Ep. 38 - Understanding The Rising Tide of Populism with Michael Ignatieff and Marcus Kolga

In the latest episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Senior Fellow Marcus Kolga was joined by historian, political scientist, former Liberal Party of Canada leader, and the President and Rector of Central European University, Michael Ignatieff. The two discuss the seemingly growing conflict between liberalism and rising populism, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Throughout their wide-ranging discussion, Ignatieff shares his insights on the challenges posed by populist forces, the role of Russian disinformation, the tensions between climate action and resource development, the burgeoning "Wexit" movement, and many more salient and important topics. Ultimately, Ignatieff argues that while there are worrying elements within populism, it is a democratic response to real problems, and he remains an optimist that the institutions of Western liberalism will continue to hold in the face of mounting challenges.