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.
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