The European Dialogue
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Latest Episode: ‘Understanding right‐wing populism and what to do about it’ with Prof. Daphne Halikiopoulou
In this episode, we dive into the critical challenges posed by right-wing populism in Europe, featuring an in-depth discussion with the Prof. Daphne Halikiopoulou, co-author of the article “Understanding right‐wing populism and what to do about it?” (along with Prof. Tim Vlandas).
Our conversation uncovers the multifaceted origins of these movements, from cultural grievances to economic crises, challenging simplistic narratives about their growth. We discuss the diverse ways right-wing populism has taken hold in different European regions, shaped by local contexts and historical legacies. The episode examines key patterns and trends across the continent, shedding light on the factors behind varying levels of success for populist parties.
This episode offers a thoughtful analysis of Europe's political landscape, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of how to navigate and respond to the challenges posed by right-wing populism. Listen now!
Listen now on Soundcloud, Spotify and Youtube now:
Episode 3:
Populist Power Plays: Unpacking 'Unpolitics' in EU Decision-Making with Prof. Ariadna Ripoll Servent and Prof. Natascha Zaun
In this episode, we speak with Prof. Ariadna Ripoll Servent and Prof. Natascha Zaun about their research on "unpolitics," a strategy used by populist governments to reject traditional rules and compromise in favour of mobilising domestic voters. But what exactly is unpolitics, and how does it differ from conventional political strategies? We explore why populist leaders turn to this approach within the EU and what impact it has on decision-making.
Drawing on the case of refugee distribution, we discuss how populist governments prioritise vote-seeking strategies over consensus-building, and in which policy areas unpolitics is most likely to emerge. We also examine the consequences of this strategy for EU governance and the relationship between populist governments and their citizens.
Find out more in the full article "Under Which Conditions Do Populist Governments Use Unpolitics in EU Decision-Making,". Check out the special issue (Vol. 12, 2024) Unpolitics: The Role of Populist Governments in EU Decision-Making:
Episode 4:
Chasing Equality: The Evolution of Gender Equality in the EU with Prof. Esther Barbé
Join Prof. Esther Barbé as she explores the evolution of gender equality within the EU and its broader international context.
Gender equality, recognised as a cornerstone of human rights, has transformed significantly since the 1979 CEDAW convention, which sought to eliminate discrimination against women. Over time, the understanding of gender expanded to include its social construct and power dynamics, framing equality as a driver of societal change.
In the EU, this principle evolved from the Treaty of Rome's (1957) focus on equal pay to a comprehensive framework of gender mainstreaming by the 1990s. Prof. Barbé examines how the EU has championed gender equality to encourage economic growth, promote labour market participation, and combat gender violence—culminating in a Gender Strategy set for 2025. However, rising anti-gender movements and political polarisation now threaten these advances. Prof. Barbé highlights strategic actions the EU can take to safeguard progress and uphold gender equality as a fundamental human right.
Tune in to gain a nuanced understanding of how gender equality has shaped the EU and its role in global human rights efforts.
Episode 1:
Introducing the EU-VALUES Network - Who are we?
Join Prof. Jacint Jordana as he introduces the EU-Values Network. Discover our origins, the key topics we tackle, our diverse membership, and how we engage with the academic community.
Stay tuned for more episodes of The European Dialogue podcast, coming soon.
Episode 2: Geopolitical EU?
The EU's Wartime Assistance to Ukraine with Prof. Elisabeth Johansson-Nogués
In this episode, we dive deep into the EU’s evolving foreign policy amidst the war in Ukraine with Prof. Elisabeth Johansson-Nogués. Drawing from her latest research, co-authored with Francesca Leso, "Geopolitical EU? The EU's Wartime Assistance to Ukraine," we explore how the conflict is reshaping Europe's global identity.
Professor Johansson-Nogués unpacks the EU’s response, revealing how its support for Ukraine is about more than military aid—it's a defense of core values like democracy, human rights, and sovereignty, which are being challenged by authoritarian forces worldwide. While the EU has taken bold steps, questions remain about its ability to solidify its role as a regional and global leader. Tune in to hear how this war is redefining the EU’s position on the world stage and what it means for the future of international relations.