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Welcome Over the past few weeks, we have watched the world around us change beyond recognition. With no choice but to leave the city, the people, and the places we hold so dear, we find ourselves isolated; sequestered in our own corners of the world. At a time like this, devoid of the connections that otherwise define our lives, it is only natural that we feel so lonely. As I have worked with our brilliant committee to put together this termcard, I have come to realise that a simple conversation, and an occasional wander through the chapters of history, is all that is needed to remind us that we are not alone. Crises, in their many forms, have hit before. They have made us come together as communities; they have challenged us to adapt, create, and express. Since its foundation in 1823, the Union, too, has withstood its fair share of uncertainty. Through world wars and pandemics, it has continued to host the voices of people who have changed the course of history. In doing so, it has held up a mirror to the world around it; telling a story of the kind of people we are, what we care about, and the world we live in. But the history of the Union is more complicated than that. On the one hand, the Union has broken barriers since its very foundation: defying deference, and raising up the voices of individuals such as Benazir Bhutto and Malcom X, who have left their mark upon it. On the other hand, it has left many behind. The mirror it has
held up has not always been a perfect one, and in the fascinating stories it has told within its beautiful chamber, it has left out the voices of many. We hope that this term offers something closer to a true reflection: be it through a discussion of the morality of the Refugee Crisis, or rising authoritarianism in India, or with the voices of Joshua Wong and Miriam Haley. A term which tells stories that resonate with the diverse experiences and lives of all, not just some, of our members. No story can survive without its listeners, and these conversations cannot be had alone. This Trinity, as we bring you our inaugural Podcast Series, I sincerely hope you will listen, engage, and join the conversation. Big or small, the pandemic has taken something away from everyone, and I’m sure each of you will have your own, personal stories of loss. I hope that in and amongst this, by the end of this term, you will also have gained something: whether it is the inspiration to change the world, the opportunity to hold our leaders to account, or simply forty, precious minutes of laughter.
Mahi Joshi President, Trinity 2020 Trinity College
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The Oxford Union
Librarian’s Welcome
Treasurer’s Welcome
“If you don’t work to defend your future by protecting the present, you are at risk of losing it”. Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, delivered this message to us a year ago. As the world faces a pandemic, her words could hardly be more poignant. Speakers like Prime Minister Mottley remind me of why I joined the Union: to be part of a place that not only debates the defining issues of our time, but one that creates a forum for voices to which I would not otherwise be exposed. A place for the conversations that matter.
The first time that I set foot in the Oxford Union, I was struck by just how many times history has been made at this place. All the way up the staircase, you can see photos from debates and events that really did shape not only the Oxford psyche, but the national one.
As your Librarian, it has been a privilege to organise a speaker programme for a term like no other. From putting the outbreak under the microscope with the COVID-19 series, escapism with the Love Island podcast, to interviews with trailblazers like Opal Tometi, I hope that each of you finds something to spark interest, dialogue, and debate this summer. Though our beautiful Library must remain closed, we will be migrating to a postal service for members. I will be chairing virtual meetings of Library Committee each week, so please do reach out if you would like to get involved!
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This term, there won’t be a photo in the Goodman Library to put up on the wall (Zoom screenshots, I’m told, don’t count). And there won’t be debates in our historic chamber. But as we all weather this crisis, your committee has been working hard to make sure that the debates that matter are still held. In the Treasurer’s Office, alongside our speaker events, I've helped to prepare what I hope you will agree is a series of highly impactful, engaging, and relevant debate style podcasts - from a Prison Reform panel to a debate on Putin. With my tremendously hard-working sponsorship team, I’ve worked to make the podcast series possible, and have also ensured that your Treasurer’s Treats are still available during summer.
Wherever you are in the world, I hope that you stay safe in these coming weeks, and that you join the conversation that continues at the Oxford Union.
I wish all of you a safe and enjoyable term. I do hope that the Union will be able to continue to serve each and every one of you in these trying times. If you have any finance, sponsorship, or debate-related concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
Harry Deacon Pembroke College librarian@oxford-union.org
Jack Solomon St Peter’s College treasurer@oxford-union.org
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Secretary’s Welcome I am delighted to share with you a termcard that reflects the hard work our committee has put into continuing important discussions during this difficult time. I hope it can provide you with something to look forward to, during a period in which we could all benefit from a positive note. Though this pandemic is global, the most marginalised remain the most vulnerable - this is particularly evident in my home country. It is therefore an honour to present a lineup of podcasts on topics including Europe’s handling of the refugee crisis, alongside a series on COVID-19. This is truly a discussion of history as it takes place. I have also had the opportunity to work closely with our Access Officers to put together an Access Handbook, through which we hope to make the workings of the Oxford Union more accessible to anyone who is interested. And while our buildings remain closed, the noticeboard and all ordinary meetings have been moved online for members to reach. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you would like to be pointed towards any of these resources, or if you have any questions at all!
Debates
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Speakers
26
Weekend Specials
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Members’ Info
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I truly hope we can offer you something positive during these uncertain times. I wish you all a safe and lovely term, wherever you may be. Cansu Uyguroglu Pembroke College secretary@oxford-union.org
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The Oxford Union
Adapting to the Times As the COVID-19 crisis continues, so does the Union’s commitment to serving its members. With Trinity term held remotely, we have devised a full programme of virtual events, which will take the form of podcasts, uploaded to Spotify, Apple and Google Podcasts, to which links can be found on the Union’s app and website, as well Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. In this way, we hope to offer some respite, and edifying entertainment at this time of crisis. Just as, ordinarily, events at the Union can be found in different formats, so will our programme of podcasts. While most of our events will be individual speaker interviews, there will also be two debate style podcasts every week, discussing the issues at the very forefront of
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our global consciousness, as well as a number of Weekend Specials, which aim to offer some lighter relief. Recognising that this term would not be complete without a discussion of the pandemic, four of our debate style podcasts will focus on the COVID-19 crisis. The events will be broadcast at 5 pm from Monday to Saturday on Spotify, Apple and Google Podcasts, and occasionally at 8 pm on Wednesdays. Weekend Specials will be broadcast every other Sunday at noon. Members can submit questions to be put to speakers in advance of the recording, using an online form on the Union’s Facebook page, which can be accessed in the weeks preceding the event. We hope you will listen in, and join the conversation this Trinity.
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The Oxford Union
Debate Styl Our weekly debates have always been at the very heart of the Oxford Union. Over the years and centuries, it has been our mission to take our members to the very frontlines of the great arguments of the day. This term will be no different, as we strive to honour our commitment to public debate, by showcasing a great and important diversity of opinions through the medium of podcasts. These podcasts, structured like panel discussions, will feature a number of high-profile speakers who are leaders in their fields. Having previously featured speakers 8
such as Edward Heath and Malcolm X, it is only fitting that these events should continue their illustrious tradition, at the very cutting edge of history. There will be sixteen debate style podcasts, which will be broadcast at 5pm on Tuesday and Thursday of each week. Four of these debate style podcasts will focus on the COVID-19 crisis, with experts discussing up-tothe-minute developments, as well as the impact of the pandemic in the forgotten corners of society.
