We have the pleasure of hosting Sir Robin Niblett, a distinguished foreign policy expert and former Director of Chatham House, for a book talk on his latest work The New Cold War: How the Contest Between the US and China Will Shape Our Century. The format will be conversational, with audience questions encouraged throughout the event.

The discussion will focus on the evolving dynamics of great power competition between the US and China, particularly in the wake of recent global political developments. Sir Robin will explore how tensions in trade, technology, and military presence are influencing global order, as well as how alliances and international institutions have adapted to this new era. He will offer insights into the historical parallels and differences between the original Cold War and today’s geopolitical rivalry, emphasising the implications for security, diplomacy, and global governance.

This conversation will be especially timely, as it falls shortly after former President Donald Trump’s inauguration, making the themes of power contestation and global influence even more pertinent.

About the Speaker

Sir Robin Niblett KCMG is a leading expert in international relations and security studies. He served as the Director of Chatham House (the Royal Institute of International Affairs) from 2007 to 2022, where he shaped public discourse on global security challenges and the future of multilateral cooperation. In recognition of his contributions to diplomacy and international relations, he was appointed Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in 2022. His latest book, The New Cold War, critically examines the ongoing rivalry between the US and China and its far-reaching implications for the 21st century.

Chair

The discussion will be chaired by King’s very own, Dr Christine Cheng, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of War Studies. Her research expertise lies in global security, statebuilding, and state failure, particularly in post-conflict environments.

About the CSD Speaker Series

The Conflict, Security, and Development (CSD) Speaker Series is an initiative from the Conflict, Security & Development Research Group in the Department of War Studies. It aims to bring together interested individuals with leading experts and influential thinkers in the fields of conflict, security, and development.

This event will take place in S-1.06 Room on level -1 of the Strand Building. A member of our team will be stationed at the Strand Building reception to register you and direct you to the room.