In this episode of 'Between the East and the West', host Meenu Gupta engages with Barry Shaw, a senior associate for public diplomacy at the Israel Institute for Strategic Studies. The conversation delves into the complexities of public diplomacy, Israel's position in global discourse, and the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Barry shares his personal journey, experiences with antisemitism, and critiques of media narratives surrounding Israel. The discussion also explores the emotional weight of ongoing conflicts, the role of truth in public diplomacy, and Barry's vision for a peaceful future in Gaza through a protectorate model.

Keywords

Public diplomacy, Israel, Barry Shaw, peace, conflict resolution, media narratives, antisemitism, Gaza, historical context, dialogue

Takeaways

-Public diplomacy shifts the conversation from governments to individuals.

-Israel's narrative is often misunderstood in international discourse.

-Barry's perspective is shaped by historical Jewish suffering.

-The Oslo Accords were a significant turning point in the conflict.

-Yasser Arafat's legacy is controversial and complex.

-Media representation can distort the reality of conflicts.

-Antisemitism remains a pervasive issue in many societies.

-Education is crucial for fostering understanding and peace.

-A new model for Gaza could involve a protectorate system.

-Reality must guide public diplomacy efforts moving forward.

Sound bites

"We are fighting a death cult."

"Reality is a human value."

"Education, not indoctrination."

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta engages with Dr. Ketakandriyana Rafitoson, a political scientist and human rights defender from Madagascar, discussing the urgent need for climate justice and the role of governance in addressing corruption and social justice. They explore the dynamics between the Global South and North, the importance of grassroots movements, and the necessity of empowering affected communities to lead the dialogue on climate change. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of justice, dignity, and democracy while also addressing the risks faced by activists and the ethical dimensions of transparency. Ultimately, they highlight the power of resistance and collective action as a source of hope in the face of global challenges.

Keywords

Climate justice, corruption, governance, social justice, democracy, people power, global south, activism, transparency, human rights

Takeaways

-Climate justice is a pressing demand, not a choice.

-Corruption and misgovernance are prevalent in both Global South and North.

-Justice is multifaceted and requires a political and economic model centered on people.

-Democracy must allow for change and citizen expression through clean elections.

-People power is essential for challenging the status quo.

-The voices of affected communities must be amplified in global dialogues.

-Access to transparent information is crucial for community empowerment.

-Activists face significant risks but truth must be pursued courageously.

-Ethics and integrity are foundational to transparency and governance.

-Collective action and community engagement can reshape narratives and foster hope.

Sound bites

"Resistance is contagious."

"Justice doesn't come without costs."

"We can do better. We can do more."

Chapters

00:00 The Call for Climate Justice

04:41 From Local Activism to Global Advocacy

09:11 Corruption and Governance: A Global Perspective

14:25 Justice, Dignity, and Democracy

15:55 The Role of Governance in Social Justice

23:23 People Power: The Path to Change

27:57 Amplifying Voices of the Affected

35:44 Leading the Dialogue on Climate Justice

36:10 The Broken System and Climate Change

37:21 Empowering Affected Communities at COP

40:35 Access to Information and Rights

42:59 Recognizing Affected People as Agents

45:52 Navigating Risks in Advocacy

51:22 The Ethics of Transparency

55:14 Reclaiming Community and Collective Action

01:03:07 Hope Amidst Challenges

01:04:47 Future Aspirations and New Strategies

In this conversation, Meenu Gupta speaks with Kai Müller, the executive director of the International Campaign for Tibet, about his journey in advocating for Tibetan rights and the broader implications of solidarity and human rights. They discuss the evolving perspectives on China, the importance of understanding the Tibetan struggle, and the need for compassion and mindfulness in addressing global conflicts. Kai emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues and the responsibility of individuals and nations to act against oppression.

Keywords

Tibet, human rights, Kai Muller, International Campaign for Tibet, solidarity, China, Dalai Lama, advocacy, non-violence, compassion

Takeaways

-Even the smallest voice can disturb silence.

-Solidarity transcends geography and culture.

-We must reflect on our moral responsibilities.

-The view on China varies significantly across Europe.

-Tibet's struggle resonates due to its universal values.

-Human rights advocacy is an investment in hope.

-The Tibetan cause is supported by a global community.

-Compassion and kindness are essential human values.

-Education in mindfulness can change societal perspectives.

-The interconnectedness of global issues requires collective action.

Sound bites

"It's an investment into hope."

"Be kind to everyone."

"We all want to be happy."

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Small Voices

01:25 Kai Muller's Journey to Tibet Advocacy

04:32 Understanding Responsibility and Solidarity

10:51 The European Perspective on China and Tibet

18:37 The Origins of the International Campaign for Tibet

27:40 The Impact of Global Awareness on Tibet

38:30 The Universal Resonance of the Tibetan Struggle

47:24 Lessons from Tibetan Non-Violence

56:13 Mindfulness and Emotional Education in Conflict Resolution

59:32 Keeping the Human Face of Tibet in Policy Discussions