Deep Dive: Compelling episodic stories
How do infamous dictatorships like Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan make themselves over publicly from closed despotic states to welcoming democracy-lite nations? Ruled by a handful of dynastic governing families and fuelled by the astonishing wealth of Caspian oil, these regions wield "caviar diplomacy," a specific brand of lobbying power that launders them from human rights abusers, suppressors of free speech and unchecked regimes into free-market partners and liberal government allies. In an investigative series first, renowned journalist Khadija Ismayilova reports from behind bars, blowing the whistle on who is purchasing the legitimacy of the world's democracies and at what scandalous costs. From pop stars like Lady Gaga and J-Lo to vanity-built Olympic stadiums and eye-watering monetary cash gifts, insiders at Europe's highest councils and parliaments reveal the tools and trade of global corruption on a terrifying scale. Myrocia Watamaniuk
Presented with the support of the Cultural Services of the Embassy of France in Canada
This event has been financially assisted by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund of the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, administered by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Corporation.