Economist Podcasts

Tom Rowley, a reporter on the Britain desk for The Economist, delves into the case of Usman Khan, the jihadist who recently attacked in London. He explores the failures of the British justice system in monitoring released terrorists and the implications for public safety. The discussion raises critical questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, Rowley touches on the ongoing AIDS epidemic and innovative survival strategies among Venezuelans turning to video gaming amidst economic turmoil.

Ryan Avent, an economics writer for The Economist, discusses Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and his ambitious anti-corruption campaign. While the president enjoys high popularity, Avent critiques the systemic issues that remain. They also delve into randomized controlled trials in economics, exploring their effectiveness in tackling poverty despite ethical concerns. Additionally, the conversation highlights the potential of caterpillars and grasshoppers as sustainable protein sources in Congo's vibrant market, showcasing innovative approaches to global food challenges.

James Astle, an expert on President Trump's military relations, discusses the fallout between Trump and military leaders, emphasizing the growing politicization within the armed forces. Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent, sheds light on Guinea-Bissau's rise as a narco-state, exploring how corruption and weak governance fuel drug trafficking. The conversation dives into the repercussions of political interventions in military affairs, alongside a look at the complexities of global drug networks and the societal impacts of addiction.

Catherine Braik, the Environment editor for The Economist, dives into the alarming findings of the UN's Emissions Gap Report. She highlights the shocking rise in greenhouse gas emissions and the lack of progress despite global protests for climate action. The discussion also touches on China's dialect diversity and the cultural implications of language loss. Additionally, there's a fascinating exploration of Uber's influence on drinking habits and public health, revealing a complex relationship between convenience and consumption.

John Priddo, The Economist's US editor, shares his insights on Michael Bloomberg's late entry into the presidential race, highlighting his billionaire status and challenges in winning over Democratic primary voters. Ludwig Ziegler, U.S. technology editor, delves into TikTok's meteoric rise and the geopolitical concerns it raises around data privacy and security. The discussion also addresses how TikTok's popularity is shifting technological landscapes and prompting regulatory scrutiny from U.S. officials while revealing the competitive tensions with major tech companies.

Dominic Ziegler, Senior Asia correspondent for The Economist, offers keen insights into Hong Kong’s recent local elections amidst ongoing protests. He discusses how the significant voter turnout reflects public dissatisfaction and support for democracy. Ziegler highlights the implications for the government of Carrie Lam and the urgent need for reforms. The discussion also touches on the ramifications of anti-corruption efforts in Eastern Europe, drawing parallels with the political climate in the United States.

Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, shares valuable insights on the significant indictment of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, discussing its potential to shake up Israel's political landscape and governance. He explores how this unprecedented legal turmoil may impact election dynamics and party conflicts. The dialogue also touches on resilience in the face of challenges, contrasting Netanyahu's political struggles with the emotional toll of eviction faced by families, before wrapping up with an intriguing revival of Leonardo da Vinci's historic vineyard.

Nicholas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, provides a deep dive into the recent, intense protests in Iran, sparked by government cuts to petrol subsidies. He explores the public's fierce discontent and the government’s clampdown amid internet blackouts. The conversation also touches on rhino conservation and innovative strategies to combat poaching, emphasizing the complex dynamics of illegal markets. Finally, Pelham discusses how dietary choices can influence climate change, linking personal habits to broader environmental impacts.

Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's savvy Israel correspondent, shares his on-the-ground insights into the nuances of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He discusses the evolving role of U.S. policy on Israeli settlements in the West Bank and its implications for a future Palestinian state. The conversation dives deep into the political complexities of the region, questioning Israel's democratic claims amid continued military occupation. Plus, the narrative shifts to the intriguing rise of premium gin in India, juxtaposing its colonial past with modern trends.

Tim Cross, Technology editor for The Economist, delves into the complexities of internet regulation and the resulting 'splinternet,' highlighting the need for accountability in the age of misinformation. Meanwhile, James Astle, Washington bureau chief, sheds light on Doug Jones's political strategy, emphasizing moderates' roles in bridging divides within the Democratic Party. Their discussion also touches on the urgent crisis of air pollution, particularly its severe impact on children's health, urging immediate action to address this global threat.