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We are RAIA(ffairs), your podcast for stepping up in international affairs. Get informed on the stories and worries of political leaders, the 'behind the scenes' of decision-makers, and how politics impact and change your life. Join your host Nicola, along with a new guest every episode, to discuss the individual policy-maker of the week.
43 Episodes
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In this episode, we sat down with Finja Ullrich and Aleksej Obradovic to examine the climate leadership of King Mohammed VI of Morocco. Under his reign, Morocco has launched some of the most ambitious environmental policies on the African continent, including the Green Morocco Plan, a national strategy for renewable energy, and the country’s first adaptation plan. We discuss how Morocco’s environmental challenges, from drought and desertification to rising sea levels, have shaped a climate agenda rooted in national survival, economic modernization, and global leadership.This episode is the sixth and last of our series as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don’t forget to read Finja and Aleksej’s article (https://raiagroup.org/mohammed-36-billion-climate-plan-resilience-morocco) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Luiza da Costa Carvalho Melo and Sara Tobar Herrera to explore the career of Anthony Nyong, one of Africa’s most prominent climate advocates and a key figure in shaping the continent’s response to climate change. From his role as a lead author in the IPCC’s landmark 2007 report to his leadership at the African Development Bank and the African Carbon Markets Initiative, Nyong has consistently pushed for a climate agenda grounded in justice, development, and African agency. We discuss how his work confronts challenges like energy poverty, extreme weather events, and underrepresentation in global climate finance.This episode is the fifth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don’t forget to read Luiza and Sara’s article (https://raiagroup.org/anthony-nyong-vision-africa-climate-finance-revolutio) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Lilli-Sage Bayes to talk about the conflict in the DRC and the escalating tensions between President Félix Tshisekedi and Sultani Makenga, leader of the M23 rebel group. We explore how renewed violence in the eastern provinces is reshaping the country’s political and military landscape.Don’t forget to read Lilli's article here: https://raiagroup.org/hostilities-tshisekedi-makenga-battle-for-drc
In this episode, we sat down with Pilar Gonzalez and Gaspard Brabant to explore the climate leadership of Grace Fu, Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment. From championing the Singapore Green Plan 2030 to implementing carbon taxes and food resilience strategies, Fu has positioned herself at the center of one of the world’s most ambitious urban sustainability agendas. We discuss how her technocratic, data-driven approach, shaped by a career in both the private and public sectors, reflects Singapore’s broader climate priorities and whether it’s enough to safeguard the city-state’s future in the face of rising seas and global disruption.This episode is the fourth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don’t forget to read Pilar and Gaspard’s article (https://raiagroup.org/infrastructure-constructs-grace-fu-climate-leadership) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Giulio Guiducci and Jayveer Gautam to delve into the legacy of Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s most influential environmental communicators. Through decades of groundbreaking documentaries, global campaigns like Our Planet and A Life on Our Planet, and initiatives such as The People’s Seat and Save Our Wild Isles, Attenborough has reshaped how millions perceive the natural world and the urgency of climate action. We discuss how his storytelling bridges science and emotion, and whether his role as a public figure can be seen as a form of climate leadership in its own right.This episode is the third in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don’t forget to read Giulio and Jayveer’s article (https://raiagroup.org/david-attenborough-people-seat-fail-to-produce-change) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Alice Girotto and Bryan Thorne to explore the urban climate leadership of Anne Hidalgo, the long-serving Mayor of Paris. Known for her bold policies to reshape the French capital, from low-emission zones and car-free initiatives to green urban planning and energy-efficient housing, Hidalgo has positioned herself as a global voice for sustainable cities. We discuss how her leadership during COP21 and her ambitious Bioclimatic Urban Plan have transformed Paris into a laboratory for climate governance, and what her approach tells us about the power and limits of city-level action.This episode is the second in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don’t forget to read Alice and Bryan’s article (https://raiagroup.org/hidalgo-mild-aligning-climate-action-social-justice) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Josip Biondic and Manuela Altes Alcaraz to unpack the climate legacy of Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s new president and former Mayor of Mexico City. With a background in physics and a PhD in energy engineering, Sheinbaum has brought scientific rigor and political ambition to some of Mexico’s most pressing environmental challenges. From transforming public transportation in the capital to shaping the country’s water and energy strategies, we explore how her policies balance climate action with economic and political realities, and whether she can truly lead Mexico into a greener future.This episode is the first in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2025. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Josip and Manuela's article (https://raiagroup.org/sheinbaum-hot-public-transport-reforms-set-a-high-bar) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2025).
