The Briefing

Monocle
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Jan 27, 2026 • 34min

How Iranians are receiving information during a brutal crackdown on protests

Rienike van Zanten, interim director who helps exiled media bypass censorship, explains why Radio Zamané returned to shortwave and how they set up broadcasts fast. Carlotta Rebello, concise newsreader, delivers rapid headlines. Anita Menderada, aviation strategist, discusses Boeing’s culture and recovery. Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Brazil specialist, covers crime, pop culture resurgences and sports prospects.
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5 snips
Jan 26, 2026 • 32min

Xi Jinping’s purge of high-ranking Chinese military figures continues 

Steve Tsang, China expert at SOAS, analyzes high-level military removals. Naya Nathanielsen, Greenland minister, reflects on her country’s shaken mood and mineral prospects. Alexis Self, Monocle foreign editor in Nuuk, reports on international attention and diplomatic fallout. Marc Beauger, fashion columnist, recaps standout shows and a wearables-first trend in Paris Men’s Fashion Week.
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Jan 23, 2026 • 34min

Where does the Nato military alliance go from here?

Oana Lungescu, a former NATO chief spokesperson, discusses the recent de-escalation regarding Greenland and NATO’s shifting focus on Arctic security. Ariel Childs shares insights into rebranding Great Britain’s America’s Cup team, highlighting the design choices influenced by maritime history. Fernando Pacheco analyzes this year’s Academy Award nominations, emphasizing the record-breaking recognition for 'Sinners' and the notable presence of international films. The conversation offers a fascinating look at military, creative, and cinematic landscapes.
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6 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 49min

Live from Davos: Albin Kurti, the prime minister of Kosovo, and day four of the WEF

Albin Kurti, the Prime Minister of Kosovo, shares his aspirations for economic growth and EU integration while highlighting Kosovo’s accomplishments at Davos. He discusses the importance of rule of law and engaging youth in democracy. Rob Cox provides insight into the significance of political messaging at the World Economic Forum, particularly around the reactions to high-profile speeches, including those by world leaders like Zelensky. Together, they explore how Kosovo's growth and stability play a role in the broader Western Balkans context.
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Jan 21, 2026 • 27min

Live from Davos: Trump touches down and markets react to geopolitics

Join Marcus de Maier, Editor at Handelszeitung, for sharp insights on European reactions to Davos speeches. Ulrike Hoffman-Bocardi, a strategy expert from UBS, dives into AI's impact on global markets and fiscal policies. Ewan Potts from Bloomberg reveals how geopolitical tensions shape investor behavior. Lastly, Parag Khanna, founder of Alpha Geo, discusses Davos's role as a 'pop-up city' and the new multipolar world order emerging from these global conversations.
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10 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 32min

Live from Davos: WEF gets underway, what makes a strong passport and redefining the office

Jessica Bridger, a savvy contributor at Monocle and WEF regular, shares on-the-ground insights from Davos. She delves into the evolving dynamics of the guest list and the shift from dialogue to candid debate among leaders. Sue Asprey-Price from JLL emphasizes how workspaces can enhance performance, spotlighting the importance of community and amenities. In a unique twist, the conversation also touches on the value of strong passports, the rising trend of multiple citizenships, and the colorful aesthetics of global passports.
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Jan 19, 2026 • 32min

Trump tells Norway’s PM he is no longer obligated ‘to think purely of peace’. Plus: a Milan Fashion Week Men’s preview

Nina Dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent, shares insights on Trump's controversial Greenland tariff and its impact on EU relations. Carlotta Ribello reports live from Davos, highlighting the tech scene and heightened security. Vijay Guntur, CTO of HCL Tech, discusses the transformative role of AI in society and the importance of responsible technology. Fashion expert Fernando Augusto Pacheco previews Milan Fashion Week, focusing on menswear trends and the resurgence of department stores. It's a lively discussion on politics, technology, and fashion!
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Jan 16, 2026 • 30min

Russia strikes energy facilities in Kharkiv as Zelensky declares a state of emergency 

Nobel Prize-winning economist Richard Thaler, famous for founding behavioral economics, discusses his career and the nuances of human behavior. Julia Jenne, a Ukraine expert, provides a gripping account of the recent Russian strikes in Kharkiv amidst severe winter conditions and explains Ukraine's emergency measures. Meanwhile, Carlotta Ribello reports from Davos, examining the World Economic Forum's global risks survey, which highlights both geo-economic tensions and climate concerns, all contrasting with the backdrop of Trump’s possible influence.
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Jan 15, 2026 • 33min

Phase two of the ceasefire: what comes next for Gaza? 

Nada Al-Tahir, a Senior foreign reporter at The National, shares vital insights on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, discussing the challenges of disarmament and the complexities of humanitarian access. Meanwhile, Thomas Chatterton Williams, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, reflects on the unrest in Minneapolis, advocating for disciplined nonviolent protest strategies. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to offer a compelling vision during this period of national division and exhaustion.
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Jan 14, 2026 • 29min

Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi plans snap election

Tomohiko Taneguchi, former special advisor to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, discusses Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s upcoming snap election and her strong public support driven by youth engagement. Ewan Potts analyzes China’s impressive trade surplus and the implications of U.S. tariffs facing legal challenges. Austin Ramsey reveals China's strategic ties with Iran amidst protests, highlighting economic collaboration. Caroline Avedon shares insights into her grandfather Richard Avedon's impactful photography series, emphasizing its lasting human resonance.

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