Fiona Wilson

Leila Malana Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, shares crucial insights on the newly enacted Gaza ceasefire, examining rapid troop withdrawals and the role of international pressure, including from Trump. Fiona Wilson, Monocle’s Tokyo bureau chief, discusses Japan's political turmoil, revealing the implications of the Komeito party’s departure from the coalition and exploring the potential for snap elections. Together, they unravel significant geopolitical shifts and the intricate dance of diplomacy in these regions.

Jan-Henrik Förster, Bloomberg's Switzerland bureau chief, dives into the complexities of Swiss-US trade negotiations, highlighting how Trump's tariffs have strained exports and the strategic moves Switzerland is making for tariff relief. Fiona Wilson, Japan bureau chief, discusses Japan's political scene, including Prime Minister Takeichi's contentious remarks on Taiwan and public reaction to her intense work ethic. Francis Collings shares insights on the French media landscape, covering the anniversary of the Paris attacks and political developments involving Sarkozy.

Kaylin Birch, a global economist, dives into the politically charged DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, unpacking its implications for market stability. Journalist Jack Dickens provides insights on pressing European affairs, including Kadyrov's influence in Chechnya and the potential for U.S. military action regarding Iran. Finally, Fiona Wilson shares the latest from Japan, highlighting political shifts and a viral drum duet between the Japanese and South Korean leaders.

Fiona Wilson, Monocle's Tokyo Bureau Chief, and Andrew Muller, a witty contributor, delve into the high stakes of Honduras's presidential election. They discuss the U.S. government's keen interest, emphasizing potential fraud risks and the historical tension in the region. Fiona highlights broader geopolitical implications, particularly concerning China, while Andrew predicts unrest if results are contested. The conversation also touches on Macron's controversial voluntary military service plan in France, revealing its political significance and public reception.

Eemeli Isohao is a senior researcher at ETH Zurich, Priska Amstutz specializes in communications at Kunsthaus Zürich, and Gorana Grgić focuses on peace mediation. They discuss the importance of human interactions in trust-building for negotiations, especially amidst digital dominance. The guests also tackle Japan's political climate and the evolving cultural landscape, including Halloween celebrations. Finally, Roger Rüegger shares insights on Zürich’s Jazznojazz Festival, emphasizing local sponsorship and the diverse music line-up, blending art with contemporary issues.