In this episode, we sat down with Sofia Ena to unpack the leadership of General Abdourahmane Tchiani one year after his coup in Niger. We explore how the junta’s pivot away from Western alliances — and withdrawal from ECOWAS — has deepened insecurity, fueled economic turmoil, and reshaped the region’s geopolitical landscape. From the rise in jihadist attacks and Niger’s growing ties with Russia, to the emergence of new regional players like Morocco, we examine the consequences of Tchiani’s decisions and what they mean for Niger, the Sahel, and power dynamics in West Africa.Don't forget to read Sofia's article here: https://raiagroup.org/tchianis-cold-strategy-escalating-crisis
In this episode, we sat down with Ángel Rodríguez Moreno to explore how shifting international dynamics have frozen UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s landmark deal to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Originally framed as a bold step in reshaping British foreign policy and addressing colonial injustices, the agreement now faces major obstacles after Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency and the election of Navin Ramgoolam in Mauritius. We discuss how concerns over Diego Garcia’s strategic military role, legal tensions over sovereignty, and the humanitarian crisis surrounding stranded asylum seekers have all complicated the situation, leaving Starmer’s credibility and global ambitions hanging in the balance.Don't forget to read Ángel's article here: https://raiagroup.org/cold-relations-trump-starmers-chagos
In this episode, we’re joined by Elisa De Angelis to unpack the political crisis facing French President Emmanuel Macron after the 2024 snap elections. Intended to stabilize France’s political landscape, the vote instead deepened divisions, collapsed coalitions, and triggered widespread unrest. We explore how Macron’s leadership is being tested — from controversial immigration reforms to the use of Article 49.3 — and what it all means for France’s democratic future and role in the EU.Don’t forget to read Elisa’s article here: https://raiagroup.org/macron-cold-navigating-france-political-crisis
In this episode, we sat down with Lilli-Sage Bayes to dive into the political turmoil surrounding Kenyan President William Ruto’s controversial 2023 Finance Bill. What began as an attempt to tackle Kenya’s mounting debt through tax hikes quickly sparked nationwide protests, judicial opposition, and public backlash. We explore how these events have weakened Ruto’s political leadership and cast doubt on his economic promises. With unrest growing and key institutions pushing back, we look at what this crisis means for Ruto’s political future and regional stability across East Africa.Don't forget to read Lilli's article here: https://raiagroup.org/unrest-erupts-as-rutos-finance-bill-freezes-in-kenya
In this special episode, we sat down with RAIA's director and co-founder, Dario Hasenstab, for an insightful conversation about the origins, evolution, and future of RAIA. We talked about the history of the organization, the idea behind it, as well as its vision and mission in international affairs.Don't forget to check out our new articles at RAIAGroup.org and to follow us on social media to receive updates on all our new contents.
In this episode, we sat down with Francisco Jeldres and Valeria Flores Siles to explore the groundbreaking work of Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, a three-time Costa Rican Minister of Environment and Energy and current CEO of the Global Environment Facility. Rodríguez’s innovative Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) program has revolutionized conservation efforts in Costa Rica, increasing forest cover, protecting biodiversity, and reshaping how the world views environmental incentives. We discuss how his leadership has influenced global conservation policies and what lessons can be drawn from his approach to balancing sustainability and economic development.This episode is the fourth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Francisco and Valeria's article (https://raiagroup.org/carlos-manuel-rodriguez-turns-up-the-heat-on-global) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
In this episode, we sat down with Mariana Gamez and Aimée Wolff to explore the nuanced climate leadership of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh. While celebrated internationally for initiatives like co-founding the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) and implementing the Energy Efficiency Conservation Master Plan (EECMP), her leadership faces challenges at home. We discuss her efforts to combat air pollution and reduce short-lived climate pollutants, alongside the institutional barriers and enforcement gaps that have limited progress. Tune in to learn how Sheikh Hasina has positioned Bangladesh as a climate leader while navigating the complexities of policy implementation in a rapidly developing nation.This episode is the sixth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Mariana and Aimée's article (https://raiagroup.org/sheikh-hasina-mild-climate-leader) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
