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
Jul 10, 2020 • 21min
Return to centre? Poland’s presidential run-off
In this episode, Annabelle Chapman, a Warsaw-based writer for The Economist and expert on Polish politics, dives into the pivotal presidential runoff election. She discusses the stark contrast between incumbent Andrzej Duda and challenger Rafał Traskowski, as well as the broader implications for Poland and Europe’s political landscape. The conversation also spans historical insights on the fight against HIV/AIDS and its relevance to modern pandemics, before wrapping up with surprising findings about penguins adapting to climate change.
Jul 9, 2020 • 22min
Centrifugal force: attacks on Iran
Joining the discussion is Sarah Donilon, an international affairs writer for The Economist with a focus on Eastern Europe's drug policies. The conversation delves into the aftermath of U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the rising tensions with Israel following recent attacks. Sarah also sheds light on the plight of drug users in Eastern Europe, emphasizing harmful policies and the neglect of women's issues in addiction treatment. The podcast wraps up with an intriguing look at faith-based streaming services catering to niche audiences.
Jul 8, 2020 • 22min
In front, and centred: Joe Biden
Joining the discussion are John Fasman, Washington correspondent, who sheds light on Biden's unease between his centrist position and the party's leftward shift, and Sophie Petters, Paris bureau chief, analyzing Macron's surprising choice of a little-known mayor as prime minister. They explore the struggle for civility in U.S. politics and the emergence of rap in the Arab world, highlighting how artists challenge societal norms and confront repression through their music.
Jul 7, 2020 • 22min
Off like a shot: the race for a covid-19 vaccine
Natasha Loader, The Economist's health policy editor and a vaccine development expert, discusses the intense global race for a COVID-19 vaccine and the complexities of equitable distribution once it's approved. Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa editor, sheds light on Ethiopia’s ethnic tensions amidst political turmoil and how recent violence threatens its fragile democracy. The conversation also ventures into a bizarre tale of espionage in Fiji, highlighting the lengths to which some will go to manipulate political narratives.
Jul 6, 2020 • 23min
Attention deficit: China’s campaign against Uighurs
Gadi Epstein, a China affairs editor, shares his insights on the harrowing human rights abuses faced by the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, discussing unparalleled surveillance and allegations of ethnic cleansing. Sumaya Keynes, Trade and globalization editor, highlights the economics profession's struggle with racial disparities, focusing on systemic change and mentorship for black economists. They also explore the irony of strong international rhetoric failing to translate into action, and how COVID-19 is reshaping Scandinavian perceptions of each other.
Jul 3, 2020 • 24min
Into left field? America's chief justice
Join Stephen Mazey, Supreme Court correspondent for The Economist, and Alex Trevely, the publication's India correspondent, as they dive into unexpected liberal shifts in Supreme Court rulings and the strategic maneuvers of Chief Justice John Roberts. They dissect the implications of TikTok's ban in India, exploring its cultural and political significance amidst rising tensions with China. Additionally, they touch on the surprisingly affordable Bordeaux wines amid climate change and market fluctuations, revealing intriguing connections between these topics.
Jul 2, 2020 • 22min
Unsettled question: Israel’s annexation threat
Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, and Tim Judah, the Balkans correspondent, dive into pressing geopolitical issues. They discuss Israel's controversial plans for West Bank annexation and the surprising lack of priority it holds among Israelis, as well as the lukewarm international response. They also dissect the indictment of Kosovo's president for war crimes, which complicates vital peace talks with Serbia. Additionally, they touch on the interesting taxation practices in Sierra Leone, where luxury homes face the same rates as tin-roofed shacks.
Jul 1, 2020 • 23min
Two systems go: a new law grips Hong Kong
Dominic Ziegler, an expert on Asian affairs based in Hong Kong, discusses the heavy implications of a new national security law that threatens democracy and civil liberties in the territory. He sheds light on the swift arrests following its implementation and the chilling effects on activists and businesses. Contrastingly, he highlights Malawi's democratic resurgence after overcoming electoral fraud, showcasing hope amidst authoritarian challenges. Additionally, Ziegler touches on the complexities of political narratives surrounding tell-all books about Trump, revealing intriguing market dynamics.
Jun 30, 2020 • 25min
The next threat: confronting global risks
Alok Jha, The Economist's science correspondent, and Hal Hodson, the Asia technology correspondent, dive into the pressing dangers facing civilization. Jha emphasizes the urgent need for preparedness against zoonotic diseases and the looming threat of 'Disease X.' Hodson expands on existential risks like AI and bioweapons, advocating for proactive global strategies. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 and the implications of historical solar events, stressing that collective action is essential for mitigating catastrophic scenarios.
Jun 29, 2020 • 21min
States of alarm: America’s covid-19 surge
Join John Parker, The Economist's international correspondent, as he delves into the alarming COVID-19 resurgence across the U.S., particularly in states that reopening early. He discusses how fragmented responses hinder effective management and the troubling environmental impact of pandemic-related plastics. Parker also highlights the cultural nuances of bullfighting in South Korea, exploring its future amid changing public perceptions. This engaging conversation touches on intricate connections between health, environment, and tradition.
