Dissidents and Dictators

Casey and Elisha sit down with Raqib Hameed Naik, an Indian journalist currently in exile because of his reporting. They discuss how Modi has degraded India's democracy and how Indian authorities are now targeting — and even allegedly assassinating — critics abroad. They discuss Raqib's own stories from Kashmir and why the world must wake up to what's now taking place in India.

Casey and Elisha chat with Mark Simon, previously one of Hong Kong's most prominent media executives — and a man now wanted by Beijing for his work exposing the crimes of the Chinese Communist Party. They talk about how the Chinese government has smothered media freedoms in Hong Kong and the ongoing trial of democracy activist Jimmy Lai.

Casey and Elisha talk with Nicaraguan democracy activist Felix Maradiaga about his lifelong push against authoritarian forces in Nicaragua. They discuss how Felix survived solitary confinement, Nicaragua's place in the global axis of authoritarianism, and what gives him hope for the future of Nicaraguan democracy. They also chat about the role of family for democratic activists.

Casey and Elisha open Season 2 with Leopoldo Lopez, the prominent Venezuelan politician and activist who has made a name for himself by building peaceful movements opposing the Maduro regime. For his efforts, he spent nearly seven years in prison, four in solitary confinement, and now lives in exile. The three discuss Lopez's upbringing in Venezuela, the family history that compelled him to enter politics, and what he loves most about the country he didn't want to leave. Lopez provides an assessment of Venezuela’s current political landscape following the stolen election in July and how he’s advocating for reform at the World Liberty Congress. Extreme sports are also discussed.

Casey and Elisha are joined by Cato Institute policy analyst and HRF fellow Nick Anthony to talk about money, the world of central bank digital currencies, and how they pose significant risks to privacy, financial freedom, and markets. They also discuss which countries are the worst offenders so far and how you can track their devious ways.

Casey and Elisha discuss HRF's newest report, investigating the UAE's breathtaking political interference campaign in the U.S. From illicit lobbying efforts to massive donations to leading think tanks and universities, to even secretly hiring America's leading military officers, the UAE's political influence campaign is arguably bigger - and far more successful - than anything any other dictatorship has ever authored. Learn more: Read HRF's report - "Infiltrating America: How the United Arab Emirates Launched an Unprecedented Political Interference Campaign in the United States" https://hrf.org/reports/infiltrating-america-how-the-united-arab-emirates-launched-an-unprecedented-political-interference-campaign-in-the-united-states/

Each year, the Human Rights Foundation brings together activists and dissidents at the Oslo Freedom Forum to call out injustice and expose threats to liberal democracy. This year, we are sharing our message of hope and resistance directly with you, in a special four-part series by the Human Rights Foundation, produced by FP Studios. Part four: “Art as Protest" with Nadia Hernández & Carlos Vives

Casey and Elisha speak with renowned Nicaraguan journalist Carlos Chamorro, who's continued his groundbreaking work even from exile. They talk about the tactics the Ortega regime has used to silence dissent in Nicaragua, how important investigative journalism is to holding authoritarians to account, and hear all about a Miss Universe scandal no one talked about.

Each year, the Human Rights Foundation brings together activists and dissidents at the Oslo Freedom Forum to call out injustice and expose threats to liberal democracy. This year, we are sharing our message of hope and resistance directly with you, in a special four-part series by the Human Rights Foundation, produced by FP Studios. Part Three: “AI for Activists" with Arthur Holland Michel

Over the weekend, the Iranian Supreme Court overturned the death sentence of Toomaj Salehi, the Iranian hip-hop artist who was charged with "corruption on earth" for his defense of the "Women, Life, Freedom" movement. His friend and social media manager, Negin Niknaam, joins Casey and Elisha to talk about Salehi. he also brings a special message from him, obtained in secret, exclusively for Human Rights Foundation and podcast listeners. HRF's legal and programs officer, Claudia Bennett, also joins to talk about what's next in the judicial process.

Each year, the Human Rights Foundation brings together activists and dissidents at the Oslo Freedom Forum to call out injustice and expose threats to liberal democracy. This year, we are sharing our message of hope and resistance directly with you, in a special four-part series by the Human Rights Foundation, produced by FP Studios. Part Two: “Shining the Light” with Sebastien Lai

Casey and Elisha are joined live from the Oslo Freedom Forum by real-life "Hotel Rwanda" hero Paul Rusesabagina and two of his children, daughters Carine and Anaise Kanimba, to talk about the banana beer recipe you probably haven't tried but should, family, adoptions, Rwanda, kidnappings, and an extraordinary international campaign that led to freedom. Paul also walks us through the last hours of his time in solitary confinement and what he was thinking all the while.

Each year, the Human Rights Foundation brings together activists and dissidents at the Oslo Freedom Forum to call out injustice and expose threats to liberal democracy. This year, we are sharing our message of hope and resistance directly with you, in a special four-part series produced by FP Studios and the Human Rights Foundation. Part One: “The Price of Freedom” with Anastasia Shevchenko

Casey and Elisha sit down with Bill Browder, the driving force behind the creation and expansion of Magnitsky sanctions over the past decade. They talk about how corrupt officials in Russia and elsewhere hate Magnitsky sanctions, and the allies Bill has found in his fight for justice. They also talk about the proposed Navalny Act, honoring slain Russian democratic activist Alexei Navalny. What’s up next for Bill? Freeing another Russian prisoner: Vladimir Kara-Murza.

