The Best Geopolitical & International Affairs Speakers for UK Events

1. María Fernanda Espinosa, Former President of the UN General Assembly, Spain
2. José De Gregorio, Former President of the Central Bank of Chile, Chile
3. Laura Chinchilla, Former President of Costa Rica, Costa Rica, Mexico, USA
4. Frank Lavin, Former US Ambassador to Singapore, USA
5. Jean Dong, China Policy Expert, USA
6. Koji Tomita, Former Ambassador of Japan to the United States, Japan
7. Ryan Hass, Foreign Policy Analyst, USA
8. Dmitry Grozoubinski, Trade policy Expert, Switzerland
9. KT McFarland, Former US Deputy National Security Advisor, USA
10. Lev Nachman, Taiwan-Based Political Scientist, Taiwan
11. Sir Kim Darroch, Former UK Ambassador to the US, UK
12. Gita Wirjawan, Former Indonesia Minister of Trade, Indonesia

In an increasingly interconnected and complex world, understanding the nuances of geopolitics and international affairs has never been more important. 

For UK events seeking to address global challenges, spark meaningful discussions, or provide insightful perspectives on the world stage, the right speaker can make all the difference. 

This article highlights some of the most engaging and knowledgeable geopolitical and international affairs speakers, renowned for their ability to translate complex global issues into interesting and captivating narratives. 

Whether your UK event focuses on diplomacy, economic trends, or emerging global challenges, these experts will captivate and inform your audience.

María Fernanda Espinosa

María Fernanda Espinosa is an Ecuadorian diplomat, politician, academic, poet, and linguist with over 30 years of experience in international organisations, government, NGOs, and academia. 

She has held several high-level positions in Ecuador, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Integration (2007–2008 and 2017–2018), Minister of National Defence (2012–2014), and Minister of Cultural and Natural Heritage (2009–2012). 

In 2018, she became the fourth woman and the first from Latin America and the Caribbean to serve as President of the United Nations General Assembly.

Espinosa’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in linguistics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador and a master’s degree in anthropology and social sciences from the Latin American Social Sciences Institute (FLACSO), specialising in Amazonian studies. She also pursued doctoral studies in geography at Rutgers University. 

Espinosa has been a powerful advocate for sustainable development, climate change action, gender equality, and the rights of indigenous peoples. She has served as an advisor on biodiversity and indigenous peoples’ policies and was the regional director for South America at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In addition to her political and diplomatic roles, Espinosa is an accomplished poet, having received Ecuador’s National Poetry Prize in 1990. Today, she continues her work in global initiatives focused on peace, security, multilateralism, social equality, and environmental sustainability.

Notable Achievements

• President of the United Nations General Assembly (2018–2019): First woman from Latin America and the Caribbean to hold this position.
• Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Integration, Ecuador (2007–2008, 2017–2018): Focused on international relations and trade.
• Minister of National Defence, Ecuador (2012–2014): Strengthened national security and defence policies.
• Minister of Cultural and Natural Heritage, Ecuador (2009–2012): Promoted cultural heritage and environmental conservation.
• Advocate for Climate Action: Actively supports sustainability and indigenous rights through global initiatives.
• Award-Winning Poet: Recipient of Ecuador’s National Poetry Prize in 1990.
• Regional Director, IUCN South America: Led biodiversity and indigenous policy efforts.
• Academic and Anthropologist: Expertise in linguistics, anthropology, and Amazonian studies.

José De Gregorio

José De Gregorio is a well renowned Chilean economist, academic, and public servant known for his incredible contributions to economic policy and monetary stability in Chile and beyond. 

His career spans decades, and people widely consider him one of the most influential figures in Latin American economics. De Gregorio rose to prominence during his time as President of the Central Bank of Chile (2007–2011), where he played a massive role in guiding the nation through the global financial crisis. 

With decisive and innovative monetary policies, he helped maintain financial stability and foster economic recovery, earning him international recognition. He also served as Vice President of the Central Bank and as a board member, contributing to the institution’s long-term strategies for economic resilience.

In addition to his public service, De Gregorio is a prominent academic who has shaped economic thought through his teaching and research. He is currently a Full Professor and the Dean of the School of Economics and Business at the Universidad de Chile. 

His academic work, which includes over 100 publications in leading international journals, focuses on key topics like monetary policy, exchange rates, and economic growth. He has also held positions at global institutions, such as being a visiting professor at UCLA and a nonresident Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. 

De Gregorio has been a vocal advocate for sound fiscal policies throughout his career, structural reforms, and economic innovation, influencing policymakers and students alike. His expertise and insights continue to shape discussions on global and regional economic issues.

