Idris Kaloun, a Washington correspondent for The Economist, delves into the alarming spike in America's murder rates, exploring the socioeconomic factors driving this surge amidst the pandemic. Tim Judah, the Balkans correspondent, contrasts this with Serbia's successful COVID-19 vaccination rollout, showcasing how effective public health strategies can prevail despite broader European challenges. They also discuss the impact of the pandemic on work culture, raising questions about work hours and the pursuit of happiness.