Vivian Yee

Vivian Yee, Cairo Bureau Chief for The New York Times, and Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, delve into Egypt's severe economic crisis. They discuss how the Egyptian pound's historic drop and soaring inflation are affecting everyday life, turning essentials into luxuries. The conversation highlights the role of the military in the economy, the impact of global events like Ukraine’s war, and the skepticism surrounding the IMF's interventions. Will President El-Sisi find a viable solution, or is unrest looming on the horizon?

Vivian Yee, the Cairo bureau chief for The New York Times, shares insights on Tunisia's political turmoil. Once a beacon of hope after the Arab Spring, the country now grapples with a president consolidating power amid mass protests. Yee highlights citizens' frustrations over unaddressed crises and the rise of authoritarianism. The podcast explores the harsh reality for journalists in Tunisia and reflects on the precarious balance between democracy and oppression, raising critical questions about the nation’s political future.