Top 10 Politics & Current Affairs Speakers for your 2026 Event

Kelly Beaver is the Chief Executive of Ipsos in the UK and Ireland and a leading voice in public opinion and social trends. She works closely with senior decision makers across government and business, helping them understand how attitudes are shifting and what that means in practice. Regularly appearing across national media, Kelly brings clarity to complex issues such as political sentiment, trust in institutions and social change. Her sessions combine data with real world context, offering audiences a clear and grounded understanding of how public opinion is evolving and how organisations can respond with confidence.

Ian Dunt is a political analyst, author and broadcaster known for his sharp, insightful commentary on UK and global politics. A former editor of Politics.co.uk and a regular contributor to major publications, he is widely recognised for his ability to cut through complexity and challenge conventional thinking. His expertise spans political systems, populism, the relationship between business and government, and the evolving role of institutions. Engaging and thought provoking, Ian helps audiences understand not just what is happening, but why it matters and what could come next.

Nina Schick is a political commentator and advisor specialising in the intersection of technology, geopolitics and democracy. She has advised global leaders and played key roles in major political campaigns, bringing first hand insight into how power, information and influence are evolving. Her work focuses on the impact of artificial intelligence, disinformation and digital infrastructure on global stability. Nina helps audiences understand how technology is reshaping politics and society, and what that means for organisations navigating an increasingly complex and fast moving landscape.

Ed Balls is a former UK Shadow Chancellor, senior policy maker and now an established broadcaster and commentator. With experience at the heart of government, he offers a clear and practical perspective on economic policy, political decision making and global affairs. Alongside his media work and academic roles, Ed brings a rare ability to translate complex issues into accessible, engaging insight. His sessions combine credibility with warmth, helping audiences understand the forces shaping the economy and what they mean for organisations and leadership today.

Ayesha Hazarika is a columnist, broadcaster and former political adviser known for her sharp insight and engaging delivery. Having worked at senior levels within government, she brings an insider perspective on how politics really operate. Blending expertise with humour, Ayesha explores topics such as leadership, communication and political change in a way that is both accessible and memorable. She connects with audiences quickly, offering thoughtful commentary alongside practical takeaways that resonate long after the event.

Niall Ferguson is a historian, author and broadcaster recognised globally for his work on economics, geopolitics and the rise and fall of empires. With an academic career spanning leading institutions, he brings depth of knowledge alongside a highly engaging speaking style. His keynotes explore themes such as global power, financial systems and political risk, drawing connections between past events and present day challenges. Niall helps audiences step back, see the bigger picture and better understand the forces shaping the future.

José Manuel Barroso is the former President of the European Commission and Prime Minister of Portugal, with deep expertise in international politics and economic policy. Having operated at the highest level of global decision making, he offers rare insight into European and international affairs. His perspective spans geopolitics, trade and global governance, helping audiences understand how political decisions shape economic outcomes. Measured and authoritative, he brings clarity to complex issues and a strategic view of what lies ahead.

Katty Kay is an award winning journalist, author and international broadcaster, known for her expertise in US politics and global affairs. With decades of experience reporting on major world events, she offers a well informed and balanced perspective. Alongside her political insight, Katty is a leading voice on confidence and leadership, particularly in relation to women in the workplace. Her sessions combine global context with personal development, leaving audiences both informed and inspired.

George Osborne is the former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, with extensive experience in economic policy and government decision making. Since leaving politics, he has built a portfolio career spanning business, academia and cultural leadership. He brings a strategic perspective on the economy, public policy and the changing political landscape. Combining experience from both public and private sectors, George helps audiences understand how political decisions translate into real world impact for organisations and markets.

Garry Kasparov is a former World Chess Champion, political commentator and global thought leader on strategy, leadership and decision making. Widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, he now applies that same strategic thinking to geopolitics, technology and the future of democracy. Drawing on his experiences at the highest levels of competition and public life, Garry offers sharp insight into risk, resilience and navigating uncertainty. His sessions challenge audiences to think more critically, act more decisively and adapt to a world where the pace of change continues to accelerate.