From 9DASHLINE and the European Parliament in ASEAN, The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Join Zsuzsa and Richard as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Listen to our sister series: Musyawarah.
AI and the Global Power Shift: Where Do Europe and Asia Stand?
As artificial intelligence reshapes global power, can Europe and ASEAN nations navigate an increasingly divided technological landscape?
In this episode hosts Zsuzsa (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) are joined by Dr Louise Marie Hurel (https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisemariehurel/), Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (https://www.rusi.org/) (RUSI), to explore how AI is transforming geopolitics, national security and international cooperation.
From US–China technological rivalry and competing approaches to AI governance to cybersecurity, Big Tech and the growing influence of emerging economies, the discussion examines the challenges and opportunities facing Europe and its Indo-Pacific partners.
Richard and Zsuzsa also discuss cultural diplomacy, exploring how historic artefacts, from the return of the Bayeux Tapestry (https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/bayeux-tapestry) (https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/bayeux-tapestry)to England to Southeast Asia's artistic treasures, can build bridges between nations.
Join us for a conversation on technology, power and the future of international cooperation.
Further reading - To explore some of the issues raised in this episode, Richard also highlights the following RUSI publications examining the security implications of emerging technologies, access to advanced AI systems and the protection of critical infrastructure:
Developing a Framework for Secure Third-Party Access to Frontier AI (https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/research-papers/developing-framework-secure-third-party-access-frontier-ai)
Gatekeeping the Frontier: When AI Access Becomes a National Security Concern (https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/gatekeeping-frontier-when-ai-access-becomes-national-security-concern)
High-Risk ICT Vendors and Critical Infrastructure: European Approaches (https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/research-papers/high-risk-ict-vendors-and-critical-infrastructure-european-approaches)
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX)
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
24 Jun 2026
Energy Shocks and Strategic Choices: How Southeast Asia Is Navigating Turbulence in the Middle East
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Huong Le Thu (https://x.com/le2huong) of the International Crisis Group about how Southeast Asia is both experiencing and responding to the conflict in the Middle East. We explore which aspects of the crisis have impacted the region most, alongside key policy priorities and potential blind spots.
The discussion unpacks differing diplomatic responses and the role of domestic politics in shaping foreign policy. It also examines the region’s exposure to disruptions in energy supplies and global shipping routes, and whether governments see this as a short-term shock or a longer-term structural risk, including efforts to diversify supply chains and strengthen resilience. We also consider how the crisis is shaping views on US-China competition, strategic hedging, and Europe’s role, as well as what it reveals about ASEAN’s capacity to manage external shocks—and whether Southeast Asia is moving toward greater strategic autonomy or deeper dependence on external powers.
Finally, Richard (https://bsky.app/profile/richheydarian.bsky.social) and Zsuzsa (https://bsky.app/profile/zsuzsettte.bsky.social) discuss Europe’s summer sporting season, from tennis to cycling, and Richard gives his view on the FIFA World Cup.
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX)
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
5 May 2026
The Art of the Deal: EU and ASEAN Trade and the Power of Cinema
In this episode, we are joined by Bernd Lange MEP, Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade, for an in-depth conversation on the latest developments in EU trade negotiations with ASEAN partners — including Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. We explore what these talks mean for the future of Europe's geoeconomic engagement in the region and discuss the various issues on the road to agreement.
And because diplomacy isn't only conducted in negotiating rooms, we also turn to the power of the big screen — examining how European and Southeast Asian cinema is emerging as a compelling soft power tool, with Richard revealing his top movie picks.
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX)
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
13 Jan 2026
Looking Ahead to 2026: What Will Shape EU–ASEAN Relations and the Indo-Pacific
David MacSweeney, founder of 9DASHLINE, discusses the critical factors influencing EU-ASEAN relations and the Indo-Pacific region in 2026, highlighting geopolitical competition and economic security in this interview episode.
5 Dec 2025
From Jakarta to Dili: ASEAN’s New Chapter and What it Means for Europe
Hunter Marston analyzes the recent ASEAN summit, Timor-Leste's membership, and the EU-Indonesia CEPA with Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian, exploring implications for ASEAN cohesion and Europe's Indo-Pacific ambitions in this interview.
17 Sept 2025
The SCO Summit, India’s role, and EU–ASEAN connectivity
Stefania Benaglia discusses the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, India's strategic role, and the evolving dynamics between the European Union and ASEAN in an interview with Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian.
14 Jul 2025
James Crabtree on how events in the Middle East are (re)shaping Europe and Indo-Pacific relations
James Crabtree, European Council on Foreign Relations fellow, discusses with Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Youngs how Middle East events impact Europe's relationship with the Indo-Pacific region in this interview.
23 May 2025
Xi Jinping in Southeast Asia: Implications for Europe and the Indo-Pacific + Eurovision!
Stephen Nagy analyzes Xi Jinping's Southeast Asia visit with Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian, discussing implications for Europe and the Indo-Pacific, plus Eurovision's global appeal in this interview.
