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Peace Matters - A Podcast on Contemporary Geopolitics and International Relations
Peace Matters - A Podcast on Contemporary Geopolitics and International Relations
Peace Matters is a podcast about contemporary geopolitics and international relations. Produced by the Vienna-based International Institute for Peace, it offers in-depth analysis of current global developments with experts from Europe and beyond. Episodes feature conversations with decision-makers, academics, diplomats, civil society activists, and other stakeholders. The show examines pressing global challenges and threats, with some episodes in English and others in German.
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The New Nuclear Age with Angela Kane
In this episode of Peace Matters, we examine the global nuclear order in 2026, as growing geopolitical tensions, renewed reliance on nuclear deterrence, and weakening arms-control frameworks raise questions about whether the world is entering a new nuclear age. We explore the state of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and whether its fundamental bargain between nuclear and non-nuclear sta
Albania's Flamingo Revolution – When Luxury Resorts Challenge Democracy. Gresa Hasa
In this episode of Peace Matters, we explore the unfolding environmental crisis in Albania’s Zvërnec and Sazan Island, where the "Flamingo Protests" have emerged as a symbol of the country’s deepening struggle between rapid economic expansion and democratic accountability. We examine how a localized environmental movement has evolved into a systemic critique of executive power, exposing
First Chapter – Ukraine and the EU. Stepan Rusyn and Anastasiia Hraur
In this episode of Peace Matters, we discuss the historic opening of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova in 2026 and the dramatic shift in the European Union’s approach to enlargement.For years, the expansion of the Union was stalled by hesitation and "enlargement fatigue," but the geopolitical realities of 2026 have forced a breakthrough. Now, the EU faces the unprecedented challen
Opening Chapters – The Western Balkans and the EU
In this episode of Peace Matters, we explore the Western Balkans' renewed bid for European Union membership following the Tivat Summit in June 2026 and examine how shifting geopolitical realities are reshaping the region's European future.For more than two decades, the Western Balkans have remained in Europe's "waiting room." Yet the Tivat Summit has injected new momentum into the enlargement proc
Armenia at a Crossroads: Elections, Russia, and the EU. Christoph Bilban and Hannes Meissner
In this episode of Peace Matters, we discuss Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary elections and the country’s changing geopolitical orientation at a time of regional uncertainty.For decades, Armenia was considered one of Russia’s closest allies in the post-Soviet space, relying heavily on Moscow for economic cooperation and security guarantees. But the aftermath of the Nagorno-Karabakh war of 2020, gr
Trump’s World: Strategy, Chaos, or Both? From Iran to NATO and Beyond. Edward Knudsen
Has the U.S. actually achieved anything in its confrontation with Iran—or is Washington doubling down after failed negotiations and rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz? In this episode, we take a hard look at Donald Trump’s foreign policy—not only as apparent chaos, but as a pattern shaped by rapidly shifting priorities.We unpack the growing rift between the U.S. and Europe, including unpreced
Sixteen Years Later: Is Hungary Ready for Change? Andrea Pető
In this episode of Peace Matters, we take a closer look at Hungary’s upcoming parliamentary elections and what they could mean for the country and Europe. After 16 years in power, Viktor Orbán faces a serious challenge from former ally Péter Magyar. But is the challenge that serious after all? We explore the possible election outcomes, the dominance of the right in Hungarian politics, and the weak
Trusting Democracy in 2026. Tamara Kamatovic
This episode of Peace Matters explores the underlying causes of today’s crisis of political trust. Drawing on recent events, the discussion centers on the meaning of trust in democracy at a time when confidence in institutions is declining globally. The episode examines whether democracy can persist without widespread trust or if increasing skepticism toward political leaders may actually drive ne
