The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 26, 2021 • 21min
Party down: Vietnam’s Communist leaders meet
Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, explores Vietnam's National Party Congress, revealing the balancing act between pride in pandemic management and rising public discontent. He discusses how social media influences political ideas and the Communist Party's challenges. Meanwhile, Emily Bobrow, Culture writer, delves into the life of Patricia Highsmith, highlighting the complexities of her characters and how her tumultuous experiences shaped her psychological thrillers, impacting LGBTQ literature and themes of human relationships.
Jan 25, 2021 • 21min
Vlad tidings: demonstrations across Russia
Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor for The Economist, provides crucial insights into the protests ignited by Alexei Navalny's arrest, revealing a public yearning for reform amid rising discontent with Putin. Meanwhile, Daniel Franklin, the diplomatic editor, analyzes Britain's evolving foreign policy after Brexit, highlighting the nation's struggle for a new global role. The hosts dive into the complex reactions to these significant events, underscoring potential long-term shifts in both Russian politics and Britain's international relations.
Jan 22, 2021 • 19min
Biting the hands that would feed: Ethiopia
Tom Gardner, Addis Ababa correspondent for The Economist, dives into the dire humanitarian crisis in Tigray, revealing how the federal government is obstructing crucial aid, threatening millions with famine. He contrasts global vaccination efforts, particularly in Israel, with ongoing struggles in Ethiopia. An unexpected shift to Bali's clever monkeys provides a humorous look at negotiation tactics, blending heavy topics with light-hearted insights. Explore how the chaos of war and the brilliance of animal behavior intertwine in a compelling discussion.
Jan 21, 2021 • 22min
Much to repair: Biden’s first day on the job
Idris Kaloun, Washington correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the challenges facing the Biden administration, including unity amidst political divides and urgent executive actions. Hal Hodson, a technology writer, discusses the rising prominence of private messaging apps like WhatsApp and the implications for user privacy and security. They also delve into the role of street art in reflecting societal struggles, showcasing how creativity intersects with contemporary issues and political turmoil.
Jan 20, 2021 • 20min
Costly disbelief: covid-19 ravages Brazil again
Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, shares her compelling insights into the devastating COVID-19 crisis hitting Brazil once again. She highlights the dire situation in Manaus, where a blend of governmental mismanagement and misinformation has led to critical healthcare shortages. The discussion also touches on the public's misconceptions about herd immunity. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the intriguing role of lasers in modern life, from practical applications in medicine to innovative technologies shaping the future.
Jan 19, 2021 • 22min
Hell no, we won’t grow: Indian farmers’ mass protests
Joining the discussion are Alex Trevely, India correspondent for The Economist, who sheds light on the massive protests by Indian farmers against laws threatening their livelihoods, and Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent, who examines the U.S. terrorist designation of the Houthis amid a devastating humanitarian crisis. The conversation probes the determination of the farmers and the political struggles ahead, while also exploring the complex repercussions of foreign policy decisions on vulnerable populations.
Jan 18, 2021 • 21min
Landed, in trouble: Alexei Navalny returns to Russia
Alexei Navalny's defiant return to Moscow sparks tension as he is immediately detained by authorities, highlighting the absurdities of Russian politics. Meanwhile, Germany faces a political shift with the CDU's new leader navigating challenges and aiming for unity after Merkel's era. Adding a cultural lens, a backlash emerges over the classification of a Korean-language film for awards, igniting debates about representation in Hollywood. The intersection of politics and culture creates a dynamic landscape in both Russia and Germany.
Jan 15, 2021 • 20min
Bold Wine in new battles: Uganda’s election
Liam Taylor, a seasoned Economist writer based in Kampala, discusses the turbulent Ugandan elections and the challenges faced by opposition leader Bobi Wine amid fears of rigging and internet blackouts. Tim Cross, the Technology editor, reflects on Wikipedia’s 20th anniversary, highlighting its unique community-driven model and ongoing evolution amidst a commercialized internet landscape. They also touch on the cultural impact of online gaming in Afghanistan, revealing concerns over its influence on youth amidst a backdrop of societal pressures.
Jan 14, 2021 • 21min
Two-timer: Trump impeached, again
House Republicans join Democrats in an unprecedented impeachment that raises questions about national unity. The political rift exposes dangers of misinformation and internal party conflicts. Meanwhile, South Africa’s ANC faces a critical test as fiscal mismanagement threatens the loyalty of a blossoming black middle class. On another front, the rise of non-alcoholic spirits reflects a growing trend for health-conscious consumers, blending tradition with modern preferences for sophisticated, alcohol-free beverages.
Jan 13, 2021 • 20min
Trial ensnarer: human-rights law’s new tool
Zanny Minton Beddoes, The Economist's editor at large, discusses the rise of universal jurisdiction trials and how they help bring war criminals to justice despite legal obstacles. Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, analyzes the surprisingly mild economic impact of recent lockdowns compared to earlier ones, highlighting how businesses and consumers have adapted. The podcast also touches on Cambodian farmers' plight and the controversial shift to rat catching amid the pandemic’s challenges.