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le Podcasts Hong Kong
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Love Island 18
Prisons 12
Future of Work 20
Putin 11 Afghanistan Part I
Afghanistan Part II
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Rohingya 15 Latin America
Democratic Party
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Refugees 19 India 21 COVID-19 - Economics
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COVID-19 - Authoritarianism
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COVID-19 - Marginalised Voices COVID-19 - Solutions
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The Oxford Union
Tuesday, 28th April | 5:00 pm
Hong Kong: What Does the Future Hold? Hong Kong Debate
Following years of clashes with Beijing, Hong Kong politics is increasingly volatile. Attempts to curtail the state’s independence have led to protests lasting over a year, with no consensus in sight. With reintegration edging closer, what does the future hold for Hong Kong? Is it doomed to be ruled by China, or might it have an independent future?
Speakers Amb. Kurt Tong
Eddie Chu Hoi-dick
Nathan Law
Regina Ip
American diplomat, serving as Consul General of the US to Hong Kong and Macau between 2016 and 2019. He previously served as US Ambassador for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Hong Kong politician and activist. A student leader during the 2014 Umbrella Movement, he served on the Hong Kong Legislative Council until his disqualification in 2017.
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Social activist and politician. He founded the Land Justice League, a conservationist, pro-democracy group and was elected to the Legislative Council of Hong Kong in 2016. Hong Kong politician. She is the founder and chairperson of the New People's Party, a pro-Beijing conservative political party.
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Thursday, 30th April | 5:00 pm
Russia: Do We Live in Putin’s world? Putin Debate
As President Putin seeks to extend his power within Russia, so Russian influence is increasing around the world. With allegations of international electoral interference and aggressive military action in Eastern Europe, is a new confrontation on the cards, or is accommodation the only way forward?
Speakers Fiona Hill
Deputy Assistant to the US President, and Senior Director for Europe and Russia on the National Security Council from 2017 to 2019. She was a witness in President Trump's impeachment hearings.
Arkady Ostrovsky
Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist. In 2016, he received the Orwell Prize for his book, The Invention of Russia: The Journey from Gorbachev’s Freedom to Putin’s War.
Alexey Minyaylo
Russian social entrepreneur and political activist. In 2019, he was imprisoned following his work for an opposition party in the Moscow Duma election.
Sir Laurie Bristow
Former British Ambassador to Russia, serving from 2016 to 2020. He previously served as Ambassador to Azerbaijan.
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The Oxford Union
Thursday, 7th May | 5:00 pm
Behind the Bars: How Do We Fix Our Prisons? Prison Reform Debate
England and Wales have the largest prison population in Western Europe, with 80,000 currently incarcerated. In the US, that number is 2.3 million. With governments around the world taking ‘tough on crime’ approaches, is the criminal justice system working? Is the punitive system protecting us, or making society less safe for us all?
Speakers Dean Stalham
Dyjuan Tatro
Marcus Bullock
MiAngel Cody
British artist and community activist. Founder of the Art Saves Lives Foundation.
Founder and CEO of Flikshop, an app which connects incarcerated individuals with their families.
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Advocate for criminal justice reform, and alumnus of the Bard Prison Initiative debate team.
Celebrated US attorney, noted for her work to free those serving life in prison for drug offences, and support from Kim Kardashian.
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Tuesday, 12th May | 5:00 pm
Afghanistan: The West’s Lost War? Afghanistan Debate, Part I
The role of the West in Afghanistan is a debate as old as the conflict itself. As the international foreign policy tide turns away from intervention, what is the legacy of the West in Afghanistan? Does it remain a crucial actor, responsible for the protection of many lives, or is it responsible for more harm than good?
Speakers Matthew Hoh
Ben Anderson
Carlotta Gall
Prof. Marvin Weinbaum
A former Marine, he resigned from the State Department in 2010 over the escalation of war in Afghanistan and has since become a renowned peace activist. British journalist and author. She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for her coverage of Afghanistan and Pakistan for the New York Times.
British journalist, filmmaker, and correspondent. He has produced several award-winning films about the war in Afghanistan.
Professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois, and Director for Afghanistan and Pakistan Studies at The Middle East Institute.
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The Oxford Union
Thursday, 14th May | 5:00 pm
Afghanistan: Is Peace A Lost Cause? Afghanistan Debate, Part II
Has President Trump’s much-vaunted peace deal finally brought an end to years of turmoil, or is it merely a façade? After so many years of fighting in Afghanistan, and with the West so entrenched in the nation’s politics, is long-term peace a realistic aspiration?
Speakers General Sir Richard Barrons Retired British Army officer and former Commander of UK Strategic Command. He served in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and established a reintegration unit for former Taliban soldiers.
Kathy Gannon
Senior Correspondent in Pakistan and Afghanistan for the Associated Press. In 2014, she was attacked and seriously wounded while reporting in Afghanistan.
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Farkhunda Zahra Naderi
Afghan politician who has served as senior advisor to President Ashraf Ghani on UN affairs since 2017. She previously served as a member of the Afghanistan National Council.
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Thursday, 21st May | 5:00 pm
The Rohingya Crisis: Humanity on Trial Rohingya Debate
Since 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmar. With Burmese forces accused of crimes against humanity, has the inaction of the international community allowed the Burmese government to commit ethnic cleansing with impunity? What are our obligations to the Rohingya people?
Speakers Dr Maung Zarni
Burmese human rights activist and academic. He founded and led the Free Burma Coalition, and is known for his anti-genocide activism in Myanmar.
Kyaw Win
Burmese human rights activist, and the founder and Executive Director of the Burma Human Rights Network. He leads several teams documenting human rights violations in Myanmar.
Wai Wai Nu
Burmese equal rights activist who, along with her family, spent seven years in prison during the Burmese military dictatorship. She has been named as one of Time magazine's Next Generation Leaders.
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The Oxford Union
Tuesday, 26th May | 5:00 pm
Latin America in 2020: Another Last Decade? Latin America Debate
Latin American nations continue to be plagued by large-scale poverty and organised crime. With popular unrest sweeping the region, the election of populist governments throughout, and the huge risk posed by COVID-19, what does the future hold for Latin America? Will its people ever see the benefit of its long-awaited boom?
Speakers Moisés Naím
Andrés Velasco
Maximo Torero
Helen Mack
Venezuelan journalist and writer. Frequently named one of the world's leading thinkers, he is a Distinguished Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Chief economist at the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation. He previously served as the Executive Director for Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay at the World Bank Group.
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Chilean economist who served as finance minister of Chile from 2006 to 2010. He is currently the Dean of the School of Public Policy at the London School of Economics. Guatemalan businesswoman, known for her activism following the assassination of her sister by the Guatemalan military in 1990.
