Trending Echoes Podcast

Trending Echoes Podcast | Disruptive innovation as key enabler of hybrid threats| Dr. Ralph Thiele

Welcome to this episode of Trending Echoes Podcast, hosted by Rahaf Al-Khazraji from the Frankfurt Book Fair. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Ralph Thiele, Chairman of the Political-Military Society in Germany, for an in-depth discussion on hybrid threats and disruptive technologies.
Dr. Thiele explains that hybrid threats—combinations of cyber attacks, misinformation, and exploitation of societal vulnerabilities—have gained momentum since the Arab Spring, circumventing traditional borders to destabilize governments. He notes that innovations like AI and autonomous systems enable remote attacks, adding layers of complexity to defense efforts. Disruptive technologies, such as 5G and AI, intensify hybrid warfare, effectively blurring lines between peace and conflict. For example, real-time communication systems and autonomous drones deployed in Ukraine illustrate how these tools can be leveraged aggressively.
Highlighting the importance of education, Dr. Thiele commends Gulf nations for their progressive security approaches, stressing that young people need strong, relevant training to counter evolving threats. Effective defense requires situational awareness and coordinated security strategies, supported by collaboration between diplomatic, military, and cyber forces.
Dr. Thiele argues that well-trained professionals are crucial, but funding limitations can hinder readiness, underscoring the broader societal risks involved. On ethics, Dr. Thiele calls for a robust moral framework around disruptive tech use in warfare, which he notes is underdeveloped globally. He illustrates this with examples from Russia, China, and Iran, which employ hybrid tactics—such as satellite hacks in Ukraine and economic disruption in Western Europe—to exert influence. He urges strategic investment in technology and expertise, advocating for a cultural shift toward awareness. Building this capacity, he concludes, is essential for future resilience against hybrid threats.

Keys to Understanding the interreligious dialogue in the current world with Prof. Patrice Bourdour

Straight from Paris, the vibrant capital of France, comes a fresh episode of the Trending Echoes podcast titled 'Keys to Understanding Interreligious Dialogue in the Modern World,' featuring Professor Patrice Bourdour, Associate Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Montreal.

Trending Echoes Podcast | Mind Meets Machine : Unlocking the Potential of AI - Human Synergy

In this episode of Trending Echoes, Professor Masahiko Inami of the University of Tokyo delves into the future of human-AI integration, emphasizing the potential for AI to enhance human capabilities. From improving memory and communication to revolutionizing healthcare and sports, Professor Inami envisions a world where AI plays a transformative role in augmenting human abilities. He explores ethical considerations, the potential for inclusive sports, and the long-term impact of AI on human intelligence. He also highlights the importance of international cooperation in setting regulations and enhancing quality of life by expanding individual choices. Inami sees a future where AI will not just assist but redefine human capabilities, allowing people to "wear" abilities like clothes—changing from a tennis player one day to a chess master the next. He stresses the importance of international collaboration for regulating AI integration to ensure innovation and protect human rights. Ultimately, AI could empower individuals to live fuller lives by providing more options and enhancing their ability to choose freely. 