Each year, the Human Rights Foundation brings together activists, dissidents, leading thinkers and innovators to Oslo, Norway, home of the Nobel Peace Prize, to empower and embolden others in their fight for freedom and democracy. This event is called The Oslo Freedom Forum. This year, we are sharing our message of hope and resistance directly with you, in a special four-part series produced by FP Studios and the Human Rights Foundation.

Casey speaks with leading Zimbabwean democracy activist Evan Mawarire, chatting about taking down tyrants, Evan’s struggle against the Mugabe regime, and how Zimbabwe’s flag became a symbol of democracy. They also discuss how Evan became one of, and potentially the, most charismatic democratic activists in the world.

Casey sits down with Alex Dukalskis and Adam Scharpf, a pair of academics whose groundbreaking work shines new light on why dictatorships hire Western public relations firms. They talk about just how widespread the issue is, and what PR firms actually do for their dictatorial clients. They also chat about the PR industry's ethics as a whole, and why PR firms are so eager to help authoritarians - and how other democracies can help shine light on the phenomenon. Learn more about their research: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xk6b6ykobnxv9yiyg0ttn/Dictators_PR_Firms.pdf?dl=0&e=4&rlkey=iq7kxl7z3qwv43u67pnaeqpfn

Casey and Elisha are joined by Mounir Ibrahim, a former US State Department diplomat-turned-techie, to talk about cheapfakes, deepfakes, the mal-use of Generative AI by bad actors around the globe, and what that means not only for human rights and democracy but for getting to the truth in a world of deception.

On today’s episode, Casey and Elisha are joined by Rwandan opposition leader Victoire Ingabire and Kate Gibson, part of her international legal team, to discuss the case they filed with the East African Court of Justice to restore Ingabire’s civic rights after being absurdly convicted of terrorism and genocide denial, for which she spent eight years in prison. Now, she’s not only being barred from running in the country’s July presidential elections; she is also being prevented from leaving the country. The foursome unpack the question: What is Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s decades-long dictator, so afraid of?

Casey and Elisha speak with Masih Alinejad, one of the leading journalists and campaigners highlighting the crimes of the regime still in power in Iran. They discuss Masih's journey, as well as the recent abduction and assassination attempts against her in the US and how the democratic world can continue standing up against the despots in Tehran. They also talk about how the solution to modern diplomacy might be found in, of all things, pickles.

Casey and Elisha talk about Casey's new book, "Foreign Agents," on all the ways dictators use lobbyists in the US to entrench their regimes and stamp out democratic movements. They talk about how regimes from Moscow to Beijing and beyond rely on these Americans to do their dirty work, and how these foreign lobbyists became henchmen and foot-soldiers for the worst dictatorships around the world. They also discuss Michael Bublé. To read Casey's book: "Foreign Agents" - https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250286055/foreignagents

Casey and Elisha chat with Joey Siu, a 25-year-old Hong Konger with a bounty on her head, after the Chinese Communist Party accused her of violating its draconian national security law. In 2019, Siu played a pivotal role in organizing large-scale pro-democracy protests. Now, living in exile, her work has anything but slowed. Siu talks about what it was like to leave a home and a family she loved, what it was like to learn about the Hong Kong government's price on her head, and what she's doing next to combat the CCP.

Casey speaks with Russian opposition figure Anastasia Shevchenko, who was the first person to face criminal prosecution under Russia's so-called "undesirable organizations" law. Anastasia talks about how her role as a mother propelled her into the fight against both corruption and dictatorship, as well as the new documentary focusing on her work and family, which was recently shortlisted for an Academy Award. To watch "Anastasia" documentary: https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/video/2jX2Jk8zI_730uXuNU36QH9_bM_eYacO/ To watch the trailer for "Anastasia" documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohYLMdMSs4QChange.org

Casey and Elisha talk with Rushan Abbas, the founder of Campaign for Uyghurs, about the Chinese Communist Party's ongoing genocide against Uyghurs. They discuss some of the policy successes in recent years helping shine a light on Beijing's crimes, and a new congressional caucus aiding Uyghurs. They also talk about Rushan's journey into activism - and how Beijing's efforts to silence her have blown up in the CCP's face. To visit the Campaigning for Uyghurs website: https://campaignforuyghurs.org/leadership/

Casey and Elisha speak with HRF's Africa policy officer, Mo Keita, talks about the recent arrest of Swazi activist and former podcast guest, Tanele Maseko. They talk about how the Swazi regime's efforts to silence critics continue to backfire and how to support the pro-democratic reformers targeting Africa's last absolute monarchy. To listen to Casey and Elisha speak to Tanele Maseko on Dissidents and Dictators: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I3HJ2AKGak&list=PL3qhzGxahwqbYKj2Q-ZczKNaeofATzMgG&index=5

Casey and Elisha are joined by Karim Zidan, one of the world's foremost experts on how authoritarian regimes use the world of sports for their own ends. Karim discusses the history of the intersection of sports and politics, why the term "sportswashing" may already be outdated, and how depressing it is to be a Seattle Mariners fan. Learn more about our blog series on sportswashing: https://hrf.org/category/history-of-sports-and-dictators/

Ideas Beyond Borders Founder Faisal Al Mutar joins Casey and Elisha to discuss the importance of creating a sense of national security for Iraqis as well as his experience combatting the villainy of authoritarianism and extremism. Then there’s the habibi effect. Show notes: To learn about Faisal Al Mutar: https://oslofreedomforum.com/speaker/faisal-al-mutar/ To learn about Ideas Beyond Boarders: https://ideasbeyondborders.org To learn about the World Liberty Congress: https://worldlibertycongress.org Read Faisal's recent article at the International Correspondent: https://www.theinternationalcorrespondent.com/p/navigating-the-crossroads?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2

