Hidden Depths

• Water as a Weapon and Victim of Conflict

  In water-scarce regions, water is more than just a resource; it is a lifeline. But in conflict-affected regions around the world, opposing parties are deliberately targeting water supplies—destroying water infrastructure or seizing and controlling water systems to weaken opponents and exert power over populations. In this episode of Hidden Depths, host David Michel examines how water is both a weapon and victim of conflict. David is joined by Marcus King, Professor of Practice in Environment and International Affairs at Georgetown University; Marwa Daoudy, Chair of Arab Studies and Associate Professor of International Relations in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University; and Peter Schwartzstein, Environmental Journalist and Non-Resident Fellow at the Center for Climate and Security.  Join us as we analyze the growing risks of water-driven conflict and what can be done to mitigate its devastating effects.

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  24:09
• Introduction: Water Conflict and Cooperation

  In June 2023, Russian troops deliberately destroyed the Kakhovka dam in southeast Ukraine, highlighting an alarming trend: Water resources are facing increasing pressure from armed violence worldwide. In the premiere episode of Hidden Depths, host David Michel unpacks the Kakhovka dam as an instance of water weaponization in conflict—and sets out a framework for understanding the concept and features of water conflict more broadly. David is joined by Doug Weir, Director of the Conflict and Environment Observatory (CEOBS), Iryna Babanina, a Ukraine-based researcher with CEOBS, and Dr. Peter Gleick, Senior Fellow and co-founder of the Pacific Institute.  Join us as we dive into the critical challenges—and opportunities—at the intersection of water, conflict, and cooperation.

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  18:51
• Introducing Hidden Depths

  Introducing Hidden Depths, a six-part narrative podcast miniseries exploring the dynamics of water conflict and the possibilities for water cooperation. Join us as we dive into the shared future of this most critical resource.

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Hidden Depths: Podcasts in Family