Democratizing Security in Europe. Teresa Coratella and Tomasz Kowalik
In this episode of Peace Matters, we examine the growing challenges facing European security. As defence budgets rise, U.S. priorities shift, and crises stretch from Ukraine to the Arctic and beyond, security decisions are increasingly made under pressure—and often at a distance from public debate.Drawing on perspectives from Europe’s Eastern Flank as well as EU governance and democratic accountab
Austria and Europe: Neutrality in Question. Ralph Janik and Christoph Schwarz
In this episode of Peace Matters, we explore Austria’s neutrality—its legal foundations, historical origins, and evolving role in today’s geopolitical landscape. What does neutrality entail, and how is it perceived by Austrian society and political elites? We discuss public support for neutrality and examine whether Austria’s stance is compatible with its EU membership—not just legally, but politi
30 Years After Dayton: Bosnia & Herzegovina Today. Ferenc Nemeth & Dennis Miskic
In this episode of Peace Matters, we examine Bosnia and Herzegovina thirty years after the Dayton Agreement - a moment marked by uncertainty and international attention. The recent elections in Republika Srpska have reopened debates about public sentiment in the entity, the resilience of ethno-political divisions, and whether new leadership signals real change or continued dominance by entrenched
Cyprus Divided – Fifty Years of Stalemate and the Search for Peace. Ahmet Sözen
Nearly fifty years after the island of Cyprus was split between its Greek and Turkish communities, the conflict remains one of the most enduring in Europe. Once a British colony and now home to one of the UN’s longest-running peacekeeping missions, Cyprus stands as a symbol of both the possibilities and the limits of international diplomacy.In this episode of Peace Matters, we speak with Professor
Ethiopia – The Fabric of Ethiopia under Stress. Moges Zewdu Teshome
This episode takes a deep dive into Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa. We unpack the controversies surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, the cycles of civil war in the country, and how these conflicts shape national identity, sovereignty, and political culture. The conversation also explores regional spillovers, humanitarian challenges, and the role of international and regional act
Israel/Iran – Wie der Nahostkonflikt die internationale Politik herausfordert. Heinz Gärtner & Adham Hamed
Israel/Iran – Wie der Nahostkonflikt die internationale Politik herausfordertIn dieser Folge des Podcasts Peace Matters werden die aktuellen Entwicklungen angesichts des 12-Tage dauernden Krieges zwischen Israel und dem Iran im Juni 2025 beleuchtet.Wie lassen sich die komplexen Dynamiken im Nahen Osten und deren globale Auswirkungen – von regionalen Machtverschiebungen zwischen Iran, Israel und de
Schutzschirm und Schattenseiten – Europas nukleares Dilemma. Alexander Kmentt & Gustav Gressel
Schutzschirm und Schattenseiten – Europas nukleares Dilemma beleuchtet die Rückkehr der Atomwaffen in die sicherheitspolitische Debatte Europas. Angesichts der katastrophalen humanitären Folgen eines Atomwaffeneinsatzes, wachsender Proliferationsgefahren, russischer Drohungen und eines möglichen Rückzugs der USA steht Europa vor einer politischen und moralischen Zerreißprobe: Braucht Europa mehr n
Foreign Policy and Domestic Power: Understanding Turkey Today. Cengiz Günay & Sabine Kroissenbrunner
This episode explores Turkey’s evolving foreign policy under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan—from assertive moves in the Middle East to its complex ties with NATO and the EU. Is Ankara driven by neo-Ottoman ambition or pragmatic regional strategy? We also look at how domestic politics—like the protests over Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s arrest and the recent dissolution of the Kurdisch Workers' Party (
BRICS Explained: Unity, Division, and the Global South’s Push for Change. Ingrid D'Hooghe and Ksenia Radchenkova
What is BRICS, really — a loose coalition of emerging economies, or a growing challenge to Western-led global governance? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the origins, goals, and internal dynamics of BRICS, the group that brings together Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa — and now a new wave of members. Why do such diverse countries come together under one banner? What does BRICS
Weltmacht China: konfrontativ oder kooperativ?