Notable Achievements

• President of the Central Bank of Chile (2007–2011): Successfully navigated the Chilean economy through the global financial crisis.
• Minister of Economy, Mining, and Energy, Chile (2000–2001): Focused on fostering growth and managing energy policies during a critical period.
• Academic Leadership: Full Professor and Dean at Universidad de Chile; a leading figure in economic education and research.
• Prolific Researcher: Authored over 100 academic papers on topics such as monetary policy, exchange rates, and economic growth.
• Global Thought Leader: Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and contributor to international economic forums.
• Early Academic Excellence: Earned a Ph.D. in Economics from MIT and graduated top of his class in Industrial Engineering at the Universidad de Chile.

Laura Chinchilla

Laura Chinchilla Miranda is a leading and trusted Costa Rican political scientist and politician, known worldwide for being the first woman to serve as President of Costa Rica from 2010 to 2014. 

Born on March 28, 1959, in San José, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Costa Rica and later earned a master’s degree in public policy from Georgetown University. 

Chinchilla held several significant positions before becoming President, including Vice Minister and Minister of Public Security, where she was the first woman to assume the latter role. She also served as a member of the Legislative Assembly and as Vice President and Minister of Justice under President Óscar Arias Sánchez.

During her presidential reign, Chinchilla focused on improving public security, promoting social welfare, and advancing environmental sustainability. She implemented policies aimed at reducing crime rates and eliminating organised crime, leading to a decrease in serious crimes, including homicides and femicide – a major victory for the country. 

Her administration also emphasised economic recovery post the 2007–2009 global recession, attracting investment and signing trade agreements with the European Union, China, and Singapore. Chinchilla’s efforts in environmental conservation, particularly in marine biodiversity protection, earned her international recognition and acclaim, making her a standout speaker for events involving geopolitics or sustainability. 

Notable Achievements

• First Female President of Costa Rica (2010–2014): Pioneered women’s leadership in the nation’s highest office.
• Minister of Public Security (1996–1998): First woman to hold this position, focusing on public safety and crime reduction.
• Vice President and Minister of Justice (2006–2008): Oversaw justice reforms and legal affairs.
• Environmental Advocacy: Received the “Excellence in National Stewardship of the Oceans” award in 2011 and the “Shark Guardian of the Year” award in 2013 for her conservation efforts.
• Academic Contributions: Served as a fellow at Georgetown University’s Institute of Politics and Public Service and taught at the Monterrey Institute of Technology.
• International Leadership: Co-chair of the Inter-American Dialogue and vice-president of the Club de Madrid, contributing to global discussions on democracy and development.

Frank Lavin

Frank Lavin is an American diplomat, business executive, and renowned author with proven experience and expertise in international trade and U.S.-Asia relations. 

Born on October 26, 1957, in Canton, Ohio, he earned a Bachelor of Science from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, a Master of Science in Chinese Language and History from Georgetown, a Master of Arts in International Relations and International Economics from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, and an MBA in Finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. As such, he is an geopolitical and economics expert. 

Lavin’s public service career includes roles such as Under Secretary for International Trade at the U.S. Department of Commerce (2005–2007), where he led trade negotiations with China and India, and U.S. Ambassador to Singapore (2001–2005), where he played a key role in negotiating the U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. Both were major accomplishments. 

In the private sector, he held senior finance and management positions in Hong Kong and Singapore with Bank of America and Citibank. He also founded Export Now, a company that assists businesses in selling products online in China. All in all, he is a reliable and knowledgeable geopolitical thought-leader, perfect for keynote speaking events throughout the world. 

Notable Achievements

• Under Secretary for International Trade (2005–2007): Led U.S. trade negotiations with China and India, overseeing commercial policy and export promotion.
• U.S. Ambassador to Singapore (2001–2005): Instrumental in negotiating the U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, enhancing bilateral economic relations.
• Founder of Export Now: Established a company that allows businesses to sell products online in China, facilitating international e-commerce.
• Academic Contributions: Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution, focusing on Asia issues and trade policy.
• Publications: Author of “Home Front to Battlefront: An Ohio Teenager in World War II,” a biography reflecting on individual experiences during wartime.
• Military Service: Served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Naval Reserves, contributing to national defence.

Jean Dong

Jean Dong is a well-known Chinese-Australian scholar and policy expert specialising in Chinese politics, foreign policy, and Indo-Pacific geopolitics. 

She serves as a Research Fellow at the Centre for Contemporary Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne and is a Visiting Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Ash Centre for Democratic Governance and Innovation. Dong’s research delves into Chinese history, political culture, and the governance of Artificial General Intelligence, providing nuanced insights into China’s strategic behaviour.