Elisha and Casey talk with Jay Nordlinger, a senior editor at National Review and one of the leading writers covering the threats of modern dictatorship. They talk about Jay's focus on authoritarians across the political spectrum, the community of writers and activists trying to take down tyrants, and why the offspring of dictators aren't always what you expect. They also talk about the greatness of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

It's well-known at this point that Bitcoin has many uses, from the fun to the financial. But did you know Bitcoin can also help democratic movements flourish and find funding? Casey and Elisha talk with author and HRF Chief Strategy Officer Alex Gladstein about how Bitcoin has grown into a tool to fight dictatorships and how new technologies can help end tyranny. SHOW NOTES: Learn about HRF's Financial Freedom Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JBxBq8U1yI Learn about HRF's Bitcoin Development Fund: https://hrf.org/devfund Learn about the connection between Bitcoin & human rights: https://www.getbitcoin.org For a 101 on Bitcoin, visit: https://littlebitcoinbook.com To read Alex Gladstein's Book, "Check Your Financial Privilege": https://store.bitcoinmagazine.com/products/check-your-financial-privilege To read Alex Gladstein's book, "Hidden Repression": https://store.bitcoinmagazine.com/products/hidden-repression Learn about HRF's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) tracker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSaMBQmrOqs

After her husband, human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, was assassinated in front of her, Swazi human rights defender Tanele Maseko picked up right where he left off: peacefully (and powerfully) speaking truth to power. In this episode, she talks with Casey and Elisha about the politics of Swaziland, Africa's last absolute monarchy, her husband's legacy, what she's doing as CEO of the Thulani Maseko Foundation, and gives us all the treat of a lifetime. You'll have to tune in to hear it, though. To listen to Tanele read Thulani Maseko's letter: "Greetings from cell G4": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOjQHUF388c

Casey and Elisha talk with Ukrainian MP Lisa Yasko about Ukraine’s upcoming anniversaries—both the 10-year anniversary of Ukraine’s successful democratic revolution and the two-year anniversary of Russia’s expanded invasion. They discuss how Ukrainians remain on the frontlines of the fight against dictatorship and why democracies must continue supporting Kyiv.  To watch Lisa Yasko's piano song on Barricades of Euromaidan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbGyoAul_vo

Casey and Elisha talk with Joyce Ho, HRF's Asia-Pacific policy officer, about the recent elections in Taipei, the need for the ruling Democratic People's Party (DPP) to double down on democracy after narrowly beating the pro-Beijing Kuomintang Party (KMT), and what that all means for the future of the island. To read Joyce's op-ed in The Hill: https://thehill.com/opinion/4411515-taiwans-ruling-party-needs-to-double-down-on-democracy/ To read the Financial Times' piece, "Becoming Taiwan: In China's Shadow, an island asserts its identity." - https://www.ft.com/content/6e9a0243-87f2-445e-b563-e8f67082b3da

Casey and Elisha sit down with HRF's Claudia Bennett, talking about the role of the fashion industry in propping up dictators. They discuss how the cotton industry relies on forced labor, and how consumers can find out where their clothes come from. They also talk about how the CCP targeted HRF's efforts to shine a light on Beijing's genocidal campaign against Uyghurs.  SHOW NOTES: 1. Learn about our Wear Your Values program: https://hrf.org/programs/wear-your-values/ 2. Download our Uyghur Forced Labor checker: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/uyghur-forced-labor-check/ejodaepockllkcloibcchpjnfoopincp 3. Read this Bloomberg article about China's response to our checker: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-08-24/google-axes-bad-reviews-of-tracker-exposing-uyghur-forced-labor?srnd=premium&leadSource=uverify%20wall&mc_cid=0b6769941f&mc_eid=dcd85f94b2 4. Learn about the Coalition to End Forced Labor in The Uyghur Region: https://enduyghurforcedlabour.org 5. Learn about Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act: https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/sourcing/china-us-mexico-apparel-exports-uflpa-nearshoring-489814/  MORE ABOUT UYGHUR FORCED LABOR: 1. Jewher Ilham, Uyghur Advocate, Oslo Freedom Forum talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwUC1ocZme4 2. Kalbinur Sidik & Gulbahar Haitiwaji, Uyghur survivors, Oslo Freedom Forum talk: https://youtu.be/KFDMlCd_JvM ALSO MENTIONED: 1. Salma Al-Shehab, Dare to Dissent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2-0DXfCP80

Casey and Elisha talk about Casey's recent trip to Nairobi, and the latest on Russian and Chinese interference and corruption in Africa. They also discuss the latest on the frontlines of the fight for freedom in Ukraine. Plus, they talk about all the things crocodiles and dictatorships have in common. Show notes: Watch Casey Michel's talk at the Atlantic Council (Friday, Feb 2, @ 12:30 pm ET): https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/event/five-scenarios-for-russias-future/ Read Alex Gladstein's article at Bitcoin Magazine: https://bitcoinmagazine.com/check-your-financial-privilege/stranded-bitcoin-saving-wasted-energy-in-africa

