Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia • Business, Politics, Research, Social

In recent years and even months, most of the world has been voting out old guards of politics and choosing new faces, some desirable, some not so much. One thing is clear: the populace isn't happy with how their lives have become since the end of the pandemic, and with global tensions with wars Read morearound the world making things harder for regular people. Mongolia, on the other hand, has exhibited remarkable political resilience, weathering economic hardships caused by the pandemic and negotiating its dangerous position between its two major neighbors—China and Russia—as they increasingly distance themselves from the West. Mongolia's current government has navigated high inflation, job insecurity, and recent corruption fairly unscathed. 

The Mongolian People's Party retained power in the 2024 legislative elections, demonstrating the country's resiliency. Despite losing significant legislative seats, it still gained enough seats to form a government but chose to create an unprecedented grand coalition with the two opposing parties. This political stability might have contributed to the countries upgrade in ratings from Fitch and S&P Global. However, this consolidation has sparked concerns about dwindling civil society, an opposition-free government, and declining press liberties, with Mongolia's media freedom ranking dropping to 109 internationally.

As Mongolia approaches the 100th anniversary of its constitution on November 26th, I propose a feature piece that explores the country's democratic experience over the last century. The government has agreed to give me an interview with the Speaker of the Mongolian Parliament, who can explain how they have withstood the storm and are still in power while other countries have rejected long-term institutional parties.

I can write about how Mongolia's democracy has evolved over time, the significance of recent constitutional reforms, and the changing dynamics that shape the country now.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates • Business, Finance, Media Training, Research

Blackrock has recently applied for a license to operate out of Abu Dhabi Global Market - it follows a whole suite of global financial giants that have recently set up shop in the UAE’s capital. Does it mark a shift in global capital from North to South ? And can the country’s booming industry Read moresurvive regional chaos ? I will be attending a slew of top finance events in December where I will have a chance to interview key financiers and business leaders from around the world when they gather to discuss the future of their operations in the Middle East. Can take video or written.