In dieser Episode werfen wir einen Blick auf die geopolitischenEntwicklungen rund um China, sowohl aus westlicher als auch aus chinesischer Perspektive. Wie nimmt China seine Rolle in einer sich verändernden Weltordnung wahr? Wir beleuchten, wie China nicht nur militärische „Hardpower“ einsetzt,sondern auch mit „Softpower“ – durch wirtschaftliche Initiativen wie die „Belt and Road Initiative“ (1B1
Voices of Dissent: Unpacking the Protests Shaping Serbia's Future. Ivan Vejvoda & Lura Pollozhani
In this episode, we delve into the powerful movements that are reshaping Serbia's political landscape. "Voices of Dissent" explores the domestic protests that are challenging the status quo, giving a voice to those who are fighting for democratic reforms, environmental justice, and civil rights in the face of a difficult political climate. We also examine the broader regional and Eur
Syrien im Umbruch: Neue Machtverhältnisse und ihre Folgen für den Nahen Osten. Thomas Schmidinger & Salah Farho
In dieser Podcast Episode wird die aktuelle Situation in Syrien beleuchtet, die mit dem Sturz Bashar al Assads im Dezember 2024 nach über 50 Jahren Diktatur einen tiefgreifenden Wandel erfahren hat. Im Zentrum stehen verschiedene Rebellengruppen, allen voran Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), eine islamistische Gruppe, die unter der Führung von Abu Muhammad al-Julani bzw. Ahmed al Sharaa steht. Diese Gr
Poland Rising: Democracy, Peace, and Leadership in Europe. Wojciech Przybylski & Maciej Kisiliowski
Poland has become an increasingly important actor within the European Union. After years of democratic backsliding, it`s democracy is consolidating again under Prime Minister Donald Tusk who took office in 2023. In 2025 Poland will face presidential elections and Poland will also be chairing the Council of the European Union. Poland is a stance supporter of Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia i
Echoes Across the Atlantic: The Trump Election and Its Impact on Europe. Vivien A. Schmidt & Hannes Swoboda
The clear victory of Donald Trump, which had been predicted to be a tight race, caught many in the EU by surprise. The first to congratulate him was Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, while on the same day, the German government collapsed.
Why, despite his harsh and aggressive rhetoric, was Donald Trump still successful? In times of increasing polarization not only in the US but also in Europe
Unpacking the South Caucasus: Geopolitics, Neighbors and the EU's Role. Maia Panjikidze & Zaur Shiriyev
In this episode, we explore the intricate geopolitical dynamics of the
South Caucasus, focusing on Georgia and Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan plays a
crucial role as a key energy supplier and transit route, connecting
Europe and Asia, and its relationship with Georgia is vital for both
economic cooperation and security. The discussion highlights how
Georgia’s pursuit of Western integration is perceiv
The Climate Crisis: Does It Unite or Divide Humanity? Sophia Stanger & Sabrina Kaschowitz
How do the concepts we use to discuss the climate crisis shape our thinking? In this episode, we explore different approaches to framing climate change in policy debates, such as viewing it as a national security issue or a tool for achieving peace. We also examine the EU's record in reducing its CO2 emissions and the upcoming UN climate conference, COP 29. Additionally, we discuss the inequalitie
PeaceTech: Buzzword or Breakthrough? Nathan Coyle & Bernardo Venturi
What is PeaceTech? How can we use AI, virtual reality, open data, and other digital technologies in peacebuilding and mediation work? What can PeaceTech learn from CivicTech? Where is the EU’s place in the geopolitical competition in technological innovation and how can it capitalize on its strengths? We discuss these and other questions with Bernardo Venturi and Nathan Coyle.
This episode is prod
Israel and Palestine: Imagining peace? Omer Bartov & Hannes Swoboda
The horrific terror attack of Hamas on October 7th and the subsequent war of Israel against Gaza put the decades old conflict between Israel and Palestine back on the international stage. There is no doubt that the horrendous attack of Hamas against civilians (including the abduction of more than 250 Israelis) is a war crime and a crime against humanity. However, many – including the International
EU Elections: The EU’s Role in the World after 2024. Misha Glenny & Christos Katsioulis
In this episode, we discuss the EU’s global foreign policy. How has the EU been faring in its attempt to remain (or become?) a global power amid the declining liberal world order? Can the EU diminish its dependency on China’s market and rare materials? How should it position itself towards the United States after the presidential elections in November? Is it capable of avoiding being dragged into
