Altamar - Navigating the High Seas of Global Politics

In a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, alliances are changing fast. The US, Russia, and China are using their influence to rally support from previously neutral countries. Increasingly, nations -- especially developing nations -- are forced to pick a side. Is non-alignment possible in an increasingly polarized world? Who are the fence sitters, and how long can they hedge their bets? The Altamar hosts are joined by Matias Spektor, founder and professor at the School of International Relations at Fundacao Getulio Vargas. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the history of the Non-Aligned Movement.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Several years into Brexit, the country has not found its footing politically, economically, and in its very soul. The UK is working to rebuild relationships with Europe while dealing with renewed calls for independence from Scotland and Northern Ireland. The economy has fared better than expected, even though inflation has resulted in a deep cost-of-living crisis. Rising economic inequality and anti-immigration sentiments add to the uncertainty. The Altamar hosts are joined by Jon Sopel, former award-winning BBC journalist and television personality. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines unfavorable youth views on the monarchy and economy.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Moscow's invasion of Ukraine eroded the concept of neutrality as an effective policy in a polarized world. That's especially true for countries in close geographic proximity to Russia. Recently, Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, ending 100 years of neutrality. With 830 miles of border between Russia and Finland, NATO's newest addition changes the strategic balance in Europe. These major geopolitical shifts are likely to outlast the actual Russian invasion of Ukraine. What does that mean for the global world order? The Altamar hosts are joined by Mika Sinuhe Wallinheimo, Finnish Member of Parliament since 2011. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the increasingly conservative youth vote in Finland and Sweden.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

These days, Mexico is one contradiction after another. For example, President Andrés Manuel Lopez Obrador – or AMLO, as he is called – declared a rhetorical war on the private sector, yet the economy is holding on pretty well – at least for now. On the tourism front, it's one of the world's booming tourist destinations, despite travel advisories warning of drugs and crime at popular destinations. And on trade, the government is on a protectionist streak, yet the North American Free Trade Agreement was renegotiated. What's really going on in Mexico? The Altamar hosts are joined by Jorge Guajardo, former Mexican diplomat and global savant. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines issues at the border between the US and Mexico.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

COVID-19 turned many workplaces and schools into virtual or hybrid environments. Artificial intelligence has become part of daily life with new products such as Chat GPT. The UK just had a hugely successful 4-day workweek trial. With all of these new developments, what is the future of work? But not every industry or every country will transform in the same way. We discuss what skills are needed, where and how we work, who will be the winners and losers, and, of course, how much of the world will actually change at all. Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Dany Bahar, an associate professor at Brown University and nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines inequalities in the service industry.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Nigeria's presidential vote constituted one of the most closely watched and significant elections of the year. One of the world's top oil producers, Nigeria has suffered political and economic upheaval since its independence from the UK in 1960. In lead up to this election, young people were galvanized, and many hoped for change. But then, the election was defined by a small margin, low turnout, and rampant corruption. There were widespread accounts of voter irregularities, sporadic violence at polling stations, disorderly delays, and other logistical issues. Why doesn't the enthusiasm for change actually bring change to Nigeria?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ayisha Osori, a Nigerian lawyer, international development consultant, and politician. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the rise of Nigeria's galvanized youth.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Country rankings – whether it's about the economy, democracy, or environmental standards – are important for a country's reputation. The Economist produces its annual Economic Rankings, which look at several economic factors to assess economic stability. Since COVID, the process of “measuring” countries has been turned upside down. The 2022 Economist Economic Ranking is a good example of the confusion. In the ranking, Turkey, on the verge of dictatorship and with sky-high inflation, ranks well above the US. Colombia was higher than Denmark. And Greece was the #1 economically successful country in the world. What determines these rankings at a time of deep economic uncertainties?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Callum Williams, senior economics writer at The Economist. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines Greece's rise in several other rankings.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

