Economist Podcasts

In this discussion, Simon Rabinovich shares his insights into China's political shifts and the implications of new legislation affecting Hong Kong, hinting at potential unrest. David Smith analyzes Argentina's looming debt crisis as the nation grapples with the threat of default and the pandemic's economic fallout. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe reflects on the life of Yvonne Boland, celebrating her contributions to Irish poetry and the exploration of women's voices in literature. Together, they tackle pressing global issues and the intersecting stories of resilience.

Piotr Zalepski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, discusses Turkey's economic turmoil, including a weakened lira and the challenges posed by a central bank lacking independence. Charlotte McCann, a staff writer and author, explores the evolution of online dating during lockdowns, revealing a shift toward deeper emotional connections amidst social distancing. They also touch on the worrying implications of COVID-19 transmission from humans to primates, highlighting conservation challenges as human interactions increase.

Simon Long, The Economist's deputy digital editor, explores the geopolitical stresses at the World Health Organization's annual assembly, emphasizing the urgent need for unity amidst rising tensions. Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent, discusses the alarming increase in illegal logging threatening the Amazon, spurred by a controversial new decree under Bolsonaro's administration. They reflect on how these issues intertwine with global health challenges and the lasting musical legacy of Kraftwerk’s Florian Schneider, celebrating his impact on electronic music.

In this discussion, Andrew Knox, a writer for The Economist specializing in extremism, examines the rise of far-right groups in America leveraging the pandemic to spread their ideologies. He highlights troubling instances of violence and online recruitment tactics. Mark Johnson, The Economist's China correspondent, contrasts this with the long-overdue governmental shift toward acknowledging mental health issues in China, detailing recent initiatives and ongoing challenges stemming from cultural stigmas. Together, they unpack these pressing societal issues.

In this insightful discussion, Charles Reid, a travel writer for The Economist, and Max Rodenbeck, South Asia bureau chief, delve into the airline industry's tough recovery post-pandemic. They highlight the resilience of low-cost carriers and the inevitability of industry consolidation. Kerala's exceptional COVID-19 response is showcased, thanks to innovative strategies and a popular health minister. Additionally, the future of New York's Irish pubs is examined, revealing a blend of tradition and modern adaptation in the face of evolving consumer demands.

Duncan Robinson, the Brussels bureau chief for The Economist, and Richard Enzer, a correspondent based in Mexico City, delve into the EU's struggles with COVID-19, emphasizing the growing economic divides among member states. They raise critical questions about the EU's purpose amid the pandemic. Meanwhile, Enzer discusses the authoritarian shift in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele, contrasting it with cultural changes in Indonesia, where people are adapting health practices through sun exposure.

Join Alok Jha, The Economist's science correspondent, as he delves into the political dynamics of Israel's newly formed unity government between rivals Netanyahu and Gantz. They discuss the challenges ahead, from legal battles to external threats. Jha also illuminates how the COVID-19 pandemic transformed scientific communication, expediting research sharing and raising questions about rigor in the rush to publish. Additionally, the conversation touches on emerging trends in equitable hiring practices and their impact on wage discrimination.

Emma Duncan, Britain's editor for The Economist, scrutinizes the UK's controversial COVID-19 response and its impact on the nation's global reputation. Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent, discusses the unsettling shutdown of ABS-CBN in the Philippines and its dire implications for press freedom under Duterte's regime. Meanwhile, Mike Reed draws parallels between contemporary issues and the 1950s Argentinian novel 'Zama,' exploring themes of waiting and solitude that resonate in today's Latin America. It's a captivating mix of politics and literature!

Mathieu Favas, a finance correspondent specializing in global food systems, joins Duncan Weldon, a Britain economics correspondent focused on economic statistics and inflation. They delve into how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the global food supply chain, revealing significant challenges and strategies for adaptation. The duo also tackles the complexities of measuring inflation in today's market. Their conversation underscores the necessity of international cooperation to tackle food accessibility issues and the economic implications of food waste.

Joined by Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, and Joel Budd, a social policy editor with a focus on urban architecture, this discussion delves into Lebanon's economic crisis and the resurgence of protests fueled by public discontent. They explore how historical epidemics have shaped city design, particularly post-coronavirus, and the challenges faced by brands like Corona beer as they navigate negative associations stemming from the pandemic. It's a fascinating blend of social unrest and architectural evolution.