Trending Echoes Podcast | Sustainability is not an option | Dr. Al Anoud Al-Haj

In this episode of Trending Echoes, H.E. Dr. Alanoud Alhaj, Assistant Undersecretary for the Green Development and Climate Change Sector, explores the UAE’s pivotal role in sustainability, presenting it as a cornerstone of the nation's vision and future. Reflecting on the outcomes of COP28, Dr. Alanoud emphasizes key achievements such as climate finance agreements, health initiatives, and renewable energy expansion, all while ensuring the global impact of the UAE Consensus. She ties sustainability to Emirati culture, noting how historical practices have evolved into modern innovations like Masdar City. One of the central themes discussed is the integration of sustainability into education, particularly through "green curricula" beginning from primary school. During COP28, the UAE hosted a significant meeting of education ministers focused on sustainability, showcasing the country’s dedication to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among future generations. Dr. Alanoud highlighted local initiatives, such as recycling programs and waste-to-energy projects, designed to embed sustainable thinking in everyday practices. On the international stage, Dr. Alanoud stressed the UAE’s diplomatic leadership, particularly through the COP28 Troika, which includes the presidencies of COP28, COP29, and COP30. This collaboration is designed to carry forward the outcomes of COP28, supporting other countries in capacity-building and ensuring that climate commitments are upheld. The UAE's partnership with IRENA and its ongoing support for over 20 nations in developing their national climate strategies are key examples of its global role. Additionally, Dr. Alanoud delved into the role of technology in advancing sustainability, with electric vehicles (EVs) being a focal point. While EVs have lower emissions, she raised critical questions about the recyclability of batteries and the need for continuous research in this area. Acknowledging that sustainability is a process of evolution, she believes that advancements in technology will continue to improve the environmental footprint of vehicles and other sectors. Looking toward the future, Dr. Alanoud outlined the UAE’s goals for 2050, including the transition to net zero emissions and increasing solar capacity as part of a diversified energy mix. The UAE’s commitment to renewable energy and carbon capture strategies reflects its dedication to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating a sustainable energy future. She concluded with an inspiring message for the younger generation, encouraging them to stay curious and learn from both experienced leaders and their peers, as sustainability is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration across sectors.
 
انضموا إلينا في حلقة ملهمة من سلسلة #TRENDINGECHOES مع سعادة الدكتورة العنود الحاج، وكيلة الوزارة المساعدة لقطاع التنمية الخضراء والتغير المناخي. اكتشفوا لماذا "الاستدامة ليست خياراً"، وكيف تمهد دولة الإمارات الطريق نحو مستقبل أكثر خضاراً.

Education & National Identity: Insights from H.E Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi | Trending Echoes

In a special episode of the “Trending Echoes” Podcast, His Excellency Mr Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi, Chairman of the Institute’s Board of Trustees, Bahrain Institute for Political Development, delves into the strategies for leveraging scientific research and studies to further advance education and preserve national identity.

Trending Echoes Podcast|The Impact of Extremist Ideologies on the State and Society|Khaled Bin Qaqqa

In this episode of the Trending Echoes podcast by Trends Research and Advisory, journalist and political writer Khalid Umar bin Qaqqa delves into the causes of extremism, challenging the Western view that terrorism stems solely from economic and social factors. He highlights the critical role ideology plays in the Arab world, particularly pointing to the Muslim Brotherhood’s dangerous impact on national stability. Mr Khalid explains how extremist religious ideologies create social disruption, threaten state institutions, and distort governance. He also discusses the complex nature of terrorism in the region, noting how different Arab countries approach religious parties in various ways, and emphasizes that despite these differences, terrorism remains a shared threat. The conversation also explores how intellectual production often flourishes in times of crisis, leading to greater creative and academic output as societies grapple with the effects of terrorism. Mr Khalid stresses the importance of dialogue and understanding, urging a rejection of extremist ideologies and calling for a continued focus on resilience, security, and intellectual growth.
في هذه الحلقة من بودكاست الصادر عن مركز تريندز للبحوث والاستشارات، يتعمق الصحفي والكاتب ي خالد عمر بن ققة في أسباب التطرف، مشيرا الى ان الرؤية الغربية تعتبر أن الإرهاب ناتج فقط عن العوامل الاقتصادية والاجتماعية. ويُبرز الدور الحاسم الذي تلعبه الأيديولوجيا في العالم العربي، مشيرًا بشكل خاص إلى التأثير الخطير لجماعة الإخوان المسلمين على استقرار الدول الوطنية. يشرح الكاتب خالد بن ققة كيف تساهم الأيديولوجيات الدينية المتطرفة في إحداث اضطراب اجتماعي، وتهدد المؤسسات الحكومية، وتشوّه أسس الحوكمة. كما يناقش الطبيعة المعقدة للإرهاب في المنطقة، ملاحظًا كيفية تعامل الدول العربية مع الأحزاب الدينية بطرق مختلفة، مع التأكيد على أن الإرهاب يشكل تهديدًا مشتركًا على الرغم من هذه الاختلافات. وتستعرض الحلقة أيضًا كيف أن الإنتاج الفكري يزدهر غالبًا في أوقات الأزمات، مما يؤدي إلى زيادة الإنتاج الإبداعي والأكاديمي مع مواجهة المجتمعات لتأثيرات الإرهاب. ويؤكد على أهمية الحوار والتفاهم، داعيًا إلى رفض الأيديولوجيات المتطرفة والتركيز على المرونة والأمن والنمو الفكري.