OSINT is the gathering and analysis of publicly available data from unlimited and all-encompassing sources. This new tool is shaping the frontlines of war, terror, and other geopolitical threats. Open Source Intelligence is a tool, and like any tool, its purpose and morality depend on how it's used. Analysts use open sources to find illegal activity and identify threats. Bad actors use it to plan and target networks through hacking and cyberterrorism. Ukraine has used geo-location from Russian soldiers sending pictures back home to figure out the location of Russian troops.  Companies benefit from it in employee screening, research, and analytics. OSINT is changing the nature of geopolitical threats – and the defense against them. How will this powerful tool be used next?   Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Arthur Bradley, Senior OSINT Analyst at Tech Against Terrorism. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines how open sources have changed the way we all consume news.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Biodiversity is crucial for our planet's food security, climate resilience, supply chains, and our economy. Half of global GDP relies on nature. Governments are scrambling to create policies on conservation – is it too little too late?  Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including the variety of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. It has growing economic value as most industries rely on healthy ecosystems. Companies are paying closer attention to biodiversity and environmental, social, and governance initiatives have become mainstream. After decades of inaction, international agreements and regulations are slowly becoming building blocks to a more sustainable world. Will this slow building of a protective wall suffice? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Collin O'Mara, CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines strategies to unlock financing for conservation and nature-based solutions. 

News around the world centered on the violent protests in Brazil by those who rejected election results and sought to overthrow the government following the presidential transition (sound familiar?). The riots were – at best – a collapse of military preparedness or – at worst – included the help and connivance of the military and business elites. How stable is Brazil? Will another shoe drop?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ricardo Sennes, a political analyst and Brazil expert. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines how the Brazilian insurrection is yet more proof of the failure to regulate social media.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

2022 put energy in the headlines nearly every day. The list of interlocking energy issues is huge: Europe's spiraling prices and gas shortages, the war in Ukraine and the cutoff of Russia's oil and gas from world markets, canceling Nordstream 2, the rift between the US and the Saudis, COP 27 and the green energy transition to renewables are only a few of the issues that will spill over into this new year. – to name just a few.  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by David Goldwyn, a globally recognized thought leader, educator, and policy innovator in energy security. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines two challenges for the global green energy transition.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The big issues of our time transcend borders, countries, and geographies. This past year, power has become more diffuse.  Many leading western countries are stifled by crises and polarization.  New players are asserting themselves, taking a slice of the power pie. We identified eight macrotrends: shifting demographics, economic uncertainty, China's stagnation, the green energy transition, the uncertain future of tech, the rise of Africa, ‘everything-washing,' and women's rights. What's Tom Friedman's list? What do you think of our list? What did we miss?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Tom Friedman, internationally renowned author, reporter, and NYT columnist. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines our eighth trend – changes in women's rights around the world.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

As the first championship in the Middle East, the Qatar World Cup is both historic and controversial. Notwithstanding numerous bribing allegations, Qatar was selected as the first country in the Middle East to host the World Cup. And the political controversies have been on full display during the Cup – from LGBTQ rights to Iran's protests, the world was watching. Are these political debates the new normal?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, a sports analyst and tech entrepreneur who traveled to Doha for the World Cup. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines FIFA's controversial decision not to allow players to wear arm bands in support of LGBTQ+ rights on the field in Doha.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Israel's longest-serving Prime Minister – Benjamin ‘Bibi' Netanyahu – is back with a new strategy. This time, Bibi aligned himself with hard-right extremist parties to clinch a victory in a narrow election. His new allies are the ultra-nationalist Religious Zionist Party, who have expressed racist and homophobic propaganda. Will this new coalition add even more instability to this historically tumultuous region? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Gil Tamary, Chief International News Editor for Israel's leading news Channel, News 13. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines Israeli youth's move to the far right.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

