Lionel Gelber Prize 2025 Awarded to Sergey Radchenko for His Insightful Work
On March 19, 2025, the esteemed Lionel Gelber Prize was awarded to Sergey Radchenko for his compelling book, "To Run the World: The Cold War Bid of Kremlin for Global Power." This accolade celebrates Radchenko's profound exploration of the geopolitical strategies that shaped the Cold War, illuminating the motivations and aspirations of the Soviet Union during a tumultuous period. The award, presented by the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, is highly coveted as it recognizes the best English-language non-fiction work on international relations.
Radchenko’s book stands out not only for its meticulous research but also for its narrative flair. It offers an in-depth examination of the psychological facets of decision-making within the Kremlin, showcasing how the power struggles with the United States and China presented a complex web of ambitions for global dominance. Judging by the comments from Janice Stein, the jury chair and a distinguished professor, Radchenko's writing provokes a reevaluation of our understanding of past Cold War dynamics and their reflection in the current geopolitical climate. As Stein noted, Radchenko has crafted a masterpiece that combines rich original material with captivating storytelling.
The award was chosen by an international jury comprising notable figures from journalism and academia, including Janice Gross Stein (Toronto), Francis J. Gavin (Washington), Iain Martin (London), John Bew (London), and Nina Srinivasan Rathbun (Toronto). Radchenko's book was selected from a shortlist that included other significant works like "Dollars and Dominion" by Mary Bridges and "The Achilles Trap" by Steve Coll.
In "To Run the World," Radchenko delves into various phases of Soviet policies, tracing the evolution from Stalin’s territorial ambitions to Khrushchev’s risky nuclear strategies and Gorbachev’s failed attempts at reinvention. His vivid portrayal of historical events and insightful analysis offer readers a rich perspective on the ever-present legacy of the Cold War. Radchenko argues that the Kremlin's deep-rooted insecurities, coupled with aspirations for recognition, drove a fervent quest for global power, resulting in epic confrontations and unresolved tensions that still echo in today’s international relations.
As a Distinguished Wilson E. Schmidt Professor at SAIS Europe and the Head of the Bologna Institute for Policy Research, Sergey Radchenko is internationally recognized for his research on Cold War history. His contributions to prominent publications like The New York Times and Foreign Policy further reinforce his reputation as an expert in the field.
The Lionel Gelber Prize ceremony is slated to occur on April 9, 2025, featuring a hybrid format at the University of Toronto. This event encapsulates the essence of the Gelber Prize, founded in 1989 by Canadian diplomat Lionel Gelber to promote outstanding works in the field of international affairs. The winning author receives a substantial prize of CAD 50,000, signifying the importance of scholarly contributions to global discourse.
In recognition of his achievement, images and press materials relating to Radchenko and his influential book are available for media use, further enhancing visibility for his important work. As we look toward the future, Radchenko's insights into the Cold War will undoubtedly continue to inform discussions surrounding contemporary geopolitical strategies.