Nicholas Pelham

Marwan Barghouti, the imprisoned Palestinian politician and revolutionary, discusses his potential release and yearning to lead his people. Nicolas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into Barghouti's transformative life behind bars, where he mentors fellow inmates and explores democratic ideals. They reflect on the impact of the Oslo Accords, the shifting Palestinian leadership landscape, and the emotional stories of Barghouti's family longing for his return amidst the ongoing conflict.

Jan Petrovsky, The Economist's business editor, delves into the turbulent waters of the tech market, emphasizing how companies like Netflix and Meta face harsh scrutiny while others thrive. Nicholas Pelham sheds light on the shifting perceptions of Jews in the Arab world, revealing a surprising revival of Jewish life in unexpected places. Meanwhile, Shashank Joshi discusses how muddy terrain impacts military strategies in Ukraine, showcasing the historical and tactical challenges posed by the weather on the battlefield.

Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses the tightening grip of hardline clerics on Iran’s political landscape and the resulting voter disillusionment. Meanwhile, Natasha Loder, health policy editor, shares groundbreaking insights on monoclonal antibody therapies that significantly improve survival rates for severe COVID-19 patients. The conversation intertwines the state of Iranian democracy with advancements in healthcare, touching on the pressing need for effective treatments and the revival of cultural traditions.

Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, delves into Turkey's burgeoning regional influence since the Arab Spring. He discusses Turkey's assertive military actions in Libya, Syria, and Iraq, linking them to historical aspirations reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire. The conversation shifts to Tanzania, examining its dubious economic growth claims and the implications of its middle-income status amidst local governance challenges. Pelham also reflects on urban development controversies in Athens, highlighting concerns over preserving historical integrity.

Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses the economic turmoil surrounding Bashar al-Assad's regime, focusing on the crippling sanctions and inflation affecting Syria. Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, dives into the complexities of reparations for American descendants of slaves, highlighting evolving public sentiment and moral imperatives. The conversation also touches on the role of corporate responsibility in addressing economic inequality and the unusual etiquette training for civil servants in South Asia, blending history and modern challenges.