Colin Crouch: Social Democracy at a Crossroads – Rebuilding Trust in a Fragmented World
In this conversation, Henning Meyer and Colin Crouch explore the evolution of social democracy, the impact of globalization, and the challenges posed by right-wing populism. They discuss the changing landscape of political identity, the need for a new vision in social democracy, and the importance of cooperation in addressing societal issues. The conversation highlights the necessity of building social infrastructure and addressing economic inequality while navigating the complexities of migration policies and the future of leftist politics in Europe.
First published on 9 Jul 2025
The Politics of Confusion: Mark Blyth and Henning Meyer discuss Trump 2.0 and Lessons for Europe
In this conversation, Henning Meyer and Mark Blyth discuss the current state of Trump’s presidency, the chaos within his administration, and the implications of his economic strategies, particularly regarding tariffs and reindustrialization. They explore the impact of inflation on the working class and the political landscape shaped by populism. The discussion also delves into the future of political identity in the U.S. and Europe, emphasizing the need for a compelling vision and narrative to unite people and drive political engagement.
First published on 15 May 2025
EU vs. Trump: Mark Blyth Breaks Down the Political & Economic Storm Ahead
In this conversation, Henning Meyer and Mark Blyth discuss the implications of Trump’s presidency for the European Union, focusing on potential trade policies, economic repercussions, and the rise of populism. They explore the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s administration, the need for the EU to adapt strategically, and the challenges posed by internal divisions within Europe. The discussion also touches on the necessity of public administration reform to address pressing issues such as housing and immigration, and the long-term consequences of America’s carbon-focused policies.
This podcast episode is part of the Social Europe – Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Projekt ‘EU Forward: Shaping European Policy in the second half of the 2020s’.
First published on 20 Jan 2025
Almut Möller: European Foreign & Security Policy
In this episode of the Social Europe Podcast, Henning Meyer and Almut Möller discuss the evolving landscape of European foreign and security policy as we enter 2025. They discuss the concept of strategic autonomy, the challenges posed by external threats such as Russia’s aggression, and the internal divisions among EU member states. The conversation highlights the urgent need for a unified approach to security and defence, the impact of populism and external actors like Elon Musk, and the importance of collaboration with allies, particularly the UK. Both speakers emphasise the necessity for the EU to adapt its policies and strategies to ensure its future viability and effectiveness in a rapidly changing global environment.
This podcast episode is part of the Social Europe – Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Projekt ‘EU Forward: Shaping European Policy in the second half of the 2020s’.
First published on 12 Jan 2025
Anand Menon: Navigating the New UK-EU Relationship
In this episode of Social Europe Podcast, Professor Anand Menon of Kings College London and Social Europe Editor-in-Chief Professor Henning Meyer discuss the recent changes in the UK-EU relationship under the new UK government led by Sir Keir Starmer. They explore the implications of Labour’s policy priorities, the tone of diplomatic relations, and the potential for bilateral initiatives, particularly in defence. The discussion also covers trade agreements, economic cooperation, and the challenges posed by regulatory divergence in emerging technologies. They conclude by examining the future of UK-EU relations amidst political dynamics and external pressures, including the war in Ukraine.
First published on 29 Oct 2024
Peter A. Hall: The Emotional Underpinnings of Populism
In this episode of Social Europe Podcast, Professor Peter A. Hall of Harvard University and Social Europe Editor-in-Chief Professor Henning Meyer explore the evolving landscape of populism in Western democracies. Reflecting on the economic and cultural factors that have contributed to its rise, they discuss the importance of perceptions of fairness and uncertainty about the future as key drivers of support for populist parties. The conversation also delves into the emotional aspects of immigration politics and the differing motivations behind support for left and right populism. Finally, they assess the health of Western democracies and the challenges mainstream political parties face in regaining public trust and addressing the grievances that fuel populism.
First published on 16 Oct 2024