Since 2016, Dong has been an active member of the G20’s think tank engagement group (T20), contributing to policy recommendations on issues such as World Trade Organization reform, fiscal responses to pandemics, and the future of multilateralism. 

Her industry experience in bilateral and multilateral economic diplomacy further showcases her academic and policy work. In 2023, she authored the monograph “Chinese Statecraft in a Changing World: Demystifying Enduring Traditions and Dynamic Constraints,” offering a comprehensive analysis of China’s statecraft and its global implications.

Notable Achievements

• Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne: Performs in-depth studies on Chinese politics and foreign policy.
• Visiting Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School: Engages in research on democratic governance and innovation.
• G20 Task Force Member (since 2016): Contributes to policy recommendations on global economic issues.
• Author of “Chinese Statecraft in a Changing World” (2023): Provides insights into China’s strategic behaviour and global influence.
• Founder of the Australia-China Belt & Road Initiative (2015): Facilitates trade and investment opportunities between Australia and China.
• Industry Experience: Extensive background in economic diplomacy, enhancing her academic and policy expertise.

Koji Tomita

Koji Tomita is a highly accomplished Japanese diplomat with over four decades of experience in international relations and foreign policy. 

Born on November 8, 1957, in Fukuoka, Japan, he did his legal education at the University of Tokyo and furthered his studies as an exchange student at Davidson College in the United States, where he honed his understanding of global affairs. 

Tomita began his diplomatic career in 1981 with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and quickly rose through the ranks, taking on important roles in North American affairs, regional diplomacy, and multilateral negotiations. His expertise in fostering bilateral relationships helped advance Japan’s interests on the global stage.

Tomita served as Japan’s Ambassador to several key nations, including Israel, South Korea, and the United States. 

During his tenure as Ambassador to the U.S. from 2020 to 2023, he navigated complicated geopolitical challenges and worked to strengthen Japan-U.S. relations through economic partnerships and security collaboration.

Tomita is also a noted author, having written acclaimed books on Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, with his work on Thatcher receiving the Shichihei Yamamoto Award in 2019. 

After retiring from public service, he joined the prominent law firm Mori Hamada & Matsumoto as an adviser in 2024, continuing to contribute his deep expertise to international affairs and strategic advisory work. Tomita is a popular keynote speaker for geopolitical and foreign policy affairs. 

Notable Achievements

• Ambassador to the United States (2020–2023): Strengthened bilateral ties during a key period for global and regional security.
• Ambassador to South Korea (2019–2020): Worked to improve relations amid historical and security challenges.
• Ambassador to Israel (2015–2018): Fostered collaboration in technology and innovation.
• Director-General, North American Affairs Bureau (2013): Directed Japan’s diplomatic strategies for North America.
• Acclaimed Author: Published books on Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, earning the Shichihei Yamamoto Award for his work on Thatcher.
• Legal and Diplomatic Adviser: Joined Mori Hamada & Matsumoto law firm as an adviser in 2024.
• Academic Background: Studied law at the University of Tokyo and broadened his international perspective at Davidson College in the U.S.

Ryan Hass

Ryan Hass is an American foreign policy analyst and former diplomat, currently serving as the director of the John L. Thornton China Centre and the Chen-Fu and Cecilia Yen Koo Chair in Taiwan Studies at the Brookings Institution. His expertise encompasses the U.S.-China relations, U.S.-Taiwan relations, and broader East Asian security issues. 

Hass’s career in public service includes a notable tenure as the director for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia at the National Security Council (NSC) from 2013 to 2017, where he advised President Obama and senior officials on policy matters concerning these regions. 

Hass was a Foreign Service Officer with assignments in U.S. embassies in Beijing, Seoul, and Ulaanbaatar before his NSC role, and also held positions within the State Department’s Offices of Taiwan Coordination and Korean Affairs. 

His diplomatic efforts earned him multiple commendations, including the State Department Director General’s award for impact and originality in reporting. 

In addition to his roles at Brookings, Hass is a nonresident affiliated fellow at Yale Law School’s Paul Tsai China Centre and serves as a senior advisor at The Scowcroft Group and McLarty Associates. He is also a trustee of The Asia Foundation and a term member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Notable Achievements

• Director of the John L. Thornton China Center at Brookings: Leads research and policy analysis on China and East Asia.
• Chen-Fu and Cecilia Yen Koo Chair in Taiwan Studies: Focuses on U.S.-Taiwan relations and cross-Strait dynamics.
• Director for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia at the NSC (2013–2017): Advised on U.S. policy and coordinated interagency efforts concerning these regions.
• Foreign Service Officer: Served in key diplomatic posts in Beijing, Seoul, and Ulaanbaatar, earning multiple commendations.
• Author: Published “Stronger: Adapting America’s China Strategy in an Age of Competitive Interdependence” (Yale University Press, 2021).
• Senior Advisor: Provides strategic counsel at The Scowcroft Group and McLarty Associates.
• Trustee of The Asia Foundation: Contributes to initiatives promoting development and policy research in Asia.
• Council on Foreign Relations: Engages in discussions on international affairs as a term member.

