Economist Podcasts

Joining the discussion is Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent in Beirut, who dives into the historic Israel-UAE diplomatic agreement. He examines the strategic dynamics that made this normalization possible and its broader implications for U.S. diplomacy in the region. Greg also shares insights on how this shift may impact the Palestinian cause amidst changing political landscapes. The conversation highlights the necessity of effective communication and collaboration among nations to foster stability in the Middle East.

Richard Enzer, the Mexico City Bureau Chief for The Economist, shares his insights on high-level corruption claims, specifically those by Emilio Lozoya against elite politicians. Fiametta Rocco, the Culture correspondent, discusses the new wave of curators pushing for the restitution of cultural artifacts. They explore the dynamics between political accountability and the restitution movement, plus the complexities of prosecuting corruption in Mexico. Additionally, they unveil an analysis challenging claims about Twitter's bias against conservative views.

In this insightful discussion, Tom Rowley, a writer on social affairs for The Economist, examines the alarming poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, shedding light on the Kremlin's risky tactics against political dissent. He also explores the evolving landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals coming out, emphasizing the generational shifts and the impact of the internet on acceptance in various societies. Additionally, Rowley touches on the decline of traditional cuisine in Laos, particularly the fading popularity of ant-egg soup among younger generations.

Shishank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, dives into Turkey's military maneuvers in the eastern Mediterranean, shedding light on the escalating maritime tensions with Greece over energy resources. David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief, reveals fascinating insights from a newly discovered archaeological site in China, linking ancient civilization narratives to modern political identity. The discussion also touches on the urgent issue of ancient trees vanishing, emphasizing their role in biodiversity and climate stability, despite rising CO2 challenges.

Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent for The Economist, unpacks the recent coup in Mali, marked by public unrest and years of violence. He discusses the daunting challenges facing new leadership as instability looms. Mariana Palau, The Economist correspondent based in Bogota, highlights the alarming impact of Chinese fishing vessels on the Galapagos Islands, raising concerns over ecological preservation. They also explore the resilience of the restaurant industry during the pandemic, emphasizing the emotional connections that make dining out much more than just food.

Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia editor, discusses the widespread protests in Belarus against President Alexander Lukashenko, highlighting the people's demand for change. He explores the tension between Belarus and Russia amidst a backdrop of democratic suppression. Charlie McCann, The Economist's Southeast Asia correspondent, analyzes Indonesia's perilous environmental policies related to agricultural expansion. They delve into the risks of repeating past mistakes while questioning the effectiveness of these plans for food security.

Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, highlights the recent UN-backed verdict on the assassination of Rafik Hariri and its implications for Lebanon amidst ongoing political turmoil. David Rennie, an expert on Chinese affairs, shares insights into the challenges faced by Chinese students pursuing education in the U.S. against rising geopolitical tensions. The conversation weaves between these weighty topics, tying them to broader themes of accountability and the global impact of political strife.

Richard Ensor, Mexico correspondent for The Economist, shares gripping insights into Mexico’s cartels, focusing on the Jalisco New Generation Cartel led by the elusive El Mencho. They explore his dramatic rise from U.S. immigrant to notorious kingpin, driving a surge in violence and the dangerous switch to synthetic drugs. Ensor also discusses the relentless U.S. efforts to capture El Mencho and the ongoing challenges faced by Mexican authorities. Additionally, he touches on Tunisia's political upheaval and a pianist's inspiring journey overcoming adversity.

John Fassman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, dives into the political struggles surrounding the US Postal Service, particularly its impact on mail-in voting and public trust in democracy. Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent, sheds light on the microfinance boom in Cambodia and the pandemic's challenges for its sustainability. They wrap up by contrasting these topics with the difficulties in the resale market for Airbus A380s, exploring broader economic implications in various sectors.

Dylan Barry, a science writer for The Economist, and Ashley Mears, a Boston University sociologist, delve into stark realities of climate change, revealing alarming trends in heatwaves and hurricanes. Yet, they also highlight glimmers of hope through positive renewable energy shifts. Mears provides insights into the elite nightlife, discussing the complex dynamics and hidden struggles of models and promoters, contrasted by the pandemic's impact on American sports, especially baseball, and its safety challenges.