Whilst 2016 was a year that brought huge political shocks, both in Europe and in North America, 2017 has continued to throw up major after-shocks. Theresa May’s decision to hold a snap election has resulted in a hung parliament, with the Prime Minister reliant on the DUP. With the formal negotiations on leaving the European Union now starting, can the UK get the sort of deal that allows the country to move on from division and resentment? What will the consequences be for Scottish and Northern Irish politics and the future of the United Kingdom?

In the United States, last November’s Presidential election of Donald Trump left many observers baffled and dismayed. But was it really such a surprise? Why would working families living in America’s Rust Belt, go on watching their living standards fall and vote for more of the same?

Across Europe, new movements from both left and right have made political inroads in recent years. Emmanuel Macron, who has become President of France, is an avowed supporter of the European Union. He has acknowledged that the EU must change if it is to survive, but if he fails to persuade other member States to reform, what might happen to the European project?

We live in interesting times. But is that such a curse? Might these seismic shifts in politics mean that people begin to believe their voice makes a difference and reconnect with politics, resulting in more democratic legitimacy?

Come to the Exeter Salon to hear our panel argue their case for why this may be the best of times, or the worst of times.