What does it really mean to reset a relationship between nations?
In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson is joined by Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, Erasmus Smith’s Professor of Modern History at Trinity College Dublin, to discuss the complex and deeply intertwined relationship between the UK and Ireland. Drawing on her own life and work across Ireland, the UK and beyond, Jane reflects on how history, imperial legacy and mobility continue to shape identities and relationships across these islands. Exploring difficult conversations about the past and the challenges brought about by Brexit, as well as celebrating educational and cultural links and looking to a more hopeful future, she explores how these connections can be nurtured.
We also hear a personal perspective from Bukky Adebowale, Policy Education Officer at the Irish Network Against Racism. Bukky shares how her educational and cultural experiences in Ireland and later in the UK shaped her understanding of her Irish and Yoruba identity, sense of belonging and connections. Her story highlights how education, culture and relationships can help people bridge histories, communities and borders.
This episode questions whether national relationships can ever be reset through diplomacy alone, and how culture, education and people-to-people connections can help imagine a more open, empathetic future.
Listen to Our World, Connected, the award-winning podcast from the British Council, exploring culture, communication, and the power of collaboration in a changing world.
Further resources:
Erasmus+
https://www.britishcouncil.org/erasmusplus
Higher Education Mobility UK and Ireland
https://www.britishcouncil.ie/higher-education-mobility-research
Professor Jane Ohlmeyer