EU Elections: Enlargement for Peace? Kristof Bender & Milena Mihajlovic
The unprovoked and illegal war of aggression of Russia against Ukraine ended the assumption that a conventional war within Europe is a relict of the past. With the European Security Architecture in crisis, if even still existing, the EU member states understood the importance of their neighboring countries in South Eastern Europe and in Eastern Europe for their own security. With the granting of E
EU Elections: The Orbánization of Europe? Péter Krekó & Paul Schmidt
In the upcoming European Union parliamentary elections, a shift towards the conservative and right-wing forces is expected. Why are right-wing populist parties so successful these days and what implications does this have for the foreign policy and enlargement-agenda of the European Union? What is Hungary`s role within the European Union and what relevance does Victor Orbán`s anti-western, anti-wo
EU Wahl und die Zukunft Europas: Evelyn Regner & Lena Schilling
Die EU-Wahlen klopfen an der Tür. Und stehen in dieser Episode von Peace Matters im Mittelpunkt. In einer Zeit, in der Europa mit einem direkten Krieg in seiner Nachbarschaft und zahlreichen anderen Krisen konfrontiert ist, wird die Bedeutung einer feministischen Außenpolitik diskutiert. Lena Schilling, bekannt als Klimaaktivistin und die jüngste Spitzenkandidatin für die Grünen, reflektiert über
Russia`s War against Ukraine: Where are We Now? Mangott & Grieveson
The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine entered its 3rd year and an end still seems to be far away. While the destruction of infrastructure is ongoing, millions of people were forced to flee, the population is traumatized and, on the battlefield, there seems to be a stalemate. Yet, the EU - countries are still voicing their support for Ukraine. However, in the US the narrative is slowly shif
Humanitäre Hilfe und Außenpolitik in Zeiten von Krieg. Bayr & Wank
Der zweite Jahrestag der sogenannten „Zeitenwende“, die Rückkehr eines konventionellen Krieges auf europäischen Boden und die damit verbundenen humanitären Folgen, Millionen Flüchtlinge, eine traumatisierte Bevölkerung stellen die Außenpolitik europäischer Staaten und die humanitäre Hilfe im Allgemeinen vor große Herausforderungen. Dazu kommen Kriege im Jemen, im Sudan, in Äthiopien, in Syrien, de
Adjusting to a Changing Global Order: The United Nations and International Law. Kane & Janik
The episode was recorded on 29 January 2024.
In this episode, we discuss the changing international order and areas where these changes appear the most consequential. We talk about the potential role of the UN in a multipolar international system and why it remains an important global actor despite the ongoing stalemate in the Security Council. We also look at international human rights and human
South Caucasus_3. Georgia at a Crossroads: Looking East or West? Meister & Akhvlediani
The episode was recorded on 28 November 2023 in cooperation with Ponto.
Georgia has long been one of the most eager EU-aspirant countries in the European Neighborhood. It has, however, faced a significant setback as a result of an authoritarian turn under its current government – led by the Georgian Dream party. Putting forward twelve conditions related to democracy and the rule of law for the cou
South Caucasus_2. Turkey and Russia as Regional Powers. Aydin & Krivosheev
The episode was recorded on 28 November 2023 in cooperation with Ponto.
A new power balance is emerging in the South Caucasus – especially visible after the Second Karabakh War – whereby Turkey and Russia are simultaneously competing and cooperating in the region. Turkey is Azerbaijan’s staunchest ally and has assisted it militarily in its war effort. Russia, on the other hand, spearheads the Coll
South Caucasus_1. Is Peace Possible between Armenia and Azerbaijan? De Waal & Hess Sargsyan
The episode was recorded on 28 November 2023 in cooperation with Ponto
Azerbaijan took full control over the Nagorno-Karabakh region this
September, choosing to restore its territorial integrity by force and
thus ignoring the previous years of negotiations with Armenia. As a
result, hardly any ethnic Armenians remain in the region, with the vast majority having fled to Armenia for fear of ethni
Neutralität in einer neuen geopolitischen Realität. Gärtner & Lottaz
Aufgezeichnet am 9. November 2023
Der 12. Dezember ist der internationale Tag der Neutralität. Die
Direktorin des IIP, Stephanie Fenkart, hat am 9. November 2023 mit Prof. Heinz Gärnter und mit Ass. Prof. Pascal Lottaz über die Österreichische und Schweizer Neutralität gesprochen. Was bedeutete Neutralität damals und heute. Ist sie angesichts der neuen geopolitischen Entwicklungen noch von Bedeut
Quo Vadis, Belarus?
