The podcast discusses North Korea's growing ties with Russia and military concerns, the unexpected ecological impacts following the war in Ukraine, and the global obesity epidemic. It also explores how businesses are adapting to disruptions and offers a half-price promotion for Economist Podcasts Plus subscriptions.
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Quick takeaways
North Korea's provocative actions under Kim Jong-un heighten global concerns, especially with growing ties to Russia.
The war in Ukraine has caused ecological damage, impacting wildlife, highlighting the broader consequences of conflicts.
Deep dives
Growing Concerns Over North Korea's Provocations
North Korea, under Kim Jong-un, has shown signs of potentially engaging in provocative military actions, raising concerns globally. Despite past hostilities and military incidents like sinking a South Korean ship and missile testing, the country's recent actions, including rhetoric and missile tests, have heightened worries. The strengthening relationship between North Korea and Russia, marked by arms supply, raises further alarm. Although South Korea maintains military superiority, the risks of escalation due to perceived threats remain a significant concern.
Ukraine's Environmental Devastation Amid War
The war in Ukraine has not only led to human casualties but also severe ecological damage, impacting wildlife significantly. Study findings reveal the detrimental effects on various species, including dolphins suffering due to naval sonar use. Conversely, the conflict has boosted fox populations, resulting from hunting bans. While wildlife thrives, challenges like increased encounters with wildlife pose new risks, such as rabies outbreaks.
Global Escalation of Obesity Rates
Obesity rates have surged globally, surpassing underweight populations in prevalence. Factors contributing to this rise include economic disparities affecting diet affordability and the abundance of processed foods. Additionally, biological factors and societal changes play a role. Tackling obesity necessitates preventive measures and intervention from governments to address the complex contributors to this growing public health crisis.
As the hermit kingdom is getting ever cosier with Russia, it is becoming bolder in its provocations of conflict with the south. Growing risks of escalation threaten not just the region, but the world. The victims of the war in Ukraine are not just its people, but its animals too (09:48). And why the world is getting bigger (15:57).
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