Economist Podcasts For her eyes only: a new boss at MI6
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Sep 5, 2025 
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, Vijay Vaiteswaran, energy editor, and Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, dive into urgent topics that shape our world. They discuss the challenges facing MI6 with its new leader amid evolving global threats and technological risks. The conversation shifts to a revitalized nuclear energy sector, fueled by innovation and government support, offering hope for future energy solutions. They also spotlight the silent struggles of Afghan women, reminding us of their fight for basic rights in a challenging environment.
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Generational Shift In MI6 Leadership
- Blaise Metroelli represents a generational shift at MI6 as a career operational officer who joined after the Cold War era.
- Her background in technology and Middle East operations signals a new emphasis on tech-savvy, field-tested leadership.
The Impossible Plate-Juggling Of Priorities
- MI6 must juggle major threats like Russia and China alongside counter-proliferation and emerging-tech monitoring under constrained budgets.
- The service will need hard conversations with government about prioritisation because budget growth cannot cover every demand.
Espionage Plus Disruption
- MI6's remit includes both intelligence collection and active disruption to shape events overseas.
- Disruption can range from feeding faulty components to sowing discord inside adversary organisations.