There was a lot at stake in the American midterm elections. The loss of the House will greatly impact Biden's ability to accomplish his agenda in his last two years as president. But, Republicans did not win nearly as big as expected. The red wave was a fizzle. Democrats held on in important races and some unexpected upsets that led to doubts about Trump's capacity to endorse candidates. What are the elections' key takeaways?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Paul Maslin, a leading pollster and campaign strategist. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the Hispanic vote in the United States.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The Brazilian presidential election was a bickering, contentious and rancorous race between two opposing views of Brazil. Lula and Bolsonaro have dominated the country's political story for over a decade, one a veteran politician with allegations of corruption, both beloved and criticized.  The other an autocratic, right-wing populist with little regard for institutions. After a brutal and dirty campaign, leftist leader Lula emerged as the winner by a narrow margin. Will Bolsonaro respect the results? And what does this election mean for Brazil?   Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Lourival Sant'Anna, a Senior Fellow at the Brazilian Center of International Relations (CEBRI) and a journalist and International Affairs Analyst at CNN Brazil. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines fake news surrounding the campaigns.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Shifting realities following Russia's invasion have put Berlin in a tough position. Germany's long history of trade and business with Russia has placed it deep into the crossfires of this conflict. Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing an energy crisis and a difficult governing coalition at home while being criticized for not doing enough to help Ukraine. How is Germany's relatively new Chancellor handling these new dynamic threats? How will Russia's war change Germany? And what's next for Europe? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Liana Fix, a Fellow for Europe at Council of Foreign Relations. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines private sector ties between Germany and Russia.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Giorgia Meloni will be Italy's first woman leader and first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. The rise of the Brothers of Italy party is a case study in the continued prominence of culture war politics and the implosion of centrist parties. Just how radical will Meloni's government be?   The country progressing under the steady, technocratic and respected leadership of Mario Draghi has just done a shocking U-turn. Italy just elected a coalition under the leadership of the far-right Brothers of Italy party. Giorgia Meloni will be the next Prime Minister of the Italian Republic, its first woman leader, and the first rightwing Prime Minister since WWII. While campaigning, she positioned herself as more moderate, backed away from the party's neo-fascist roots. Meloni made anti-LGBTQ, anti-immigrant and anti-US comments, but has since moderated her tone to attract younger voters. She has also been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine and regularly criticizes Putin. However, other members of the incoming ruling coalition are vociferously pro-Putin. What will be the direction of the new Italian government? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Erik Jones, Director of the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies at the European University Institute. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines youth apathy and low voter turnout.    

Immigration seems unsolvable in the United States. The number of immigrants crossing the border has been spiking since at least 2013, haunting several presidents. The Trump administration was criticized for being inhumane. The Biden administration took a friendlier stance, but border traffic has increased exponentially. To make a political point and burnish their right-wing credentials, the Republican governors of Texas and Arizona (and now Florida) are sending tens of thousands of migrants to cities such as Washington, DC, and New York. Beyond the political stunt, border states are overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of incoming migrants. How does this issue get solved?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Andrew Selee, president of the Migration Policy Institute. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the political fight around immigration in the United States.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Western nations are struggling to cope with the onslaught of international and national crises from climate to a tide of authoritarianism. Developing countries have an even harder time as they face greater inequality with fewer resources to help their citizens. Government and international bodies have been unable to find lasting solutions to the economic, social, and political tensions. It's time for bold ideas and strategic action. Lord Mark Malloch Brown, former UN deputy secretary general and UK government minister, thinks that the world needs a new Marshall Plan. Is an old success story a template for renewed action?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Mark Malloch-Brown, president of the Open Society Foundations. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines public support for a large-scale global program.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The emergence of Monkeypox stress-tested the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic – and, again, the world is failing the challenge. Health institutions seem unprepared to deal with this new health scare, especially one that targets a stigmatized minority and involves complicated national security issues around vaccine stockpiles. As a result, information from health authorities around the world is uneven, and the responsibility has fallen largely on the global media to report on spread, vaccine availability, and access to care. As public health officials predict more pandemics in the future, is there a pathway to a more efficient international response?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nurith Aizenman, NPR's correspondent for Global Health and Development. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the stigmatization of the LGBTQ+ community during the initial HIV/AIDS panic.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

