Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games By David Hoicka, Mediator in Neutral Singapore In a world torn by conflict, where traditional diplomacy often falls short, an unexpected hero emerges: sports. David Hoicka's groundbreaking book, "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games," offers a compelling exploration of how the universal language of sports can bridge divides, foster dialogue, and pave the way for peace in even the most intractable conflicts. The Power of Play in Peacebuilding Drawing from real-world examples and rigorous research, Hoicka demonstrates how sports, particularly football (soccer), have been used to create neutral spaces for interaction, build trust between adversaries, and provide hope in conflict-ridden regions. From the grassroots initiatives in Mali, Chad, and Libya to the historic moments of "Ping Pong Diplomacy" between the US and China, this book unveils the transformative potential of sports in international relations. At the heart of this narrative lies the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Hoicka presents innovative strategies for leveraging sports diplomacy to address this crisis, offering a roadmap for policymakers, diplomats, and peace practitioners seeking alternative approaches to conflict resolution. Lessons from the Field Through in-depth case studies, readers will discover: - How the "Clubs de Paix" program in Mali uses football tournaments to bring together diverse ethnic groups, fostering dialogue and reconciliation. - The impact of cross-border sports initiatives in reducing tensions and promoting cooperation in conflict-affected regions. - The role of high-profile athletes as peace ambassadors, using their influence to promote understanding and unity. Hoicka's analysis goes beyond mere anecdotes, providing a comprehensive framework for implementing effective sports diplomacy programs. He addresses critical challenges such as ensuring participant safety, securing sustainable funding, and measuring long-term impact. A Call to Action This book is not just an academic treatise; it is a call to action for all those invested in building a more peaceful world. Hoicka makes a compelling case for integrating sports diplomacy into broader peacebuilding and development strategies, arguing that the universal appeal of sports offers a unique opportunity to reach individuals and communities where traditional diplomatic efforts have faltered. "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World" offers invaluable insights for: - Policymakers and diplomats seeking innovative approaches to conflict resolution - Sports organizations looking to leverage their platforms for social impact - NGOs and peace practitioners working in conflict-affected regions - Academics and students in the fields of international relations, conflict studies, and sports sociology Why This Book Matters In an era of increasing global tensions, Hoicka's work provides a beacon of hope and a practical roadmap for harnessing the power of sports to save lives and promote peace. By highlighting the successes of sports diplomacy initiatives around the world, this book challenges us to reimagine the role of sports in society and international relations. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to unfold, the lessons and strategies presented in this book offer a timely and crucial perspective on alternative pathways to peace. Hoicka's unique position as a mediator in neutral Singapore lends credibility and depth to his analysis, providing readers with a balanced and nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in sports diplomacy. "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games" is more than just a book – it's a roadmap for hope, a toolkit for peace, and a testament to the enduring power of human connection through play. Whether you're a seasoned diplomat, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone who believes in the possibility of a more peaceful world, this book will inspire you to see the transformative potential of sports in a whole new light. Join David Hoicka on this enlightening journey and discover how the games we play can become powerful instruments for change, bringing us one step closer to a world where conflicts are resolved not on battlefields, but on playing fields. In these pages, you'll find not just analysis, but hope – hope that even in the darkest of times, the universal language of sports can light the way towards understanding, reconciliation, and lasting peace.

