Dr. Alex Tokarev joined international scholars and policy leaders for a global discussion on freedom, markets, and prosperity.
Northwood University Professor Dr. Alex Tokarev was among the featured voices during the London leg of the Free Market Road Show, an international forum that brings together scholars, policymakers and thought leaders to discuss free markets, individual liberty and prosperity.
The May 21 program, hosted by the Prosperity Institute, included discussions on UK-EU relations, blockchain and freedom, energy policy, and the future of free markets in Britain and the West. Tokarev, a Northwood economics professor who is originally from Bulgaria and now resides in Midland, Michigan, participated in a special in-depth conversation with the Prosperity Institute’s Rhys Lavery.
Tokarev was selected for the London program because of his academic work in comparative economic systems and his personal experience growing up in communist Bulgaria behind the Iron Curtain. His remarks explored Britain’s increasing reliance on state intervention, the dangers of distorted price signals, and the importance of preserving free markets, limited government, and individual liberty.
“Being part of the Free Market Road Show in London was a tremendous honor,” Tokarev said. “This event brought together people from different countries and backgrounds who share a serious concern about the future of freedom in the West. My own experience growing up behind the Iron Curtain gives me a deep appreciation for the institutions, markets, and individual liberties that allow people to build better lives.”
The conversation also addressed whether Western countries should compare their economic challenges to those of communist systems, how governments can restore free-market principles after years of intervention, and why public and political support for enterprise has weakened in many countries.
Tokarev’s participation came weeks after Northwood University hosted its own Free Market Road Show program in Midland, continuing the university’s growing involvement with the international series.
“Dr. Tokarev’s selection for the London program speaks to his reputation as an advocate for freedom and the relevance of Northwood’s mission,” said Academic Vice President and Provost Dr. Kristin Stehouwer. “The Free Market Road Show brings together leaders from around the world to examine the future of free markets, limited government, and individual responsibility — principles that are central to The Northwood Idea.”
The Free Market Road Show is organized by the Austrian Economics Center and includes stops in cities around the world. The series is designed to foster serious discussion about the policies, institutions, and ideas needed to strengthen free-market economies and free societies.
Northwood hosted the Free Market Road Show on April 7, bringing international speakers to campus for a program focused on freedom, decentralized systems, constitutional ideas, and the enduring relevance of economic liberty.
“Northwood’s involvement with the Free Market Road Show reflects who we are as America’s Free Enterprise University,” stated Academic Dean Dr. Stacey Tetloff. “Our students and faculty are not only studying these ideas; they are participating in conversations that shape how freedom and prosperity are understood around the world.”
For Tokarev, the London event offered an opportunity to connect his classroom teaching with a global policy conversation.
“Free markets are not just about economics,” Tokarev said. “They are about human dignity, responsibility, and opportunity. Those ideas matter in Midland, in London, and everywhere people care about preserving a free society.”