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Thursday, 28th May | 5:00 pm
The Democratic Party: No Place for Moderates? Democratic Party Debate
From Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to Bernie Sanders, the Democratic party’s progressive wing has been met with great success. While Joe Biden, the party’s presumptive presidential nominee, continues to be the flag-bearer for the moderate wing of the party, he does so on an increasingly progressive platform. Is this realignment the route to success in 2020?
Speakers Justin Buoen
Campaign Manager for Amy Klobuchar's bid for the 2020 Democratic nomination for President. He previously worked on Klobuchar's two successful Senatorial campaigns.
Clare Malone
Senior political writer at FiveThirtyEight, with whom she covered the 2016 election of Donald Trump.
Peter Baker
American journalist, serving as chief White House correspondent for the New York Times and political analyst for NBC.
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The Oxford Union
Thursday, 4th June | 5:00 pm
Love Island: Should We Regret the Summer of Love? Love Island Debate
Love Island is not just a reality TV show, it is a cultural phenomenon. Its impact extends far beyond the gossip columns; in a supposedly egalitarian and liberated era, what does its popularity tell us about ourselves? Is it just harmless fun, or does it represent something deeper?
Speakers Malin Andersson
Amy Hart
Jack Fowler
Dr Amelia Morris
Love Island Season 2 and Take Me Out contestant. She is a mental health and body positivity advocate.
Love Island Season 4 contestant. He has recently released his debut single, Back to Yours.
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Love Island Season 5 and Celebs Go Dating contestant. She left the Island early for mental health reasons.
Feminist academic, who has written extensively on the representation of female sexuality in Love Island.
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Tuesday, 9th June | 5:00 pm
Refugee Crisis: The Moral Failure of Europe? Refugee Crisis Debate
Over the last 10 years, countless refugees have lost their lives in the Mediterranean. With COVID-19 sweeping camps throughout Southern Europe, the future of those who have survived is far from bright. What duty do European nations have to these migrants? Does the reluctance of governments to help constitute a moral failure on the part of the entire continent?
Speakers Notis A. Mitarachi
Yusra Mardini
Joan Clos
Catherine Wollard
Greek Minister for Immigration and Asylum, and New Democracy party MP. In 2014, he served as President of the Council of the European Union.
Former Executive Director of UN-Habitat, from 2010 to 2018. He previously served as Mayor of Barcelona from 1997 to 2006.
Syrian swimmer and member of the 2016 Refugee Olympic Athletes Team, having fled the Syrian civil war aged 17.
Secretary General of the European Council on Refugees and Exiles, an NGO alliance supporting the rights of displaced people.
Justine Greening
Former Conservative MP and Cabinet Minister, who served as Secretary of State for International Development at the height of the refugee crisis.
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The Oxford Union
Thursday, 11th June | 5:00 pm
The Future of Work: What will the the 21st Century Workplace look like? Future of Work Debate In the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis, will the world of work ever return to normal? Is it time for businesses to come to terms with remote working, and the permanent digitisation of the workplace? And with the advent of automation, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, what exactly are humans at risk of losing to machines?
Speakers John McAfee
Jonathan Rochelle
Prof. William Kerr
Prof. Kate Kellogg
British-American computer programmer and businessman. He founded software company McAfee, running it until 1994.
Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, and co-director of Harvard’s Managing the Future of Work initiative.
Prof. Nancy Rothbard
Chair of the Management Department and David Pottruck Professor of Management at Wharton Business School.
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Director of Product Management at Zapier. He previously worked at Google, where he developed Google Docs and Google Drive.
Professor of Management and Innovation at the MIT Sloan School of Management, specialising in organisational change and employment models.
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Thursday, 18th June | 5:00 pm
India: A Failure of its Founding Fathers’ Vision? India Debate
72 years into its independence, is India continuing along the path of progress, or is it going backwards? Following a year of political turmoil, from secular violence to the revocation of the special status of Kashmir, does India live up to its founding principles? If not, does blame lie with its Hindu nationalist politicians, or with the constitution itself?
Speakers Rajdeep Sardesai
Indira Jaising
Kanhaiya Kumar
Harish Salve
Indian News Anchor and Author. He is the prime time host at the India Today Network, also serving as the Group's Consulting Editor.
Member of the National Executive Council of the Communist Party of India, who was at the forefront of the 2016 student protests in New Delhi.
Indian Lawyer, known for her human rights activism. She is co-founder of the Lawyers' Collective, an NGO devoted to feminist and left-wing causes.
Indian Lawyer, practicing as a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India. He previously served as the Solicitor General of India.
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The Oxford Union
Tuesday, 5th May | 5:00 pm
The Economics of COVID-19 COVID-19 Series
The economic consequences of the COVID-19 crisis will be deep and wide-ranging. With the world economy facing a crisis on at least the scale of 2008, what will recovery look like? Will the fallout of the crisis define a generation?
Speakers Prof. Jason Furman
Dr Eric Feigl-Ding
Prof. Michèle Tertilt
Ian Bremmer
American economist and professor at the Harvard Kennedy School. He served as Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors under President Obama. Professor of Economics at the University of Mannheim. She has written extensively on the economic impact of COVID-19.
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American public health scientist and health economist at the Harvard School of Public Health. He was one of the first scientists to urge an aggressive response to COVID-19. American political scientist, known for his work on foreign policy and political risk, lately with regards to the impact of COVID-19.
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Tuesday, 19th May | 5:00 pm
The Marginalised Voices of the Pandemic COVID-19 Series
Many have described COVID-19 as a great leveller. Its consequences, however, look likely to only exacerbate international inequality. Minorities and low-paid workers seem to be the hardest hit by the virus, and most likely to suffer the economic consequences. Do marginalised voices risk being obscured in favour of economic recovery?
Speakers Dr Kamiar Alaei
Nicole Jacobs
Prof. Linda Bauld
Paul Farmer CBE
Iranian doctor, formerly imprisoned by the Iranian government following his work in combatting HIV/AIDS.
Scottish behavioural scientist, and current Bruce and John Usher Chair of Public Health at the University of Edinburgh.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales. She has worked for domestic abuse charities for over two decades.
CEO of Mind, the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. He also serves as Chair of the NHS England Independent Oversight & Advisory Group.
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The Oxford Union
Tuesday, 2nd June | 5:00 pm
COVID-19: A Gateway to Authoritarianism? COVID-19 Series
Authoritarian governments have been both lauded and criticised for their handling of the COVID-19 crisis. While the most effective tracking and prevention technologies function best under authoritarian regimes, many fear such technologies opening the door to a greater role of the state in everyday life. Will the pandemic spell the end of liberal democracy as we know it?
Speakers Linda Sarsour
Rami Khouri
Dr Erica Frantz
Prof. Lawrence Gostin
American women's and civil rights activist, known for her work on the 2017 and 2019 Women's Marches. Her memoir was published in March.
Assistant Professor in Political Science at Michigan State University, and expert on the security and policy implications of authoritarian rule.
