This episode’s guest is dr Zarina Patel, Associate Professor of Human Geography in the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science at the University of Cape Town. In conversation with GRIP’s Maria Bakke Ulvesæter, dr Patel discusses, among other things; the ways urban developments can be just and sustainable; epistemic inequalities and the importance of trans-disciplinary work; the significance of Africa’s future urban development; and how urban development and inequality are intrinsically linked. Dr Patel’s research addresses the politics and practices of achieving just and sustainable urban transitions. The distinctive focus of her scholarship is the use of transdisciplinary approaches to navigate alternate insights and responses to complex urban issues in southern contexts. Mentioned in this episode: Research and knowledge centre Mistra Urban Futures The New African Urban University *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
This episode is a recording of GRIP affiliate Svati Shah's keynote at the 2022 Bergen Exchanges. Here, Dr Shah sets the issues of gender, land rights and political enfranchisement as well as postcolonial queer and trans theory into the broader context of anti-democratic governance and battles over historical memory in India. Svati Shah is a feminist anthropologist who works on questions of sexuality, gender, migration and caste capitalism in India. They hold adjunct appointments in the Departments of Anthropology and Afro-American Studies at UMass-Amherst. Dr Shah’s ethnographic monograph, Street Corner Secrets: Sex, Work and Migration in the City of Mumbai, discussed sex work as an aspect of labour migration that is mediated by the politics of space, urbanization and caste. They are currently researching the rise of authoritarianism and the histories of new left social movements, queer feminist critique, and anthropology in South Asia. You can read more about Svati Shah and their work at their webpage: Svati P. Shah This event was a part of the LawTransform Queer Lawfare seminar series (sponsored by Fritt Ord), a collaboration with GRlP (Global Research Programme on Inequality), Centre on Law & Social Transformation and Centre for Women’s and Gender Research at UiB. *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
We are happy to be able to share a recording of this keynote session with you as an episode of our podcast Unequal Worlds. This keynote address was given by Prof. Leandro Rodriguez Medina (Department of Sociology, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Azcapotzalco, Mexico) and entitled: “On epistemic decentralization: challenges for knowledge infrastructures”. GRIP affiliate Dr. Susanne Koch (STS Department/Chair of Forest and Environmental Policy, Technical University of Munich) together with Prof. Nelius Boshoff (Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology, Stellenbosch University) convened the workshop “Science as a Site of Inequality: An Exploratory Workshop for Sharing Evidence and Experience from Environment-Related Research Fields” (11.–13. May 2022). The hybrid event brought together scholars from all across the world to discuss how science itself is shaped by inequality – and how it could become a more inclusive space of knowledge production. The workshop was hosted by the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Studyand funded by the DFG Programme Point Sud. If you are interested in hearing more from the workshop, you are welcome to listen to this talk given by Nelius and Susanne as part of the CWTS Diversity and Inclusion Seminar Series. Keynote: Leandro Rodriguez Medina Moderator: Susanne Koch *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram *************************************************** Cover photo by Andrew Stutesman on Unsplash
2020 marked the start of several global crises the consequences and impact of which we are still attempting to comprehend and deal with, and inequalities are again on the rise worldwide. In this episode we dive into the newly published book The Long Year, edited by Caitlin Zaloom & Thomas Sugrue, which brings together some of the world’s leading scientists and incisive thinkers who grapple with the implications of the various crises of 2020, providing a sobering and critical analysis of the pre-existing conditions that lead to these crises, exposing the way inequalities have exploded and also offering suggestions for the ways forward – ways to reform, reconnect and rebuild a more equal future for us all. To talk about this book, we are lucky to have one of the editors, Caitlin Zaloom, with us. Caitlin is a professor of Social & Cultural Analysis at New York University. She studies the cultural dimensions of finance, politics, technology, and economic life. She is also the author of books Indebted: How Families Make College Work at Any Cost and Out of the Pits: Traders and Technology from Chicago to London. *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
Food is at the core of the UN's development agenda for the 21st century and several SDGs explicitly focus on food system challenges. Food production, distribution and consumption are linked to inequalities in a myriad of ways, and in this episode we explore inequality through the lens of food. In this discussion GRIP's Elina Troscenko is joined by Ingunn Marie Stadskleiv Engebretsen; Professor, Centre for International Health at the University of Bergen and Hanne Rosendahl-Riise, Associate Professor at the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen. Hanne and Ingunn led the course Food Security for 8 Billion; Closing the gap with commitments, sustainable measures, and research during Bergen Summer Research School 2022. Bergen Summer Research School is a partnership of NHH Norwegian School of Economics, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Chr. Michelsen Institute, and NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, under the leadership of the University of Bergen. Every year, 100 PhD candidates are welcomed to take one of six parallel PhD-level courses, all based in some of Bergen’s best research groups, and each addressing important global challenges. Follow Bergen Summer Research School on Twitter to get notified of next year's course! *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram *************************************************** Photo by Tomas Hertogh on Unsplash
The SANORD 2021 conference was hosted by the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences and the University of Bergen. The conference focused on how SANORD partners can use and strengthen partnerships - with the aims of meeting the needs of the UN 2030 Agenda. GRIP was a contributor to the sub-theme “Epistemic challenges, intellectual labour and South-North partnerships” and we are now lucky enough to be able to publish the keynote by Maria Paula Meneses as a podcast episode. Keynote "Food as knowledge, interconnecting the Global South" by Maria Paula Meneses Discussant: Pamila Gupta Moderator: Bjørn Enge Bertelsen *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
The Centre for International Health (CIH) at the University of Bergen (UiB) hosted the 12th European Congress on Tropical Medicine and International Health in Bergen, Norway 2021. GRIP’s executive director, Bjørn Enge Bertelsen, led the plenary session “ Will global health survive its decolonisation? “ and we are happy to be able to share the recording of the session with all of you. Keynote “Power, privilege and coloniality in Global Health” Dr Madhukar Pai Participants: Tammam Aloudat Lioba A. Hirsch Themrise Khan Bjørn Enge Bertelsen (moderator) *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
