Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast

This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast delves into the complexities of divided societies in places like Turkey and Gaza. Join Allan Little as he talks to Elif Shafak about her compelling book How to Stay Sane in the Age of Division with journalist Sarah Helm.  Recorded live from the idyllic grounds of Traquair House during the Beyond Borders International Festival 2021, in this discussion its...

This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast is a compelling reflection on US politics and the role it plays in the world. Gain insight into thoughts on American politics through the minds of this varied panel of guests, all offering their own unique knowledge on the subject. Listen to Jim Naughtie as he speaks to Tim Phillips, Aminatta Forna and Oscar Guardiola- Rivera, and joined by Razia Iqbal la...

This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast offers a rare and compelling look into British politics through the eyes of two of its key players from the Blair administration, Alastair Campbell and Jonathan Powell. Recorded live from the idyllic grounds of Traquair House during the Beyond Borders International Festival 2022, this discussion is not just a retrospective on their time in government but...

Join Jim Naughtie as he talks to Flora Fraser about the remarkable exploits of Flora MacDonald in both the Jacobite and American rebellions, as they discuss her new book Pretty Young Rebel: The Life of Flora MacDonald.   Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www.beyondbordersscotland.com/ Beyond Borders International Festival: https://www.bbintfest.com/ Pretty Young Rebel: The Life of Fl...

In this exciting episode, we are joined by the legendary author Irvine Welsh, best known for his groundbreaking novel "Trainspotting." Irvine sits down with host Oscar Guardiola-Rivera to discuss his latest novel, "The Long Knives." The conversation delves into Irvine's creative process, his inspirations, and the themes explored in his new book. Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www....

Join the godfather of investigative journalism, Sir Harry Evans, as he talks to veteran BBC broadcaster Jim Naughtie about his life, career and some of his most ground-breaking investigative work at the Sunday Times where he uncovered the truth about the thalidomide scandal, the breadth of Kim Philby’s treachery, and took on the Government and Official Secrets Act to publish the Crossman Diaries a...

Join us for an enlightening episode as Tina Brown, the legendary journalist and editor sits down with Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon. This candid discussion about Tina’s dynamic life in media was recorded as part of the Beyond Borders Festival and offers a unique glimpse into the personal and professional milestones of Tina Brown, from her transformative roles at Vanity Fair and...

In this deeply moving episode of "War Stories: Ukraine 2024," Mark Muller Stuart KC hosts a gripping discussion with Colonel Pavlo Khazan and Petro Koshukov, who share their personal journeys from civilians to soldiers in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Recorded in the heart of Ukraine, this episode offers a raw, unfiltered look at the transformation ordinary people undergo during extraordinary t...

Explore the pressing issues of identity, belonging, and the complexities of migration with philosopher and author Oscar Guardiola-Rivera and celebrated writer Dina Nayeri. This episode centres around Nayeri's thought-provoking works and her latest book, "Who Gets Believed? When the Truth Isn't Enough," delving into the narratives of migrants and the question of credibility in today's society.   Gu...

In this fascinating episode, join Angus Robertson MSP, a well-known Germanophile, as he delves into Germany's pivotal role in Europe and the cultural reinvention of Berlin. Featuring insights from author John Kampfner and esteemed German broadcaster Annette Dittert, this discussion highlights the unique aspects of German leadership, innovation, and culture that set it apart.   Guests: Angus Robert...

In this compelling episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, join seasoned journalist Steve Richards as he engages in a deep dive with Jonathan Powell, a key figure in international peacemaking and former chief negotiator for Northern Ireland. Together, they explore Powell's influential role in global peace efforts, his insights on Brexit, and his perspectives on the evolving landscape of UK...

This week's podcast features an enlightening talk between Geoffrey Baskerville, former BBC Scotland’s arts correspondent, and authors Rosemary Goring and Clare Hunter. They delve into the life and legacy of Mary Queen of Scots, one of history's most famous queens, who visited Traquair with Lord Darnley and her son, the future James VI of Scotland, in August 1566.   Guests: Geoffrey Baskerville: Fo...

