Roundtable: The Nature of Post-Western Order with Amitav Acharya

Drawing on Amitav Acharya’s new book, which argues that world order is not the monopoly of any civilization or nation, the panel will discuss three key questions: Firstly, has world order been a shared creation, as the book argues? Secondly, will the end of Western dominance be a “good or bad thing,” ? And finally, what might be the shape of the “next” world order -- a return to multipolarity or bipolarity, a revival of US hegemony, a world order of regions, or a “multiplex” world?

Quantum Supremacy: Technology, Strategy, and International Order Panel

Quantum computing is emerging as a transformative technology with profound implications for global security, strategic competition, and international order. This panel brings together experts in quantum science, strategy, and international relations to examine the meaning of quantum supremacy beyond its technical definition. We will explore how quantum intersects with classical IR theory—shaping deterrence, balance-of-power dynamics, alliance cohesion, and technological governance.

De-risking and Driving Capital: EU–Africa Dialogue on Financing Africa’s Investment Gap

Africa faces an annual financing gap of over $200 billion to meet its infrastructure and growth ambitions. Bridging this gap requires not only capital, but the right frameworks to channel it effectively. In this high-level conversation, H.E. Javier Niño Pérez, EU Ambassador to the African Union, and Distinguished Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, Chair of Nigeria’s Senate Finance Committee, will explore how Europe and Africa can jointly unlock sustainable investment at scale.

Book Launch: Conflict Sensitivity in Development, Humanitarian & Peacebuilding Practice: Trends and Challenges

Despite widespread acceptance of the importance of conflict sensitivity, particularly in contexts of crisis, there has been a surprising lack of critical discussion of the framework and its application. This book fills this gap by bringing together articles, practice notes and reflections from conflict sensitivity academics and practitioners. It provides a platform for debate, highlighting strengths, areas for improvement and practical guidance for real- world application, based on 25 years of practice and innovation.

Algorithmic Warfare: Artificial Intelligence and the Ethics of Target Selection

Join us for a panel discussion exploring the revolution in artificial intelligence and autonomous weapons systems in national security. Panelists will explore how frontier and other advanced AI models are reshaping autonomous targeting while examining their technical, strategic, and legal-ethical dynamics. Panelists will discuss the advantages and risks of AI-driven speed and deception, the challenges of maintaining accountability and control, and the evolving frameworks of proportionality, distinction, and human oversight that will define the future conduct and governance of conflict.

HYBRID DAWN Wargame on Strategic Technologies, Emerging Futures Crisis Exercise

Step into the future battlefield in this immersive wargame exploring the strategic, ethical, and operational challenges posed by emerging and disruptive technologies. Participants will assume the roles of state and non-state actors navigating a rapidly shifting technological landscape shaped by artificial intelligence, quantum computing, autonomous systems, and biotechnology. Through scenario-based play, teams will confront dilemmas around escalation, alliance management, and innovation under uncertainty—testing how tomorrow’s technologies could transform today’s doctrines.

Making the Weather - Six Politicians Who Changed Modern Britain

Interested in the British Political Landscape? Join John Bowers KC and Sir Vernon Bogdanor as they discuss ‘Making the Weather’, Sir Vernon's latest book. Sir Vernon is a former professor of Politics and Government and an Emeritus Fellow of Brasenose College. ‘Making the Weather’ is a fascinating profile of six politicians who changed the political landscape of Britain. It will be a lively and informative evening. The event will be followed by a drinks reception.

University of Oxford Black History Month Lecture 2025 Power and Pride: Histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain

The 2025 Black History Month Lecture will be delivered by award-winning historian Professor Hakim Adi. The event is organised by the University of Oxford BME Staff Network and the Equality and Diversity Unit who are honoured to welcome Hakim as this year's speaker.

The lecture will explore themes of power and pride in the rich histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain, encompassing approximately 10,000 years of Britain's history.
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