NOTE: Episode 98 is a follow-up of episode 97, so I kindly request you to first listen to episode 97 to connect with our discussion in episode 98.

In this episode, we discuss one of the most critical regions shaping the future of global stability. As the Indo-Pacific emerges as a central hub for international trade, military alliances, and geopolitical maneuvering, we explore how nations within the region are influencing global peace and security. From maritime security and freedom of navigation to the strategic interests of major powers like the US, China, India, and Japan, we analyze the complex dynamics at play. Join us as we unpack the region's evolving role in fostering cooperation, mitigating conflicts, and addressing pressing challenges such as territorial disputes and power competition.

Questions covered in this episode:

1. In what ways has China's Belt and Road Initiative impacted the Indo-Pacific's political and economic landscape?
2. What is the role of regional alliances and partnerships, like the Quad and AUKUS, in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific?
3. How is climate change affecting security and geopolitical stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in vulnerable island nations?
4. What are the potential flashpoints in the Indo-Pacific that could trigger wider conflicts, and how can they be mitigated?
5. How do global institutions like the United Nations and international law shape the resolution of disputes and conflicts in the Indo-Pacific?
6. What message would you like to give to the researchers, students, and experts working in the international affairs and security domain?

About the guest speaker:

Dr. Joanna Siekiera is an international lawyer and works as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Law, War Studies University in Warsaw, Poland. She is also a fellow at the US Marine Corps University in Quantico and supports various military institutions, primarily NATO, as a legal advisor.

Dr. Siekiera did her postdoctoral research at the Faculty of Law, University of Bergen, Norway, and Ph.D. studies in New Zealand at the Faculty of Law, Victoria University of Wellington. She worked in Polish diplomatic missions in Canada and Estonia.

She is the author of over 100 scientific publications in several languages, legal opinions for the Polish Ministry of Justice, the book “Regional Policy in the South Pacific”, and the editor of 9 monographs on international law, international relations, and security. Her areas of expertise are the law of armed conflict (lawfare, legal culture in armed conflict, NATO legal framework) and the Indo-Pacific region, Pacific law, and maritime security.

Dr. Siekiera took part in over 80 interviews and podcasts promoting science, interdisciplinary, and multidimensional research. She speaks 8 languages and currently is learning Chinese.

“Europe's Role in Indo-Pacific Security with Dr. Joanna Siekiera” Center for International Maritime Security (CIMSEC) 18.07.2024 [USA]
“21st Century as the Pacific Century” New Books Network 18.06.2024 [USA]
“Decoding Crisis in the Indo-Pacific | Dr. Joanna Siekiera | Exclusive Interview” The Prode 24.05.2024 [United Kingdom]
“Joanna Siekiera on China” Cognitive Crucible Podcast 18.03.2024 [USA]
“Dragons in the West: Chinese Communist Party Threats in Europe and the Imperative of a Strategic Pivot” Irregular Warfare Initiative 27.02.2024 [USA].

If you find our podcast insightful, please like, share, and subscribe on ⁠⁠www.accesshub.space and ⁠www.oknikam.eu⁠.