We are happy to announce a new publication in the CROP book series International Studies in Poverty Research entitled “Why Some Development Works. Understanding Success” by Meera Tiwari. This podcast episode is a recording of the webinar book launch of the book, that GRIP hosted on the 30th of September 2021. Using case studies from countries across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, Tiwari’s innovative approach offers a multi-layered understanding of poverty which provides insights into causal, enabling and impeding factors. A unique study based on extensive empirical research, Why Some Development Works will make essential reading for students and researchers studying international development across the social sciences, as well as humanitarian and development practitioners and policymakers. Participants were: Meera Tiwari, University of East London Rohini Mukherjee, Naandi Foundation Adnan Khan, London School of Economics Diana Skelton, ATD Fourth World Bjørn Enge Bertelsen (moderator), GRIP *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
Smart cities with their digital technological innovations and application of information technologies are argued to be more sustainable, resilient, efficient and better able to respond to changing circumstances or challenges. But what does this narrative of technological development and smart cities actually entail, how have smart cities dealt with COVID-crisis and what can we learn from all this? Dr Jaideep Gupte is a Fellow of the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex and leads “the Cities and Sustainable Infrastructure” Portfolio of the Global Challenges Research Fund. Jaideep’s research has received the Global Development Network Medal for Outstanding Research, and he was formerly Prize Fellow of the Urban Design Research Institute, Mumbai. He has conducted primary research in South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal) and sub-Saharan Africa (Sudan, Kenya, Nigeria). Jaideep uses multidisciplinary approaches to understand the material, temporal, political and technological aspects of urban informality. This interview is part of the GRIP miniseries Inequality in the (Post-) Pandemic City. Dr Gupte's research seeks to foreground the voices and everyday experiences of the most marginalised urban residents. He has served as a consultant for a variety of donor agencies, UN Agencies, several urban local authorities and a range of NGOs. He is currently the Principal Investigator on ‘Smart Data for Inclusive Cities’ programme funded by the European Commission; a Co-Investigator of the Global Challenges Research Fund ARISE Accountability in Urban Health Research Hub; and the Principle Investigator of the ‘Governing the ungovernable’ programme funded by the Gerda Henkle Stiftung. *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram *************************************************** Photo: Urban Nightscape - Technology imitates landscape. Photo by Todd Cliff, Flickr.
"This is not charity - this is global security". Access and equal distribution of vaccines are essential in managing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The current challenges of vaccine inequality demand a re-examination of the vaccine distribution mechanisms. What are the consequences of wealthier nations grabbing most of the global vaccine supply? How does it affect pandemic control on a local and global scale? What are the current models for vaccine distribution in Norway and beyond and are there more just and fair possible alternatives? This episode is a recording of the Vaccine Inequality Webinar held at Bergen Global 20.05 2021 by GRIP and the UiB Pandemic centre. The webinar was hosted by Bjørn Enge Bertelsen and Esperanza Diaz, and the panellists were: Dr John-Arne Røttingen: Røttingen is Norway’s global health ambassador and oversees Norway`s global health efforts and participation in international activities to combat Covid-19. Dr Mosoka P Fallah: Fallah is the Founder and Executive Director of Refuge Place International, an NGO in Liberia addressing access to affordable quality health care for poor urban and rural dwellers. Professor Gagandeep Kang: Kang is a Professor of Microbiology at the Wellcome Trust Research Laboratory at the Christian Medical College (CMC) in Vellore, and she is one of India’s leading experts on vaccines. Professor Henriette Sinding Aasen: A professor of law from the University of Bergen, she is a well-established researcher in the field of health and human rights, including access to healthcare services for vulnerable groups and the relationship between welfare state regulations and social citizenship. Erlend Grønningen: Grønningen is a board member of Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors without Borders and has been the acting spokesperson for MSF in Norway throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. You can read our miniseries interview "Inequality in the (Post-) Pandemic City: The Paradox of Geography and Vaccine" with dr. Fallah here. Cover photo: MF Photo/ERNESTO BENAVIDES *************************************************** GRIP newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
Welcome to Unequal Worlds; an inequality research podcast! In this episode show hosts Elina Troscenko and Maria Ulvesæter introduce the force behind Unequal Worlds; the Global Research Programme on Inequality (GRIP). 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. GRIP aims to provide a framework facilitating collaboration across disciplines and knowledge systems around problems of inequality, and this podcast is a part of this. Sign up for our newsletter here. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Do you want to get in touch? Reach out at GripInequality@uib.no.
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! **************************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ****************************************************************
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! ******************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ********************************************************
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! ********************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter – Facebook – Instagram **********************************************************
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! ********************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter – Facebook – Instagram **********************************************************
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! ********************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter – Facebook – Instagram **********************************************************
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! ********************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter – Facebook – Instagram **********************************************************
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! *************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
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! *************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************
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! *************************************************** GRIP Newsletter Twitter - Facebook - Instagram ***************************************************