46. Arancha González Laya: The World’s Most Powerful Organisations
Nov 20, 2023
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Arancha González Laya, former Minister of Foreign Affairs in Spain and the Dean of the School of International Affairs at Sciences Po in Paris, discusses the need for cooperation between the US and Europe, the impact of immigration on right-wing populism in Europe, assessing the state and future of the United Nations, reflections on becoming a feminist, finding hope in extreme situations, and Spain and Latin America's relationship.
Transatlantic relations and a stronger partnership between the US and Europe are crucial to address global challenges.
Balancing open markets with investments in education and social support systems is necessary for sustainable economic growth and social well-being.
Deep dives
Importance of Working Together for Transatlantic Relations
The podcast episode explores the importance of transatlantic relations and the need for the United States and Europe to work together. It highlights the complexities and challenges faced in recent years due to factors such as internal politics and the Trump administration. The episode emphasizes the significance of the relationship between the US and Europe in the face of global challenges and calls for a stronger partnership to address emerging threats and ensure a prosperous future.
Arantia Gonzalez-Laya's Journey and the Opportunities in Spain
Arantia Gonzalez-Laya, former Spain's foreign minister, shares her personal journey and highlights the opportunities that emerged in Spain, especially during the transition to democracy. She discusses how Spain's membership in the European Union and access to quality education opened doors for individuals like herself. She emphasizes the progress Spain has made in areas such as solidarity, welcoming migrants, environmental concerns, and fighting climate change. However, she acknowledges Spain's occasional struggle with feelings of inferiority in European power dynamics.
The Importance of Open Markets and Social Safety Nets
The episode delves into the significance of open markets and the need for strong social safety nets to navigate the challenges of globalization and trade. It highlights the positive impact of trade on growth, innovation, and competitiveness, while acknowledging that trade has also created winners and losers. The discussion emphasizes the importance of addressing the concerns of those negatively impacted by globalization through investments in education, social support systems, healthcare, and infrastructure. It calls for finding a balance between open markets and ensuring fairness to sustain economic growth and social well-being.
Overcoming Geopolitical Risks and Advancing Cooperation
The podcast episode explores the impact of geopolitical risks on global trade and emphasizes the need to overcome the prevailing anti-trade sentiment. It acknowledges the challenges posed by conflicts, climate change, and technology disruptions, and the importance of adapting policies to meet these challenges. The discussion stresses the necessity of fostering international cooperation, reforming institutions like the United Nations and becoming more inclusive, and addressing the redistribution of power in the world. It encourages young people and citizens to become activists, pushing for positive change in an interconnected world.
Are increased military budgets needed following on from Russia's invasion of Ukraine? Will Europe take the same approach to regulating AI as China and the US? What is it like being a woman in front-bench politics?
Rory and Alastair are joined by former Minister of Foreign Affairs in Spain and the Dean of the School of International Affairs at Sciences Po in Paris to discuss all this and more in today's episode of Leading.
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