Democratic Security Institute

07/09/2026

Armenia is undergoing a significant period of political and geopolitical change, with important implications for the wider South Caucasus. In this episode of The Geopolitical Review, I'm joined by Professor Rick Fawn to examine Armenia’s recent elections, the country’s evolving foreign policy and its changing relationship with Russia. We also explore the wider regional balance of power, emerging infrastructure projects and the strategic interests shaping the South Caucasus. The discussion considers what Armenia’s shifting geopolitical position means for relations with its neighbours, the prospects for regional peace and cooperation, and the potential future of the South Caucasus as Russia’s influence evolves. Topics discussed include: • Armenia’s recent elections and domestic political developments • Armenia’s changing relationship with Russia • Shifts in Armenian foreign policy • Geopolitical competition in the South Caucasus • Regional infrastructure and connectivity projects • The prospects for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan • The future of regional cooperation and stability Join us for an in-depth discussion on Armenia, Russia and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus. Rick Fawn and Jason Bruder's new book: The Contested Black Sea Region https://www.rienner.com/title/The_Con…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mzM01I4M50

Armenia is undergoing a significant period of political and geopoli...

26/08/2026

Anna Harus: On Ukraine, Wartime Leadership and Rebuilding through Humanitarian Work This conversation follows Anna Harus, a Ukrainian economist turned humanitarian leader who grew a small Kharkiv NGO from three volunteers into a UN-accredited organization reaching more than 200,000 war-affected people across eight regions, reveals what it takes to deliver aid under air attacks and rolling blackouts, and why efficiency became a matter of survival. From preparing the UN accreditation paperwork by flashlight during Russia's strikes on the power grid to building the digital systems that now are shared with other NGOs to help them work faster, Anna exposes the realities of displacement and trauma that rarely make the news. She also discusses her NGO restoring schools and shelters where around 160,000 children and teachers study and work, self-defense and empowerment training for more than 11,000 women and girls, what recovery will demand of her generation, and how people abroad can genuinely support Ukraine - starting with staying curious. Disclaimer: All beneficiary stories and testimonies featured in this video were shared with the concerned individuals' informed consent for their stories to be used publicly in external communications and publications. Links: / ngo.ei / / enlighteninginitiative / 79546893 / anna-harus / anna.harus / margo_xav

*Anna Harus: On Ukraine, Wartime Leadership and Rebuilding through ...

05/08/2026

New episode of The Geopolitical Review podcast

- Georgia's Strategic Dilemma: Navigating Regional Stability and Domestic Politics This episode features Medea Turashvili, a seasoned analyst and peace practitioner specializing in conflict, human rights, and democracy building in the South Caucasus. We delve into Georgia’s complex geopolitical landscape, the impacts of internal political shifts, and the country's prospects for regional influence. We discuss:
- Medea shares her background, growing up amid chaos after the Soviet Union’s collapse and her path toward peacebuilding.
- The strategic position of Georgia at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Russia, amid growing regional turbulence.
- Georgia’s balancing act between EU/NATO aspirations and Russian influence, especially following the Ukraine conflict.
- Internal political developments, including the 2024 elections, the Georgian Dream Party’s consolidation of power, and domestic trust issues.
- The weaponization of economic dependence by Russia, including historical examples like gas supply and trade embargoes targeting Georgia.
The effects of political polarization and authoritarian tendencies on Georgia’s international credibility.
- The implications of EU integration for conflict resolution in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and the potential for peace and stability.
How regional cooperation with Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey can elevate Georgia as a hub for diplomacy and trade.
The importance of domestic democratic resilience to restore Georgia’s international standing and regional role.

The podcast is hosted by Shipp and supported by DSI

*Georgia's Strategic Dilemma: Navigating Regional Stability and Dom...