In this episode, we sat down with Ángel Rodríguez Moreno to discuss the political turmoil in Somaliland as President Muse Bihi faces mounting opposition to a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia. The deal, which promises Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer shoreline in exchange for recognition, has sparked protests, political resignations, and questions about Bihi’s leadership ahead of November’s presidential elections. We explore how this MoU has exacerbated economic and inter-clan tensions, undermining Somaliland’s claims to stability and recognition. Tune in to understand the stakes for Somaliland’s future and the ripple effects across the Horn of Africa.Don't forget to read Ángel's article here: https://raiagroup.org/somaliland-and-ethiopia-bihi-elections
In this episode, we sat down with Chiara Ausenda to analyze Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s environmental policy, particularly his ambitious deforestation agenda. Despite significant progress, including a 50% reduction in Amazon deforestation, political obstacles such as state corruption, underfunded agencies, and a resistant Congress have hindered his efforts. We discuss how Lula’s environmental promises align—or conflict—with his development agenda, the pressures from indigenous communities and international donors, and the potential political fallout as Brazil approaches local elections. Don't forget to read Chiara's article here: https://raiagroup.org/lula-cold-as-deforestation-policy-faces-obstacles
In this episode, we sat down with Nicola Minnaja to unpack Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s new foreign policy initiative, the Mattei Plan. Designed to reshape Italy’s engagement with Africa, this ambitious strategy aims to strengthen energy ties, combat irregular migration, and establish Italy as a pivotal player in the Mediterranean. We explore how Meloni has gained support from key EU figures, like Ursula von der Leyen, and the challenges she faces, including geopolitical competition in Libya and across the region.Don't forget to read Nicola's article here: https://raiagroup.org/mattei-plan-melonis-hot-foreign-policy-in-africa
In this episode, we sat down with Africa Romero Rodriguez and Sofia Damasio Figueiredo to explore the bold climate leadership of Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, whose implementation of green economy policies is setting a global example. With initiatives like the Blue Economy Strategy and the Roof to Reefs resilience plan, Mottley is transforming Barbados into a sustainable powerhouse, addressing economic, social, and environmental vulnerabilities. We discussed how Mottley’s leadership has amplified international climate change awareness and paved the way for collaborative solutions. Tune in to learn how her policies are reshaping Barbados and inspiring other island nations to take action against climate change.This episode is the fifth in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Africa and Sofia's article (https://raiagroup.org/mia-mottley-hot-amid-implementation-of-her-green) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
In this episode, we sat down with Lucinda Schüler and Matilde Romagnoli to explore the passionate activism of Nemonte Nenquimo, a Waorani leader from the Ecuadorian Amazon, who has risen to global prominence in her fight to protect both the rainforest and the rights of indigenous communities. Nenquimo’s landmark legal victory against the Ecuadorian government, preventing oil drilling on native lands, set a powerful precedent for indigenous and environmental rights. We delve into her campaigns and international recognition, as well as the challenges posed by Ecuador’s reliance on the oil industry. Discover how Nemonte Nenquimo’s activism is reshaping the fight for climate justice and indigenous sovereignty on a global scale.This episode is the third in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Lucinda and Matilde's article (https://raiagroup.org/nenquimo-activism-is-heating-up-the-amazon-in-ecuador) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
In this episode, we sat down with Clara Chikuse and Maja Prokopiuk to explore Hage Geingob’s ambitious pursuit of transforming Namibia into a global leader in green hydrogen production. Geingob’s vision centered around harnessing Namibia’s natural resources to fuel sustainable economic growth and energy self-sufficiency. We delve into the Namibia Green Hydrogen and Derivatives Strategy, the challenges faced, and the potential of the $9.4 billion Hyphen Hydrogen project. Learn how Namibia’s green hydrogen ambitions could reshape the global energy landscape and Geingob's lasting impact on the nation's future.This episode is the second in a series of six as part of the IExRAIA Summer Research Program of 2024. RAIA has invited twelve IE University students to join our think tank and spend 9 weeks researching a figure from around the world to try to answer a simple question: Are they a climate leader?Don't forget to read Clara and Maja's article (https://raiagroup.org/geingobs-pursuit-green-hydrogen-economy-for-namibia) and report (https://raiagroup.org/ie-university-x-raia-research-program-2024).
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