Book a Scientist: Speed Dating with Science

During Berlin Science Week interested parties will once again have the opportunity, on 10 November 2021, to hold exclusive online discussions with GIGA researchers about their topics of interest. Book a Scientist, an initiative of the Leibniz Association, features four of our scientists. They will answer your questions on militarisation in the Middle East and North Africa, the New Silk Road, sustainable food consumption, and international sanctions:

Hager Ali compares military behaviour in the context of regime stability in the Middle East and North Africa, asking why and under what conditions militaries seek political power. She is currently working on NATO operations in Afghanistan (ISAF and Resolute Support), the ongoing peace process in Libya, and electoral reforms in Tunisia since the Arab Spring.

Dr. Mohammadbagher Forough is an expert on the role of Iran and the Middle East in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. He explores narratives of global order, such as that of the New Silk Road or of “European strategic autonomy.”

Dr. Anette Ruml is not only concerned with unsustainable consumption patterns in our society and their social and ecological consequences for current and future generations worldwide, but above all investigates the underlying reasons for this behaviour. With her findings, she wants to spark critical debate about product alternatives as well as sustainability certifications and labels.

Dr. Christian von Soest conducts research on a frequently used and at the same time highly controversial tool of international politics: sanctions. Among other things, he deals with the question of whether the fear is justified that coercive measures against countries such as Iran, North Korea, and Russia achieve nothing – or even the opposite of their intended goals.

Via “Book a Scientist” interested parties have the chance several times a year to talk for 25 minutes with an expert from the Leibniz Association and ask everything they always wanted to know about their favourite topic. You can find an overview of all topics offered, and dates, on the Leibniz Association’s events page.