In 1947, free from British control, India and Pakistan split based on religious majorities – Hindu and Muslim. Soon thereafter, the two countries went to war over control of the Jammu and Kashmir provinces. Since then, the conflict escalated into confrontations on multiple fronts, with global implications. After all, both countries are nuclear powers. What is on the horizon with shifting global alliances (think: the US and China)? After Ukraine and Taiwan, is this region the world's third tripwire?     Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Shamila Chaudhary, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the South Asia Center at the Atlantic Council. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines young militants in the Kashmir region.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The term “free trade” has fallen out of favor in recent years. Trade disputes, economic uncertainty, and a growing income gap have stoked a global protectionist fire. Nationalist parties across the world have flourished on a trade-unfriendly agenda. Latin American leaders run campaigns on “renegotiating” trade agreements. The Trump Administration's loud anti-trade agenda, which led to the US leaving the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and an average 25% tariff on goods produced in China have proven difficult to reverse. What will the world look like with an increasingly protectionist agenda?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Chad Bown, Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the increase in child labor around the world for the first time in 20 years.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

By 2050, Africa's population will double; by 2100, one of three people on the globe will be African. While it's hard to generalize in a continent so diverse, Africa has seen a lot of progress over the past twenty years. Economic growth and manufacturing expanded. Infrastructure was built. Social services such as education and healthcare improved. Millions were pulled out of poverty in countries like Kenya and Tanzania in the East and Nigeria and Ivory Coast in the West. However, new threats such as COVID-19 and soaring food prices because of the Russia-Ukraine War could be a new tipping point for millions on the brink of extreme poverty. Millions of Africans predict that the future will be worse than the present, opening the door to instability and violence. What is the outlook for this gigantic and complex continent? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Dr. Jakkie Cilliers, a well-known Africa analyst and founder of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS). Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the youth brain drain across the continent.  ISS recently published integrated forecasts of Africa's development prospects and potential; found here- futures.issafrica.org.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

This is the first time that the left will rule in this democracy of 50 million historically conservative people, who have now expressed a deep desire for change. Gustavo Petro, a controversial former guerrilla, congressman, and Mayor, beat a rich and eccentric populist who ran from the right. Petro promises a radical transformation of Colombia's economic model. Can he deliver?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Miguel Silva, advisor, author, lawyer, and former Secretary-General of the Presidency in Colombia. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic examines the overwhelming youth support for Petro.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

This Summit of the Americas only served to underscore the fractures on the continent. Instead of resetting its relations with Latin American countries, the US seemed further apart than ever from the continent.  The hotly debated RSVP list left out some major players, such as Mexico's President Lopez Obrador. With countries facing such different internal and external challenges, what is next for the hemisphere?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Luis Alberto Moreno, former President of the Interamerican Development Bank and the author of recent book Vamos. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic reminds us that on social issues such as abortion rights and legalization of marijuana, Latin America is far more progressive than today's political debate in the United States.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Global food insecurity was already an issue. Years of heightened climate change cut global production by about 20%. Then, a war happened. Russia and Ukraine together normally account for almost a third of the global production of wheat and are the main providers of barley, sunflowers, and maize. Human Rights Watch has warned that many countries have seen disruptions in their imports of wheat, but also fertilizer, vegetable oils, and other key commodities. Let's add to that the rising cost of fuel to transport the food. According to the World Food Program, as a result of the expounding crises, global hunger may increase to up to 20%.  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined Jack Nicas, the Brazil bureau chief for The New York Times. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into Russia's invasion of Ukraine exacerbating food shortages.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

As Russia escalates its merciless attack on Ukraine, there is much talk of a newly reunited West taking a collective position and presenting a strong front against Putin. But is consensus real?  All over the world, we are seeing large percentages of voters embracing a populist candidate with autocratic tendencies. From Marine Le Pen in France, Duterte in the Philippines, and even the lingering political presence of Trump in the United States. Has democracy lost its appeal among voters? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Moisés Naim, a globally syndicated columnist and author of the recent book The Revenge of Power. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into youth civic participation around the world.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

