Owen Matthews Keynote Speaker

Winner of the 2023 Pushkin House Book Prize
Author of 'Overreach: The Inside Story of Putin's War Against Ukraine'
Associate Editor at The Spectator

Owen Matthews's Biography

Owen  Matthews is an award‑winning historian and journalist noted for his incisive analysis of politics in Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, the wider post‑Soviet region, and global affairs. Based in London and with over 25 years of experience as a correspondent in Moscow, he has reported extensively on conflicts in Chechnya, the Balkans, and Ukraine, offering audiences a nuanced understanding of the geopolitical forces shaping our world.

In 2023, Owen’s book, ‘Overreach: The Inside Story of Putin’s War Against Ukraine,’ received the prestigious Pushkin House Book Prize. This work delves into the historical roots and contemporary dynamics of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, providing readers with a comprehensive narrative informed by firsthand accounts and meticulous research.

Recently appointed as Associate Editor at The Spectator, Owen continues to contribute insightful commentary on international affairs. His writings reflect a deep understanding of the complexities of global politics, making him a respected voice in the field.

Owen’s speaking engagements are characterized by his compelling storytelling and authoritative analysis. He adeptly connects historical contexts to present‑day events, offering audiences valuable perspectives on current geopolitical challenges.

Russia's Geopolitical Strategies and Their Global Impact

The Dynamics of Eastern European Conflicts

Media's Role in Shaping Public Perception of War

Historical Perspectives on Contemporary Russian Politics

The Future of International Relations in a Multipolar World

He brings 25 years on the Russia and Eurasia beat, translating conflicts from Chechnya to Ukraine into clear, decision-ready insight on how wars start, spread and reshape global risk.
He is an award-winning author whose Pushkin House Book Prize-winning Overreach offers a rare inside account of Putin’s war, equipping leaders with the context needed to interpret Moscow’s intentions and constraints.
He connects history to headlines with a historian’s depth and a correspondent’s immediacy, helping audiences understand why the post-Soviet world keeps producing strategic shocks for Europe and the wider international system.
He brings current, agenda-setting analysis as an Associate Editor at The Spectator, giving boards and policymakers a grounded read on where the Ukraine war and Russia’s trajectory may head next.
He delivers compelling, frontline storytelling rooted in reporting from Moscow and multiple war zones, helping senior audiences navigate geopolitical uncertainty with sharper judgment and more resilient strategy.