Trending Echoes Podcast
Trending Echoes is a podcast series by Trends Research and Advisory that explores contemporary issues, emerging trends, and innovations shaping the world today. The podcast features expert guests from various fields—ranging from academia, policy, technology, and media—who provide in-depth insights on topics like global cooperation, artificial intelligence, and the future of content creation. Episodes often focus on how these trends affect societies, industries, and international relations, making it a platform for knowledge exchange and thoughtful discussions.
Episodes

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Trending Echoes Podcast | Sustainability is not an option | Dr. Al Anoud Al-Haj
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
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.

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Join us for an inspiring conversation with H.E. Dherar Belhoul AlFalasi, a prominent Emirati figure and Executive Director of the Watani Al Emarat Foundation. In this episode of Trending Echoes, we explore H.E. AlFalasi's remarkable career journey, his insights into leadership and community engagement, and his unwavering commitment to national identity and values. Discover how H.E. AlFalasi has played a pivotal role in shaping the UAE's social and cultural landscape through his work in various government institutions and organizations. Learn about his extensive experiences in public relations, crisis management, and parliamentary affairs. In this podcast, H.E. AlFalasi reflects on his personal experiences confronting extremist groups and their influence on social media. He shares how he transitioned from writing for newspapers to effectively using platforms like Twitter, where the power of concise and relatable messaging became vital. The conversation touches on the responsibilities of parents in the digital age, particularly in guiding children's use of technology, while stressing the importance of awareness and supervision. The discussion also addresses the challenges posed by extremist groups' tactics, including character assassination and the psychological toll of online attacks. Moving to a lighter note, H.E. AlFalasi discusses his passion for sports, particularly basketball, the role of school sports, and his involvement in the development of UAE sports. The conversation concludes with H.E. AlFalasi's critical perspective on AI, emphasizing the need to embrace its benefits, such as optimizing traffic systems, while addressing societal concerns about its impact on jobs and security. Gain valuable insights into fostering a cohesive and engaged community, and how H.E. AlFalasi has empowered Emirati youth and promoted national unity. Don't miss this thought-provoking interview with one of the UAE's most respected and influential figures. #uae #leadership #communityengagement #nationalidentity #WataniAlEmaratFoundation #government #socialimpact #inspiration #podcast #trendingechoes #trendsresearch

Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Monsignor Yoannis Lahzi Gaid, the former personal secretary to His Holiness Pope Francis. In this episode of Trending Echoes, Monsignor Gaid will delve into the profound document, "Human Fraternity: Document on Fraternity and Peace in the World," a landmark declaration signed by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayyeb. Discover the key pillars of this historic document, which seeks to promote interfaith dialogue, tolerance, and peace. Gain insights into the journey that led to its creation and the challenges in implementing its principles. Monsignor Gaid will share personal anecdotes and reflections on his experiences working closely with Pope Francis and other religious leaders to foster understanding and cooperation. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Human Fraternity's significance and its potential to shape a more harmonious and peaceful world.