What do okra, chocolate, and economic theory have in common? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with renowned economist and bestselling author Ha-Joon Chang as he explores the surprising connections between food, economics, and global change.

Drawing from his latest work, Edible Economics, Chang will use the stories behind everyday foods to illuminate big questions about globalization, climate change, inequality, and the future of capitalism. Through humor, insight, and real-world examples, he’ll challenge conventional thinking and offer fresh ways to understand the forces shaping our world.

This is not your average economics talk — it’s a global feast for curious minds.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Ha-Joon Chang is a Distinguished Research Professor of economics, as well as Co-director of CSST (Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation) and of DLD (Development Leadership Dialogue) at SOAS University of London. Previously he taught at the Faculty of Economics at the University of Cambridge (1990-2022). In addition to numerous journal articles and book chapters, he has published 17 authored books (five co-authored) and 11 edited books (seven co-edited). His main books include The Political Economy of Industrial Policy (1994), Kicking Away the Ladder (2002), Bad Samaritans (2007), 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism (2010), Economics: The User’s Guide (2014), and Edible Economics (2022). His writings have been translated and published in 46 languages and 48 countries. Worldwide, his books have sold around 3 million copies. Chang has advised numerous international organizations, national governments, civil society organizations, and corporations (both private-sector and public). He is currently a member of CDP (Committee for Development Policy), the highest advisory body of the United Nations on development issues, as well as committees overseeing or advising other international organizations, academic bodies, and charitable organisations. Chang is the winner of the 2003 Gunnar Myrdal Prize and the 2005 Wassily Leontief Prize.

ABOUT THE MODERATOR

Lise Kristiansen serves as the Norwegian Honorary Consul for Alaska and Advisor to the Alaska World Affairs Council. From 2007 to 2023, she was President and CEO of the Alaska World Affairs Council, where she developed high-impact programs featuring more than 450 world leaders, including diplomats, NATO commanders, policymakers, public officials, presidents, and royalty.