John Kampfner.
John Kampfner is an author, journalist, and political commentator
Renowned for helping global audiences navigate the geopolitical forces shaping our world, John is a long-standing political commentator for The Financial Times and the BBC, and former editor of The New Statesman. He has chronicled every UK government from Tony Blair to Keir Starmer and covered defining moments including the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Ukraine, and the impact of Brexit. John writes regularly for The Guardian, The Financial Times, Foreign Policy, and Der Spiegel, and frequently appears on television and radio across Europe.
His latest book, In Search of Berlin (2023), received widespread critical acclaim, following his Sunday Times bestseller Why the Germans Do It Better (2020). Based in Berlin, John is a Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study, a Senior Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, and Chair of the UK-German Young Königswinter organisation.
keynote speeches.
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A grand sweep of areas of conflict, well known and less known, this talk dissects the intentions of China, Russia and other hostile forces. What are the next steps? What can and should the West do? What about the role of the growing force of non-aligned states, the likes of India, Brazil and South Africa in navigating the many hotspots that affect trade and investment decisions?
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In what ways will Donald Trump Mark II differ from his first presidency? More broadly, what are the ideological and policy priorities of this second incarnation of populism? How does the landscape of 2024/25 differ from the thinking that marked the advent of Brexit and Trump’s first victory in 2016? For example, Giorgia Meloni in Italy may share much of the world view of Silvio Berlusconi, but in her approach to government, she could not be more different. The same goes for Marine Le Pen in France and her protégé, Jordan Bardella. The second-generation populists are more professional, and less charismatic, than their predecessors. How will this affect their prospects, and the consequences for the rest of us?
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The Germans are praised for their skilled engineering, exporting prowess and R&D. But they’ve fallen behind on digitisation and innovation. A country that prides itself on its prudence is now having to find tens of billions to upgrade its armed forces - and to change the national mindset at a time of high tension. In this keynote, John looks at the impact on Germany today and, and what the future holds for a country recognised as powerhouse of Europe for many years.
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2004 saw John engaged in a bizarre encounter, a four-hour diatribe in which Putin set out his grievances towards the West. In this keynote, John explains Putin’s obsession with Russia’s great power past and his refusal to allow other Slav nations (notably Ukraine) their independence. He also considers Putin’s next likely incursions into Europe and whether he can be stopped at home or abroad.
videos.
Speaking Highlight
books.
in the news.
frequently asked questions.
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John focuses on geopolitics, global political risk, populism, democracy, and how international tensions shape economic and business outcomes.
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He is typically engaged for keynote-style sessions within conferences, leadership events, and global forums.
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Beyond keynote presentations, he can take part in moderated interviews and panel discussions exploring geopolitical risk and global affairs.
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His work is particularly relevant to organisations navigating geopolitical uncertainty, global market exposure, regulatory risk, and political change.
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He engages with senior leaders, boards, policymakers, and professional audiences across corporate, public, and international organisations.
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His approach is authoritative, analytical, and highly engaging, combining deep political insight with clear narrative and context.
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He adapts emphasis to reflect audience priorities and regional exposure, focusing on implications rather than ideology.
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John Kampfner's work is inherently international in scope and perspective.
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Pricing for John is influenced by factors such as event location, format, and time commitment. Speaking Office ensures fee consistency across all enquiries, whether via speaker bureaus or direct clients, so that pricing remains aligned and non-competitive across channels. Accurate and up-to-date pricing can be provided once event details are shared, ensuring alignment with both the client’s requirements and John’s long-term positioning.
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Speaking Office aims to respond promptly to all enquiries regarding John, typically within one business day. Response times may vary slightly depending on event complexity and time zone, but all enquiries are handled with care and attention.
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John is available for virtual and hybrid events, as well as in-person engagements, depending on availability and event requirements. Speaking Office can advise on the most appropriate format based on audience, objectives, and technical considerations.
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Advance booking is recommended for John, particularly for peak periods and international events. While shorter lead times can be accommodated, early enquiry allows for greater flexibility and planning.
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