State capture by wealthy elites is a widespread phenomenon in developing democracies, yet the mechanisms through which it works and the impact it has on political and policy outcomes remain poorly understood. In this research, I develop a network-based approach to studying captured legislatures and argue that, in the context of a competitive political environment and weak rule of law, oligarchs defend their wealth by promoting as members of parliament individuals who are linked to them via interpersonal ties.

Uzbekistan's participation in the Belt and Road Initiative is framed through agential narratives of resistance, highlighting historical conflicts and cautious economic relations with China. I delve into the long history of Sino-Uzbekistani relations, particularly pre-colonial times, to present a perspective beyond the Eurocentric view that sees modern Central Asia as a creation of the Russian Empire and the USSR. I add depth to the postcolonial aspect of Uzbekistan's relations with Russia by exploring local narratives about China's historical colonial role in the region.

Why do rentier states seek out hosting rights for major international events? This talk investigates this question through a qualitative case study of mega-events programs in Azerbaijan. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, hydrocarbon exports have formed the backbone of the country’s economy and the main source of rents for ruling elites.

Dr. Khatib is an assistant professor in the Conflict Management and Humanitarian Action program at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. He completed his PhD in political science in 2018 at Humboldt University with a thesis on the relationship between identity perception and reconciliation in the context of the Arab-Israeli conflict. He has been a post-doctoral researcher at the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies and the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University.

Dr. Khatib is an assistant professor in the Conflict Management and Humanitarian Action program at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. He completed his PhD in political science in 2018 at Humboldt University with a thesis on the relationship between identity perception and reconciliation in the context of the Arab-Israeli conflict. He has been a post-doctoral researcher at the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies and the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University.

Join us for an engaging discussion examining the new Trump administration’s global strategy and its implications for international relations. This talk will explore how President Trump’s “America First” agenda reshaped U.S. foreign policy through bold economic moves, shifts in military alliances, and refreshed international engagements. From trade wars to alliance reevaluations, we’ll delve into key initiatives that redefined America’s role on the world stage. The talk will also address the challenges faced by allies navigating the evolving U.S. stance and pathways for future cooperation.

International buyers vary in their sourcing strategies, with some adopting “relational” strategies that entail sourcing from fewer suppliers and providing higher rents (Cajal-Grossi, Macchiavello, and Noguera, 2023), and others adopting more "spot" strategies that entail sourcing from many suppliers and providing lower rents. We hypothesize that exposure to relational buyers causes exporters to invest in capabilities to build stronger relationships with their workers (Gibbons and Henderson, 2012) and in better working conditions.