Trending Echoes Podcast | South-South Cooperation and Local Production of Knowledge |Prof. Fortunata

Trending Echoes by Trends Research and Advisory presents an insightful episode titled "South-South Cooperation and Local Production of Knowledge", featuring Prof. Fortunata Makene, the Executive Director of the Economic and Social Research Foundation.
 
In this episode, Prof. Makene delves into the dynamics of South-South cooperation, exploring how countries in the Global South can collaboratively address shared challenges and leverage opportunities for sustainable development.
She emphasizes the significance of localized knowledge production, particularly in the context of economic growth, social progress, and effective policy formulation.
Prof. Makene argues for enhanced support from multilateral institutions, advocating that Africa and other Global South nations must be equipped to catch up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She discusses the critical role of technology transfer, highlighting the importance of creating a conducive environment for private sector development. Additionally, she underscores the need for financial and technical assistance that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of local communities, devoid of political agendas. The conversation also touches on the vital role of institutions like BRICS in fostering inclusive development, enhancing regional cooperation, and reducing poverty in low- and middle-income countries. Prof. Makene advocates for evidence-based policymaking, emphasizing that research must be deeply rooted in the realities and experiences of the societies it aims to serve. She envisions a future where South-South cooperation not only enables these nations to catch up but positions them as active contributors to global industrial and technological advancements. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the potential for collaborative efforts in knowledge sharing, innovation, and capacity building among Global South countries. Prof. Makene’s perspective sheds light on how collective action can lead to more resilient economies and empower marginalized communities. Join us for this engaging and informative discussion, and discover how South-South cooperation can redefine the development landscape. 

Trending Echoes|Advanced Technology: A Bridge to the future & balance of power in the digital world

In this episode of Trending Echoes Podcast with H.E. Omran Sharaf, he provides an in-depth look into the UAE's journey in the space sector, highlighting its key milestones, challenges, and strategic objectives. The UAE’s space program, launched in 2006, aimed to acquire satellites and build a robust science and technology ecosystem that would serve national interests, such as economic competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability. H.E. Omran Sharaf outlines how the UAE transitioned from a consumer of space services to an operator and eventually a manufacturer, reaching a significant milestone with the successful launch of the Hope Probe to Mars in 2021. This space program has been instrumental in advancing scientific development within the UAE, fostering expertise in engineering, physics, satellite systems, and space navigation. Beyond space, H.E. Omran Sharaf emphasizes the program's positive effects on other sectors, such as health, defence, and foreign policy, through technological spillover. International collaboration was pivotal in the UAE's success, particularly with global universities and institutions that helped complete the Hope Probe mission within six years and on a relatively low budget. H.E. Omran Sharaf also touches on the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future, viewing AI as a tool for job creation and improving quality of life. He underscores the importance of using AI ethically, aligning the UAE’s initiatives with global efforts to establish ethical standards for emerging technologies. On a larger scale, H.E. Omran Sharaf advocates for the peaceful use of outer space and stresses international cooperation to prevent space militarization. The conversation further explores challenges such as space debris, which poses risks to operational satellites, and how the UAE is involved in global efforts to mitigate these risks. The UAE promotes scientific collaboration over competition and invests in future technologies like AI, quantum computing, and clean nuclear energy, which are expected to reshape the world in the coming decades. H.E. Omran Sharaf encourages the next generation of Emiratis to pursue careers in science, technology, and the private sector, stressing the importance of passion, vision, and stepping out of comfort zones. In conclusion, the UAE is committed to shaping its future through international partnerships, ethical AI development, and a focus on technological advancements that will drive progress over the next 50 years.