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Senior Fellow and Professor of Journalism at the American University of Beirut, and nonresident senior fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School.
Director of the Georgetown University O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, and expert in public health law.
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Tuesday, 16th June | 5:00 pm
COVID-19: Finding Solutions COVID-19 Series
The COVID-19 crisis has pushed health policy to the forefront of government agendas, for the first time in generations. With international institutions such as the World Health Organisation underfunded and lacking support, where does international health policy go from here? What lessons must be learned from the crisis?
Speakers Dr Leana Wen
Robin Swann MLA
Prof. David Baltimore
Prof. Arthur Caplan
American physician and author. She previously served as President of Planned Parenthood, and as Health Commissioner for the City of Baltimore. Prominent American biologist and former President of the California Institute of Technology. He was awarded a Nobel prize in 1975.
Northern Ireland Minister of Health and former leader of the Ulster Unionist Party. He has been a member of the Northern Ireland Assembly since 2011. Author and academic, currently serving as the founding director of the Division of Medical Ethics and Professor of Bioethics at the New York University Langone Medical Center.
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The Oxford Union
Speakers
Throughout its history, the Union has strived to bring some of the world’s most celebrated figures to speak before its audience, providing its members with the opportunity to engage with those who shape our world. This term will be no different, with our full programme of podcasts, comprising a high profile line-up of speakers. We encourage you to not only listen to these inspiring voices, but also to challenge them. The online
form for submitting questions is accessible to members on our Facebook page in the week preceding each event. Please note that additional speakers may be confirmed after the start of term, and that the schedule of podcasts is subject to change. As such, we ask you to keep an eye on the Union’s website and app, as well as our Facebook page, for any updates.
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1st Week 28 2nd Week 31
3rd Week 34 4th Week 38 5th Week 41 6th Week 44
7th Week 46 8th Week 49
The Oxford Union
Monday, 27th April | 5:00 pm
Winnie Byanyima
Executive Director of UNAIDS Byanyima is a Ugandan engineer and diplomat, and the current Executive Director of UNAIDS. She previously served as the Executive Director of Oxfam International between 2013 and 2019, overseeing the organisation’s response to the Ebola epidemic. Before this, she was a successful Ugandan politician, serving as a combatant in the National Resistance Army (NRA) during the Bush Wars of the 1980s, and later as Ugandan Ambassador to France from 1989 to 1994.
Wednesday, 29th April | 5:00 pm
Katya Adler
Europe Editor for the BBC Adler is a British journalist, who has served as the BBC's Europe Editor since 2014. She is one of four presenters of the popular podcast and television series, Brexitcast. A foreign correspondent throughout her career, she has previously served as the BBC's Berlin, Madrid, and Middle East correspondents. Adler has received numerous awards for her work, including the Charles Wheeler award for Outstanding Contribution to Broadcast Journalism.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Wednesday, 29th April | 8:00 pm
Miriam Haley
Artist, and one of two main accusers in the Weinstein Trial Haley was one of the two main accusers in the 2020 trial of Harvey Weinstein, in which he was found guily of third-degree rape and sentenced to 23 years in prison. She worked as a production assistant for the Weinstein Company in the early 2000s, during which time she was assaulted by Weinstein. As one of the only Weinstein victims to have a case make it to trial, Haley has played a crucial role in the #MeToo movement.
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The Oxford Union
Friday, 1st May | 5:00 pm
Prue Leith
British TV Presenter and Chef Leith is a British-South African chef and television presenter, known for her role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off. Since 1969, she has been one of the biggest names in British food, having run a Michelin-starred restaurant, co-founded several cooking schools, and been a food columnist for The Daily Mail and The Guardian. Leith has played a role in various food charities, and currently serves as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh.
Saturday, 2nd May | 5:00 pm
George Foreman
Former Professional Boxer Foreman, nicknamed 'Big George’, is a two-time world heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist. His achievements in the ring are numerous, with fights such as the Sunshine Showdown against Joe Frazier, and Rumble In The Jungle against Muhammed Ali, to his name. Outside of boxing, Foreman is an ordained Christian minister, successful businessman, and famed author.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Monday, 4th May | 5:00 pm
Brian O’Driscoll
Former Professional Rugby Player O'Driscoll is a former Irish rugby player, regarded as one of the best players in the history of the game. He captained the Irish national team from 2003 to 2012, and the British and Irish Lions team for their 2005 tour of New Zealand. He has scored more tries than any Irish player in history, more tries than any player in the Six Nations, and is the fourth most-capped Rugby Union player in history.
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The Oxford Union
Wednesday, 6th May | 5:00 pm
Sir Clive Woodward Former Professional Rugby Player and Coach
Sir Clive is a British former rugby player, who served as coach of the England team from 1997 to 2004. As coach, he led England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, for which he was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. He was also the Director of Elite Performance for the British Olympic Association for 6 years, and is currently a pundit for ITV Sport, covering the Six Nations and Rugby World Cup.
Wednesday, 6th May | 8:00 pm
Ángel Gurría
Secretary-General of the OECD Gurría is a Mexican economist and diplomat. He has served as Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, an intergovernmental economic organisation which works to stimulate economic progress and world trade, since 2006. He has previously served on the United Nations Secretary-General’s Global Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation, and in various positions within the Mexican government.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Friday, 8th May | 5:00 pm
Gina Miller
Britsh Legal Activist and Businesswoman Miller is a Guyanese-British activist, known for initiating the legal challenges to the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union. In 2016, she successfully challenged the British government's authority to implement Brexit without seeking parliamentary approval, and, in 2019, successfully challenged the prorogation of Parliament by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. A business owner, she has also campaigned for financial transparency.
Saturday, 9th May | 5:00 pm
Joanna Lumley British Actor
Lumley is one of Britain's most prominent national figures, known for her work as an actress, comedian, presenter, model, author, television producer, and activist. The recipient of numerous awards throughout her career, she was in 2017 honoured with the BAFTA Fellowship Award. She is also known as a human rights activist, having worked extensively with the Gurkha Justice Campaign and Survival International.
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The Oxford Union
Monday, 11th May | 5:00 pm
Marc Randoplh
Co-founder and former CEO of Netflix Randolph is the co-founder and first CEO of Netflix. An entrepreneur, he helped found the Macworld magazine, Macwarehouse, and was previously vice president of Pure Atria. He launched Netflix in 1998, and helped with its initial public offering. Since leaving Netflix in 2002, Randolph has become the Entrepreneur in Residence at High Point University. His book, That Will Never Work: The Birth of Netflix and the Amazing Life of an Idea, was published in 2019.
