Modus Operandi with Manila Chan dives deep into global foreign policy to examine the methods and history which reverberate in our lives today. MO examines the world at a historical turning point, as nations rise and challenge the unipolar world that has been dominant since the end of the cold war. Who will rise, who will fall, and how will an emerging global order operate? Find out on Modus Operandi with Manila Chan.
Henry Kissinger’s legacy
Unrepentant and unapologetic – centenarian statesman Henry Kissinger died at his home on November 29, 2023. His name is forever etched into history books around the world. This week, Manila Cham takes a look at this historical figure and the policies he implemented that shaped the world as we know it today – together with History Professor from American University, Peter Kuznick.
Laos: Legacy of cluster bombs
The Southeast Asian nation of Laos is the most bombed country on Earth, thanks in large part to the mass bombing campaign launched by the US in the 1970s. The number of US bombs dropped on Laos is staggering, and it should come as no surprise that there are still many bombs that have not exploded inside the country. Laos is still dealing with this issue. This same issue has been raised about the US decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine, a move that has been condemned by several international organizations. The MO's Manila Chan sits down with Sera Koulabdara from Legacies of War to discuss the legacy of these bombs and their effects on future populations.
Mongolia in the middle
The Mongolian Empire was one of the largest in history, stretching from the Far East to the Middle East and parts of Europe. Present-day Mongolia remains an important nation on the world stage, as it is strategically wedged between China and Russia, creating a gateway to Central Asia and beyond. Due to its size and location, influence over Mongolia's foreign policy has become a growing priority for the West, as they attempt to counteract China and Russia. Can this be achieved? The MO's Manila Chan speaks to geopolitical analyst Alisher Khamidov about The West's attempts to pull Mongolia into its sphere of influence.
Thailand elections
Thailand's centuries-old monarchy faced heavy political pressure during the country's general elections this year, calling into question the reign of the current king and his family's dynasty. The MO's Manila Chan sits down with geopolitical analyst KJ Noh to discuss the elections and the current state of Thai politics.
Presidents to prison
Former US President Donald Trump is facing a multitude of criminal charges in several states, despite being the leading Republican candidate for the 2024 presidency. However, Trump is not alone - there have been several former world leaders who have been imprisoned after their terms, some for political reasons and others for corruption. The MO's Manila Chan sits down with journalist Esteban Carrillo to discuss the world leaders who went from president to prison.
South Africa on the world stage
South Africa has established itself as one of the world’s most powerful economies in Africa, making the country a hot commodity for many nations looking to invest in the continent. As a member of BRICS, South Africa holds an important place in the economic alliance, but while much is known about South Africa’s role in the international arena, what about its internal politics? The MO’s Manila Chan speaks to journalist Clinton Nzala about the competing political groups in South Africa and the future leadership of the country.