The Monocle Daily

In this engaging discussion, Caroline Frost and David Brennan delve into Donald Trump's Gaza plan, examining its UN approval and the ambiguities surrounding the proposed Board of Peace. They also explore the potential risks of its implementation and the significant drop in international students applying to US universities, attributing it to recent visa restrictions and cultural concerns. Meanwhile, Portuguese artist Alexandre Fatto (Vils) shares insights about his site-specific installation 'Doors of Cairo' at the Pyramids, highlighting its artistic meaning and impact.

Patricia Cohen, a global economics correspondent for The New York Times, and Alexander Gerlach, a political philosophy professor at NYU, dive into Trump's surprising U-turn on releasing Epstein files. They discuss the motivations behind Trump's decision, its implications for the MAGA camp, and skepticism about potential redactions. The duo also analyzes the fractures within MAGA and the endurance of Trump's political persona amid scandals. Their conversation touches on the broader themes of accountability and public perception in the current political landscape.

Join Alexa Self, Monocle's foreign editor, H.J. Mai, Boston-based political reporter, and Nam Paramareva, Thai restaurateur, as they delve into pressing topics. They explore the recent U.S. government shutdown and its ramifications, alongside discussions on media literacy in Finland’s education system. Nam shares insights on her London restaurant Platapian, highlighting the rich regional influences behind her authentic Thai cuisine. This engaging conversation bridges politics and gastronomy, making for an enlightening listen!

Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at The New Statesman, and Ash Badwaj, journalist and author, delve into Russia's surprising recruiting of over 200 Kenyans to fight in Ukraine. They discuss unorthodox recruitment tactics and the troubling narratives from captured recruits, revealing low morale and tragic consequences. Meanwhile, in a separate segment, Sebastian Bazin, CEO of Accor Hotels, shares insights from the Tourize Summit, exploring the Middle East's hospitality and tourism growth amidst global shifts.

Joining the discussion are Olga Tokariuk, a Ukrainian journalist and expert on energy issues, and Sean Kemp, a political strategist and former adviser. They delve into Ukraine's escalating corruption scandal, exploring the implications of ministerial resignations and Zelensky's integrity. Olga highlights how protests and anti-corruption efforts are affecting public trust, while Sean warns about potential international backlash. The conversation also glances at geopolitical dynamics, including Pakistan's tensions with Afghanistan and the soft-power aspects of royal diplomacy.

Yossi Mekelberg, a Senior Consulting Fellow at Chatham House, and Julie Norman, an Associate Professor at UCL, delve into the tenuous state of Gaza following a ceasefire. They explore potential long-term solutions, like a confederation model, that could offer a pragmatic alternative to the two-state solution. The discussion also highlights the risks of temporary arrangements solidifying into permanent divides. Rose George joins in to spotlight the global fishing industry's environmental challenges and our complex relationship with seafood.

In this engaging discussion, historian Erin O'Halloran and former diplomat Sir William Patey analyze the shifting power dynamics in the Middle East. They delve into Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharah's visit to the White House and the implications of his reform prospects. The conversation highlights US diplomatic strategies, the risks to minorities in Syria, and Iraq's election challenges, emphasizing the importance of voter participation despite low turnout. Insights on geopolitics and domestic stability paint a vivid picture of a rapidly evolving region.

Join Tom Webb, Monocle Radio's deputy head of radio, as he dives into the vibrant World Travel Market in London, uncovering eco-tourism trends and the allure of Guatemala. Hear from Tara Kangarlou, who shares the excitement around New York's recent mayoral triumph and its implications for local politics. Nic Monisse discusses Dubai Design Week, spotlighting innovative designs and the impressive integration of local materials. Anita Ryota provides insights on the city's evolving political landscape, highlighting the new administration's connection with young voters.

Marta Lorimer, a politics lecturer at Cardiff University, discusses the complex relationship between the US and Venezuela, questioning past US interventions and their mixed results. Latin America expert Andrew Thompson provides insight into the feasibility of US military action and the Venezuelan oil crisis, noting the country’s vast reserves but significant mismanagement. Event director Chris Carter-Chapman highlights the World Travel Market's impact on global tourism and discusses current trends. The conversation weaves through geopolitical tensions and travel dynamics, offering a rich tapestry of analysis.

Tessa Shishkovitz, a UK correspondent for Falter, discusses the implications of recent US electoral victories and Trump's reaction, while Ben Kelly, a senior audience editor, debates the rise of far-right parties in Europe. Aziza Akrami, an Afghan youth representative, shares her harrowing experience of fleeing Afghanistan amid an internet blackout, highlighting its effects on women and youth. The trio also tackles AI hype and the tensions surrounding Swiss food origin claims. A lively discussion unfolds around pressing political and social issues!