Global Governance Podcast

Global Governance Forum
  • 5.0 (5)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Global Governance Podcast with Augusto Lopez-Claros, where we explore the future of governance. Each episode will look at a different global issue and how governance plays a key role in its solution. From climate change to gender equality, from corruption to peace and security, we invite experts to explore a thought-provoking game of “what if?” and “why not?”, positing a world in much closer international cooperation. To learn more visit GlobalGovernanceForum.org.

  1. 5D AGO

    Peter J. Hoffman on Rethinking the UN at a Constitutional Moment

    In this wide-ranging discussion, Professor Peter J. Hoffman argues that the United Nations’ current paralysis reflects a deeper crisis of legitimacy rather than a temporary political impasse. He examines why incremental reform is no longer sufficient, probing core questions of Security Council authority, democratic representation beyond states, the governance of planetary risk, and the constitutional status of human rights. Drawing on historical experience with institutional change, Hoffman situates the Second UN Charter between realism and ambition, contending that transformative reform often appears unrealistic until conditions make its necessity undeniable. As he concludes, what is dismissed today as idealism may, with the passage of time, come to be seen as the most realistic response to a system no longer fit for purpose. Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    41 min

  2. 12/10/2025 · BONUS

    Reimagining Global Governance: Augusto Lopez-Claros on the Movement for a Second UN Charter

    In this excerpt from CBC Ideas, Augusto López-Claros reflects on a rapidly changing world and the civic movements demanding that the UN evolve with it. From the failures of the current system to the rising pressure from civil society, he outlines why the UN Charter’s original architects left behind a little-known pathway — Article 109 — designed to ensure periodic review. Nearly 80 years later, that review has never happened. This episode explores why now may be the moment to invoke it, and how a global coalition is working to modernize multilateralism for the 21st century. Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    10 min

  3. 07/20/2025

    Martin Kreutner on the Perils of Strongman Diplomacy

    Martin Kreutner, Dean Emeritus of the International Anti-Corruption Academy and a distinguished former member of the Austrian Federal Appeals Tribunal traces the historical roots of our present global order and compellingly argues that the shift to various forms of strongman diplomacy currently under way, in the spirit of the 1945 Yalta conference that established the key political parameters of the United Nations, is likely to be costly for human well-being. Much better to build a more inclusive system, that gives voice to people everywhere and recognizes that we live in a different world in which economic and political power is more diffuse and confronting myriad global challenges which require stronger international cooperation.   Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    49 min

  4. 06/04/2025

    Guy Sinclair on why the UN needs to adapt to 21st century realities

    Professor Guy Sinclair explains how the UN has, over time, diverged from its original Charter, adapting in response to global shifts—sometimes enhancing its relevance, but at other times straining its legitimacy. Sinclair outlines four key factors driving institutional change: external shocks, internal dynamics, legal mechanisms, and shared narratives. As new technologies like AI and autonomous weapons reshape global threats, he anticipates further evolution in how international organizations operate. We also discuss the strain on the UN’s development agenda—especially the Sustainable Development Goals—as geopolitical shocks and donor fatigue undercut progress. Sinclair addresses concerns about the UN’s diminished authority in peace and security, citing the growing irrelevance of Security Council authorization. He warns that the increasing role of private and state donors may skew UN priorities, challenging its legitimacy. Finally, we explore whether collective security remains a viable goal and whether reform should be gradual or transformative. Through it all, Sinclair urges a critical but hopeful approach, recognizing the UN’s enduring potential amid deep systemic challenges. Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    40 min

  5. 05/15/2025

    Cecelia Lynch on the Links between Inclusion, Peace and Prosperity

    Cecelia Lynch, a Professor of Political Science at the University of California, is a leading thinker on the importance of inclusion as a catalyst for promoting sustainable, peaceful, social transformations. The idea is that inclusion should not just be limited to nation states but should from the outset involve those directly impacted by conflicts, so that they play a leading role in the resolution process. Radical inclusion broadens participation to include marginalized groups like local communities, women, and non-state actors. It also involves local communities and their unique forms of knowledge in the stewardship of environmental protection, peace building initiatives and conflict resolution, and the design of strategies aimed at improving the livelihoods of marginalized groups around the world. A peace and prosperous world are an impossible achievement if it does not include the voices of the voiceless.  Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    38 min

  6. 04/08/2025

    Sundeep Waslekar on Our Civilizational Crises

    Sundeep Waslekar eloquently explains why current nationalisms and our obsession with the primacy of the nation state are not able to deliver practical solutions to the problems that threaten our future as a human family. In addition to reforms to our current UN-based global governance architecture we also need a new philosophical and ethical framework that is consistent with the idea that we are one human family, inhabiting one planet and that our survival as a human species is inextricably linked to the recognition of our common humanity. Without this anchoring based on enlightened human values, we risk being overwhelmed by multiple crises and the resulting human suffering. We must imagine a better future and take the concrete steps to get there. Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    43 min

  7. 03/11/2025

    Sonia Sanchez Diaz on the Crisis in the Middle East

    Professor Sonia Sanchez Diaz is a highly regarded analyst of the crisis in the Middle East, widely respected for her objectivity, impartiality and incisive analysis, which builds on a deep understanding of the region´s troubled history, its institutions, and peoples. In this podcast she examines developments over the past couple of years and what it means for regional stability and security. Her perceptive analysis casts light on many of the underlying factors underpinning the conflict and she makes a strong case that empowering its women will be an important part of the solution. Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    40 min

  8. 02/23/2025

    Ambassador Gerardo Bugallo on our Post-Cold War World

    Gerardo Bugallo was Spain's Ambassador in Ukraine during the critical years 2013-17, a crucial period that spanned from the Euromaidan to the first years after the annexation of Crimea. In this podcast interview he shares fascinating insights on the end of the Cold War, the origins of the current conflict, the possibilities of a fair settlement that would permit Ukraine to develop as a sovereign nation enjoying peace and security and stronger ties with the EU, consistent with the principles of non-violence embedded in the UN Charter. He also discusses China's emergence as a global geopolitical actor and the role it could play in the current environment of international big-power tensions. A thoughtful diplomat ably navigating our labyrinthine geopolitical realities.  Learn more on GlobalGovernanceForum.org

    44 min
See All (54)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Global Governance Podcast with Augusto Lopez-Claros, where we explore the future of governance. Each episode will look at a different global issue and how governance plays a key role in its solution. From climate change to gender equality, from corruption to peace and security, we invite experts to explore a thought-provoking game of “what if?” and “why not?”, positing a world in much closer international cooperation. To learn more visit GlobalGovernanceForum.org.

Information

  • Creator
    Global Governance Forum
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Global Governance Podcast
  • Show Website
    Global Governance Podcast