Wednesday, 13th May | 5:00 pm
Dr Soumya Swaminathan
Chief Scientist at the WHO Swaminathan is a renowned Indian clinical scientist and paediatrician, currently serving as Chief Scientist at the World Health Organisation, having previously served as Deputy Director-General of Programmes. She was previously the Director-General of the Indian Council of Medical Research. In her role at WHO, she has been at the forefront of the organisation's response to the COVID-19 crisis.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Wednesday, 13th May | 8:00 pm
Daniel Sturridge
Professional Football Player Sturridge is an English footballer, until recently playing for Turkish club Trabzonspor. He has played for several Premier League clubs, including Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, and most famously as a striker for the English national team in the 2012 Summer Olympics, the 2014 World Cup, and Euro 2016. He is currently serving a worldwide ban for breaching betting rules.
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The Oxford Union
Friday, 15th May | 5:00 pm
Joshua Wong
Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Wong is a Hong Kong student leader, known as a leader of the Umbrella movement, a civil resistance movement that occupied the city for 79 days in 2014. He has founded student activist groups, including Scholarism and DemosistĹ?, and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017. He has been repeatedly disqualified as a political candidate, detained, and imprisoned for his activism.
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Saturday, 16th May | 5:00 pm
Senator Ted Cruz
United States Senator from Texas Cruz is a US Senator from Texas, serving since 2013. He rose to prominence seeking the Republican nomination for President in 2016, losing to Donald Trump. His reelection to the US Senate in 2018, beating Democratic opponent Beto O'Rourke, was one of the most publicised and expensive Senate races in history. Though one of Trump's most vocal critics in the 2016 campaign, he is a close ally of the President in the Senate.
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The Oxford Union
Monday, 18th May | 5:00 pm
Governor Jeb Bush Former Governor of Florida
Bush is an American politician, who served as Governor of Florida between 1999 and 2007. In 2016, he unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for the Presidency. He is the son of President George H. W. Bush, and younger brother of President George W. Bush. He remains a prominent critic of President Donald Trump.
Wednesday, 20th May | 5:00 pm
Mike Schur
American Television Producer Schur is an American producer, writer, and actor. After serving as a producer and writer for the comedy series The Office, he co-created Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Most recently, he has created The Good Place, and was a producer on Master of None. He has won two Emmy awards for his work on Saturday Night Live and The Office.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Wednesday, 20th May | 8:00 pm
Judith Heumann American Disability Rights Activist
Heumann is an American disability rights activist, and internationally recognised leader in the disability community. In 2010, she was nominated by President Obama as the first Special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the US Department of State, previously serving as the World Bank's First Advisor on Disability and Development. Her memoir, Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist was published earlier this year.
Friday, 22nd May | 5:00 pm
Rainn Wilson American Actor
Wilson is an American actor, comedian, writer, director, producer, and businessman, best known for his role as Dwight Schrute on the sitcom The Office. Wilson has earned three consecutive Emmy Award nominations for his role in The Office, as well as international acclaim for his roles in Six Feet Under, The Rocker, Super, Star Trek: Discovery, and The Meg. Wilson is also founder of the website and YouTube channel, SoulPancake.
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The Oxford Union
Saturday, 23rd May | 5:00 pm
Phil Neville
Coach and Former Professional Football Player Neville is a former footballer and current Head Coach of the England women's team. During the decade in which he played for Manchester United, Neville won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and the Champions League. He also boasts 59 England caps, and is co-owner of Salford City FC along with several of his former United teammates.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Monday, 25th May | 5:00 pm
President Kersti Kaljulaid President of Estonia
Kaljulaid is the President of Estonia, serving since 2016. The country's fifth President, she is also its youngest ever, and the first female head of state since its declaration of independence in 1918. She previously served as a state official, representing Estonia in the European Court of Auditors from 2004 until 2016. In 2017, she was the first Estonian to be featured in the Forbes list, The World's 100 Most Powerful Women.
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The Oxford Union
Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Wednesday, 27th May | 5:00 pm
John Delaney
American Politician Delaney is an American attorney, businessman, and former United States Representative for Maryland’s 6th congressional district. He was the first Democrat to announce his bid for the 2020 Democratic nomination for the Presidency, which he subsequently suspended on January 31st. Considered a moderate, he is a supporter of corporate tax increases, universal healthcare, and has received the top score of 100 from the Human Rights Campaign.
Wednesday, 27th May | 8:00 pm
Dame Jane Goodall
English Scientist, Primatologist and Conservationist Goodall is a British primatologist and anthropologist, considered the world's foremost expert on chimpanzees. For over 60 years, she has continuously studied the social and family interactions of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania. She is the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, a global conservation organisation known for its community-centred programmes. She was named a UN Messenger of Peace in 2002, and made a DBE in 2004.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Friday, 29th May | 5:00 pm
Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee
Olympic Medal-Winning Atheletes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee are British triathletes, who rose to fame with their success at the 2012 London Olympics. Alistair is the only athlete to hold two Olympic titles in the triathlon event, was a two-time World Champion, and in 2013 was awarded an MBE for services to the sport. Jonathan was 2012 Triathlon World Champion, and silver medalist in 2013 and 2016.
Saturday, 30th May | 5:00 pm
David Lammy MP Labour Politician
Lammy is a Labour Party politician and current Shadow Secretary of State for Justice and Shadow Lord Chancellor. He has served as MP for Tottenham since 2000, and as Minister for Culture under the last Labour government. In 2014, he unsuccessfully sought the Labour candidacy for Mayor of London. Lammy is known for being vocal on topics of race and inequality, in particular in the UK criminal justice system.
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The Oxford Union
Monday, 1st June | 5:00 pm
Sean Rad
Founder of Tinder Rad is the co-founder of dating app Tinder, serving as the company's CEO and Chairman until 2016. Tinder is one of the world's most popular apps, with 26 million 'matches' per day, billions of users, and an estimated market value of $3 billion.
Wednesday, 3rd June | 5:00 pm
President Egils Levits President of Latvia
Levits is the President of Latvia, serving since July 2019. A lawyer, political scientist, and judge, he previously served as a Member of the European Court of Justice from 2004 to 2019. He has been involved in Latvian politics since the late Soviet era, contributing to the declaration of renewed Latvian independence in 1990. His first book, A Will for Statehood: Ideas and thoughts for Latvia 1985-2018, was published last year.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Friday, 5th June | 5:00 pm
Steve Aoki American DJ
Aoki is an American DJ, record producer, and music executive. He is known for both his personal projects and his collaborations, including with will.i.am, BTS, and Backstreet Boys. His debut album, Wonderland, was nominated for a Grammy in 2013. He is the founder of the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, which raises money for humanitarian causes around the world.
Saturday, 6th June | 5:00 pm
Missy Franklin
Olympic Gold Medal-Winning Swimmer Franklin is an American former competitive swimmer, and five-time Olympic gold medalist. She has been named World Swimmer of the Year and American Swimmer of the Year, and has won 27 medals in international competition. She previously held the world record in the 200-metre backstroke, and for the most World Aquatics Championships medals in women's swimming.