In the first weeks of the war, we heard reports that brand after brand was closing their doors in Russia. Oil giants shut down their rigs, and tech companies unplugged their servers, sending workers home. Luxury good brands joined the exodus, sending powerful values-ridden press releases. The wave of global companies leaving Russia has not stopped. Taking a stance on political issues is an escalation of corporate behavior in the last decades, moving toward active corporate social responsibility. What does the exodus mean for the Russian economy? Has a new standard been set for corporate responsibility and a stakeholder economy? And, finally, what does this mean for the few international companies that have refused to leave? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by DJ Peterson,  Founder and President of Longview Advisors. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into personal sanctions of Russian goods.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The conservative Serbian Progressive Party easily won the elections at the presidential, parliamentary, and municipal levels. Vucic and his party have already ruled for over ten years. He stays in power with a comfortable mandate but with a difficult geopolitical agenda, stuck between Russia and the EU. Serbia has been an EU candidate since 2009 while also maintaining strong ties to Russia. The War in Ukraine puts Vucic in a difficult position. Serbia voted in favor of a UN resolution condemning the invasion of Ukraine but has declined imposing sanctions. Is Serbia moving West or East? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Majda Ruge, Senior Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into current “Serbia's moving to the Right” rhetoric.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Impressive economic growth and development made ASEAN an increasingly important geopolitical block. In the past few decades, China invested heavily in Southeast Asia through its Belt and Road Initiative and strengthened its ties with the ten countries. The result has been widespread economic growth, greater trade and investment flows, and growth in education and technology. Recently, the US, Japan, and Australia created a counterforce to China, building an agenda around climate change issues, new investments in infrastructure development, and on issues of security and regional diplomacy. How will ASEAN balance the conflicting global interests in their region?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Niharika Mandhana, the Wall Street Journal's Bureau Chief for Southeast Asia. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the youth-driven tech boom throughout Southeast Asia.      ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The economic sanctions are unprecedented in both size and scope. The strongest blow was dealt by freezing assets of Russia's Central Bank and the largest Russian sovereign wealth fund. Without reserves, the ruble has fallen to historic lows. To further isolate Russia, many countries have expelled Russian banks from SWIFT services and have targeted specific sanctions on top banks, key Russian oligarchs, as well as on President Putin and his inner circle. No sanctions regime – including the nearly half-century of sanctions on Cuba -- has been so completely unrelenting.  But is this new economic weapon a two-edged sword in a globalized world?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the impact of sanctions on the Russian people.     ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Egypt's revolt from Britain occurred decades before any other African or Asian country managed to throw off the yoke of British, French, Belgian, German colonial power. For years, this act of revolution propelled Egypt to a position of regional and global policy leadership – from its role as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, the pioneer of pan-Arabism, and, of course, the first country to make peace with Israel. Now, human rights abuses and restrictions of freedoms have placed the most populous Arab country in a bad light with its Western allies.    Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Karim Haggag, a career Egyptian diplomat with over 25 years of service. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into human rights violations and a lack of freedom within civil society in Egypt.  ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Now, countries with poor human rights records are using wealth to clean reputations and advance personal gain. Sportswashing - coined by Amnesty International in 2018- describes how countries clean their reputation by becoming the epicenter of global athletic events. Sportwashing is the newest example of the intertwining of sports and politics. And 2022 is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged sporting years in recent memory. Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, Altamar's sports correspondent, and a sports and technology entrepreneur. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the West's failure to deal with the rise of ‘sportswashing.'  ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Italian Prime Minister Draghi, former European Central Bank head, managed to keep the country's economy growing, its vaccine calendar in check, and his popularity strong both at home and abroad. Italy has also managed 248 billion Euros in recovery granted by the ECB. Even though The Economist's prize of “Country of the Year” prize was not very competitive this year, Italy's 2021 track record is surprisingly good. Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Arturo Zampaglione, New York correspondent for La Republicca of nearly 20 years. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the lagging nature of women's representation in Italian politics.    ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Extreme right-wing ideology is spreading. As France prepares for presidential elections in April, two candidates on the far-right are vying to replace current centrist President Emmanuel Macron. The right-wing darling Marine Le Pen and the even more extreme Eric Zemmour drive a daily political agenda of xenophobia, anti-globalization, anti-elites, and anti-immigration. This isn't just a French phenomenon. Right-wing parties are becoming extremist in much of the West-- from Scandinavia to Spain and across the ocean to America.    Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Alain Frachon, senior columnist and former Foreign Editor of Le Monde. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into where today's youth is headed on the political spectrum as anti-capitalist sentiment increases.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

