UCL Political Science Events

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar explores how shifts in global power are reshaping the international system and the future of global governance amid ongoing conflicts, rising geopolitical competition, and strains on multilateral institutions. It considers what these changes mean for trade, security, and international cooperation, and examines the role of middle and emerging powers in shaping a new global order. The discussion brings together experts in diplomacy, international organisations, and rising power politics to assess both structural change and policy implications. Speakers include Jane Kinninmont and Marina Duque.

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar examines the global pressures facing LGBTIQ+ rights amid rising authoritarianism, weakening democratic norms, and shifting state politics across both the Global North and South. It explores how backlash and state power are reshaping LGBTQ+ movements, while also highlighting the strategies of activism, solidarity, and resistance developed in response. The discussion brings together scholars and practitioners working across queer theory, international law, and human rights to analyse both political constraints and forms of activist resilience. Speakers include Rahul Rao, Jamie Hagen, Anushka Gunawardena, Dan Conway, with chair Phillip Ayoub.

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar explores the economic and political debate around wealth taxation as a potential response to rising inequality, cost-of-living pressures, and strained public services. It examines whether a wealth tax could provide a fairer redistribution of resources, while also considering concerns about capital flight, administrative feasibility, and the limitations of one-off tax measures. The discussion brings together experts in inequality, tax policy, and political economy to assess the practical and ethical dimensions of reforming wealth taxation in the UK. Speakers include Will Snell, Liz Mann, Andy Summers, with chair Lucy Barnes.

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar explores the growing geopolitical and economic importance of critical minerals in global supply chains, particularly their role in the clean energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and national security. It examines what counts as “critical minerals,” why they are strategically important, and how states use commercial diplomacy to secure access amid trade restrictions, shifting alliances, and intensifying geopolitical competition. The discussion also considers the environmental, social, and political implications of resource extraction in producer countries. Speakers include Chris Vandome, Belinda Schäpe, Metehan Ciftci, with chair Aparna Ravi.

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar examines the historical and ongoing relationship between universities, knowledge production, and colonial power, asking how the legacy of empire continues to shape the modern academy. It explores how universities once legitimised colonial rule through research, training, and the construction of racial and cultural hierarchies, and considers what responsibilities institutions now hold in addressing those histories. The discussion also reflects on decolonisation, knowledge systems, and the role of higher education in postcolonial contexts. Speakers include Simukai Chigudu, Cathy Elliott, and Tariq Jazeel.