The Jacob Shapiro Podcast At the Frontline of the South China Sea and Democracy
Mar 31, 2025
Georgi Engelbrecht, a senior analyst for the Philippines at Crisis Group, delves into the nation's pivotal role in global politics. He discusses the complex relationship between the Philippines and China, including the historical context of their disputes in the South China Sea. Engelbrecht also unpacks the political drama of the Duterte-Marcos rivalry and its implications for democracy. He highlights the unique challenges of economic growth intertwined with poverty, offering insights into the country's evolving political landscape.
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Georgi's Path to the Philippines
- Georgi Engelbrecht, born in Siberia and raised in Ukraine, became a German citizen.
- He unexpectedly found himself working in the Philippines while initially intending to focus on the Middle East.
Philippines' Geopolitical Importance
- The Philippines, often overlooked, is crucial in the South China Sea drama and China's global role.
- It is a frontline state in the geopolitical landscape, unlike the stagnant Europe or US.
Philippines' Cultural Mix
- The Philippines is a unique blend of Asian, Western, and Latin American influences, with English widely spoken.
- Its archipelagic nature, with over 7,000 islands, adds to its complexity and regional diversity.