A recap of our OU PIPS week in March 2026
OU PIPS Week was a dynamic and engaging showcase of ideas, bringing together leading academics and practitioners to explore some of the most pressing issues in politics, international relations, and policy. Across the week, students heard from expert speakers on topics ranging from global geopolitics and the Israel–Palestine conflict to ageing in international development, propaganda and media, and the realities of the humanitarian sector. Each session offered not only insight but also open discussion, giving students the chance to challenge perspectives, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of complex global issues. For a new society, the week marked a major success, demonstrating the strength of the OU PIPS community and setting the foundation for an ambitious programme of future events.
Recaps
Professor Michael Clarke
At this OU PIPS Week event, Professor Michael Clarke offered a detailed and accessible examination of two major theatres of contemporary conflict. He traced the origins of the war in Ukraine back to the end of the Cold War, explaining how long-standing political ambitions and shifts in Russian power have shaped the current crisis and its wider implications for European security. The discussion then turned to the Middle East, where he outlined the region’s key actors, the dynamics behind the Israel–Iran confrontation, and the broader impact on global politics and economic stability. Bringing together historical context, strategic analysis and audience questions, the session provides a clear overview of how today’s conflicts connect to deeper patterns in international relations.
Dr. Jamie Allinson
Dr Jamie Allinson’s OU PIPS Week talk offered a critical analysis of the Israel–Iran conflict, examining its origins, escalation, and consequences through the lenses of international law, power politics, and regional strategy. He challenged dominant media narratives by questioning claims of self‑defence, legality, and proportionality, and explored how nuclear politics and failed diplomacy have shaped the crisis. The session also considered the wider global implications, including risks of escalation, energy insecurity, and the weakening of international institutions such as the UN. Lively discussion followed, giving students a rare opportunity to engage directly with contemporary geopolitics and contested interpretations of global order.
Oenone Chadburn
Oenone Chadburn’s OU PIPS Week session explored the growing importance of ageing in global politics and development, highlighting how older people are often overlooked in policy, humanitarian action, and data collection. Drawing on her work with HelpAge International, she demonstrated how global networks and civil society can amplify underrepresented voices and influence international frameworks. The talk also examined how global conventions are developed, revealing both the opportunities and challenges of shaping policy through international cooperation and local engagement. Overall, the session underscored the need for better evidence, stronger collaboration, and more inclusive approaches to address the realities of an ageing global population.
Dr. Precious Chatterje-Doody
Dr Precious Chatterje-Doody’s OU PIPS Week talk explored how media, politics, and war are connected through emotion, narrative, and representation. Drawing on examples from Russian media and the Ukraine conflict, she showed that propaganda is not just about truth or falsehood, but about shaping how people feel and interpret events. From historical cases to modern social media and gaming, she highlighted how emotional appeals and identity play a key role in influencing audiences. The session also emphasised the importance of critical thinking, encouraging students to question sources, triangulate information, and recognise bias in political communication—offering valuable tools for understanding today’s complex information environment.
Day 1 – Monday 16 March
Day 2 – Tuesday 17 March
Day 3 – Wednesday 18 March
The OU PIPS Gaggle.
As part of OU PIPS Week, we’re hosting an evening dedicated to reflecting on the talks, sessions, and insights we’ve heard so far. This will be a relaxed space to share highlights, discuss interesting points raised by the speakers, and hear what others have taken away from the week. Whether you’ve attended every event or just dipped into a few, everyone is welcome to join the conversation.
We’re calling this session the OU PIPS Gaggle. In Westminster, a gaggle is the informal name for a press gathering where journalists meet to exchange questions and reflections from politicians or government officials. Inspired by that idea, our Gaggle is a chance for members to come together, chat openly, and compare notes on everything happening throughout PIPS Week. Bring your thoughts, your curiosity, and maybe even a cup of tea—let’s debrief together.
Day 4 – Thursday, 19 March
No events
Day 5 – Friday, 20 March