Dmitry Grozoubinski

Dmitry Grozoubinski is an Australian trade policy expert, educator, and former diplomat, recognised for his efforts to demystify international trade and negotiations. He is the founder of ExplainTrade, a consultancy dedicated to making complex trade concepts accessible to a broad audience. 

Grozoubinski also serves as the Executive Director of the Geneva Trade Platform, an organisation that facilitates inclusive discussions on trade policy. His diplomatic career includes representing Australia at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and participating in high-stakes negotiations at WTO and United Nations ministerial conferences.

In addition to his consultancy work, Grozoubinski is a Visiting Professor at the University of Strathclyde’s School of Law, where he gives lectures on trade policy and negotiations to students. 

He is also the author of “Why Politicians Lie About Trade… and What You Need to Know About It,” a book that offers an accessible and often humorous exploration of international trade dynamics. Prominent publications like the Financial Times, The Economist, and The New York Times have featured his insights, highlighting his role as a leading voice in trade policy discourse.

Overall, his roles in foreign policy and international diplomacy make him the ideal candidate for events that need trusted, qualified, and competent geopolitical keynote speakers. 

Notable Achievements

• Founder of ExplainTrade: Established a consultancy focused on simplifying complex trade and negotiation concepts for diverse audiences.
• Executive Director of the Geneva Trade Platform: Leads an organisation that promotes inclusive and informed discussions on global trade policy.
• Australian Diplomat and Trade Negotiator: Represented Australia at the WTO and participated in significant international negotiations, including WTO and UN ministerial conferences.
• Visiting Professor at the University of Strathclyde: Educates students on trade policy and negotiation strategies at the School of Law.
• Author: Wrote “Why Politicians Lie About Trade… and What You Need to Know About It,” providing an engaging analysis of international trade.
• Media Contributor: Featured in leading publications, offering expert commentary on trade issues.
• Academic Background: Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Melbourne and a Master’s in Diplomacy and Trade from Monash University.

KT McFarland

Kathleen Troia “K.T.” McFarland is an American political commentator, author, and former government official with decades of experience in national security and defence. 

Born on July 22, 1951, in Madison, Wisconsin, she earned a Bachelor of Arts from George Washington University and pursued further studies at St Anne’s College, Oxford. McFarland began her career in the 1970s, serving as a night-shift typist and assistant press liaison for the National Security Council staff. 

During the Reagan administration, she worked as a speechwriter for Secretary of Defence Caspar Weinberger and later served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Public Affairs. In 2006, she ran for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate in New York but was unsuccessful. 

McFarland has often  appeared on Fox News as a national security analyst and has authored several books on foreign policy and national security issues. Her proven experience in policy and international relations make her a standout candidate for keynote speaking.

Notable Achievements

• Deputy National Security Advisor (2017): Served under President Donald Trump, contributing to national security policy development.
• Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs (1980s): Played a key role in shaping defence communications during the Reagan administration.
• Political Candidate: Ran for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate in New York in 2006.
• Author: Published multiple books on foreign policy and national security, sharing her extensive experience and insights.
• Media Analyst: Regularly appeared on Fox News as a national security analyst, providing commentary on defence and foreign policy issues.
• Academic Background: Holds a Bachelor of Arts from George Washington University and pursued further studies at St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Lev Nachman

Lev Nachman is an American political scientist and assistant professor at National Taiwan University, specialising in political participation, social movements, and party politics in East Asia, particularly Taiwan and Hong Kong. 

He earned his Ph.D. in political science from the University of California, Irvine, in 2021. Nachman’s research delves into how contested statehood influences political behaviour, examining the conditions under which social movements evolve into political parties. Nachman’s work is informed by his extensive field research in Taiwan.

Beyond academia, Nachman actively contributes to public discourse on Taiwanese and cross-Strait politics. He has been quoted in major media outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, Bloomberg, the BBC, and The Guardian. 

His writings have appeared in publications like Foreign Policy and The Diplomat, as well as in peer-reviewed journals including Political Research Quarterly and Asian Survey. 

