Economist Podcasts

John McDermott, the Africa correspondent for the Economist, dives deep into the shifting geopolitical dynamics competing for influence in Africa, with major players like Russia, China, and the U.S. all eyeing opportunities. He discusses the implications of the UK Prime Minister's parliamentary defeats on Britain's Brexit negotiations, highlighting the risk of a no-deal outcome. Additionally, McDermott touches on the complex debate surrounding the evolution of gendered language in Europe, reflecting the broader societal movements towards inclusivity.

Susanna Savage, The Economist's Bangladesh correspondent, sheds light on the rising divorce rates among women in Bangladesh. She discusses how legal reforms and a shift in societal attitudes are empowering women to seek independence. Additionally, Savage touches on the swift global reactions to the Boeing 737-MAX crashes, particularly China's grounding of the fleet. The conversation also delves into the complexities of internet control in Russia and the youth's resistance against it.

Jan Piotrowski, an environmental reporter for The Economist, discusses the tense atmosphere in Tibet as the anniversary of the 1959 uprising approaches. He highlights the struggle for Tibetan autonomy amidst rising security concerns. The conversation dives into climate change impacts on businesses, revealing a troubling lack of preparedness in assessing climate risks. Piotrowski emphasizes the urgency of adopting sustainable practices and mandatory climate financial disclosures to safeguard businesses against future threats.

Widespread protests will continue today against the re-election run of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who hasn’t been heard from since a stroke in 2013. Algerians have had enough of their country’s proxy rule and misrule. We also ask if countries can sometimes be better run when their leaders are out of action. And, knife crime is on the rise in Britain, but the causes—and the solutions—are a matter of uncomfortable debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Fassman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Paul Manafort's impending sentencing and his tumultuous relationship with accountability during the Mueller investigation. Edward McBride, Asia editor, delves into the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, prompted by Prime Minister Modi’s Hindu nationalism, especially in light of recent escalations. Additionally, the episode explores the challenges North Korean refugees face while attempting to send money home, highlighting their complex and dangerous financial networks.

Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, is in hot water over accusations of judicial interference, raising questions about his future. He discusses the political storm stemming from the SNC-Lavalin scandal and the struggle between preserving jobs and maintaining accountability. The conversation also explores universal basic income as a progressive solution to economic challenges, alongside a lighthearted look at the unique beard trends among young men in Pakistan, showcasing cultural identity and resistance.

The National People's Congress of China gathers today for ten days of deliberations. Tensions with the West over the trade war and disagreement about the role of technology giant Huawei will be in the background. Bosses are not always the most reliable narrators for an investor seeking to gain insight into a company. But there are new data sources that are making it harder for executives to mislead them. And an attic in France has yielded a find some claim to have been painted by the 17th century master Caravaggio. But how do we assess whether an unsigned, orphaned work is the real, very expensive deal? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh water is becoming increasingly scarce, as climate change and population growth puts greater pressure on resources. But the problem is one of mismanagement, rather than supply. When Jair Bolsonaro was sworn in as Brazil’s president in January, he spoke of a national effort to fix the country’s economy and to tackle crime and corruption. Can he deliver on those promises? And how a big-budget Chinese film reflects the philosophy of the country’s leader. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel’s prime minister has been indicted, pending a hearing, just weeks before an election. We look at the charges he faces, and how he has already transformed the country’s politics. Huawei, a Chinese technology giant, has drawn global scrutiny of its tactics and perceived relationship with the Chinese state. But a greater concern is going unmentioned. And, why autonomous-vehicle firms are taking their wares to retirement communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Air strikes by India and Pakistan this week represent a worrying flare-up of tensions that have simmered for years. We examine the forces and politics at play between the nuclear-armed powers. What’s causing the chill in the global manufacturing sector, and how to escape it? And, under the threat of a potentially costly infectious disease, Denmark is building a border wall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.