Mark Leonard's World in 30 Minutes

Yoram Hazony, an influential Israeli political scientist and president of the Herzl Institute, dives into the rise of national conservatism as a response to the crisis facing liberalism. He discusses how contemporary nationalism can reshape democratic discourse and the implications of generational shifts in political ideologies. Hazony argues for the reevaluation of nationalism's role in modern politics, challenging its negative connotations while emphasizing its significance in advocating for independent nations. Essential reads on the subject are also highlighted.

Ivan Krastev, a leading political scientist and founding board member of ECFR, dives into the rise of the New Right and its threat to liberalism. He highlights how the successes of right-wing parties challenge traditional political narratives, focusing on identity over economic issues. The discussion touches on the crisis within liberalism and the transformative effects of nationalism in Europe and the U.S. As political parties grapple with these changes, Krastev emphasizes the importance of understanding these shifts to navigate the evolving landscape.

Vessela Tcherneva, deputy director of ECFR, and Maria Simeonova, head of ECFR’s Sofia office, delve into Bulgaria's political turmoil. They discuss the impact of powerful oligarchs on democracy and state institutions, noting the alarming frequency of elections and public protests. The conversation highlights the country's aspirations for Eurozone membership amidst judicial challenges and corruption concerns. They also tackle the EU's responsibility in combating democratic backsliding, emphasizing the broader implications for European stability and credibility.

Join Jeremy Shapiro, ECFR's research director, and Tom Wright, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, as they dissect America's evolving foreign policy. Recorded live from the Aspen Security Forum, they delve into the tense atmosphere shaped by a Department of Defense ban. The duo questions the implications of a waning U.S. commitment to Ukraine, the challenges of geopolitical competition with China, and the need for Europe to adapt to a fragmented global order. They also explore the intersection of AI and foreign policy in today's tech-driven landscape.

Hugh Lovatt, an ECFR policy fellow specializing in Middle Eastern politics, and Tahani Mustafa, a visiting fellow focused on governance and security in the West Bank, dive deep into the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. They discuss Israel's military actions, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the chaotic aid distribution. Tensions are rising, particularly with the role of Israeli settlers in the West Bank. They also evaluate the Palestinian Authority’s challenges and the crucial role that Europe plays in mediating peace efforts and preventing further loss of life.

Tobias Gehrke, an ECFR senior policy fellow specializing in trade policy and EU-US relations, joins to discuss the fallout from a sudden threat of tariffs from the U.S. He examines the EU's potential €93 billion retaliation package and the pressing need for political engagement to navigate these tensions. The conversation delves into how the Ukraine crisis complicates trade discussions and highlights the importance of Europe's Anti-Coercion Instrument in responding to external pressures. Ultimately, can Europe leverage its economic power to prevent a trade war?

Jana Kobzova, an ECFR senior policy fellow and former foreign policy advisor, and Camille Grand, an ECFR distinguished policy fellow and NATO alum, dive deep into Europe’s long-term strategy for Ukraine. They discuss the evolving relationship between Ukrainian and European security, advocating for stronger defense ties. The duo assesses the shifting role of the U.S. in supporting Ukraine and the need for European nations to reassess their military strategies. Their insights provide a compelling glimpse into the future security landscape in Europe.

Henry Farrell, ECFR council member and professor at Johns Hopkins University, explores the concept of 'weaponized interdependence' in his discussion. He explains how America leverages its global economic power for strategic advantage, reshaping international relations. The conversation highlights the challenges posed by the rise of China and BRICS, and examines the implications of digital currencies on global finance. Farrell also delves into how AI and social media influence political discourse, impacting perceptions of authority and power dynamics.

Ivan Krastev, a prominent political scientist and expert on European strategy, joins Carl Bildt, former Swedish Prime Minister and a seasoned commentator on geopolitics, to discuss how Trump is reshaping European politics. They delve into the fears surrounding security and the rise of Euroscepticism influenced by American politics. The conversation touches on the need for reform in European defense strategies amid global uncertainties, alongside the challenges posed by demographic changes and immigration, highlighting their effects on societal attitudes across Europe.

This week, Mark Leonard is joined by Camille Grand, former NATO assistant secretary general and ECFR distinguished policy fellow, for a 15-minute Emergency Room episode dissecting the high-stakes NATO summit in The Hague. Against a turbulent geopolitical backdrop, world leaders navigated President Donald Trump’s push for a 5% GDP defence-spending target, their ongoing support for Ukraine, and Russia’s long-term threat. Mark and Camille explore the summit’s carefully choreographed outcomes, including a reaffirmed Article 5 commitment and no formal withdrawal of US troops—despite looming reviews of America’s presence in Europe. Can NATO balance Trump’s demands with European autonomy? Or is this merely a fragile truce among a shifting alliance?This episode was recorded on June 25th, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.