Economist Podcasts
Billions of voices heard: a year of elections
Dec 31, 2024
In a lively discussion, Ed Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, and Maria Wilczek, News Editor, dive into the whirlwind of the 2024 elections worldwide. They unravel surprising political outcomes and the resilience of democracy amidst rising challenges. Ed highlights the shift away from identity politics, while Maria sheds light on Poland's beloved milk bars facing modernization hurdles. The talk also ventures into the evolving economics of these traditional spots, blending nostalgia with innovation, and explores future trends in China's urban landscapes.
22:39
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Quick takeaways
- The dramatic rise in civic engagement during 2024 saw 4 billion voters participate globally, highlighting a yearning for political reform and resilience among democracies.
- China's shifting preference towards smaller cities is driven by younger generations seeking affordable living and improved quality of life, impacting future economic growth patterns.
Deep dives
Shifting Urbanization Trends in China
China's largest cities have historically been hubs of opportunity, attracting a diverse population seeking better jobs and quality of life. However, there is a noticeable shift as younger generations and recent graduates begin to favor smaller cities due to lower living costs and improved quality of life. These smaller cities offer similar infrastructure and amenities without the demanding work hours typical in first-tier cities, making them increasingly appealing. This change also aligns with government efforts to encourage migration to these second and third-tier cities, signaling a potential realignment of economic growth within the country.
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