Comfort Ero

Comfort Ero, President and CEO of the International Crisis Group, shares her extensive experience in international crisis response. She discusses the alarming 17% drop in foreign aid due to recent USAID cuts, leaving vulnerable regions competing for attention and resources. Ero highlights the dire consequences of diminishing support on humanitarian efforts, particularly in conflict zones like Sudan and Gaza. Despite these challenges, she emphasizes the necessity of resilience and creativity, advocating for innovative solutions to address escalating global crises.

Comfort Ero, President and CEO of Crisis Group, recently visited Mali, sharing insights on the diverging political paths of Sahelian countries. Jean-Hervé Jezequel, the Sahel director, highlights the military regimes' sovereignty claims and the growing public frustration linked to stagnating economic and security conditions. They delve into the jihadist coalition JNIM, discussing its increased attacks and the challenges of potential peace talks as military leaders prioritize operations. A complex analysis of foreign relations within the shifting dynamics of the region rounds out the conversation.

Comfort Ero, Crisis Group's president, and CEO, and Stephen Pomper, Chief of Policy, discuss Crisis Group's '10 Conflicts to Watch in 2024'. They explore conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, Myanmar, Ethiopia, the Sahel, Haiti, Armenia-Azerbaijan, the Middle East, and the U.S.-China rivalry. They also touch on trends in conflict, U.S. elections, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the changing dynamics of U.S. influence, prospects for a peace deal in Ukraine, and the role of the U.S. in peace and diplomacy.

The podcast discusses the surge in violent conflicts worldwide, including conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Myanmar, Sudan, and Ethiopia. It explores the breakdown of international trust and norms, the challenges of conflict resolution, and the role of major geopolitical tensions. The episodes also touch on the complexities of outside actors in conflict mediation and the importance of cohesive strategies for resolution.

Dr Comfort Ero, CEO of the Crisis Group, discusses the role of the international community in conflict resolution and the relevance of the United Nations. They explore topics such as the failures of peacemaking efforts, the challenges of the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the need for UN reform.