In a world grappling with the devastating consequences of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, "Mediation Common Ground in Ukraine Russia" emerges as a beacon of hope and a roadmap for peace. David Hoicka, a seasoned mediator based in neutral Singapore, presents a compelling exploration of the potential for reconciliation and renewed cooperation between these two nations with deep historical and cultural ties. Unveiling Paths to Peace Drawing on extensive research and a deep understanding of both Ukrainian and Russian perspectives, Hoicka uncovers a wealth of common ground that exists beneath the surface of current tensions. From shared cultural heritage to complementary economic strengths, from joint scientific endeavors to collaborative approaches to global challenges, this book illuminates the myriad ways in which Ukraine and Russia could benefit from choosing cooperation over conflict. The author presents a balanced, neutral analysis that respects the concerns and aspirations of both nations while focusing on the tremendous potential for mutual benefit through peaceful engagement. Through carefully crafted chapters, readers are guided through various domains where Ukrainian-Russian cooperation is not just possible but potentially transformative: - Economic partnerships that could drive growth and prosperity on both sides of the border - Cultural exchanges that celebrate shared heritage while respecting distinct national identities - Scientific collaborations that could position the region as a global hub for innovation - Joint efforts to address pressing humanitarian and environmental challenges A Vision for the Future More than just an academic exercise, this book offers a vision of a future where Ukraine and Russia move beyond current conflicts to forge a relationship based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to the well-being of their peoples. Hoicka argues persuasively that such a transformation is not only desirable but necessary for regional stability and global progress. Practical Insights for Peacebuilding "Mediation Common Ground in Ukraine Russia" goes beyond theoretical discussions to offer practical insights and strategies for building bridges between the two nations. Drawing on successful examples of conflict resolution from around the world, Hoicka presents innovative approaches to dialogue, trust-building, and collaborative problem-solving that could pave the way for meaningful reconciliation. Key features of the book include: - In-depth analysis of historical, cultural, and economic ties between Ukraine and Russia - Case studies of successful cooperation in various fields, even during times of tension - Interviews with experts, policymakers, and citizens from both countries, providing diverse perspectives on the potential for peace - Concrete recommendations for policymakers, business leaders, and civil society organizations on fostering dialogue and collaboration Why Read This Book? In a world where the drumbeats of war often drown out voices of reason, "Mediation Common Ground in Ukraine Russia" stands as a powerful reminder of the possibilities for peace that exist when we have the courage to seek out our shared humanity and common interests. It is an indispensable read for anyone committed to building a more peaceful, prosperous, and cooperative world.

An extraordinary behind-the-scenes portrait of the court of Vladimir Putin, the oligarchs that surround it, and the many moods of modern Russia that reads like a "real House of Cards"(Lev Lurie). All the Kremlin's Men is a gripping narrative of an accidental king and a court out of control. Based on an unprecedented series of interviews with Vladimir Putin's inner circle, this book presents a radically different view of power and politics in Russia. The image of Putin as a strongman is dissolved. In its place is a weary figurehead buffeted -- if not controlled -- by the men who at once advise and deceive him. The regional governors and bureaucratic leaders are immovable objects, far more powerful in their fiefdoms than the president himself. So are the gatekeepers-those officials who guard the pathways to power-on whom Putin depends as much as they rely on him. The tenuous edifice is filled with all of the intrigue and plotting of a Medici court, as enemies of the state are invented and wars begun to justify personal gains, internal rivalries, or one faction's biased advantage. A bestseller in Russia, All the Kremlin's Men is a shocking revisionist portrait of the Putin era and a dazzling reconstruction of the machinations of courtiers running riot.

The Russia Direct Guidebook to Russian Foreign Policy, including work by prominent international experts, looks back at some of the defining moments in Moscow’s relations with the world over the past year and analyzes the challenges ahead. From the build-up and execution of the Sochi Olympics to the developments in U.S.-Russia nuclear cooperation, we’ve taken a nuanced look into some of the most critical issues that have had an effect on Russia’s relationship with other countries. This guide compiles five quarterly reports published by Russia Direct from 2013 to 2014 which delve into the changing geopolitical conditions of the time: "Russian Soft Power 2.0" "Afghan Endgame: What Comes Next" "Sochi: Going for the Olympic Gold" "Megatons to Megawatts Program: Hard Lessons and New Opportunities for US-Russian Nuclear cooperation" "From Brain Drain to Brain Gain" The issues covered in this guidebook span a range of topics: how Russia is projecting its military power abroad in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, how it copes with the problem of global terrorism along its own borders, how it manages its economic development by trying to reverse the brain drain, and how Moscow is pivoting in its approach to soft power. Enhance your understanding of Russia by reading expert analysis from the likes of: Thomas Neff of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Ivan Timofeev of the Russian International Affairs Council, George Joffé of the University of Cambridge – just to name a few. The Russia Direct Guidebook to Russian Foreign Policy, including work by prominent international experts, looks back at some of the defining moments in Moscow’s relations with the world over the past year and analyzes the challenges ahead. From the build-up and execution of the Sochi Olympics to the developments in U.S.-Russia nuclear cooperation, we’ve taken a nuanced look into some of the most critical issues that have had an effect on Russia’s relationship with other countries. This guide compiles five quarterly reports published by Russia Direct from 2013 to 2014 which delve into the changing geopolitical conditions of the time: "Russian Soft Power 2.0" "Afghan Endgame: What Comes Next" "Sochi: Going for the Olympic Gold" "Megatons to Megawatts Program: Hard Lessons and New Opportunities for US-Russian Nuclear cooperation" "From Brain Drain to Brain Gain" The issues covered in this guidebook span a range of topics: how Russia is projecting its military power abroad in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, how it copes with the problem of global terrorism along its own borders, how it manages its economic development by trying to reverse the brain drain, and how Moscow is pivoting in its approach to soft power. Enhance your understanding of Russia by reading expert analysis from the likes of: Thomas Neff of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Ivan Timofeev of the Russian International Affairs Council, George Joffé of the University of Cambridge – just to name a few. The Russia Direct Guidebook to Russian Foreign Policy includes maps, infographics, charts and details you can’t get anywhere else.

