Geopolitical Risk 

Programme Details

Professor Neil Ketchley, Political Risk in the Middle East and North Africa.

This seminar explores the evolving landscape of political risk in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), focusing on public attitudes toward democracy, governance, and foreign influence. We will examine shifting perceptions of the United States, Europe, China, and Russia amid ongoing regional instability. 

Particular attention will be given to the political and economic fallout from the war in Gaza. 

By analysing recent developments and public sentiment, the seminar will provide insights into the region’s political dynamics and their implications for international actors, policymakers, and businesses operating in or engaging with MENA. 

Professor Desmond King, The Uncertainty of US Politics. 

This seminar addresses probable trajectories in US domestic politics including economic policy and foreign policy under the Trump administration. Some of the major trends under review include: (a) the shifting electoral landscape as the left-right ideological spectrum declines in significance against the populist-elite division; (b) the scale of domestic cultural change signalled by the administration’s strict anti-diversity rules and restructuring of bureaucratic institutions; (c) the economic and political effects of tariffs-based policy; (d) the erosion of the transatlantic (US-Europe) relationship with various implications for defence and international alliances; (e) the restructuring of geopolitics into new spheres of control.  

Underlying these exceptional developments is the deep popularity of the administration and the administration’s policies. Does this popularity and the shifts in domestic and foreign policy inject a new certainty into US politics or constitute one stage in a volatile 21st century politics? 

Professor Jane Green, The State of British Politics.

British politics has become considerably more volatile, unpredictable and fragmented, with major policy implications. Why? 

Using 60 years of British Election Study data, this session will explain the most important social and economic changes that explain this volatility, and the political explanations that have rapidly accelerated the historic changes witnessed in British politics, with lessons for what could happen next. 

Professor Todd Hall, Political Risk in China.

China is a space of both significant economic opportunity and risk. Whether viewed internationally and domestically, economics and politics are closely interlinked. 

How are we to understand these linkages and the ways in which actors within the Chinese system navigate them? 

What does this mean for the balance of opportunities and risks going forward? 

In this talk, Professor Todd Hall offers an introduction to the Chinese system and the ways in which it is likely to respond to the evolving international environment.

Professor Federica Genovese - The Political Risks of Climate Change.

This session will consider the driving and opposing forces of political conflict around climate change. 

It will first focus on how environmental clashes and energy politics around decarbonisation and climate adaptation affect climate attitudes and behaviour among voters. 

It will then discuss the risks that addressing and ignoring climate change conflict pose to institutions, organisations and political parties. 

Applications are now open for our ‘Geopolitical Risk’ programme on Thursday 27-Saturday 29 November 2025.

With only 30 places available, early application is strongly advised.

Before applying

If your organisation will be paying for you to attend the Geopolitical Risk Programme, please ensure the relevant financial approval has been obtained and the financial contact(s) at your institution have been consulted regarding the payment method (credit or invoice) prior to your application.

Application process

You will need to provide:

• Proof of how you intend to pay for the course (credit card or PO/invoice).
• Information from your CV.

Apply Now.

After Acceptance

Successful applicants will receive confirmation of their place, along with payment instructions. To secure your place, the deposit must be paid within seven days of receiving this offer.

If you have indicated eligibility for a discounted fee, you will first be asked to provide supporting evidence. Payment details will be sent once your eligibility has been confirmed, and you will then have seven days from that point to pay the deposit and secure your place.

Application Deadline: Friday, 21 November 2025

Limited spaces available.

The programme fee is £6,900 GBP per participant. This includes two night's accommodation at Rhodes House, all catering, the welcoming reception, all academic sessions, and a historic tour of Oxford.

Early Bird Offer: Guarantee your place and pay your deposit by Saturday 12 July 2025 to receive 20% off the standard programme fee. Please note, this discount cannot be combined with any other offers.

Revenue generated from the Geopolitical Risk Executive Education Programme will be reinvested into the Geopolitical Risk Scholarship, supporting the next generation of scholars in this critical field. This scholarship enables outstanding students—regardless of financial background—to pursue advanced research on global political and economic challenges. By participating in this programme, you are not only enhancing your own strategic expertise but also contributing to the development of future leaders who will shape the world’s approach to geopolitical risk and resilience.

Discounts

A 10% reduction is available for:

• NGO staff and national civil servants  
• Oxford Alumni  
• Participants who pay the full fee upfront

Organisations booking four or more places on the programme will receive a 20% discount on the total cost. This offers an excellent opportunity for teams to enhance their collective understanding of geopolitical risks while benefiting from a significant cost saving.  

The Executive Education Team will contact you to request supporting evidence in order to confirm eligibility for a discount. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. When the programme is full, applicants will be added to a waiting list or offered a place in the 2026 programme.

See FAQs and Apply Now.