Economist Podcasts

Rachel Dobbs, a climate change expert based in Singapore, joins Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief, to discuss the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report. They reveal how climate change is inflicting severe damage on vulnerable populations and stress the need for immediate adaptation strategies. The conversation also dives into Valérie Pécresse's struggling presidential campaign in France amid a tense political climate. Additionally, they explore the financial woes of the U.S. Postal Service and its vital role in rural communities.

China is caught in a diplomatic dance, trying to balance its support for Russia while managing its image amid global tensions. The podcast delves into the unsettling discrepancies in COVID-19 death tolls worldwide and the mathematical methods used to uncover these inaccuracies. It also discusses the intriguing link between women's representation in government and lower corruption rates, suggesting that more female leaders could lead to cleaner governance.

In this insightful discussion, Erin Braun, The Economist's Mountain West correspondent, dives into the controversies of a new lithium mining boom in the American West. She sheds light on local community concerns about environmental and cultural impacts. The conversation also touches on the Biden administration's strategy for critical mineral supply amidst global demand and the historical challenges of mining regulations. Meanwhile, a poignant glimpse into life under siege in Kharkiv reveals the enduring resilience of its residents amid ongoing conflict.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, shares insights on Ukraine's valiant resistance against Russian forces, highlighting unexpected support from the West and the complexities of warfare. Stephen Mazie, Supreme Court correspondent, discusses Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson's historic nomination, contrasting her unique qualifications with traditional profiles. The conversation also touches on the reliability of eyewitness testimony, emphasizing the need for scrutiny in the justice system, especially in light of past societal panics.

Edward Carr, the Deputy Editor at the Economist, and Hal Hodson, a member of the COVID team, dive into the fierce resistance of Ukrainian forces against Russian advances. They highlight the bravery displayed during key battles and the larger geopolitical implications of the conflict. The discussion also shifts to the UK's recent lifting of COVID restrictions, weighing public health against quality of life. Additionally, they explore the evolution of romantic comedies, examining their cultural significance amid changing audience expectations.

Oliver Carroll, a correspondent in Kyiv for The Economist, shares firsthand accounts of the chaos and fear as Russia launches its invasion of Ukraine. He discusses the mood among civilians and the surge in resistance efforts. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles delves into the disturbing rise of carjackings in American cities during the pandemic, attributing this trend to youth involvement and changing gang dynamics. He considers the challenges law enforcement faces and highlights the need for community-focused strategies to combat this issue.

In little more than a year, three of Latin America’s four most populous countries have expanded access to abortion. We ask what is driving that change in the region. Austin is the destination for many fleeing Silicon Valley; our correspondent examines the risks posed to the hot new tech spot. And the sugarloaf pineapple: the lucrative fruit of Benin’s branding labours. 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.

Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, and Tom Gardner, Addis Ababa correspondent, dive into the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict sparked by Putin's controversial troop movements. They discuss the geopolitical fallout and international reactions. The pair also reflect on the African Union's 20-year evolution, celebrating both its successes and ongoing challenges in promoting stability across Africa. Additionally, they explore the shifting music landscape, highlighting how artists like Bad Bunny are revolutionizing global music trends, moving away from English dominance.

Susanna Savage, a South Asia expert at The Economist, David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief, and science correspondent Matt Kaplan delve into significant themes. They discuss The Gambia's groundbreaking genocide case against Myanmar, exploring its potential impact on the Rohingya crisis and Aung San Suu Kyi's controversial role. The conversation then pivots to Nixon's historic visit to China, drawing parallels to present geopolitics. Additionally, Kaplan reveals fascinating research on how noise pollution adversely affects plant life, stressing their unique environmental responses.

Ludwig Sigela, European business editor for The Economist, shares insights on the stark realities shaping Ukraine and Russia's interactions. He discusses the ramifications of President Putin's actions, emphasizing Russia's self-isolation and its quest for a home-grown tech ecosystem. The episode also features a personal account from a Ukrainian woman, illustrating the human cost of the conflict and her resilient hopes for the future. Digital sovereignty, cyber strategies, and Ukraine's evolving identity in this crisis are key highlights.