Economist Podcasts

Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia Bureau Chief, discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, highlighting the urgent need for international aid as winter approaches. He delves into the moral dilemmas faced by global donors in supporting a regime criticized for its human rights violations. The conversation also shifts to India’s digitization efforts, revealing the gaps in accessibility for its vast population. Additionally, Rodenbeck touches on the innovative rise of Rent the Runway, exploring its sustainability amidst the changing landscape of fashion and consumerism.

Michael Reid, who writes the Bayo column on Latin America for The Economist, shares insights on the tumultuous political landscape in Sudan following a military coup that has derailed democracy. He examines the surge of coups across Africa and their implications. The conversation shifts to Ecuador, where President Guillermo Lasso faces a state of emergency amid rising crime and political turmoil. Reid also delves into fascinating aspects of language learning, discussing pronunciation challenges for non-native speakers.

Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent, discusses the chaotic landscape of COVID vaccination certificates, highlighting the difficulties in standardizing these digital health passes. She illustrates the complexities faced by travelers due to incompatible systems across nations. The episode also touches on Uzbekistan's presidential election and the challenges continuing under Shavkat Mirziyoyev's leadership. Additionally, it explores The Economist's venture into Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), emphasizing their potential in the art world and the associated hurdles.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist’s defense editor, analyzes China's alarming hypersonic, nuclear-capable glider, exploring its potential to upend global military dynamics. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, The Economist’s obituaries editor, reflects on the impactful life of Colin Powell, a cautious military leader who navigated complex interventions. The discussion also covers President Bolsonaro’s reckless pandemic response, raising questions about accountability and its political fallout. Insightful and thought-provoking, this podcast dives deep into pressing global issues.

Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses Nigeria's escalating violence, highlighting the chaos caused by criminal gangs, jihadists, and kidnappers. Tamsin Booth, the publication’s Technology and Business editor, explores the new head of Samsung Electronics' plans to enter the competitive chip market amid family dynamics and geopolitical tensions. The conversation reveals stark contrasts in Nigeria's growth and the innovative startup scene that persists despite insecurity.

Robert Guest, Foreign editor for The Economist, provides insights into Ukraine's ongoing conflict and its resilience against Russian pressure, highlighting the dire situation faced by residents. Stanley Pignol, European business and finance correspondent, discusses the ambitious need for robust international electricity networks to tackle renewable energy challenges. They explore innovative collaborations in energy interconnections, illustrating the financial and logistical hurdles in transitioning to sustainable sources while underscoring the geopolitical importance of Ukraine's sovereignty.

Joe Rockman, Britain correspondent for The Economist, delves into the tragic murder of Sir David Amess, highlighting the dangers faced by British MPs during constituency surgeries. He discusses the critical balance between public engagement and safety in an increasingly volatile political climate. The conversation also touches on innovative research in the fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis, emphasizing new methods for detecting mutations. Additionally, Rockman explores the surprising cultural resurgence of Andy Warhol's art in Iran amidst political tensions.

In this discussion, Simon Cox, the China economics editor for The Economist, tackles the slow growth of China's economy, attributing it to pandemic setbacks and real estate issues. He reveals Xi Jinping's pivot towards 'common prosperity,' balancing growth with social equity. Meanwhile, Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief, dives into the turbulent waters of French politics as Macron preps for his re-election, facing unpredictable rivals. The talk also humorously explores age-old solutions to modern meeting inefficiencies, suggesting that some ideas are truly timeless.

In this insightful discussion, Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the ongoing investigation into the Beirut port explosion and its role in escalating sectarian violence. He explores the complex political landscape of Lebanon and the influence of groups like Hezbollah. Anne McElvoy, a Senior editor at The Economist, focuses on the recent Nobel Peace Prize awarded to journalist Dmitry Muratov, highlighting the significance for press freedom in oppressive regimes. Together, they examine the intertwining of politics, violence, and journalism.

A fossil-fuel scramble reveals energy markets in desperate need of a redesign. We examine what must be done to secure a renewable future. Throngs of Hong Kong residents fleeing China’s tightening hand are settling in Britain; our correspondent finds an immigrant group unlike any that came before. And the boom in “femtech” entrepreneurs at last focusing on women’s health.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.