This week we try to assess whether the Covid-19 pandemic is driving the world together or pushing it further apart. From US-Chinarelations to tensions within the EU, we discuss how coronavirus is exacerbating existing tensions and how it might overcome them. Are we going to see new forms of international co-operation? What does it mean for globalisation? And is the politics of competence making a comeback? With Helen Thomson and Hans Kundnani from Chatham House.
Talking Points:
The crucial issue between the US and China right now is supply chains.
There are different degrees of globalization. There is, for example, a more moderate version, and what Dani Rodrik calls ‘hyper-globalization.’
China does have a dollar problem. Right now, the Fed has provided swap lines to a number of states, but not the Chinese Central Bank.
Does Europe need to pick a side between the US and China?
The current crisis is an emphatic demonstration that, in the Eurozone, the coercive power of states remains the prerogative of member states.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Further Learning:
And as ever recommended reading curated by our friends at the LRB can be found here: lrb.co.uk/talking
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