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The Oxford Union
Monday, 8th June | 5:00 pm
Charles Leclerc Ferrari F1 Driver
Leclerc is a MonĂŠgasque racing driver, currently driving in Formula One for Ferrari. In 2019, he became the youngest ever and first non-Mercedes driver to win the Pole Trophy in the 2019 F1 season. Leclerc also won the GP3 Series championship in 2016, and the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2017. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is one of several prominent racing drivers to champion esports.
Wednesday, 10th June | 5:00 pm
Lindsey Vonn
World Cup-winning Alpine Ski Racer Vonn is an American former World Cup alpine ski racer, and winner of four World Cup overall championships. She is America's most successful ski racer and is considered one of the world's greatest skiers. By the time of her retirement in 2019 due to injury, she was the winner of 82 world cup races - a women's skiing record.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Friday, 12th June | 5:00 pm
Professor Joseph Stiglitz Nobel Prize-Winning Economist
Stiglitz is an American economist, public policy analyst, and professor at Columbia University. Stiglitz was Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers from 1995 to 1997, and Chief Economist of the World Bank from 1997 to 2000. A supporter of Georgist public finance theory and critic of the management of globalisation, laissez-faire economics, and international institutions, Stiglitz received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2001.
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The Oxford Union
Saturday, 13th June | 5:00 pm
Opal Tometi
Founder of Black Lives Matter Tometi is the co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, which has since 2013 drawn attention to racial inequality in the US. She has been featured on various lists of the world's greatest leaders for her activism, and her work has been widely published. In 2013, she was named one of TIME's Women of the Year.
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Monday, 15th June | 5:00 pm
Christina Lamb
Chief Foreign Correspondent for the Sunday Times Lamb is the chief foreign correspondent for The Sunday Times, and a war reporter who has covered conflicts in nations including Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. She is the recipient of multiple awards for her reporting, including four British Press Awards, an OBE, and the European Prix Bayeux-Calvados for war correspondents. She joins us to discuss her latest book, Our Bodies, Their Battlefield, which addresses the use of rape as a weapon of war.
Wednesday, 17th June | 5:00 pm
Ryan McCarthy
United States Secretary of the Army McCarthy is the current US Secretary of the Army, serving, de facto, since 2017. Having served in Afghanistan as a US Army Ranger, he has since worked as a professional staff member on the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs, as a special assistant to former United States Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, and at defence company Lockheed Martin.
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The Oxford Union
Friday, 19th June | 5:00 pm
Christopher Plummer Canadian Actor
Plummer is a Canadian actor, whose career has spanned eight decades. Best known for his role as Captain von Trapp in The Sound of Music, he has received widespread popular and critical acclaim for his numerous roles, ranging from Rudyard Kipling in The Man Who Would Be King to Leo Tolstoy in The Last Station. In 2012, Plummer became the only Canadian to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting: an Emmy, an Academy Award, and a Tony.
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Tr i n i t y 2 0 2 0
Saturday, 20th June | 5:00 pm
Loretta Lynch
Former Attorney General of the United States Lynch is an American lawyer who served as the 83rd US Attorney General under President Obama. She was the first African-American woman to hold this office. Lynch previously served as US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, from 1999 to 2001 and 2010 to 2015. In July 2016, Lynch announced the decision of the Justice Department to close the investigation into the use of a private email server by then-presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
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The Oxford Union
Weekend S
During the week, our debate style podcasts will focus on politics and global affairs, involving subject experts delivering rigorous arguments on the most pressing issues of our time. At the weekend, however, we hope to take a break; to look at the lighter, brighter issues in the world. Our Weekend Specials will be four, one-off podcasts, organised around a specific theme, which will take you back to happier times, or give you practical tips, as you navigate these isolated times.
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Specials
Chefs’ Roundtable
Book Club
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Demystifying Mindfulness 56 The Comedy Club
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The Oxford Union
Sunday, 3rd May | 12:00 pm
The Chefs’ Roundtable
With the restaurant industry suffering its greatest blow in modern history, chefs have turned to social media to enter our homes, showing us how to survive in a restaurantless world. Cooking allows us to be creative, and to connect with our loved ones in such disconnected times; these chefs join us to show us how.
Speakers Asma Khan
Tim Raue
Ana Roš
Shamil Thakrar
Indian-born British chef and owner of prominent London restaurant, Darjeeling Express. She is the recipient of numerous restaurant awards, and works to support aspiring female chefs. Self-taught Slovenian chef, and Head Chef at Kobarid’s Hiša Franko. In 2017, she was named the world’s best female chef by the World's 50 Best Restaurants.
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Renowned German chef, whose eponymous restaurant has been recognised by The World's 50 Best Restaurants and with two Michelin stars. Co-founder of the Dishoom chain, known for its immersive experiences and long queues. He previously worked in consultancy.
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Sunday, 17th May | 12:00 pm
Book Club
As COVID-19 confines us to our homes, literature provides not only solace but escape. Yet in allowing us to hear voices from beyond our own walls, it teaches us how to engage with the realities of the world we face. Has the role of literature changed in this uncertain time? How can it help us to forge connections in an isolated world?
Speakers Chigozie Obioma
Nigerian writer and Assistant Professor of Literature and Creative Writing at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He has twice been nominated for the Booker Prize.
Juan Gabriel Vasquez
Colombian writer, journalist, and translator. The recipient of numerous literary awards, he is regarded as one of Latin America's most influential novelists.
Joyce Carol Oates
American writer and Professor Emerita at Princeton University. She has published 58 novels, and received accolades including the National Book Award and two Pulitzer Prize nominations.
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The Oxford Union
Sunday, 31st May | 12:00 pm
Demystifying Mindfulness
Mental health is one of the defining crises of our generation, yet is often overlooked. As we collectively encounter great and unprecedented problems, mindfulness offers a genuinely practical solution to the challenges we all face. Far from a buzzword, it is a crucial tool in a busy world - and this podcast will teach you how to use it.
Speakers Sharon Salzberg
New York Times bestselling author and Buddhist meditation teacher. She is the co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society.
Gelong Thubten
Buddhist monk, meditation teacher, and author. He teaches mindfulness and meditation internationally, including with major corporations and Hollywood sets.
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Amshi Jha
Leading expert in neuroscience and mindfulness. Her most recent research used mindfulness training to improve situational awareness in soldiers.
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Sunday, 14th June | 12:00 pm
The Comedy Club
In the current circumstances, humour is more important than ever. Comedy in a socially distanced world is not just an opportunity to critique the state of the world we live in, but a crucial form of escapism, from within the comfort of our homes.
Speakers Samantha Bee
Deborah Frances-White
Paul Sinha
Simon Evans
Canadian-American comedian, writer, and producer. A former correspondent on The Daily Show, she now hosts the Emmy-winning Full Frontal With Samantha Bee. Nicknamed ‘sarcasm in a suit’, Sinha has won extensive awards in both comedy and quizzing. He is now a regular on ITV’s The Chase.
Stand-up comedian, writer, and host of the podcast The Guilty Feminist. She wrote the comedy thriller Say My Name and has given a popular TEDx talk. Host of BBC 4's Simon Evans Goes To Market and a weekly regular on Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week.