With Casey off gallivanting halfway around the globe, Elisha is joined by HRF Chief Legal and Policy Officer Javier El-Hage. The two discuss Latin America's history with dictatorships, the many (and varying) shades of grey between left-wing and right-wing authoritarian regimes, and Javier's progression from a Che Guevara (myth) fan in college to a constitutional and international law professor and a defender of liberal democracies. Show notes: To read Javier's book: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Javier-El-Hage-ebook/dp/B00WZQMQSG Other referenced books: Open Veins of Latin America by Edwardo Galeano: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Veins-Latin-America-Centuries/dp/0853459916 New York Times article about Edwardo Galeano disavowing his book: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/24/books/eduardo-galeano-disavows-his-book-the-open-veins.html Guide to the Perfect Latin American Idiot (response to the book, Open Veins of Latin America, prefaced by Mario Vargas Llosa): https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/manual-del-perfecto-idiota-latinoamericano_plinio-apuley[…]sKHJmlo268kQ1Q2USO-J0MzelLs9Aqdl7lcHSwbgMYGSUMaAgVfEALw_wcB

Casey and Elisha dive into the world of foreign agents, looking at how kleptocratic regimes use foreign lobbyists to do their dirty work. They also chat about the recent winner of the Corrupt Person of the Year award. And, of course, they talk about the newest addition to their office: Harry Styles. Show notes: To read more about the indictment of Bob Menendez: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/10/bob-menendez-charges-not-guilty-plea/675774/ https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/10/bob-menendez-charges-not-guilty-plea/675774/ To learn more about OCCRP's "Person of the Year Awards": https://www.occrp.org/en/poy/

Casey and Elisha reunite after the holiday break, and Elisha brings with her catastrophic news: a mouse in her house. In the actually important segment, Elisha talks with Sebastien Lai, son of media tycoon Jimmy Lai, who is currently on trial in Hong Kong under Beijing's national security law for “colluding with foreign forces"—aka, speaking out for freedom and democracy and against the Chinese Communist Party. We also learn how a Hong Kong businessman became a French Knight. To learn more about Jimmy Lai: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2023/dec/25/trials-of-jimmy-lai/8:56 https://youtu.be/sf-qyxEIuHI?si=i5JcEqxSPT8GwxXU

Dec. 18 marks the anniversary of the death of dissident, playwright, and first democratically elected president of the Czech Republic, Václav Havel. Elisha and Casey discuss his life and legacy, the role he played in Elisha's formative years, and the prize the Human Rights Foundation created in his honor. In lighter topics of discussion, Casey and Elisha talk about the office holiday party, Casey's impeccable—read joyfully terrible—rendition of Prince's "Purple Rain," and somehow the 90s sitcom "Home Improvement." To learn more about the Havel Prize for creative dissent: https://hrf.org/havel-prize/ To learn more about the 2023 Havel Prize laureates: https://hrf.org/announcing-the-2023-havel-prize-laureates/ To read David Remnick's article in the New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2003/02/17/exit-havel To read Vaclav Havel's "The Power of the Powerless": https://hac.bard.edu/amor-mundi/the-power-of-the-powerless-vaclav-havel-2011-12-23

Casey and Elisha talk about the latest news out of Venezuela, where Nicolas Maduro threatens to unleash an invasion on neighboring Guyana. They then turn to a spectacular espionage case out of Cuba, and what it says about dictatorships' infiltration efforts. They also talk about the UAE rolling out the red carpet for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Plus, naming Christmas trees after celebrities. Vote for HRF's Anthem Award nominated video about our Wear Your Values program: https://hrf.org/vote-for-hrfs-wear-your-values-program-in-the-anthem-awards/

Monday, December 4, 2023 marked 250 days in prison for Wall Street Journal investigative reporter Evan Gershkovich on trumped-up espionage charges. Casey and Elisha discuss his case and what Evan's friends, family, and colleagues are doing to not forget him as he remains a political prisoner. Also up for conversation: Casey's article on New York City Mayor Eric Adams' entanglement with Turkey and kleptocracy, as well as Louis Vuitton's first-ever Hong Kong-based fashion show and what that does for its image. Show notes: To read about Evan Gershkovich in the Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/world/evan-gershkovich-detained-for-250-days-is-still-bringing-his-friends-together-68894f4e To listen to Nicaraguan democracy advocate Felix Maradiaga speak at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUnDCR5mgLg To read Casey's article in The New Republic about Eric Adams's Entanglements with Turkey: https://newrepublic.com/article/176657/eric-adams-turkey-influence-peddling To read Claudia Bennet's article in the Washington Times about fashion, democracy, and Louis Vuitton: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2023/nov/30/fashion-over-democracy-louis-vuittons-show-hong-ko/ To learn more about Human Rights Foundation's Wear Your Values Program: https://hrf.org/programs/wear-your-values/ To add Human Rights Foundation's Uyghur Forced Labor Chrome Attachment to your browser: https://hrf.org/hrf-launches-new-tool-to-raise-awareness-about-brands-linked-to-uyghur-forced-labor/?gclid=CjwKCAiA1MCrBhAoEiwAC2d64TT2SW0fkRs5i6SiqWj7cxtHOd87Pe2hvvovo0cjPMqJMd4WTiRePxoCdaQQAvD_BwE

As rapper Kendrick Lamar sets to headline Move Afrika in Rwanda, Casey and Elisha talk about the atrocities committed by the country’s ruler, Paul Kagame, and how and why dictators like him turn to celebrities to help launder their reputation abroad. The duo also discusses the ongoing genocide of Uyghurs in China and how democracies can help unwind the CCP’s sprawling efforts to erase Uyghur identity. Elisha’s morning also gets off to a bad start. To read Jewher Ilham's Economist article: https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2023/11/02/jewher-ilham-on-how-policymakers-can-stand-up-to-the-chinese-governments-mistreatment-of-uyghurs To learn about Gulbahar Haitiwaji's book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/691374/how-i-survived-a-chinese-reeducation-camp-by-gulbahar-haitiwaji/'