In this episode, Sarah Helm, who is working on a new book on Gaza, leads an enlightening discussion on Raja Shehadeh’s own book, delving into the intricate narratives of Palestine. Joined by Derek Goldman from Georgetown University, the conversation explores the profound impact narratives have on understanding and shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.   Guests: Raja Shehadeh: Auth...

In this thought-provoking episode, Allan Little delves into the future of democratic politics in Europe, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by demands for constitutional change. With an esteemed panel that includes Urko Aiartza Azurtza, Merryn Somerset Webb, Gerry Hassan, and featuring Tim Phillips from the United States, this discussion cuts through the complexities of European...

In this episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, Christina Lamb and Razia Iqbal discuss two compelling issues. First, they explore the homelessness crisis through Lamb's book, "The Prince Rupert Hotel for the Homeless," offering a narrative of compassion amid a pandemic. Then, they shift focus to the struggles of Afghan women and civilians post-Western withdrawal from Kabul. This episode pr...

In this special episode, commemorating International Women's Day on March 8th, we delve into the critical role of women in peacebuilding and the impact of UN Resolution 1325. Introduced by Sofiia Shevchuk, a current fellow of the Beyond Borders Scotland 1325 Women in Conflict Fellowship Programme, this discussion illuminates the experiences and insights of remarkable women from different corners o...

In the light of recent debates about Scotland’s voice and role in international affairs, join acclaimed historian, broadcaster, and author of The Anarchy, William Dalrymple, as he talks to Professor Murray Pittock, the Bradley Professor of Literature at the University of Glasgow, about Scotland’s role in the making of the modern world, as they discussed and unpick Pittock’s mesmerising book Scotla...

Following the release of Alastair Campbell’s acclaimed book, ‘But What Can I Do?’, he visited the Beyond Borders Festival to be interviewed by two young journalists from Peebles High School and Edinburgh Napier University. Watch the behind the scenes video here: https://youtu.be/O1tRBZw_Z1Y?si=VMUqcfxxsw3ZRBJ2 Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www.beyondbordersscotland.com/ Beyond Bo...

In the lead-up to the second anniversary of the war, join Steve Richards as he listens to Channel 4’s Lindsey Hilsum and BBC Lucy Ash’s dispatches from the frontline of the Ukrainian war, while Professor Marc Weller considers how to resolve a conflict.   Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www.beyondbordersscotland.com/ Beyond Borders International Festival: http://www.bbintfest.com/ P...

The next two episodes of the Beyond Borders Podcast focus on Ukraine in the lead-up to the second anniversary of the war. Join Steve Richards as he talks to Andriy Shevchenko, Head of the Ukrainian Media Centre, about the war in Ukraine, Brian Brivati, about his new book Losing Afghanistan, and University of St Andrews’ Professor Phillips O’Brien.   Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://...

Embark on a thought-provoking journey with host Allan Little in this captivating episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland podcast. Allan engages in a profound dialogue with influential figures like Ebrahim Rasool, Nelson Mandela’s former cellmate and ex-Prime Minister of the Western Cape, along with Oscar Guardiola-Rivera, a renowned Professor of Human Rights and Political Philosophy at the Universi...

Tune in to the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, Episode 11: “Britain and International Security,” featuring insightful discussions with Lindsey Hilsum, Graham Cundy, and Allan Little. This episode offers a deep dive into the complex world of international security and Britain’s role. Join renowned journalists and experts as they explore global security dynamics, the challenges facing Britain, and...

Join Jim Naughtie as he grills Tina Brown about The Palace Papers, in which she shares searing insight into the Royal Family from the 1990s to today.  The gripping inside story of the British royal family’s battle to overcome the dramas of the Diana years—only to confront new, twenty-first-century crises “Never again” became Queen Elizabeth II’s mantra shortly after Princess Diana’s tragic death....

Join former First Minister of Scotland, Jack McConnell, as he talks to veteran political columnist, journalist, author, and podcast presenter, Steve Richards about contemporary British politics and his new book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain, from 1945 to Truss, a profound examination of watershed moments in modern British history. Listen as both men debate whether Britain is...

René Cassin exists to promote human rights values. We are named after the French-Jewish co-author of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Drafted in response to the atrocities of the Second World War, the Declaration articulated a comprehensive set of principles for a just global future. It has formed the foundation of virtually all subsequent human rights instruments, including the European...