Shazia Mirza
Writer of The Kardashians Made Me Do It and a regular contributor to The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph, her satire is often praised as ‘brave’.
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Members’ Info
Treasurer's Treats 59 How it Works 60 How to Get Involved 61 Competitive Debating 62 Library 63 The Committee 64
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Treasurer's Treats Make the most of your membership: enjoy these exclusive offers by presenting your membership card. Owing to circumstances, if you experience any issues in using the discounts, please contact Jack Solomon by sending an e-mail to treasurer@oxford-union.org. Bars and Pubs Angels Be At One Roul’s Sandy’s Piano Bar Duke of Cambridge Hanks Bar The House Bar The Oxford Wine Café Duke of Monmouth Royal Standard Cafés & Delicatessens Art Café Artisan Café Demijohns Formosan Tea Bar Fantastea iScream Gelateria Jimbob’s Modern Art Oxford Moo-Moo’s Natural Buzz Nectar Oxford Sandwich Company Queen’s Lane Coffee House Tick Tock Café Vaults & Gardens Café Barefoot West Cornwall Pasty Ole & Steen Le Pain Quotidien Common Ground Opera Cafe
Happy Hour Prices (Sun-Fri) 2 cocktails for £10 (Sun-Thu) 30% discount (1600-2000) 25% discount on selected drinks (Sun-Thu) Oxford Union Cocktail Menu, Happy Hour Prices (Sun-Thu) 20% discount Oxford Union Cocktail Menu, Happy Hour Prices (Sun-Thu) 10% discount 10% discount up to £20 10% discount up to £20 10% discount Spend £5 and get a free cake 10% discount and free gift wrapping 10% discount 15% discount 10% discount 15% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 5% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount (exc.1200-1400), 20% food discount (Mon-Fri, after 1400) 15% off cakes and hot drinks exc. (Mon-Fri, 1400-1800) 20% discount 10% discount 10% discount 15% discount 10% discount
Restaurants Café Rouge Cinnamon Kitchen Côte Brasserie Mamma Mia Pizzeria Moshi Pieminister Pizza Pilgrims The Alchemist Branca Brasserie Blanc Neds Noodle Box No. 1 Ship Street Salt ‘n’ Sauce Tommi’s Burger Joint Turl Street Kitchen Victors Opium Den Shops & Others Burrows & Hare Fudge Kitchen Happy Cakes OxBicycles T. M. Lewin The Oxford Wine Company Ultimate Picture Palace The Body Shop WHSmith
25% discount 30% discount (Sun-Thu), 2 classic cocktails for £10 Complimentary Kir Royale when dining 20% discount (Tue-Fri, 17001930) 15% discount (after 1500) 10% discount 25% discount 10% discount on food 20% discount (Sun-Thu) Three courses for the price of two 15% discount 15% discount (Mon-Thu) 20% discount 15% discount 15% discount (after 1200) 20% discount (Sun-Fri) 10% discount 10% discount 5 slices for £16 (or 7 for £22) 15% discount Complimentary bike lock upon bike purchase 15% discount 10% discount 2 for 1 on Tuesday 25% discount 20% discount on books, stationery, cards
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The Oxford Union
How it Works The affairs of the Society are managed by a number of committees, each of which will continue to meet online throughout the term. These committees work for you, so please don’t hesitate to email the respective chairs for information on how to join these meetings virtually. Standing Committee Chair – Mahi Joshi, President The society’s governing body, the Standing Committee makes the society's most important decisions, and recommends rules changes to the House. Monday, 11:00 Library Committee Chair – Harry Deacon, Librarian The Library Committee is responsible for the Library’s overall management, and decides which new books the Library purchases. This will be particularly relevant this term, with the launch of the postal service for members. Monday, 14:15 Consultative Committee Chair – Louisa Broeg, CCC The Consultative Committee gives you the opportunity to ask questions to the sitting officials of the Union, and stay up to date on the running of the society’s events. Monday, 13:15 6 0
Access Committee Chair – Rachel Hart, Senior Access Officer The Access Committee is responsible for promoting the inclusion of underrepresented groups, by planning events and suggesting changes. Friday, 13:00 Finance Committee Chair – Jack Solomon, Treasurer The Finance Committee scrutinises the Union’s finances and reports its findings to the Standing Committee. Monday, 10:00 Bar Strategy Committee Chair – Cansu Uyguroglu, Secretary The Bar Strategy Committee oversees the management of the Bar, and makes decisions regarding its stocks, budgets, and furnishings. Contact the Secretary, Cansu Uyguroglu, for details. Debate Selection Committee Chair – Geneva Roy, CDSC Debate Selection Committee manages the Union’s competitive debating wing, arranging training and competitions. Contact the CDSC, Geneva Roy, for details.
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How to Get Involved Submit Questions The Union remains resolute in its commitment to giving members the opportunity to engage with, and challenge its speakers. For each of our podcasts, members will have the opportunity to submit questions via a Google Form, which will be available on our Facebook Page in the days preceding each event. We encourage you to take advantage of this, to join the conversation this Trinity. Run for election Each term, elections are held for Committee and Officer positions on Friday of 7th Week. Candidates who are successful in these elections assist in inviting speakers and arranging debates for the following term, and undertake a range of other responsibilities. This term’s election will be subject to a significantly altered procedure, both for candidates and voting members. All voting will be undertaken electronically, and more information will be released nearer the time on how to register to vote. There will be significant changes to the usual rules for candidates. If you intend to run in this election, please email the Returning Officer at ro@oxford-union.org for more comprehensive details. Apply to be on Appointed Committee A number of positions on Oxford Union Committees are appointed, including Press, Logistics, Sponsorship, and
Liberation Officers. All appointees also assist in inviting speakers and arranging debaters over the vacation, typically completing ‘vacation days’ in Oxford (depending on the status of COVID-19). No applicant will be at a disadvantage for being unable to be resident in Oxford over Trinity, or the vacation. Applications for Michaelmas Term’s appointed positions will open in 5th Week, and will be advertised on the Oxford Union Facebook page and mailing list. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis, likely remotely. Please contact the President-Elect, Beatrice Barr, at president-elect@oxford-union. org if you have any questions, or would like to get involved. Join a Committee All committee meetings are open to members to attend and observe. If you are interested in attending or becoming a member of any of these committees, simply email the relevant committee chair (detailed overleaf), to find out more. The Union Bar, Library, and Buildings Due to what we expect will be a prolonged period of social distancing in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, we, unfortunately, expect the rooms of the Union, as well as the Union Library and Bar, to be closed for the duration of Trinity term. This arrangement will remain under constant review as the situation changes. Please keep an eye on your emails, and on the Union’s social media and website, for details. 61
The Oxford Union
Competitive Debating The Union’s competitive debating community is one of the largest and most successful in the world. This year, Oxford debaters won the World Universities Debating Championships and the prize for the Top Speaker, with several teams qualifying for the competition’s semifinals. Oxford Debating offers something for everyone, from novices to world champions. Online Training Our online, Open Stream Training will run every Sunday evening, and is open to everyone. Led by some of Oxford’s most experienced debaters, it will consist of a workshop and practice debates, designed to target specific debating skills. If you are new to debating, this is the perfect place to start. For those with prior debating experience, our online Advanced Stream Training will run every Wednesday evening, including a one-on-one development and strengthening programme. Competitions Each year, we fund teams of novices and experienced debaters to represent us in debating competitions, both nationally and internationally. During this pandemic, we aim to continue this and send teams and judges to online competitions. Notably, we play host to the 6 2
Oxford IV, one of the largest debating competitions in Europe, in addition to organising a nationwide schools competition. Public Speaking Workshops Each term, our debaters facilitate comprehensive public speaking workshops, open to all members with no prior experience of speaking and debating. These sessions are designed to be casual and accessible, focusing on a variety of transferable skills, from argument construction to speech delivery. Most popular are our Wom*n’s Workshops, run by and open to all self-identifying female and non-binary members, and our ESL workshops, for those with English as their second language. If you have any further questions, or wish to partake in our online training and workshops, please contact the Chair of the Debate Selection Committee, Geneva Roy, at cdsc@oxford-union.org. To sign up to the mailing list for regular updates, including information on how to apply for tournaments, simply send a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk. For regular updates, please visit the ‘Oxford Debating’ Facebook Page and ‘Oxford Debaters’ Facebook Group.