Casey and Elisha discuss HRF's recent pro-democracy conference in Taipei and the role the island plays in the struggle against tyranny in Beijing and around the world. They also discuss the legacies and brutality of Russian colonialism from Alaska to Ukraine. To learn about the Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan: https://oslofreedomforum.com/events/oslo-freedom-forum-taiwan-2023/ To read Casey's Politico article: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/10/27/russia-colonization-alaska-ukraine-00123352

Casey Michel, head of Combating Kleptocracy, and Elisha Maldonado, director of communications, welcome you to the Human Rights Foundation's revamped podcast, Dissidents and Dictators. The two co-hosts discuss the Foundation's vision, which focuses solely on authoritarian regimes, and why they traded newsrooms for the human rights mission field.

In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Philippa Thomas, a former BBC correspondent, and Dalia Hatuqa, an independent journalist specializing in Palestine and Israeli affairs, discuss the life, legacy, and story of the Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. Shireen’s life prematurely ended when she was killed by Israeli soldiers in May 2022 while reporting in Palestine. Hatuqa and Thomas seek to continue Abu Akleh's legacy by advocating for freedom of the press and an end to global violence and repression of journalists.

Toribia Lero Quispe is a Bolivian assemblywoman and opposition leader affected by the 2019 electoral fraud committed by strongman Evo Morales. Quispe routinely faces violence, intimidation, and widespread judicial persecution. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, she sheds light on Bolivia’s democratic movement, protecting ordinary citizens against tyranny. Note: This episode is recorded in Spanish.

Sanaa Seif is a British-Egyptian filmmaker, producer, and political activist leading a global campaign for her imprisoned brother, Alaa Abd el-Fattah. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Seif shares her family's story and speaks on the unjust imprisonment of those who speak against the Egyptian government. She calls on the international community to #FreeAlaa.

In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear from Pastor Seungeun Kim, a prominent Korean human rights activist and leader of a modern-day underground railroad. He passionately serves North Korean defectors and works tirelessly on their behalf, rescuing and helping them become self-sufficient. Note: This episode is recorded in Korean.

Hanna Liubakova is a Belarusian journalist, analyst, and non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council. After protesting Alexander Lukashenko’s regime, Liubakova was forced into exile, yet she fearlessly continues to report on the developments in her home country. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, she reveals the Lukashenko regime’s abuses of political prisoners and its corrupt assistance to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, and she offers a beacon of hope in the fight against tyranny.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has increased its efforts to stifle dissent beyond its borders, discreetly intimidating individuals from various religious, political, and dissenting groups. The Uyghur diaspora's experience of such repression has worsened since the 2016 crackdown, leaving Uyghurs across the globe facing the pressure of state violence and harassment even in their supposed places of refuge. In this episode, we hear from Yalkun Uluyol, David Tobin, and Rushan Abbas as they shed further light on the extent of the CCP’s efforts to project its authoritarian rule beyond its border. Featured Guests: Yalkun Uluyol, research assistant at Koc University David Tobin, lecturer in East Asian studies at the University of Sheffield Rushan Abbas, founder and executive director at the Campaign for Uyghurs

In 2009, Swazi human rights lawyer Mzwandile Masuku launched, with the late renowned human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, the only law firm in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) fully dedicated to public interest litigation against the kingdom’s repression law and pro-bono legal representation of ordinary Swazis. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Masuku advocates for the protection of human rights lawyers, the rights of detained individuals to a fair trial, and nonviolent democratic reform.

Nazanin Boniadi is an award-winning actress and Iranian human rights activist who focuses on the unjust conviction and treatment of Iranian youth, women, and prisoners of conscience. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Boniadi speaks on the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests in Iran and unearths the rich history of her home country that the oppressive regime has diluted.

Note: This episode is recorded in Spanish. Abraham Jiménez Enoa is an exiled Cuban journalist and author of “La isla oculta,” a collection of stories of ordinary Cubans living under the dictatorship. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Olso Freedom Forum, Jiménez Enoa shares his experience calling for action against the tyranny that oppresses ordinary Cubans.

Aug. 9 marks the third anniversary of the Belarus presidential elections, followed by nationwide protests and violence. Alexander Lukashenko has increasingly turned to Russia, which provided him with resources and diplomatic support to help him stay in power. This episode looks at Lukashenko’s role in the conflict in Ukraine and the strategies the international democratic community can pursue to contain the threat Lukashenko poses. Featured Guests: • Hanna Liubakova • Pavel Latushka • David Kramer

Kristen Ulmer is a high-performance facilitator and thought leader on fear and anxiety, drawing from her experience as the world’s most “fearless” female extreme skier for 12 years and studying Zen for 15 years. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Ulmer provides strategies to conquer our fear and anxious feelings.

Note: This episode is recorded in Spanish. Víctor Navarro is a Venezuelan human rights activist who was arbitrarily detained in 2018 and held in El Helicoide, Venezuela’s largest and most notorious prison. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Navarro shares how he struggled to find his voice and identity under the regime's oppression and how he is using technology to fight tyranny.

