Rafael Dezcállar is a prominent Spanish diplomat whose influence and contributions in the field of international relations and geopolitics have made him an authoritative and respected voice worldwide. With an extensive career spanning key roles such as Ambassador of Spain to China, Germany, Ethiopia, and the African Union, his strategic vision and deep analysis of contemporary foreign policy challenges provide essential insights into current global dynamics.
Rafael Dezcállar de Mazarredo has carved a distinguished path since joining the diplomatic service in 1983, excelling in various high-level international roles. His work as Ambassador to China, Germany, Ethiopia, and the African Union, along with his tenure as Director General of Foreign Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, highlights his deep understanding of both bilateral and multilateral relations. As the author of influential works on geopolitics and international relations, his leadership has been recognized with honors such as the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. His active participation in academic forums, think tanks, and NGOs further establishes him as a diplomat dedicated to advancing global dialogue and international cooperation.
He has published several books on European defense, Israel, Russia, and Colombia and has delivered speeches at major forums such as the Mid Atlantic Club in New York, Wilton Park in the United Kingdom, the University of Tübingen in Germany, the Barcelona Economic Circle, the Elcano Institute in Madrid, and the International Menéndez Pelayo University.
Dezcállar’s conferences are a blend of sharp analysis and enriching perspectives, presented with a clarity that only decades of diplomatic experience can provide. Addressing critical issues such as geopolitics, international relations, and China’s role in the world order, his lectures are designed to provide attendees not only with information but with an understanding and strategies to navigate the complex international landscape. His ability to connect historical events with current contexts enriches each presentation, offering valuable lessons on diplomacy, cooperation, and global challenges.
The geopolitical order is changing at a rapid pace. The current international order bears little resemblance to the one that governed the world in past decades. This conference offers an in-depth analysis of these transformations, identifying the main factors shaping the new global geopolitical landscape, the emerging threats, and the opportunities that may also arise. Particular attention is devoted to the role Europe must play in this new world order. The favorable environment that once guaranteed its security and prosperity no longer exists, and threats now stem not only from Russia or China, but also from its traditional ally, the United States. This conference provides a strategic perspective on how to navigate the complexity of today’s international relations.
In recent years, China has emerged as the new great power and the only plausible rival to the United States for global hegemony. Yet China remains a largely misunderstood country. This conference explains how a state governed by a communist party has been able to achieve such extraordinary economic growth. It also examines whether there are limits to China’s growth model. The current rivalry with the United States is analyzed across multiple dimensions: political, economic, trade, military, technological, and ideological. Finally, the conference puts forward some ideas regarding the future development of this rivalry. Dezcallar offers an insightful analysis based on his experience as Spain’s Ambassador to China, providing key insights to understand the country’s role in present and future geopolitics.
The trade order that has delivered decades of growth and prosperity to the world is at risk of disappearing. A trade war has begun between the two countries that have benefited most from it: the United States and China. The United States founded the current international economic order after the Second World War and accounts for approximately 27% of global GDP, yet it runs a significant trade deficit and has chosen to impose tariffs on other countries. China denounces the protectionism inherent in these tariffs, but its impressive economic growth has been based on an unbalanced trade model that has ultimately triggered Washington’s protectionist response. This conference analyzes the trade war between the US and China, its global ramifications—economic, technological, and geopolitical—and the role played by the European Union. It also examines whether this conflict could bring an end to globalization as we know it.
If you’re looking for an enriching and analytical talk on geopolitics and international relations, you can book Rafael Dezcállar through Thinking Heads. As one of the leading figures in foreign policy analysis, Rafael offers expert insights into the challenges and opportunities on the current global stage. Contact Thinking Heads today for more information and to secure his participation in your next event.
View profile
Book Speaker
View profile
Book Speaker
View profile
Book Speaker
Contact us