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The Library While the Union’s tranquil Library and buildings may remain closed for the foreseeable future, the Library team remains committed to serving members in the best way possible this Trinity term. As such, the Union Library is pleased to announce a new book purchasing request service for members. This service will allow us to support our members' learning in these unprecedented times, ensuring that you have the resources you need to continue your studies. Members can make a purchase request for books they need access to by emailing library@oxford-union.org.
Library Committee will meet every Monday afternoon to authorise the purchase of books, which will be posted directly to members but must be returned when the Library reopens. For further details, including the information required when making a purchase request, please visit our website at www. oxford-union.org/library. If you have any questions or suggestions regarding this flagship service or the Library in general, please do not hesitate to contact the Librarian, Harry Deacon, at librarian@ oxford-union.org. You can also follow the Library on Facebook and Twitter (@ OxUnionLibrary) for updates.
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The Oxford Union
The Committee
Mahi Joshi Trinity
President
Librarian Harry Deacon Pembroke
Treasurer Jack Solomon St Peter’s
Secretary Cansu Uyguroglu Pembroke
President-Elect Beatrice Barr St Peter’s
Librarian-Elect Julia Willemyns Merton
Treasurer-Elect Geneva Roy Brasenose
CCC Louisa Broeg Wadham
Tamzin Lent St Peter’s
Standing Committee
Frankie Wright Trinity
Olly Boyland University
Adam Roble St Edmund Hall
Adam Shewry Balliol
Rochelle Moss Oriel
Joseph Mochhoury St Hugh’s`
Secretary’s Committee
Josh Wallace Jesus
Thea Drinkall Hertford
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Molly Mantle St Hugh’s
Sonya Ribner Magdalen
Agata Hodur Brasenose
Viren Shetty Christ Church
Arthur Tang Queen’s
Henry He Magdalen
Ariff Castronovo Pembroke
Zeus Chen Mansfield
Santiago Bedoya-Pardo Regent’s Park
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Appointed Officials & Staff
Chief of Staff Cyrus Naji Somerville
Director of Digital Operations Anagh Agarwal Lincoln
Director of Operations Mackenzie Mully Regent’s Park
Returning Officer
Geneva Roy
CCS
Melissa Hussain
Access Officer (Senior)
Rachel Hart
Access Officer (Junior)
Sahil Shah
Women’s Officer
Gurmehar Kaur
Ethnic Minorities Officer
Aditya Dabral
Disabilities Officer
Maria Eugenia Ramundo
International Officer
Sevim Aktas
Graduate Officer
Alana Brown
Brookes Officer
Zara Alexander
Press Officers
Mia Jeronimus, Timea Iliffe, Duarte Amaro, Syren Singh, Annalena Pott, Thomas Clark Irvine
Logistics Officers
Ann-Kristin Knoll, Dara Sanwal, Anvee Bhutani, Samuel Gibson, Anna Wan, Lorenzo Rangone
Sponsorship Officers
Jack Chong, Jonathan Yap, Daniel Syed Chaudhry, June-Ho Chung, Alvin Boateng, Shariz Aslam
Graphic Design
www.cruciblecreative.co.uk
Cover Sketch
Lucy Li Chenhui
Staff
Trustees Lindsey Warne
House Manager
Bridget Gaughan
Events Manager
Joanne Morgan
Librarian-In-Charge Accounts Manager
Director of Sponsorship Alex Warr St Anne’s
George Penny
CDSC
Bursar
Director of Press Johnny Sturgeon New College
Thomas Corrick
Stephen Dixon Hon. Peter Jay Sean Power, Senior Librarian Tim Myatt, Senior Treasurer
Rob Phillips
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The Oxford Union
How to stay informed
With events that sync to your calendar, notifications about newly added speakers, and numerous interactive features, the app is the best place to keep up to date with the Union. Download from the App Store or Play Store now. Our schedule of podcasts is subject to change.
You can also stay up to date with the Union by signing up to the mailing list, available on our website homepage, www. oxford-union.org, and by liking our Facebook page and turning on notifications.
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oxford-union.org
This term is a product of the creativity, optimism and hard-work of my wonderful committee, the Union’s staff, and technical team. Thank you all, for the many hours you have spent in making this happen- for rising to the challenge, and for keeping the show on the road. I have learnt more in the two, long years I have spent at the Union, than I could’ve ever imagined. The endless challenges have come hand-in-hand with some incredible friends, for whom I will always be grateful. Thank you to everyone who ran with, and supported Together and Imagine, for the confidence you had in me. To NB, BC, GT, AS and HN, for believing in me from the beginning. To AWH, AD, AH, LW, MO, CU and CN, for your support and friendship along the way. To OT and BM, for all the things I have learnt from you. And to LCW, for a whole lot more. Thank you to the four people who made this term happen.To HD, for your trust from the start, and your dedication since. To JS, for your enthusiasm, and your intense hard work. To LB, for your focus, commitment and leadership. And to BB, for going above and beyond. Thank you for being there at each step, and for doing more than I could’ve asked for to make this possible. Thank you to all my friends at Trinity, for your patience, encouragement and unconditional support. In particular, to RD, HH, KS and TG, for living these two years with me, for keeping me sane, and for never letting me know, even if it all did get a bit too much. The early mornings, or the late nights- I couldn’t have done it without you. Finally, this term card is for my family, especially my parents, who have made all of this possible- from the first day, to the very last. Really, thank you.