Economist Podcasts

Boris Johnson, Britain’s prime minister, narrowly survived a no-confidence vote last night. As he limps on, the informal contest to succeed him will intensify, as will questions about the Conservative Party’s direction. San Francisco’s progressive district attorney faces a recall election today, in a vote with broader implications for the future of criminal-justice reform in America. And why Ukraine’s army relies on century-old machineguns. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, discusses the shifting landscape of nuclear weapons in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He highlights how the conflict challenges the longstanding taboo against nuclear weapon use, raising global tensions and prompting nations to reassess their nuclear strategies. Joshi also examines the implications for countries like North Korea and China, and the potential impact on nonproliferation efforts. This insightful conversation reveals the precarious balance of global security amidst emerging threats.

Matthew Valencia, Deputy business affairs editor at The Economist, sheds light on the allure of London for Russian oligarchs, exploring money laundering and ethical dilemmas. Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, reflects on the history of royal jubilees, contrasting opulence with the current geopolitical climate. Lusya Shtein from Pussy Riot shares her harrowing escape from Russia, highlighting the fight for freedom. The dialogue reveals a complex relationship between wealth, power, and morality amidst the backdrop of celebration and conflict.

Tom Gardner, The Economist's Horn of Africa correspondent, shares gripping insights into the Ethiopian government's crackdown on media, detailing the dangerous climate for journalists amidst civil unrest. Erin Braun, covering California's cannabis crisis, discusses the struggles faced by legal growers under heavy taxation and stringent regulations despite a booming market. Together, they highlight the chilling effect of authoritarianism on press freedom in Ethiopia and the urgent need for reform in California's cannabis industry.

Matyau Favas, Finance correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the looming global food crisis fueled by the war in Ukraine, leading to skyrocketing prices and mounting hunger. Tom Vatter, Culture writer for The Economist, takes us through the intriguing history of Bangkok's Patpong red-light district, now a cultural landmark. They discuss the ethical implications of advancing genetic screening for newborns, exploring medical possibilities while addressing privacy and ethical concerns. A captivating blend of urgent global issues and cultural reflections!

In this installment, Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, provides keen insights into the latest military actions in eastern Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of urban areas and Western support. Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, Senior correspondent, sheds light on America's broken immigration system, discussing recent legal challenges and the emotional landscape at the border. Together, they explore not only the gritty realities of war but also the complexities of immigration policy, highlighting the significant events shaping these pressing issues.

Join Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, and Jacob Judah, a writer focused on Arctic research impacts, as they unravel China's ambitions in the Pacific. They discuss the complexities of China's military expansion and the geopolitical ripples from its agreement with the Solomon Islands. The conversation shifts to the strain on Arctic collaborations due to sanctions, highlighting the vulnerability of crucial climate research. Plus, they take an intriguing detour into punk's cultural legacy and its myths.

POLLS SUGGEST // Polls suggest the country might get its first-ever leftist leader. Whatever the outcome, a fresh outbreak of violent protest may await. Africa’s increasingly crippling fuel shortages can be blamed on more than just higher prices. And reflecting on the life of Lawrence MacEwen, laird of a tiny Scottish island whose austere simplicity he fought to preserve. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthew Holhouse, a British political correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the controversial Partygate report detailing lockdown gatherings under Boris Johnson, revealing a deepening public dissent and its implications for his leadership. Wendelin von Bredow, Senior Germany correspondent, discusses the remarkable success of Switzerland in the business arena despite its modest resources, while also addressing its future challenges. The duo also explores the influence of Russian propaganda on social media, analyzing its surprising success in shaping perceptions globally.

LaVeya Chankova, The Economist's healthcare correspondent, shares her insights on the aftermath of the tragic school shooting in Texas, underscoring the urgent need for meaningful gun law reforms. The discussion reveals the gap between public sentiment and political action. Chankova also addresses the rise of monkeypox, easing concerns by comparing its severity to COVID-19 and discussing effective preventive measures. Additionally, explore the evolving narrative power in video games, featuring the collaboration between renowned creators.