A Life in International Law

Shaping Africa's Future: Social Justice and Labour Rights with Gilbert F. Houngbo

Welcome to a special edition of the Geneva Graduate Institute’s In Conversation With podcast series. In this series, we’ll be exploring a range of critical issues shaping Africa’s future, with more episodes to come as we continue to dive into this important topic. This series offers in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the continent today. Hosted by Eric Degila, Professor of Practice of International Relations, Interdisciplinary Programmes and Visiting Faculty in the Department of Political Science and International Relations at the Geneva Graduate Institute, this series examines Africa’s most pressing challenges, from social justice to economic development, and African contributions in the reshaping of a new world order, through conversations with leaders, policymakers, and experts. In this inaugural episode, the special guest is His Excellency Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO). With his extensive background in global governance, His Excellency Houngbo offers a unique perspective on labour rights, economic inequality, and social justice—critical topics not only for Africa but also for the global community. This episode addresses the global understanding of social justice within the African context, how labor rights and economic inequality intersect, the impact of the informal economy, and the urgent need to tackle youth unemployment. Additionally, the discussion covers the ILO’s collaboration with African governments and Africa’s role in reshaping global governance, following recent discussions at the UN Summit of the Future. Listen in for valuable insights into how Africa can navigate its path toward social justice and economic inclusion

The State of Global Democracy: Insights with Professor Rajmohan Gandhi

In this episode of In Conversation With, we are honored to host Professor Gandhi, a distinguished historian and scholar. Join us as we delve into the current state of democracy worldwide, examining whether it is truly in retreat as some argue, or if there are signs of resilience and hope. Professor Gandhi shares his unique perspectives on the rise of far-right movements in Europe, the surprising outcomes of recent elections in India, and the evolving role of India on the global stage. We also explore the enduring influence of Gandhian thought on modern democracy and the power of nonviolent action in today's world. Lastly, Professor Gandhi reflects on the role of scholars beyond academia, drawing from his extensive work in both historical research and public activism. Our host for this episode is Tripurdaman Singh, a researcher with the Institute's Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy.

Global Governance in a Context of Democratic Backsliding

2024 is a decisive year for democracies around the world, as at least 40% of the world's population will head to the polls in over 50 countries. However, while elections take place, democracy cannot be taken for granted. The Democracy Report 2024 [https://v-dem.net/], recently launched by Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) and covering 202 countries from 1789 to 2003, highlights that the level of democracy worldwide in 2023 has declined to 1985-levels. With a rising number of autocracies overshadowing democracies, consequences can be felt across all sectors from human rights to peace to economic development and climate policies. Therefore, what is the full extent of this regressive trend and how can it be countered? This discussion with Professor Staffan I. Lindberg, Director of the V-Dem Institute at the University of Gothenburg, will shed light on the key takeaways from the Democracy Report 2024 and discuss its implications for democracies worldwide.

A Life in International Law

In this episode of In Conversation With, we explore Professor Abi Saab's unique approach to the study and practice of international law and how he seamlessly merged his roles as both a scholar and a practitioner. He also imparts invaluable lessons he has passed on to his students during his distinguished academic career.

Not a target! How to protect humanitarian organisations in the digital space?

This episode features a conversation between Stuart Campo, Team Lead for Data Responsibility at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’s Centre for Humanitarian Data, Charlotte Lindsey, Chief Public Policy Officer at the CyberPeace Institute, Balthasar Staehelin, Special Envoy for Foresight and Techplomacy at the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Achim Wennmann, Director for Strategic Partnerships at the Geneva Graduate Institute. This discussion sheds light on the cyber threat landscape and its impact on the humanitarian sector, and focuses on the meaning of humanitarian protection in the digital space and the role International Geneva should play. This episode was produced in partnership with the Diplomatic Club of Geneva and the CyberPeace Institute.