The episode was recorded on 20 October 2023 in cooperation with Ponto.The state-sanctioned falsification of the 2020 presidential elections in Belarus triggered mass protests across the country, resulting in an unprecedented crackdown by the police and the security apparatus on members of the opposition, protestors, civil society, and independent media. Since then, Belarus has remained largely iso
Space Race: Sicherheitspolitische Implikationen des Weltraums. Mischkulnig & Schwarz
Aufgezeichnet am 27. September 2023 in Kooperation mit Ponto
In dieser Episode sprechen wir über „Space Race“, also die Domäne des Weltraums für die irdische Kriegsführung und militärische
Machtprojektion sowie die sicherheitspolitischen Implikationen und
Antworten auf die neuen Risiken in Österreich und der EU.
Gäste:
Margit Mischkulnig ist seit 2017 Abteilungsleiterin für Weltraumangelegenhei
Radicalization/Nationalism/Genocide - A Threat to Europe? Ebner & Karcic
Recorded on 3 October 2023 in cooperation with Ponto. In recent years, we are more and more witnessing the mainstreaming of
radical ideas and nationalism in western liberal democracies. The
Covid-Pandemic, climate change and the fight for equal rights – be it for LGBTIQ, Women or other marginalized groups – are only some examples which lead to high polarization, often (mis)used by different poli
Nuclear Weapons in Belarus and Mutiny in Russia - Insecurity for Europe? Preiherman & Dienes
Recorded on June 26, 2023 in cooperation with Ponto.
Although the attempted mutiny in Russia on June 24th was short-lived, it may have lasting consequences for Russia’s political regime, its war in Ukraine, and Europe’s overall security situation. The rebellion also put Belarus back in the spotlight, as Aliaksandar Lukashenka helped negotiate the deal heading off the crisis between Vladimir Putin
Frau Macht Frieden. Brunner & Grün
Aufgezeichnet am 26. Mai 2023 in Kooperation mit Ponto
Dieses Mal beschäftigen wir uns mit feministischer Friedensforschung, der Rolle von Frauen in der Konflikttransformation und im Konfliktmanagement, der Diskussion rund um eine feministische Außenpolitik sowie der praktischen Relevanz kritischer Friedensforschung. Angesichts zunehmender Militarisierung in Europa und in der ganzen Welt gilt es a
Elections in Turkey - A New Approach to Domestic and Foreign Policy? Hartmann & Akyavas
Recorded on 15 May 2023 in cooperation with Ponto
In this episode, we delve into the initial outcomes of Turkey's
presidential and parliamentary elections and examine their significance for both Turkey's internal affairs and its relations with other countries. We closely analyze the election campaigns, the state of media freedom, the intricate obstacles faced by the incoming government,
Kosovo und Serbien - Ist ein stabiler Frieden möglich? Lunacek & Dzihic
Aufgezeichnet am 11 April 2023 in Kooperation mit Ponto
Kosovo und Serbien haben seit langem ein schwieriges Verhältnis
zueinander. Im Dezember 2022 kam es zu Straßensperren und Blockaden im Norden des Kosovos durch Teile der serbischen Minderheit. Unter Vermittlung der EU kam es nun im März in Nordmazedonien zu einem Abkommen. Serbien anerkennt die Dokumente der Republik Kosovo (Personalausweis
Nuklearwaffen im Fokus: Zwischen Atomwaffensperr- sowie Atomwaffenverbotsvertrag und neuer Aufrüstung. Jovin & Hajnoczi
Aufgezeichnet am 3 März 2023 in Kooperation mit Ponto
In dieser Episode sprechen wir darüber, welche Bedeutung und Wirkung der Atomwaffensperrvertrag sowie der Atomwaffenverbotsvertrag heute haben, sowie inwiefern der Ukraine-Krieg in diesem Zusammenhang neue Fragen aufwirft und die internationale Gemeinschaft vor neue Herausforderungen stellt.
Gäste:
Rebecca Jovin ist seit 2019 im Büro der Ver
One year of war in Ukraine: Does peace still matter? Reisner & Swoboda
Recorded on 13 February 2023 in cooperation with Ponto
In this episode we speak about the military developments in Ukraine over the past twelve moths, the upcoming Russian military offensive, the West's help to Ukraine, and why search for a diplomatic solution needs to start now.
Guests:
Colonel Markus Reisner of the Austrian Armed Forces is a military expert and a historian. He was repeated
