The Monocle Daily

Vincent McEvaney, a seasoned journalist and political commentator, joins Terry Stiasny, an insightful author and political journalist. They dive into the chaos caused by a massive power cut affecting Spain and Portugal, reflecting on the resilience of communities. The conversation also tackles the alarming rise in global military spending linked to geopolitical tensions and the shifting landscape of Canadian politics following Trudeau's resignation, influenced by external factors like Donald Trump's comments. Humor lightens discussions around quirky laws and running challenges.

The DRC and Rwanda look set to sign an agreement to foster a pathway to peace. Then: the final day of mourning for Pope Francis ahead of his funeral. Plus: Monocle’s new website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leila Mulana-Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, and Rachel Cunliffe, Senior Associate Editor of the New Statesman, dive deep into the intricacies of a potential US-UK trade deal. They discuss the complexities posed by Brexit, including agricultural standards and political relations under unpredictable US leadership. Additionally, they touch upon Jordan's evolving diplomatic role and its recent political shifts. The conversation also highlights societal issues such as public transport etiquette and the generational differences shaping contemporary behavior.

Nina Dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent and former CNN Europe editor, joins Lynne O’Donnell, a columnist for Foreign Policy magazine, to dissect the deadly Kashmir terrorist attack and its ramifications for India and Pakistan. They analyze the current media landscape in the U.S., marked by challenges to journalistic integrity, and delve into burgeoning tourism in post-conflict Iraq, balancing ethical considerations with personal anecdotes. The conversation wraps up with a humorous nod to new Oscar voting rules, questioning why such measures weren't in place before.

Elena Korosteleva, a Professor of Politics and Global Sustainable Development at the University of Warwick, dives into the evolving landscape of geopolitics. She discusses the transition from soft to hard power, stressing the need for global cooperation amidst rising complexities. The conversation touches on the historical shifts since World War II, highlighting fractured perceptions and the interconnectedness of political and environmental issues. Korosteleva advocates for new collaborative strategies, especially in a multi-order world where diverse actors play crucial roles.

Giorgia Scaturro, a London-based Italian reporter, joins Charles Hecker, a senior partner at Control Risks and author, to discuss potential outcomes of peace talks involving Ukraine and key Western allies. They analyze the chaos within the Pentagon, fueled by leaks and political tensions. The conversation also touches on the papacy's soft power and its role in Italy's influence, highlighting a shift towards transparency under Pope Francis. Amidst a backdrop of shifting international dynamics, they delve into the complexities of military strategy and global cooperation.

Join Daniela Pellet, Managing Editor of the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, and historian Alex von Tunzelmann as they navigate the complex world of ceasefires and international relations. They dissect the legacy of Pope Francis, highlighting his efforts in promoting peace and environmental justice. The conversation dives into the intricacies of ceasefires as both tools of war and potential paths to peace, questioning their effectiveness amid contemporary conflicts. Expect a mix of serious analysis and cultural reflections that keep the dialogue engaging.

Anita Ryota, a Monocle radio producer, and Chris Chermak, the senior news editor, explore gripping topics like the potential U.S. recession sparked by economic shifts and the recent meeting between Donald Trump and Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. They analyze market reactions, consumer behavior changes, and the rising interest in gardening amidst financial uncertainty. The conversation takes a musical turn with La Force discussing themes of love and mortality, all while navigating the absurdities of political narratives and billionaires' space ventures.

James Rogers, an Associate Professor of International Journalism, and Evdoxia Limperi, the UK correspondent for ERT, dive into crucial talks in Paris among global leaders about a potential Ukraine ceasefire. They unpack Denmark's troop training initiatives and Greece's military enhancements with anti-ship missiles from France. Additionally, they discuss South Korea's recent decision to curb school trips following a tragic incident, reflecting on how safety concerns reshape educational experiences.

Isabel Hilton, an international journalist and founder of China Dialogue, explores Angola's controversial proposal to impose severe prison sentences on fake news, highlighting the implications for press freedom. Yossi Meckleberg discusses the complex international diplomacy surrounding Hamas and trade tensions. Richard Susskind shares insights from his book on AI, stressing the transformative impacts on the legal sector and the importance of ethical governance as technology evolves. They all weave a narrative of caution amid rapid global changes.