Economist Podcasts

Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief for The Economist, and Tom Wainwright, Media editor for The Economist, discuss Pakistan’s critical role in Afghanistan's future. They delve into the diplomatic challenges and opportunities facing Pakistan, shaped by its ties to the Taliban. The conversation shifts to the evolving responsibilities of financial firms like Mastercard in regulating online content, and the implications of popular culture phenomena like 'Squid Game' on global societal issues and South Korean media's surge. An insightful exploration of geopolitics and cultural influence.

After a court ruling in Poland that is an affront to a core European Union principle, Poles hit the streets—fearing a “Pol-exit” they do not want. Who will back down? Hydrogen has been touted for decades as a fuel with green credentials. At last its time has come. And the herd of unicorns popping up in Mexico.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.

Edward Carr, Deputy Editor at The Economist overseeing COVID-19 coverage, and Sophie Petter, Paris Bureau Chief, delve into pressing global issues. They discuss the challenges faced by Asia-Pacific nations transitioning from strict zero-COVID policies in light of the Delta variant. The conversation then shifts to the harrowing revelations of over 200,000 cases of abuse within the French Catholic Church, questioning its societal role. Finally, they tackle the crucial topic of dialect diversity in English, advocating for recognition beyond 'standard' English.

China has sent more than 100 planes to probe Taiwan’s air-defence zone. We explain why Beijing has chosen this moment to send a message across the strait. The WHO has approved a vaccine against malaria—a turning-point in fighting a disease that kills 260,000 African children a year. And if you want a Nobel prize, it helps to be lauded by a laureate.    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.

Abiy Ahmed is sworn in again as prime minister, even as continuing strife increases the country’s isolation. Our correspondent witnesses the gruesome aftermath of a telling battle. China once encouraged, even forced abortions. Now, as it frets about declining birth rates, it’s discouraging them. And we report on India’s “godmen” and “godwomen”, their moneyspinning schemes and their fanatical followers.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.

Josh Roberts, a finance correspondent for The Economist, explores the troubles plaguing London's stock market, identifying strict governance and a stagnation in innovative IPOs as key culprits. He discusses how these issues hinder London’s status as a global financial hub and suggests strategies for revitalization. Additionally, the podcast delves into the resurgence of military conscription worldwide, influenced by geopolitical tensions, and the rise of digital nomadism in Europe, reshaping how and where people work post-pandemic.

Yesterday’s global outage is not even the worst of it: today’s congressional testimony will examine a whistleblower’s allegations that the company knows its products cause widespread harm. The modern food-industrial complex is great for eaters but appalling for the planet; we examine technological fixes, and whether consumers will bite. And how Afghanistan's embassies abroad are—or aren’t—dealing with the Taliban.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.

Stephen Mazey, The Economist's Supreme Court correspondent, shares insights on the critical issues facing the Supreme Court, including abortion rights and gun laws, in a term defined by a conservative supermajority. Catherine Nixie, the Britain correspondent, discusses the alarming tree diseases striking the UK, urging innovative solutions to protect native trees. The podcast also humorously delves into why hotels are popular settings in films and TV, highlighting their role in character development and narrative tension.

Sophie Petters, Paris bureau chief, provides insights into Nicolas Sarkozy's shocking legal troubles, including convictions for influence-peddling and campaign financing. She discusses how these developments signify a new wave of accountability in French politics, reshaping public trust. Meanwhile, Charlie McCann interviews Tin Lin, a Burmese freedom fighter whose journey from believing in the military's protective role to activism sheds light on the complexities of resistance after a military coup. Together, their stories reflect the evolving landscapes of justice and activism.

Duncan Weldon, The Economist's British economics correspondent, discusses the UK's ongoing fuel shortages and the factors behind the panic, such as Brexit and the pandemic. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, reflects on Tunisia's political landscape, particularly the significance of its first female prime minister amidst ongoing democracy challenges. The conversation also touches on India's societal shifts, as micro-stay hotels gain traction, offering privacy for unmarried couples in a changing cultural landscape.