Geoffrey Robertson and Robert Service Stephen Law

Historian Professor Robert Service and human rights barrister Geoffrey Robertson discuss how Russia reached this point in its history and what could be next for this highly powerful and controversial nation.

Considering Russia’s nuclear power, military strength, and political influence, it is no surprise it is widely regarded as one of the most powerful countries in the world. But its political regime, and in particular Putin, remain highly controversial in the West. As the horrific war between Ukraine and Russia further separates Russia from the West, we shall be discussing how it is that Russia reached this point, and where it could be going next.

Service is emeritus professor of Russian history at the University of Oxford. He has written numerous papers and books on Russian history, including biographies of Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin and Leon Trotsky. His research focusses on 19th century right through to present day Russia. Service has been a fellow of the British Academy since 1998.

Robertson is a human rights barrister, academic and author. He is also the head and a founder of Doughty Street Chambers, Europe’s largest human rights practice. He has written several successful books, including Who Owns History? Elgin’s Loot and the Case for Returning Plundered Treasure. His latest book is The Trial of Vladimir Putin.

Discussions are chaired by Dr Stephen Law, a philosopher and academic, author of bestselling introductions to philosophy for adults and children, editor of the Royal Institute of Philosophy Journal Think, and the festival’s major projects director.