UCL Political Science Events

Critical Minerals and Geopolitics

Episode Summary

Recorded in March 2026, this Policy and Practice Seminar explores the growing geopolitical and economic importance of critical minerals in global supply chains, particularly their role in the clean energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and national security. It examines what counts as “critical minerals,” why they are strategically important, and how states use commercial diplomacy to secure access amid trade restrictions, shifting alliances, and intensifying geopolitical competition. The discussion also considers the environmental, social, and political implications of resource extraction in producer countries. Speakers include Chris Vandome, Belinda Schäpe, Metehan Ciftci, with chair Aparna Ravi.

Episode Notes

Critical minerals are increasingly central to global supply chains, particularly those underpinning the clean energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and national security. But what exactly are critical minerals, and why do they matter so much? And what role does commercial diplomacy play in securing access, as countries navigate trade restrictions, strategic partnerships, and geopolitical relationships? Our panel of experts will explore these critical questions.

Meet the Speakers

• Chris Vandome leads the Critical Minerals Initiative at Chatham House. He is a senior research fellow with both the Global Economy and Finance Programme and the Africa Programme. In addition to his research expertise in geopolitics, security, and natural resource governance, Christopher is a member of the standards committee of the Responsible Jewelry Council. 
• Belinda Schäpe works at the nexus of climate change and geopolitics and is a China Policy Analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) where she analyses China’s decarbonisation journey and advises policymakers on their diplomatic engagement with China. 
• Metehan Ciftci is a social scientist keen to explore the social, political, and economic implications of natural resource exploitation. His key research themes include environmental justice, the resource curse and associated conflicts, as well as critical minerals and material circularity (circular economy). He holds a PhD from the University College London Institute for Sustainable Resources, where he is researching the social impact of the rising demand for transition minerals in source countries, with a particular focus on lithium-related conflicts in Chile and Argentina. 
• Chair: Aparna Ravi is Lecturer in International Political Economy at the UCL Department of Political Science 

Recorded 5 March 2026