic research on raising awareness and influencing policy changes.
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know what you think!
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30 min - #20 Decolonisation and the Pursuit of Human Dignity: A Keynote Address by Divine Fuh
In this episode of Unequal Worlds, Divine Fuh explores the complex relationship between decolonisation and the pursuit of human dignity. Joining Fuh are Ouma Ba & Yumba Kakhobwe who respond to the address as well as questions from the audience at the recently held Bergen Exchanges on Law Social Transformation. The keynote was chaired by Satang Nabaneh.
Fuh argues that the decolonial movement in South Africa has shifted its focus from the decolonisation of knowledge to addressing the suffering and inequality experienced by poor black South Africans. He introduces the concept of "sh*t" to emphasise the suffering and predicament of poor black South Africans living in shacks and townships while the white population experiences growing opulence.
Fuh emphasises the importance of recognising and acknowledging suffering as a catalyst for the decolonial project. He discusses the concept of "seeing" suffering, which involves empathy, transformation, and understanding. He also discusses the challenges in conceptualising suffering, especially when different languages and conceptual frameworks have limited vocabulary for it.
Fuh views decolonisation as an exercise in human dignity and suggests embracing concepts like conviviality, rethinking the human, and ethical cohabitation to address inequalities and find new ways of thinking. He argues that breaking free from dominant conceptual regimes is essential to understanding and addressing suffering and inequality effectively.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the decolonial movement, human rights, and the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.
Subscribe to Unequal Worlds on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to let us know what you think!
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41 min
About Unequal Worlds; an inequality research podcast
From the publisher's feed
The Global Research Programme on Inequality (GRIP) is a radically interdisciplinary research programme that views inequality as both a fundamental challenge to human well-being and as an impediment to achieving the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda.
In this podcast, we aim to explore and illuminate all aspects of global inequality and to investigate the possible ways of addressing these inequalities.