29/07/2026

Explore the complex geopolitical landscape of Central Asia through insights from Dr. Filippo Costa-Brunelli, an expert in international relations and regional geopolitics. This episode covers regional transformations, great power influences, and Italy’s diplomatic engagement in the region. We discuss:
- The impact of Russia’s military conflict in Ukraine on Central Asia’s strategic autonomy and its influence dynamics with Russia, China, and other actors.
- How China’s approach, emphasizing sovereignty and mutual respect, has succeeded in shaping economic ties, despite underlying dependencies and local resistance.
- The role of Azerbaijan and the Caucasus in enhancing connectivity, energy, and cultural links with Central Asia.
- Common misconceptions of Central Asia: the “Distance” myth and the outdated “New Great Game” narrative.
- The development and nuances of Italy’s diplomatic 5 plus 1 platform—focusing on soft power, education, and people-to-people ties.
- The resilience of authoritarian regimes in Central Asia, regional practices, and prospects (or lack thereof) for democratic reforms.
- Recommended resources for further reading on Central Asian geopolitics, culture, history, and energy politics.

*THE EVOLVING DYNAMICS OF CENTRAL ASIA: POWER, INFLUENCE, AND REGIO...

22/07/2026

"Central Asia: From Periphery to Power: In our new podcast, we talk to Dr. Filippo Costa-Buranelli (University of St Andrews) about why Central Asia is moving from the geopolitical margins to the centre of international affairs. We discuss Russia’s changing influence following the invasion of Ukraine, China’s growing economic presence through the Belt and Road Initiative, and how the region’s states are exercising greater strategic autonomy. " The podcast is hosted by Grace Shipp and supported by DSI

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For decades, Central Asia has been overlooked in discussions of glo...

17/07/2026

Check out new podcast on “Human Rights, Accountability and Justice” with Sheila Paylan

Justice and Accountability in a World Teetering on the Edge of Crisis: In our new podcast, we talk to DSI fellow Sheila Paylan, a renowned international human rights lawyer with over 20 years of experience working across conflict zones, about how legal mechanisms, diplomatic efforts, and grassroots advocacy intersect to protect human rights and why their effectiveness remains so elusive. Whether you’re an advocate, policymaker, or simply curious about the fight for human rights amidst global turmoil, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas to contribute to positive change.

Unlock the strategies behind justice and accountability in a world teetering on the edge of crisis. Why do so many atrocities go unpunished, and what can be done to change that? If you’re passionate about human rights, international law, or simply want to understand why justice often feels out of ...

14/07/2026

Check out a new piece by Karadag, EDSN fellow on “Türkiye’s South Caucasus Policy: From Cautious Engagement to Strategic Assertiveness”

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Yelda Karadağ Şir The South Caucasus has gradually evolved from a peripheral neighborhood into a strategic geopolitical gateway for Türkiye, since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Türkiye was among the first states to recognize the independence of the three South Caucasus countries—Azerbai...

16/06/2026

Global Energy Dynamic – A discussion with Rauf Mammadov

This interview explores the complexities of energy interdependence, geopolitical choke points, and the evolving landscape of global energy security amid conflicts like the US-Iran tensions and Russia-Ukraine war. Rauf Mammadov shares insights on how these dynamics influence global markets, regional stability, and future energy strategies.

Keywords: energy interdependence, geopolitical choke points, global energy security, US-Iran conflict, Russia-Ukraine war, energy resilience, Middle Corridor, Azerbaijan, Gulf States, China energy reserves

This interview explores the complexities of energy interdependence, geopolitical choke points, and the evolving landscape of global energy security amid conflicts like the US-Iran tensions and Russia-Ukraine war. Rauf Mammadov shares insights on how these dynamics influence global markets, regional....

11/06/2026

Welcome to the first episode of the Democratic Security Institute's new interview series, where we speak with leading scholars, academics, policymakers, and practitioners to explore the most pressing issues in international affairs, security, and global governance.
In this inaugural episode, we are joined by Dr. Anthony Lang Jnr for a wide-ranging discussion on the past, present, and future of the United Nations. Together, we explore the UN's evolution as a cornerstone of the international system, its role in conflict management and peacebuilding, and the challenges it faces in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
The conversation examines the relationship between the United States and the UN, the organisation's role in shaping global values and international law, and the tensions between legitimacy, effectiveness, and state sovereignty. Dr. Lang also reflects on the challenges of slow global governance, the difficulties of enforcing international law, and ongoing debates surrounding reform of the UN Security Council.
This interview marks the beginning of a new Democratic Security Institute project dedicated to bringing expert perspectives from academia and policy into public conversation.

A discussion with Dr. Anthony Lang

19/05/2026

Check out DSI’s new piece on “Connectivity as Geopolitics in the South Caucasus”
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