Economist Podcasts

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, dives into China's groundbreaking census data, revealing a stagnating population and the economic challenges of an aging demographic. Alice Fullwood, the Wall Street correspondent, discusses the rise of central bank digital currencies, or 'govcoins,' and their potential to reshape monetary policy and access to banking. The episode also touches on fascinating wildlife research from Ecuador that uses roadkill to track elusive species, showcasing the unexpected ecological insights gleaned from this method.

In this discussion, Anshel Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, and Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent specializing in cyber threats, delve into the escalating violence in Jerusalem. They cover the backdrop of recent tensions, including rocket attacks from Hamas and Israeli airstrikes. The conversation also shifts to the increasing risks of cyber attacks like ransomware, highlighting the challenges faced by governments in protecting critical infrastructure and the imperative for public awareness of these threats.

Anne McElvoy, a Senior Editor with The Economist, and Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief, dive into the surprising electoral victories of Boris Johnson in northern England and the implications for Scottish independence. They also discuss the fallout for the Labour Party and its challenges in reclaiming traditional strongholds. On the climate front, the German Constitutional Court's landmark ruling demands more aggressive emissions targets, stirring global discourse on climate policy and intergenerational justice.

Mariana Palau, a journalist focused on Colombia for The Economist, provides deep insights into the ongoing protests against tax reforms that have escalated into a broader fight against President Iván Duque's administration. She discusses the violent turn of these demonstrations and the significant impact on daily life in Colombia. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the overlooked environmental consequences of military operations and the push for greener practices within armed forces, highlighting a transition towards renewable energy initiatives.

Hal Hudson, Technology correspondent for The Economist, discusses the Facebook Oversight Board's controversial decision to uphold Donald Trump's ban, highlighting broader implications for free speech and social media regulation. Abdullah Latif, a former prisoner turned advocate, sheds light on the cruel realities of juvenile sentencing in America, calling for reforms that prioritize rehabilitation. The conversation also touches on the unexpected success of a Broadway musical in China that tackles mental health issues, sparking vital discussions in a society often reluctant to confront such topics.

Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, senior correspondent for politics, technology, and society, and Matthew Holhouse, British political correspondent, dive into the contentious realm of U.S. gun laws, discussing the alarming trend of permitless carry legislation and its impact on public safety. They also explore the heightened Scottish nationalism post-Brexit and the potential for a new independence referendum. Additionally, a segment on the challenges of climate change offers insights into a forgotten coffee species that could thrive amid growing environmental concerns.

David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, delves into the deteriorating strategic ambiguity between China and Taiwan, raising alarms about potential military aggression. Claire McHugh, a writer for The Economist, connects environmental degradation to the escalating risk of zoonotic diseases, highlighting the dangers of wildlife markets. Together, they explore Taiwan's skepticism towards China's unification promises, emphasizing the geopolitical stakes and the impact of human practices on health crises.

In this discussion, Sam McBride, a seasoned journalist covering Northern Ireland for The Economist, unpacks the current political turbulence following the resignation of the DUP leader. He explores the effects of Brexit on unionist identity and the looming question of Irish unification. Additionally, McBride reveals how the pandemic transformed diplomatic practices, making them more inclusive through technology. The conversation also touches on the rise of immersive art experiences, showcasing how audience engagement is reshaping contemporary art.

In this discussion, Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, digs into Hungary's sweeping university reforms under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, revealing alarming trends in academic freedom. He highlights the lack of EU response to democratic decline, raising questions about funding complicity. The talk also shifts to an exciting development in mental health: researchers are working on a blood test for depression that could transform diagnosis and treatment precision. Additionally, a heartfelt tribute to activist LaDonna Brave Bull Allard is featured.

Piotr Zalepski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, shares his expertise on the complicated history between Turkey and Armenia, sparked anew by President Biden’s acknowledgment of the 1915 genocide. Rob Gifford, a senior editor, discusses the rising persecution of Christians in China, particularly focusing on the government’s fear of underground movements. They explore the implications of nationalism, geopolitical tensions, and innovative ways, like wastewater testing, to monitor public health while navigating the intertwining issues of faith and state control.