Nachman is also a nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Global China Hub and the National Bureau of Asian Research, where he continues to provide insights into U.S.-Taiwan relations and broader regional dynamics. 

Notable Achievements

• Assistant Professor at National Taiwan University: Teaches and conducts research on political participation and social movements in East Asia.
• Nonresident Fellow at the Atlantic Council and the National Bureau of Asian Research: Provides expertise on U.S.-Taiwan relations and cross-Strait issues.
• Published Author: Authored “Taiwan: A Contested Democracy Under Threat,” offering insights into Taiwan’s political landscape.
• Media Contributor: Quoted in prominent outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Bloomberg, providing analysis on Taiwanese politics.
• Academic Background: Holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of California, Irvine, with research focusing on social movements and party politics.
• Fluent in Mandarin: Enhances his research and engagement in Taiwan and the broader region. 

Sir Kim Darroch

Sir Kim Darroch is widely recognised as one of the United Kingdom’s most seasoned and esteemed diplomats. Specialising in national security and European Union policy, he has addressed challenges including Daesh and Russian aggression, earning him distinguished honours such as the CMG and KCMG awards.

Before his role as an ambassador, Darroch served as the UK’s National Security Advisor from 2012 to 2015, where he counselled the Prime Minister on pivotal security matters. His tenure involved managing complex issues, from negotiating nuclear deals with Iran to confronting the governance breakdown in Libya. Earlier, as the UK’s Permanent Representative to the European Union from 2007 to 2011, he played a key role in defining Britain’s position within the EU, especially amid the financial crisis and ongoing debates over European integration. Darroch has consistently emphasised the need to grasp the intricate political and economic workings of Brussels—a perspective that remains relevant in today’s post-Brexit environment where continued cooperation is crucial despite political differences.

Whether advising governments, contributing written analyses on international affairs, or addressing audiences on the future of geopolitics, Sir Kim Darroch stands out as a profoundly insightful and influential voice in modern diplomacy.

Notable Achievements

• British Ambassador to the United States: Managed critical transatlantic relations during the Trump administration (2016–2019).
• UK’s National Security Advisor: Advised on national security, navigating nuclear negotiations with Iran and addressing the collapse of governance in Libya (2012–2015).
• UK’s Permanent Representative to the European Union: Shaped Britain’s role in the EU amid financial crises and integration debates 2007–2011).
• Awards: Honoured with CMG and KCMG awards for distinguished diplomatic service.

Gita Wirjawan

Gita Wirjawan is a prominent Indonesian entrepreneur and former policymaker, recognised for his significant contributions to trade policy and sustainable development. His expertise has made him a leading voice on Southeast Asia’s economic future and Indonesia’s growth trajectory. As the founder and Chairman of Ancora Group, a diversified private equity firm with investments in natural resources, real estate, and education, Wirjawan combines his entrepreneurial vision with a deep understanding of economic development, establishing him as a respected thought leader in global geopolitics and sustainable growth.

As Chairman of Indonesia’s Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Wirjawan made significant strides in attracting foreign investment. Serving as Indonesia’s Minister of Trade from 2011 to 2014, he spearheaded major reforms, including the passage of the landmark Trade Law. He also chaired the Ninth WTO Ministerial Conference in 2013, where 159 nations reached agreements to reduce global trade barriers.

Notable Achievements

• Founder and Chairman of Ancora Group: Leading a diversified private equity firm with a focus on sustainable development and education.
• Former Minister of Trade, Indonesia: Spearheaded historic reforms and chaired the Ninth WTO Ministerial Conference (2011–2014).
• Chairman of Indonesia’s Investment Coordinating Board: Doubled foreign investment in Indonesia (2009–2011).
• Founder of the Ancora Foundation: Providing scholarships and supporting grassroots education initiatives.
• Chairman of the Indonesia Badminton Association: Led the team to Olympic and World Championship gold medals (2012–2016).
• Host: Endgame with Gita Wirjawan: A podcast discussing Southeast Asia’s potential and Indonesia’s future.

Final Thoughts 

All the above speakers are experts in the geopolitical space, and make for great keynote speakers no matter the event. The thought leaders highlighted in this guide bring unparalleled expertise, diverse perspectives, and real-world experience to complex global challenges. 

Whether your focus is on understanding shifting international relations, navigating economic policies, or addressing pressing global issues like climate change and security, these speakers can deliver compelling narratives and actionable insights. 

Choosing a speaker who aligns with your event’s goals, you’ll not only captivate your audience but also inspire them to think critically about the interconnected world we live in.

At CWG Speakers, we help you connect to keynote speakers and thought leaders throughout the world. Need a qualified and trusted keynote speaker for your event? Reach out today!