Austyn Close

Austyn Close is a consultant for communications agency, Atalanta, headquartered in London. He has advised multinational companies, NGOs, and semi-governmental organisations across the world and has supported campaigns that inspire inclusion in societies and secure justice for marginalised communities. 

To Secure a Peaceful and Prosperous Future, Women Must Be Included at All Levels

For the first time in our history, Northern Ireland will commemorate the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement with a women-led Executive. At this...

The Northern Irish Headache

Upholding and respecting the rule of law is the cornerstone of a free and democratic society. Since the passing of the Withdrawal Agreement, an...

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BRICS+ cooperation in a complex economic and geopolitical environment: Opportunities and impediments

BRICS+ offers vast potential in trade, technology and local currency cooperation, but geopolitical rivalries and divergent strategic priorities will shape whether it emerges as a cohesive force or remains a loose coalition.

BRICS and De-Dollarization: Is the Global Financial Order Really Changing?

BRICS may not end dollar dominance, but it is accelerating a shift toward a more multipolar financial order where currencies, influence, and economic power are becoming increasingly contested.

Between Two Fronts: Why Japan-South Korea Security Cooperation Is No Longer Optional

Japan and South Korea can no longer afford fragmented security policies. In a Taiwan-Korea dual contingency, coordination is no longer strategic preference, but the foundation of deterrence and regional stability.

Islamabad as Intermediary: Pakistan’s Calculated Turn to Crisis Diplomacy

As Gulf tensions rise, Pakistan has quietly become the channel neither Washington nor Tehran can afford to lose. Islamabad’s diplomacy is no longer reactive; it is positioning itself at the center of crisis management.

Epstein Case and the Crisis of Transparency in the West

The Epstein case is no longer just about one predator. It’s about whether Western institutions can investigate power honestly — or whether wealth, influence, and secrecy will always outrun accountability.