Malcolm Bidali is a former Qatari migrant worker and the co-founder of Migrant Defenders, a Kenya-based civil society organization defending the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf. While in Qatar, he became an anonymous whistleblower about brutal conditions for migrant laborers before Qatar’s 2022 FIFA World Cup. In May 2021, the Qatari regime unmasked his identity and subjected him to solitary confinement for nearly a month for "disseminating false news and receiving payments from foreign agents to spread disinformation." In this episode, filmed at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Bidali shares his story and experience with the atrocious human rights violations perpetrated against migrant workers in the Gulf. Learn more about Malcolm and his work at https://linktr.ee/noaharticulates

Lisa Yasko is a member of Ukrainian Parliament, the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Interparliamentary Cooperation, and the Ukrainian Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Yasko reveals the reality of living in Ukraine during the Russian invasion and the powerful role of being a mother while navigating the war.

Note: This episode is recorded in Uyghur. An Uyghur survivor of China’s concentration camps, Gulbahar Haitiwaji, was tricked into returning to China in 2016 after seeking asylum; she vanished into the camps. When she was finally released in 2019, Haitiwaji publicly shared her account, describing life inside the camps and the brutalities Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples have suffered. Kalbinur Sidik, an Uzbek survivor of China’s genocide and eyewitness to the camps, was forced to work as a Chinese-language instructor in the internment camps in 2017. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, both women joined forces to share their stories of survival.

Félix Maradiaga is a Nicaraguan democracy advocate arrested in 2021 for leading a nonviolent movement against President Daniel Ortega. After being imprisoned for three years, he was forcibly exiled to the United States and saw his citizenship revoked alongside 222 other political prisoners. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Maradiaga shares his prison experience, his reunion with his wife and daughter, and his ideas on fighting dictatorship.

In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, American political scientist and author Francis Fukuyama discusses how democracy can be a resilient tool in denouncing authoritarianism and dissecting the principles of liberalism, the false strength of dictatorships, and what the future holds for democracy.

Ketakandriana Rafitoson is a prominent Madagascan human rights defender, political scientist, and anti-corruption activist. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 Oslo Freedom Forum, Rafitoson addresses the mass corruption within Madagascar and how it impacts ordinary citizens' lives. Russian and other dark sponsors continue to influence the country’s elections, but Rafitoson provides hope in the fight against political corruption.

In Cameroon, while thousands of minority Anglophones have peacefully protested for their rights, Paul Biya’s regime has responded viciously. Cameroonian human rights lawyer and activist, Felix Agbor Nkongho, has fought to bring global attention to the blood-stained crisis. In this episode, recorded at the 2019 Oslo Freedom Forum, Agbor Nkongho speaks about his work transforming cruelty into positive, nonviolent activism.

Thae Yong-Ho is a North Korean defector and the former deputy ambassador of North Korea to the United Kingdom. He is the highest-ranking official to have ever defected from North Korea, fleeing to the South with his wife and two children in 2016. In this episode, recorded at the 2019 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, Yong-ho speaks about the oppression he experienced inside North Korea, his escape, and his hopes for a united and free Korea.

Arthur Holland Michel is a Peruvian-born writer and researcher focused on artificial intelligence, advanced surveillance technologies, and drones. In this episode, recorded at the 2021 Oslo Freedom Forum, Michel reveals how little the average person knows about modern surveillance technologies and its power.

Wai Hnin Pwint Thon is a Burmese human rights activist. Her father, Ko Mya Aye, is a leader of Burma’s 88 Generation Students Group and is currently detained by the Burmese military. In this episode, recorded at the 2021 Oslo Freedom Forum, Pwint Thon calls out the Burmese military’s violence and urges the international community to support Burma’s struggle for peace and democracy.

Dr. Essam Daod is a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and co-founder of the mental health aid organization, Humanity Crew. During a 2015 humanitarian rescue mission, Daod provided medical aid to refugees in Greece, triggering his trauma and PTSD. In this episode, recorded at the 2021 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear Daod’s story, through which we learn that only when we care for our mental health can we care for others.

Ahmed Albasheer is an Iraqi comedian and political satirist best known for hosting “The Albasheer Show,” a weekly program that humorizes Iraqi politics. In this episode, recorded at the 2021 Oslo Freedom Forum, Albasheer shows the power of humor in challenging corruption, war, repression, sectarianism, and authoritarianism in Iraq.

When bank accounts are closed or currency devalued, pro-democracy activists have turned to Bitcoin to keep their advocacy afloat. Simultaneously, in El Salvador, populist leader Nayib Bukele has used Bitcoin to further his authoritarian agenda. In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, activists from Belarus, Russia, and Togo discuss whether Bitcoin is compatible with liberal democracy. Featured Guests: Anita Posch, host of “The Anita Posch” Show Jaroslav Likhachevskiy, co-founder, BYSOL Farida Nabourema, Togolese human rights defender Nelson Rauda, Salvadoran investigative journalist, El Faro Leonid Volkov, Russian anti-corruption advocate

In 2019, Tanzania outlawed child marriage, but marriage laws have yet to be amended and child marriage remains a serious issue. In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, Zuhura Abdul Sakaya, a young Tanzanian advocate for girls' and women’s rights, discusses the situation in Tanzania, the lifelong consequences for girls, and the next steps in the struggle against child marriage. Featured Guests: Zuhura Abdul Sakaya, Tanzanian youth advocate Leyla Hussein, global advocacy director of The Girl Generation, psychotherapist, and anti-FGM activist

For years, Nicaraguan dictator Daniel Ortega has abused opponents almost entirely free from the world’s attention. But in 2018, democracy advocate, Félix Maradiaga, took the country’s future into his own hands, exposing Ortega’s rampant crimes. In this episode, recorded at the 2019 Oslo Freedom Forum, Maradiaga discusses how he rallied the world to pay attention. In 2021, Maradiaga was arrested and held in solitary confinement. In February 2023, he and 221 other prisoners of conscience were released and sent to the United States.