Despite repeated declarations of ‘never again’ in response to the commission of atrocities, civilians have continued to be targeted by their leaders and opposition groups. The international law principles of sovereignty and non-intervention, when taken at their highest, require States to stand idle and not intervene in another State regardless of what atrocities may be occurring there. This traditional legal view is being challenged by an emerging practice of States choosing to respond in non-forceful ways, inspired by the concept of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P). Drawing on R2P, this book introduces and develops an original conceptual tool –intercession –to capture and explain this change in State practice and the impact of R2P on the development of international law. Through a close examination of State practice, the work explores whether there has been an expansion in the permissible measures and situations in which States can intervene, without using force, in response to atrocity crimes occurring in other States. This book concludes that the development of the secondary duty on the international community under R2P provides the greatest opportunity to progress the R2P framework in a meaningful way, which will have a significant impact on the protection of populations from atrocity crimes. The book will be essential reading for students, researchers and policymakers working in the areas of international law, international relations, humanitarian law, and peace and security studies.

This book explores how modern Russian cinema is part of the international information war that has unfolded across a variety of battlefields, including social media, online news, and television. It outlines how Russian cinema has been instrumentalized, both by the Kremlin's allies and its detractors, to convey salient political and cultural messages, often in subtle ways, thereby becoming a tool for both critiquing and serving domestic and foreign policy objectives, shaping national identity, and determining cultural memory. It explains how regulations, legislation, and funding mechanisms have rendered contemporary cinema both an essential weapon for the Kremlin and a means for more independent figures to publicly frame official government policy. In addition, the book employs formal cinematic analysis to highlight the dominant themes and narratives in modern Russian films of a variety of genres, situating them in Russia’s broader rhetorical ecosystem and explaining how they serve the objectives of the Kremlin or its opponents.

In a world characterized by persistent local and regional conflicts, policymakers and professionals in current affairs and security studies are increasingly challenged. From the ongoing war in Yemen to the complex civil war in Syria and the recent third Nagorno Karabakh Conflict, the global landscape is shaped by violent disruptions that demand a nuanced understanding. Geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, and the intricate interplay of international actors necessitate a comprehensive guide for those seeking to navigate this complex web of challenges. Analyzing Global Responses to Contemporary Regional Conflicts emerges as a beacon of insight and a tangible solution to this urgent problem. This edition is a crucial tool for academic scholars and professionals, providing readers with the knowledge necessary to comprehend the complexities of global conflicts. By drawing on geoeconomics, geopolitics, security studies, and humanitarian perspectives, the book explores the roots of competition and cooperation among states but also critically examines conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and the role of key international entities. It goes beyond mere analysis, offering a roadmap for a more peaceful and stable future.

Eight years after annexing Crimea, Russia embarked on a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Vladimir Putin viewed this attack on a neighbour as a legacy-defining mission, which sought to restore a central element of Russia’s sphere of influence and undo Ukraine’s surprisingly resilient democratic experiment. These aspirations were swiftly eviscerated, as the conflict degenerated into a bloody war of attrition and the Russian economy crumbled under the weight of sanctions. This book argues that Putin’s desire to unite Russians around a common set of principles and consolidate his personal brand of authoritarianism prompted him to pursue a policy of global counter-revolution; it was this which inspired Russia’s military interventions in Crimea, Donbas and Syria, later steering Putin to war against Kyiv. Samuel Ramani explores why Putin opted for all-out regime change in Ukraine, rather than a smaller-scale intervention in Donbas, and considers the impact on his own regime’s legitimacy. This focus on the domestic drivers of invasion contrasts with alternative theories that highlight systemic factors, such as preventing NATO expansion. Ramani concludes by assessing the invasion’s implications for Russia’s long-term political and foreign policy trajectory, and how the international response to the conflict will reshape the global order.

The only introduction to foreign policy to combine theories, actors and cases in one volume.

The Congressional Record is the official record of the proceedings and debates of the United States Congress. It is published daily when Congress is in session. The Congressional Record began publication in 1873. Debates for sessions prior to 1873 are recorded in The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States (1789-1824), the Register of Debates in Congress (1824-1837), and the Congressional Globe (1833-1873)