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On the Future of Prison Reform

Peter Dawson

In this episode, Peter Dawson (1981) advocates for reform with the UK prison system. He discusses the challenges of overcrowding, the lack of rehabilitation programs, and the often inhumane conditions faced by prisoners.

Drawing from his extensive experience – including 15 years in the Home Office, and as a Prison Governor and former director of the Prison Reform Trust – Dawson critiques current policies and advocates for reforms that focus on dignity, fairness and reducing reoffending. Now a Visiting Fellow at the Institute of Criminology at Cambridge University, his insights provide a compelling call to action for a more just and effective approach to criminal justice.

Credits

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr. Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O'Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Camera by Julius Peacock

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Photography by John Cairns

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On the Future of Climate Mobility

Professor Jane McAdam

In this episode, Jane McAdam (2001), Scientia Professor of Law , explores the link between climate change and human mobility. In particular, she discusses how disasters and environmental changes - such as rising sea levels - can directly trigger forced migration both within countries and across borders.

She explores how, in the last decade, we've come to a more nuanced understanding of how the impact of climate change intersects with existing forms of persecution, worsening the human rights of people in their countries of origin. She also examines the usefulness of the term "climate refugee". Although not a legal term, it can be a useful shorthand to describe people forced to move because climate change is making their environment unsustainable.

Looking ahead, McAdam addresses the complexities of creating legal frameworks, both nationally and internationally, to protect climate-displaced populations. She suggests a toolkit of responses that will reduce the effects of climate change, help people stay in their homes, and provide protections -- such as new mobility visas - for those who are displaced.

Jane is the Scientia Professor of Law and founding director of the Kaldor Center for International Refugee Law at the University of New South Wales, where she leads the Evacuations Research Hub.

CREDITS :

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr. Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O'Hara
Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan
Camera by Julius Peacock
Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee
Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd
Photography by John Cairns and Fisher Studios

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On the Future of Sustainable Fashion

Tariq Mahmoud

In this episode, Tariq Mahmoud (1996) , a senior men's shoe designer at Louis Vuitton, discusses the growing focus on sustainability in the luxury fashion industry. He shares his journey from the Royal College of Art to working with some of the most prestigious fashion houses such as Givenchy and Burberry. In particular, the conversation focuses on the challenges and opportunities of integrating sustainable practices into the creation, manufacturing and packaging of luxury items. These include the increasing use of eco-friendly materials, reducing waste and employing technologies such as 3D printing.

Tariq also explores the role of AI in the design process, weighing its pros and cons, and offering insights into the artistry and craftsmanship behind luxury footwear. He underscores the importance of innovation in blending tradition with sustainability, striving to create timeless, responsible fashion that honors both craftsmanship and the environment.

CREDITS:

Hosted by Helen O'Hara
Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan
Camera by Julius Peacock
Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee
Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd
Photography by John Cairns

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On the Future of the UK Constitution

Lord Lisvane

In this episode, we meet Lord Lisvane (1968) , crossbench Peer in the House of Lords, and former Clerk of the House of Commons and Chief Executive. He examines the complexities of the UK's unwritten constitution, focusing on the need for robust parliamentary scrutiny and the role of the civil service to uphold its principles. In particular, he delves into the issue of whether the UK would benefit from having a written constitution and, if so, who would write, amend and enforce it.

Lord Lisvane further highlights the dangers of misinformation and declining public trust in government, which have led to a rise in political violence, such as the riots last summer and the marked increase in social media trolling and physical attacks on MPs. He explores potential reforms to strengthen democracy and improve governance, including various forms of devolution, tighening standards for MPs, and making changes to the House of Lords and the appointment system.

Credits

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College, who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O'Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Camera by Julius Peacock

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Photography by John Cairns and Stuart Bebb

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On the Future of Digital Diplomacy

Dr Jennifer Cassidy

In this episode, Jennifer Cassidy (2013) offers a thought-provoking exploration of the changing dynamics of diplomacy in the digital age.

Drawing from her unique experiences as a diplomat and academic, Cassidy examines how technology is reshaping the traditional practices of international relations, particularly through digital and citizen diplomacy. She defines digital diplomacy as the strategic use of digital tools to advance foreign policy goals, emphasising its potential to increase reach, speed and public engagement.

The conversation delves into the rise of citizen diplomacy, where individuals leverage digital platforms to amplify their voices, influence public opinion and hold power structures accountable. Cassidy further addresses the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation, and the enduring influence of centralised institutions like the UN Security Council whose decisions wield considerable power, lessening the impact of grassroots movements.

Blending historical context with modern insights, Cassidy reflects on the balance between innovation and tradition, highlighting the continued importance of human connection in diplomacy while advocating for adaptability in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Credits

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College, who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Camera by Julius Peacock

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Photography by John Cairns

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On the Future of Social Entrepreneurship

Rodrigo Jordan

In this audio-only episode, Rodrigo Jordan (1986), a renowned Chilean mountaineer and social entrepreneur, discusses his dual passions for climbing and creating social change. Known for leading successful expeditions to the Himalayas (including three ascents of Everest) and Antarctica, Rodrigo also founded Vertical, a nonprofit that teaches leadership and teamwork to disadvantaged groups through outdoor education.

In particular, he shares how his experiences in mountaineering and his studies at Oxford shaped his approach to social entrepreneurship. Rodrigo highlights the importance of combining business principles with a commitment to social good, emphasising how teaching teamwork, leadership, and collaboration – all crucial skills in mountaineering – can help address complex social issues and empower communities to lift themselves out of poverty.

CREDITS:

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O’Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd