War and Peace: Threats to global security

The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has changed the balance of the world’s global security map. What has led to the current tragic situation and what are the implications of the war in Ukraine for Europe and the UK?

Globalisation, austerity and Brexit had already heralded significant changes for Europe’s citizens. As the gap between rich and poor widens and democracy seemingly continues to fail to deliver, the nationalist far right is gaining ascendancy across Europe.

Join us as we explore the causes and consequences of the bitter conflict in Ukraine, and the wider implications that invasion has for global security, and for all of us.

The War and Peace: Threats to global security Festival Focus events are hybrid, meaning you can either attend in person or join via Zoom. You’ll receive a link to join via Zoom a couple of days before the event takes place and a reminder an hour before. During the event, you can ask questions via the Zoom Q&A function, but audience cameras and microphones will remain muted throughout.

These Festival Focus events are presented in collaboration with The Morrell Centre for Legal and Political Philosophy, which is generously supported by the C and JB Morrell Trust.

Ukraine: Causes, Consequences and Implications for Global Security - Sunday 19 June

Vladimir Putin’s war on Ukraine is at once shockingly unexpected and the culmination of recent geopolitical events. How did we get here, and to what extent does history explain both Putin’s gamble and the various responses to it? What will be the consequences of the way in which the war ends and what will be the implications for global security?

Europe’s Role in Defence and Security on a World Stage - Sunday 19 June (in person and online)

The war in Ukraine recalls the Cold War and the era of USA/Soviet dominance. Join our panel of experts from across the globe as we explore the European Union’s role in defence and security and how the shifting geopolitical landscape poses threats that call for a unified and robust response.

Europe and the Radical Right: Where next for democracy and authoritarianism? Sunday 19 June (in person and online)

Join keynote speaker Michael Ignatieff - acclaimed professor, writer and former politician - and other experts as we examine the multiple social, economic, cultural and political causes for the rise in popularity of the radical right across Europe.