The year ahead is a difficult one for Latin America as the region tries to reverse its democratic and economic backsliding. A new generation of leaders is on its way to power.   2022 has a critical electoral calendar in Latin America, as elections loom ahead in Brazil, Colombia, and Costa Rica. In Chile's recent presidential elections, the country voted for a 35-year old former student protestor, Gabriel Boric, who promises transparency and new economic hope. In recent years, the region is again in a deep decline after considerable progress in the early 2000s; and the pandemic has only exacerbated social rifts and inequality. Can younger leaders bring solutions?   Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Juan Gabriel Valdés, Chile's former Foreign Minister and a true expert on his country and Latin America as a whole. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the growing strength of progressive youth in Latin American politics.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

This year has been an absolute whirlwind of the Good, the Bad, and the Scary. Our end-of-year episode's positive highlights include the scientific collaboration that led to vaccines for both COVID and malaria, a growing consensus on climate change, an emphasis on holding China accountable, and the end of the Trump era. Our drawbacks are the ever-growing concerns of COVID as it continues to run rampant around the world, geopolitical fears in Taiwan, Ukraine, and Iran that threaten future peace, and the world economy's state of instability.  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ryan Heath, author of Global Insider, POLITICO's excellent global newsletter and podcast, and a truly global expert who looks into his crystal ball to predict the trends of 2022. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic tackles the ‘scary' of 2021, which touches on social media's ever more polarizing effects on society.

The London Interbank Overnight Rate (LIBOR) – one of the world's longest-lasting financial benchmarks – disappears this month. It's just one of the many signs of a new uncertainty in economics. Rising inflation, high energy bills, real estate crises in China, lockdowns, supply chain breakdowns, and labor shortages are creating an unusual economic storm. How will all of this affect the world economy and geopolitics in the new year? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by James Politi, Washington Bureau Chief of the Financial Times, to help us sort out the confusing world economy. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into the fact that millennials are seeing inflation for the first time in their lives.

It's been 30 years since the Soviet Union fell. With the dismantling of communism, the US became the sole superpower. Market economies and liberal democracies became the new norm. But, Russia has once again reverted to old habits. Russia is an authoritarian superpower and one of the West's principal antagonists. What is in Russia's imminent future? What will Russia look like in ten years? Will Putin ever leave?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Julia Ioffe, former Moscow correspondent for The New Yorker and Foreign Policy and an outspoken voice on Russia, to help us understand where Russia goes in the next decade. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic delves into Russia's youth and the Kremlin's repression of young “new Communists.”

National security is more complex than ever before. The dangerous rivalry between the US and China continues to grow. The Middle East's balance of power is shifting. And threats to democracy are deepening around the world. Not to mention, the heightened cybersecurity risks due to heightened dangers of hacks and data thefts from the COVID-era's teleworking and virtual gatherings.  Where do we begin?  In a special edition of Altamar with Johns Hopkins University's Hopkins at Home, hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by John McLaughlin, former Deputy Director and Acting Director of the CIA and world expert on security to dissect the growing security challenges the US faces over the next decade. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic highlights the new frontier of security threats: cyberthreats in space.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

