Former British Ambassador: What People Miss About Diplomacy (Tom Fletcher)

As the US retreats from the international stage, who is going to fill the gap? What will the ‘peace processes of the future’ look like? Who has more power, the tech giants or political leaders?

Rory and Alastair are joined by the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the UN, Tom Fletcher, to answer all these questions and more.

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00:00 Introducing Tom Fletcher
01:29 How he approaches his role as head of humanitarian aid for the UN
03:20 Being president of an Oxford college
06:08 What makes a diplomat?
07:55 What has happened to the world in the last ten years?
11:51 Why are liberal values under threat?
16:00 Has the UN outlived its usefulness?
18:31 What lives do they not save?
20:46 Do you feel overwhelmed?
24:10 The situation in Sudan
27:55 Ukraine
31:15 The new leader of Syria
32:50 Working for 3 prime ministers
41:02 Would he become a politician?
47:15 Are we seeing the death of the nation state?
50:35 What role is there for Britain?
54:57 Debrief

Video Editors: Kieron Leslie + Alice Horrell
Assistant Producer: India Dunkley + Alice Horrell
Social Producer: Harry Balden
Producer: Nicole Maslen
Senior Producer: Dom Johnson
Head of Content: Tom Whiter
Exec Producers: Tony Pastor + Jack Davenport

[meghanivsarkar]

One of the best conversations in recent times. His energy, positivity, and thoughtful insights, with a healthy peppering of humour, was refreshing to see and listen to in the current geopolitical scenario.

[castlestreetrecords]

this is the best interview I've seen from you guys, thank you so much giving him the space to share his perspective..

[ianfoster]

He has a major job on his hands. I wish him the best of luck. We need more people like him in this broken world.

[MalishusJubes]

This was a fantastic interview, thank you

[GordonMacRae-dd]

Positive, erudite, humane, vigorous, emphatic, communicative and positive; what is not to like about Mr Fletcher. Great interview as always Gents and thank you for giving him the time to give us this insight. And… let’s hope he does have a future in frontline UK politics… 😉

[TheWheelbarrow]

Thoroughly enjoyed this interview. It's probably my favourite to date. I'd certainly vote for Tom.
Thank you Rory and Alastair.

[Qs]

Well done all for a fascinating and well-informed chat. He has a very challenging job - thank goodness there are people like you 3 around.

[w.t.chapman]

This episode was fantastic! Well done!

[sluglife]

Hearing that al-Sharaa is putting that much thought into how to rebuild Syria is invigorating. We need 21st century intellects to try and tackle these things.

[eliseleonard]

I loved the discussion of the 3 skills- visionary, people person, and manager- that Tom outlined. They’re such different skill sets, and it’s a rare person who is gifted at all 3.

[ildolce]

Very high EQ and positive individual, I like his analysis

[fmthtm]

For some one who tries to follow current UN actions and the international affairs, Sir Tom Fletcher is one of the greatest teachers. Thanks for sharing such a valuable interview.

[greggharfleet]

Fascinating guy and a great episode - a challenge to us all to be hopeful and search for solutions in a world of trouble and chaos. Definitely get him back next year please!

[sharonjakkula]

Brilliant conversation! Tom is inspiring. Thank you Rory and Alastair!

[suebuckley]

Absolutely cracking episode!! Such a thoughtful and intelligent individual.

[brettd]

Perhaps Humanitarian aid isn't just about delivery to the people but also ensuring their stories get out to influence communities of the world. What the UN sees needs to be visually captured and broadcast. Pictures and videos need to be part of world citizen awareness

[RickTai]

Brilliant interview gentleman, Tom is a revelation. Great to listen to such an interesting and candid leader doing an impossible job in an ever increasing complex world.

Humans need to do more to support and encourage each other.

Empires rise and fall, but the river continues its unerring journey to the sea.

Well done, thank you all

[Manowarmx]

Thank you for giving us this amazing, heartful interview

[simonsena]

Brilliant, he is a star, I'd vote for him.

[johnnewton]

Thank you this was challenging and uplifting to listen to. 😊