The Chinese government goes to extreme lengths to silence criticism and instill fear among Chinese, Uyghur, Hong Kongers, Tibetan, Taiwanese, and religious communities abroad. In this episode, frontline activists discuss transnational repression and the Chinese government’s various methods of monitoring, surveilling, and intimidating dissidents abroad. Featured Guests: Joey Siu, Hongkongese-American human rights activist Tenzin Yangzom, Campaign manager of Students for a Free Tibet Zumretay Arkin, Uyghur-Canadian activist and program & advocacy manager of World Uyghur Congress Jenny Wang, Human Rights Foundation

Much of France's African empire fell away during decolonization, but 15 nations still use the CFA Franc and thus remain under its control. France has historically devalued the CFA Franc to buy cheaper goods at the expense of the 183 million Africans in the CFA zone. In this episode, recorded at the 2023 South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, participants discuss their battle against monetary colonialism and how Bitcoin can play a role in helping change the tide. Farida Nabourema, Togolese democracy advocate Magatte Wade, Senegalese entrepreneur

This episode, recorded at the 2023 South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, explores the struggle for human rights and democracy in the digital age. Increasingly sophisticated technology has provided new avenues for authoritarian regimes to target activists, stifle dissent, and encroach on civil liberties. Panelists discuss how regimes abuse technology and share insight into how the tech industry can unite to protect human rights globally. Featured Guests: Manal al-Sharif, Saudi women’s rights activist & cyber security expert Scott Carpenter, policy director at Jigsaw Felicia Anthonio, campaign manager for Access Now’s #KeepItOn campaign Arthur Holland Michel, author & surveillance expert

One of the greatest financial innovations in the past five years is the stablecoin — a virtual asset pegged to the dollar but used heavily by individuals who can’t access their country’s currency. In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear from the creator of the world’s biggest stablecoin, Tether, and a Nigerian entrepreneur who can attest to the remarkable rise of stablecoins in her own country. Featured Guests: Alejandro Machado: Co-founder of the Open Money Initiative Paolo Ardoino: Chief technology officer, Tether Ire Aderinokun: Co-founder and VP of engineering, Helicarrier

Featured Guests: Anjan Sundaram: Author and journalist Alex Gonzalez Davidson: Environmental activist and president of Mother Nature Cambodia Mónica López Baltodano: Nicaraguan human rights lawyer John Unzima: Ugandan journalist and environmental activist This episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, explores the intersections between human rights, technology, and environmental advocacy. Participants discuss the perils faced by environmental activists, journalists, and others who work to protect the environment in countries ruled by authoritarian regimes.

Saudi Arabia’s murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi; Belarus’ hijacking of a plane to arrest opposition journalist Roman Protasevich; and Rwanda’s forceful rendition of “Hotel Rwanda” hero Paul Rusesabagina are some of the most well-known examples of transnational repression by authoritarian regimes. They are part of a larger trend of regimes aggressively reaching across the globe to silence or intimidate dissidents in exile. This panel discussion, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, examines the practice of transnational repression, mainly as it targets independent journalists. Featured Guests: Megha Rajagopalan: Investigative journalist Rushan Abbas: Executive director of Campaign for Uyghurs Masih Alinejad: Iranian journalist and activist Can Dündar: Turkish journalist and documentarian

Thanks to the Winter Olympics in Beijing, and Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup, 2022 was dubbed “sportswashing’s biggest year.” This episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, shares powerful, behind-the-scenes stories and tips on raising awareness of how authoritarian regimes weaponize global games to whitewash their abuses. Karim Zidan: Author and journalist Malcolm Bidali: Labor rights activist and blogger Chemi Lhamo: Tibetan activist and community organizer Lise Klaveness: President of the Norwegian Football Federation, lawyer, and human rights advocate

This episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, explores the correlation between the rise in authoritarian regimes and modern slavery. Looking to history and learning from the present, panelists discuss how slavery has been wielded as a way for those regimes to maintain power and how affected communities have stood in resistance to change the future. Featured Guests: 1. Amy Rahe: Managing Director at the Freedom Fund and anti-trafficking advocate 2. Filmon Debru: Eritrean human trafficking survivor Leonardo Sakamoto: Brazilian journalist and anti-forced labor advocate 3. Jessie Bruner: Associate Director of Strategy and Program Development at the Center for Human Rights and International Justice at Stanford University