After 18 months of COVID and a turbulent geopolitical map, this crucial global convening of leaders will set the stage for the environmental future of planet Earth. COP is coordinated by the UN and produced the Paris Accord five years ago. Now, many of the world's top leaders are back to discuss what happens next. COP 26 comes at a time of huge energy confusion. Energy prices are off the charts, and there simply is not enough clean energy to meet the world's needs. What can we expect from this meeting? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Michael Jenkins, President and CEO of Forest Trends and former Associate Director for the Global Security and Sustainability Program of the MacArthur Foundation. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses the impact and role of youth in a time where climate policy is crucial.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

First the Panama Papers in 2016, then the Paradise Papers in 2017, and now the Pandora Papers. The massive leaks expose financial maneuverings and corruption at the world's highest levels. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists worked with more than 140 media organizations on its biggest-ever global investigation. Data reveals hidden wealth, tax avoidance, and money laundering by the world's most rich and powerful. But not all of these practices are illegal. What constitutes the legality and ethics behind these hidden financial activities?  The Pandora Papers highlight the blurred lines between legal and illegal financial practices. Clearly, those most empowered to end financial “grey areas” are also those most heavily invested in prolonging secret accounts for their own benefit. The dozens of politicians exposed are already experiencing political pain from voters, giving way to more populist extremes. What does that mean for democracy itself? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Mark Pieth, founding president of the Basel Institute on Governance and a leading voice on anti-corruption practices. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses technological advances to protect whistleblowers who expose these shady practices.

Everyone's looking at Germany. Not because its general elections are typically an exciting affair, but because Chancellor Angela Merkel is stepping down after more than a decade and a half at the helm of Europe's most powerful nation. Germany's youth wanted a female, young, climate activist to take her place, but the leader of a likely coalition will be Social Democrat Olaf Scholz. Beyond Germany, this election is realigning EU politics. There are questions about whether France's Macron will step into the Merkel vacuum, but he is up for re-election and isn't known for consensus-building strengths. Beyond Macron, however, it is hard to think of an alternative. Will the values and unity of the EU remain strong?   Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Ramiro Villapadierna, former Executive Director at Instituto Cervantes and longtime Central European journalist based in Berlin. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses the disappointment of young German voters who desperately wanted the Green Party in power.   ----- Produced by Simpler Media

Social activism and conscious consumerism are on everyone's mind. Should businesses be taking stances on the social justice debate of the day?   Given the repeated failures of government to resolve long-festering issues such as widening inequality, injustice, and racism, corporations have now become more engaged in pushing social causes.  Is this simply good marketing?  At a time when Millennials and Gen-Zers demand more social “woke-ness,” companies are quickly jumping on the opportunity to demonstrate their activism as a way to stand out in the market. Some of it appears legitimate – think of Patagonia, Ben and Jerry, and Nike's recent support of Colin Kaepernick. Other corporate actions elicit a more cynical response Think of British oil giant BP renaming itself to become “Beyond Petroleum” or Phillip Morris railing against smoking. So, we delved deeper. How far should activism really go? How do we differentiate between genuine mission orientation vs. corporate propaganda to make more profits for shareholders? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Vivek Ramaswamy, author of Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam, who argues the case that politics has no place in business. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic takes us on a journey: the founding of Immigrant Food, Washington, DC's first cause-casual restaurant with an embedded social justice mission.

Since the early 2000s, most US and European companies have cut significant costs by moving manufacturing operations to China and Southeast Asia. Because of COVID disrupted supply chains, growing tensions and trade disputes between China and Western nations, and backlash over China's dismal human rights records, companies are seeking diversity. As CEOs are rethinking their supply chain strategies and looking to new areas, the Caribbean and Central American regions are positioning themselves as attractive, close-to-the-US global manufacturers. Will this new practice be a fad or a long-term solution? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Roberto Álvarez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, to explain this new concept of “nearshoring.” Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses how governments must do more to prepare their young population for nearshoring.

