The Monocle Daily

Join Tyler Brulé, the sharp-witted editorial director of Monocle, and Thaddeus Ropak, an Austrian gallerist with a flair for art, as they delve into the latest Quality of Life Survey. They discuss the standout cities like Paris, celebrated for its nightlife and green spaces, and explore the art and design scene in Copenhagen and Basel. The conversation also meanders through the hidden jewels of Swiss wine, with a humorous take on recent military parades... proof that life is rich in both culture and quirks!

Gorana Grgić, Monocle's sharp security correspondent, teams up with Gabe Bullard, a culture and tech journalist based in Basel. They dive into the pressing question of whether the U.S. will join Israel in a military strike on Iran. The duo explores the implications of Trump's foreign policy and how his base feels about potential military engagements. They also touch on the complexities of NATO dynamics amid ongoing global tensions, sparking a robust discussion about America’s role in shaping international alliances.

Join journalist Juliet Linley, former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, and Swiss Defense expert Benno Zogg as they dive deep into Swiss neutrality. They discuss how this unique stance shapes the nation’s foreign policy and impacts global business dynamics in the face of geopolitical challenges. The conversation also touches on the booming Alpine real estate market post-pandemic and the rising demand for vacation homes, while navigating the implications of climate change. Plus, a lighthearted debate on livability in cities adds a fun twist!

Marcus Schögel, an Associate Professor at St. Gallen University, and Nico Luchsinger, Executive Director at Asia Society Switzerland, dive into the dynamics of the recent G7 summit in Canada. They explore what Canada gains from hosting and whether countries like China and Russia will be invited next year. Their discussion touches on the G7's evolving brand in global politics and the strategic marketing of the scenic Kananaskis setting, showcasing how host nations enhance their international image.

Join Myriam Zumbühl, a culinary trend expert and columnist, Priska Amstutz, head of marketing at Kunsthaus Zurich, and Noah Horowitz, Art Basel’s CEO. They dive into the vibrant Zürich art scene, comparing it to Art Basel. The discussion highlights the significance of local cultural events and the impact of new art installations like the playful 'Sados' sculpture. Additionally, they explore the evolving dynamics of the art market, including rising collector diversity and the role of art fairs in boosting appreciation for both popular and emerging artists.

Anita Riota reports directly from the Globsec conference in Prague, sharing insights on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its implications for global security. David Phelan dives into Apple's recent developers conference, discussing critiques of AI innovations and the company's strategies. Andrew Muller provides a weekly news roundup, reflecting on political upheaval in Reform UK and key developments in New Zealand and Northern Ireland. The discussions offer a sharp perspective on international tensions and technology's role in our lives.

In this discussion, journalist Ash Badwaj and political reporter Nadine Batchelor-Hunt delve into the recent tragic Air India plane crash, shedding light on the devastating impact and ongoing investigations. They explore potential causes, such as human error, and highlight the implications for aviation safety. The conversation shifts to geopolitical tensions linked to crises, touching on international relations, the AUKUS defense pact, and evolving alliances. They also consider the changing dynamics in tourism and politics, prompting a broader reflection on cultural trends.

Alex von Tunselmann, a historian renowned for his insights on Cold War history, joins Stephen Diel, a Russia analyst and former BBC contributor. They delve into South Korea's recent decision to halt its anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts and the significance this could hold for diplomatic relations. The conversation also highlights Russia's strategic testing of NATO's resolve, emphasizing the broader implications of geopolitical tensions in the region. Their analysis blends serious implications with intriguing anecdotes, making for a captivating discussion.

Quentin Peel, a seasoned Monocle radio contributor, joins Lynn O'Donnell, a writer and Afghanistan bureau chief for AP and AFP, to discuss the EU's tough new sanctions on Russia. They dive into the historical context and complexities of these sanctions, questioning if they can indeed pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine. The conversation also touches on the unintended consequences of sanctions, the role of U.S. support for Ukraine, and the intricate balance of international politics in this ongoing crisis.

Join political journalist Terry Stiasny, author of 'Believable Lies,' and Yossi Meckleberg, Senior Consulting Fellow at Chatham House, as they delve into the recent surge of protests in Los Angeles, Madrid, and beyond. They discuss the evolving role of protests in turbulent political climates and the power dynamics involved. The conversation highlights the thin line activists walk between peaceful protest and violence, and how media shapes public perception. Insights into civil society's role and the effectiveness of protest strategies add depth to this timely discussion.