I invite you to join me for an insightful conversation about why some countries struggle to realize their economic potential and what that means for the people who live there. Drawing on my decades of experience living and working in places like Belgium, South Korea, Indonesia, Ukraine, Mongolia, and Sri Lanka, I will share my personal perspective on the complex connections between politics, finance, and daily life.

This event goes beyond the usual headlines and numbers to explore the real human stories behind economic challenges—how corruption, power struggles, and resilience shape communities and individuals. Whether you’re a curious reader, a student of global affairs, or someone interested in stories of crisis and hope, I believe you will find value in the experiences and lessons I share.

There will be time for questions and conversation, giving us a chance to discuss these themes in more depth. I look forward to connecting with readers and fellow global citizens who want to better understand the forces shaping our world.