Calls for freedom and change ring in Cuba as the country faced the most widespread, violent protests since 1959. What spurred these demonstrations and what lies in store for the island's future?   Exhausted by food shortages, lack of opportunity, and a declining economy, protests exploded across the island as people – from novelists and singers to cooks and nurses – took to the streets to call for freedom from the authoritarian regime. The world was taken by surprise by the scope and size of the Cuban people's defiance. Despite years of oppression and a complete lack of political freedom, Cubans don't seem to merit more than a shrug from many Western governments. Why? The U.S.' decades-long embargo hasn't succeeded in isolating Cuba, but rather the U.S.  Other countries – from Canada to Brazil, Spain, and China – have invested heavily for years on the island. The embargo has become the Havana authoritarian government's favorite political crutch.    Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by José Miguel Vivanco, Director of the Human Rights Watch's Americas division and a clear voice in defense of human rights, to dig into the complexities of Cuba. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses how social media allowed young Cubans to use the internet as a tool for protest.

America's “longest war” has again entered the spotlight as the Biden Administration announced a complete withdrawal of U.S. military forces. Nicknamed ‘the graveyard of empires,' Afghanistan has defeated many global powers – the British, the Soviets, and now the Americans. The U.S. leaves after having spent close to $800 billion and lost countless lives. The Taliban's growing presence is worrisome, not least because of its grip on civilian life in the country.  Now, with the lack of military and security forces, who will fill the power vacuum? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Edward Girardet, an expert on Afghanistan and editor of Crosslines Global Report and President of the International Centre for Humanitarian Reporting, to sort out what lies in store for the future of Afghanistan. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses how the U.S. withdrawal will affect human rights, particularly the lives of Afghani women and girls.

The worldwide vaccination effort has deepened the fault lines between rich and poor countries. While more developed countries are welcoming a long-anticipated reopening, developing countries continue to live a hellish public health crisis. The global initiative, COVAX, spearheaded by the WHO, GAVI (the Vaccine Alliance), CEPI, and UNICEF, aims to provide participating countries with equal access to vaccines. But it's not that simple. The global effort is riddled with obstacles from vaccine hesitancy, trade restrictions, lockdowns, political conflict, and lack of cooperation from richer countries. How can this international partnership succeed? In a special edition of Altamar with Johns Hopkins University's Hopkins at Home, hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Bill Moss, Executive Director of the International Vaccine Access Center, to delve into the international efforts of vaccine distribution amid a global pandemic. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses the educational, social, and psychological adversity facing young people because of constant school closures all around the developing world.

With the end of Copa America and the Eurocup, and the Olympics starting soon, sports are on everyone's mind this Summer. Most sports now share various commonalities: a huge influx of money from sponsors, venture capital and huge corporations, injured athletes, corruption, and political ambition. Sports have become an arena for countries, companies, investors, fans, broadcasters, and athletes to jostle in a global free-for-all to prove who's on top. Is it all too much? Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Nick Sprague, co-owner of sports biotech and data science leader Orreco, to sort out the intricacies of the sports industry. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses women in sports, in both the developing world and wealthy countries, as well as the challenges, changes, and future opportunities they face.

Europe is in flux – on the one hand, the French and German elections are on the horizon, and their outcomes seem ever more uncertain, Eastern European EU governments are becoming increasingly undemocratic, and Britain is gone forever.  On the other hand, vaccinations are finally getting traction; the EU is injecting robust funds to spur economic recovery, and Mario Draghi, Italy's Prime Minister, is taking an increasingly active role on the continent.  What is the outlook for post-Brexit continental Europe?  Recent summits such as the G-7 in Britain and the Geneva summit were great photo-ops, but they failed to address some big challenges: competition with China, and relations with Russia, for instance. We talk about a ‘united Europe,' but when it comes to critical issues, how united are the Europeans, really?  Altamar hosts Peter Schechter and Muni Jensen are joined by Erik Jones, Director of European and Eurasian Studies at the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies at The Johns Hopkins University, to discuss the impending changes in Europe this year with two major elections on the horizon. Altamar's ‘Téa's Take' by Téa Ivanovic discusses the “lost generation” of Europe that has faced economic crises, educational disruption, and more.