Over 17.6 million Ukrainians — more than 40% of the country’s population — require humanitarian assistance. HRF’s partner organization, Renegade Relief Runners, focuses on delivering essential supplies, including food, clean water, and medical aid, to Ukraine’s most heavily impacted regions. In this episode, Renegade Relief Runners co-founders Julia Abratańska and Chris Tiller discuss Ukraine’s current humanitarian needs, the challenges local aid groups face, and what the international community can do to support aid work.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan, we hear from Chung Ching Kwong (鄺頌晴), a Hong Kong political and digital rights activist. Kwong discusses the parallels between Taiwan and Hong Kong and urges the international community to press their governments to hold China accountable.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan, we hear from Wu’er Kaixi (吾爾開希), general secretary of Taiwan's Parliamentary Human Rights Commission. Born in China as an Uyghur national, Wu’er Kaixi was one of the founders and key organizers of the 1989 Tiananmen student movement. Listed as No. 2 on the Chinese government’s most wanted student leaders after the June 4 massacre, Wu’er Kaixi fled the country to live in exile. He currently resides in Taiwan, where he remains an active human rights and democracy activist, political commentator, and columnist.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan, we hear from Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit (塔納通·宗龍倫吉), a pro-democracy activist and leader of the opposition Future Forward Party in Thailand. As a result of his advocacy for freedom and democracy, Juangroongruangkit was stripped of his parliamentary seat by the ruling military junta.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan, we hear from Freddy Tshiong-Tso Lim (林昶佐), the lead vocalist of the Taiwanese metal band Chthonic and a member of Taiwan’s parliament. He shares how Taiwan can help play a critical role in protecting and promoting human rights, in the face of authoritarian aggression.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in Taiwan, we hear from Areej al-Sadhan (阿雷潔·薩丹), activist and sister to Red Crescent humanitarian worker Abdulrahman al-Sadhan who was imprisoned during a mass crackdown in Saudi Arabia. Areej remains outspoken on the ill-treatment of her brother and other activists and publicly denounced Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s brutal human rights abuses.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from Garry Kasparov, chairman of the Human Rights Foundation (HRF). Widely considered history’s greatest chess player, Kasparov retired from the sport in 2005 to devote his time to human rights activism. An outspoken advocate for democracy and ardent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kasparov speaks on the war in Ukraine, a battle between freedom and tyranny.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, anti-rape activist, beauty pageant queen, and author Toufah Jallow speaks on breaking the culture of silence around sexual violence in The Gambia and inspiring the #IamToufah movement, Gambia’s #MeToo. Jallow founded the Toufah Foundation to create a community of support for sexual violence survivors and to advocate for accountability and reforms.

In recent years, FIFA has earned a reputation for granting the hosting rights of its most prestigious competition, the World Cup, to countries ruled by authoritarian regimes. In December, Qatar hosted the 2022 World Cup, despite global concerns regarding the country’s poor human rights record. In this episode, we hear from Håvard Melnæs, editor of the Norwegian soccer magazine Josimar, as the 2022 World Cup entered its final stages. Håvard and his team use critical and investigative journalism to shed light on the corruption, cronyism, and sportswashing running rampant in the sport.

In August 2021, the Taliban forcibly reclaimed control of Afghanistan, promising to institute a modern form of Islamic government. Instead, the regime has systematically implemented gender-specific measures against women, in direct contrast to their initial claims of substantial reform. The progress of Afghanistan’s civil society has declined under the Taliban’s draconian governance of women’s rights, a microcosm of a larger theocratic system. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Sima Samar, a central pioneer of women’s rights in Afghanistan, who explores the country in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from Berta Valle, a Nicaraguan journalist, human rights activist, and vocal critic of the authoritarian Ortega regime. Berta is currently in exile, campaigning tirelessly to bring international attention to the 140+ political prisoners in Nicaragua, including her husband, former presidential candidate and 2019 OFF speaker, Félix Maradiaga.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from exiled Hong Kong activist Anna Kwok, who currently serves as the Executive Director at Hong Kong Democracy Council (HKDC). Anna reflects on the pro-democracy movement within Hong Kong and her hopes to strengthen the Hong Kong diaspora globally.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from Tibetan activist and community organizer Chemi Lhamo, who has dedicated her life to resisting the Chinese occupation of her homeland. Tune in to learn how we can rise above tyranny together and elevate the Tibetan cause.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, Venezuelan Opposition leader Leopoldo López discusses the fight for democracy in Venezuela and globally. “There is no one person, there is no one movement, there is no one country, there is no one company that can be successful in bringing about freedom. It’s only about the ‘We’.”

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from Oleksandra Matviichuk, the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and head of the Center for Civil Liberties. Matviichuk speaks on the horrors and atrocities of Putin’s war in Ukraine — she says, "You don't need to be Ukrainian to support Ukraine. You just need to be human."

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum in New York, we hear from Iranian journalist and activist Masih Alinejad, who spearheaded the “My Stealthy Freedom” campaign to protest Iran’s compulsory hijab laws for women and girls. Alinejad talks about the recent murder of Mahsa Amini and the reality of life for women living under the tyrannical Iranian regime.

Recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, Hong Kong political and digital rights activist Chung Ching (Glacier) Kwong shares why the international community should stand in solidarity with Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement. She was previously the founder and spokesperson of Keyboard Frontline, an organization dedicated to monitoring censorship and digital rights, and a former columnist at Apple Daily. Chung Ching is currently the Hong Kong Campaigns coordinator at the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear from Roman Dobrokhotov, a Russian investigative journalist, activist, political scientist, and one of the founders and leaders of the 5th of December Party. Dobrokhotov discusses the tools necessary for journalists to expose dictatorships, and his own work with the investigative online newspaper The Insider.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear from human rights activist Tawakkol Karman, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her non-violent struggle for democracy and women’s rights in Yemen. In her roles as a journalist, politician, and founder of the Tawakkol Karman International Foundation, she is also known as “mother of the revolution,” “the iron woman,” and the Lady of the Arab Spring.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, exiled Afghan activist and politician Zarifa Ghafari speaks on the challenges faced under the Taliban — particularly concerning women’s rights, freedom of speech, and human rights. After making a daring escape from the Taliban, Zarifa now lives in exile, where she continues to advocate for human rights in Afghanistan and globally.

In this episode, recorded at the 2022 Oslo Freedom Forum, we hear from Carolina Barrero, an art historian, activist, and human rights advocate fighting for peace and civil and political rights in Cuba. As a member of the 27N movement of artists and intellectuals, Barrero participated in 2021 protests that challenged Cuba’s totalitarian regime.