Stephen Dalziel has enjoyed a prolific career as a journalist, renowned for his expertise in Russian affairs and his tenure as the Russian Affairs Analyst for the BBC World Service. Since his first visit to the USSR in the 1970s, Stephen has been at the forefront of reporting significant developments from the region, earning a reputation for his insightful coverage. His transition from journalism to a sought-after speaker at corporate events marks a significant phase in his career. Drawing on over fifteen years of experience, Stephen offers unparalleled insights into Russia's political landscape, engaging audiences with his deep understanding of the country's intricate dynamics.
Educated in Russian at Heriot-Watt University and Russian Studies at the University of Leeds, Stephen's academic journey was further enriched by a British Council Scholarship to study at Kyiv State University in the USSR. This academic foundation fuelled his passion for Soviet and Russian affairs, leading to his membership at the Soviet Studies Research Centre at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. There, Stephen leveraged unclassified Soviet sources to accurately depict the Soviet Armed Forces, enhancing his expertise through regular visits to the USSR. These experiences equipped him with a nuanced understanding of Russia's international relations and political posture, establishing him as a credible voice in the field.
As the former Russian Affairs Analyst for the BBC World Service, Stephen dedicated sixteen years to dissecting Russian narratives for global audiences. His tenure coincided with pivotal moments in history, including the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe and the disintegration of the Soviet Union, providing him with firsthand exposure to these transformative events. Interviews with key figures like Boris Yeltsin and Mikhail Gorbachev further underscored his role as a leading journalist. Beyond his work with the BBC, Stephen's influence extended to his role as the Executive Director of The Russian Chamber of Commerce and as an author of "The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Empire," a testament to his comprehensive grasp of the subject matter.
Today, Stephen is celebrated for his contributions as a keynote speaker, where he shares his rich knowledge of Soviet and Russian politics with corporate audiences across the UK. His presentations on the tumultuous post-Soviet era and the Soviet Union's collapse are highly regarded, positioning him as a premier expert on Russia. His insights, drawn from a storied career in journalism and academia, are not only shared on stage but also through radio interviews and media articles, offering valuable perspectives on the fall of communist regimes in Eastern Europe. For those seeking authority on geopolitical relations and international affairs, Stephen Dalziel stands out as an exemplary choice.