10 Apr 2025
Earthquakes: The ICC visits Duterte, budget cuts hit RFA, and devastation in Thailand and Myanmar
This month, Zsuzsa (https://bsky.app/profile/zsuzsettte.bsky.social) and Richard (https://bsky.app/profile/richheydarian.bsky.social) are joined by Kristina Kironska (https://x.com/kristinaki6?s=21), a human rights expert with firsthand experience in Myanmar. In this episode, they unpack seismic events, including the Myanmar–Thailand earthquake, the arrest of Rodrigo Duterte under an ICC warrant, and attacks on free media, including efforts to silence Radio Free Asia. They explore the implications for international accountability and media freedom, examining how these shocks impact ASEAN’s evolving role and shape Europe’s potential to bolster stability and accountability.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they discuss key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
Produced by 9DASHLINE (https://x.com/9DashLine) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia, and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX).
3 Mar 2025
After America: Europe’s role in a shifting Southeast Asia
As Trump's America redefines its global role, Southeast Asia faces uncertainty. Hunter Marston (https://bsky.app/profile/hmarston.bsky.social) joins us to discuss developments in Washington and their potential impact on the region. We also explore whether Europe can help fill the strategic void—from security to economic ties. Inspired by the vibrant Art Fair Philippines, Zsuzsa and Richard examine how culture can strengthen connections between Europe and Southeast Asia during this period of profound change.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they discuss key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
Produced by 9DASHLINE (https://x.com/9DashLine) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia, and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX).
27 Dec 2024
Leaning into 2025: India's influence, ASEAN and a Middle East ceasefire, and how the Philippines really love Christmas
In this episode, we reflect on key events connecting Europe and the Indo-Pacific while looking ahead to 2025. With insights from Manali Kumar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/manalikumar/) and David MacSweeney (https://bsky.app/profile/macsdavid.bsky.social), we explore how ASEAN might respond to a potential Middle East ceasefire, examine India’s growing role as a key partner in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, and hear how the Philippines celebrates Christmas like nowhere else.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they discuss key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
Produced by 9DASHLINE (https://x.com/9DashLine) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia, and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX?si=96e27c26f0e84693).
16 Nov 2024
What a Second Trump Presidency Could Mean for Europe and Southeast Asia (Plus, Pygmy Hippo Divas)
In this month’s episode, we welcome Hunter Marston (https://x.com/hmarston4) for a fascinating discussion on the potential global implications of a second Donald Trump presidency. We explore how his return could shape relations across Europe and the Indo-Pacific, examining potential shifts in trade, alliances, and power politics. We also dive into the world of pygmy hippo divas, where personalities shine and drama unfolds—including a surprising European rival to the now-iconic Moo Deng.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they discuss key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
Produced by 9DASHLINE (https://x.com/9DashLine) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia, and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Be sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX?si=ebfd115555814eb5).
26 Sept 2024
A new era for the Global South: And the Pope brings a message of hope
This month, we delve into EU-ASEAN relations and shifting great power rivalry through the lens of the Global South. We're joined by Sriparna Pathak (https://x.com/sriparnapathak?lang=en) to explore how these dynamics are shaping both the regional and global order. We also turn our attention to Pope Francis' recent visit to Asia and the Pacific, discussing its geopolitical, cultural, and diplomatic significance in this key region.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamic shaping relations between these vital regions.
From 9DASHLINE (https://www.9dashline.com/) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Be sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX).
21 Aug 2024
Decoding The Recent ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting in Laos
This month, we are joined by Ian Chong (https://x.com/ChongJaIan) to help analyze the recent ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Laos, exploring its implications for the region in the coming months and leading up to Malaysia's chairmanship in 2025. We also delve into the recent Paris Olympics and the importance of people-to-people connections.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamic shaping relations between these vital regions.
From 9DASHLINE (https://www.9dashline.com/) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Be sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX?si=911b6061c5b24925).
15 Jul 2024
What Does Europe's New Political Landscape Mean For Its Indo-Pacific Push
Following recent elections in Europe, we examine the evolving relationship between Europe, ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific region. We discuss recent developments in the South China Sea and explore how Europe's changing political landscape might influence its foreign policy.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions.
From 9DASHLINE (https://www.9dashline.com/) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Be sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah. (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX?si=lZEPbNjMQbGpDTGTPR6UBA)
5 Jul 2024
The Bridge: Europe's Indo-Pacific Podcast
From 9DASHLINE (https://www.9dashline.com/) and the European Parliament in ASEAN (https://x.com/EPinASEAN), The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy (https://x.com/zsuzsettte) and Richard Heydarian (https://x.com/RichHeydarian) as they examine key political issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these two vital regions.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.
Be sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah (https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX?si=lZEPbNjMQbGpDTGTPR6UBA&nd=1&dlsi=2ee1e329beca4edb).
Who has been a guest on The Bridge: Europe's Indo-Pacific Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
David MacSweeney
Hunter Marston
Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy
Richard Heydarian
James Crabtree
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 30 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
41
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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