The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Feb 24, 2020 • 22min

Peace-meal: ceasefire in Afghanistan

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, shares insights on the fragile peace negotiations in Afghanistan, highlighting the challenges posed by local political factions and the Taliban's shifting governance stance. Sarah Maslin, The Economist's Brazil correspondent, discusses the rise of Brazilian surfers and the economic hurdles they face in the professional circuit. The conversation underscores the disparity between teen job aspirations and reality, exploring traditional career preferences and the importance of adapting to emerging opportunities.
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Feb 21, 2020 • 22min

Clerical era: Iran’s elections

In this insightful discussion, John O'Sullivan, author of the Buttonwood column, analyzes Iran's political landscape as hardliners limit parliamentary candidates, intensifying public discontent. He also reflects on the controversial legacy of Michael Milken, examining his impact on the junk bond market and recent presidential pardon. The conversation dives into Japan's low passport ownership, unraveling cultural and economic reasons behind this paradox. Tune in for a compelling blend of finance, politics, and international relations!
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Feb 20, 2020 • 23min

Uncut emerald: Ireland’s unification prospects

Join Hamish Birrell, a public policy correspondent at The Economist, as he explores the rising discussions around Irish unification, driven by demographic changes and Brexit. He reflects on the political ascent of Sinn Féin and the complexities of a potential referendum. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, sheds light on Lebanon's severe economic crisis, examining its crippling debt and the IMF's role in potential recovery. Their insights reveal the intricate ties between politics, public sentiment, and regional stability.
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Feb 19, 2020 • 22min

Many hands light of work: China’s 170m migrant workers

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shines a light on the struggles of China's 170 million migrant workers amid strict COVID-19 controls. He shares poignant stories of workers trapped in villages, depleting their savings while facing uncertainty about their future. The discussion reveals the resilience of this community and analyzes the role of local authorities. Additionally, the conversation touches briefly on Boeing's challenges and the surprising influence of candidates' heights in political elections.
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Feb 18, 2020 • 22min

A friend of mines: America’s explosive policy turn

Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor for The Economist, discusses the troubling shift in U.S. policy on anti-personnel landmines and its implications for modern warfare. He highlights the tension between military effectiveness and civilian safety amid evolving international regulations. The conversation also touches on how British universities are reckoning with their historical ties to the slave trade and the innovative advancements in sports advertising, including the use of virtual technology to tailor messages to viewers.
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Feb 17, 2020 • 21min

The snails of justice: the International Criminal Court

In this engaging discussion, Richard Cockett, a Senior editor at The Economist and expert on Sudanese politics, explores the International Criminal Court's credibility amid Sudan's transitional government pledging to hand over former leader Omar al-Bashir for prosecution. He delves into al-Bashir's legacy of terror in Darfur and the broader challenges of international justice. The conversation also touches on Norway's paradox of being a green energy front-runner while still reliant on oil, and Los Angeles' struggles to reshape its transportation landscape.
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Feb 14, 2020 • 24min

Another man’s Treasury: Britain’s cabinet upheaval

Join Anne McElvoy, Senior editor at The Economist with a keen focus on British politics, and Susanna Cahalin, author of 'The Great Pretender', as they unpack the latest cabinet reshuffle in the UK. They explore the power dynamics between Boris Johnson and Sajid Javid, revealing the struggle for control over economic policy. The conversation also dives into the intriguing flaws in psychiatric diagnoses uncovered by David Rosenhan's study and examines the resilience of Berlin's nightlife amid gentrification, spotlighting the city's rich cultural tapestry.
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Feb 13, 2020 • 21min

Defence on the defensive: NATO under scrutiny

Daniel Franklin, Diplomatic editor for The Economist, shares insights on NATO's evolving role amidst pressures from leaders like Trump and Macron. He highlights concerns over military spending and the shifting dynamics among member states. David McNeil, The Economist's reporter based in Tokyo, dives into Japan's controversial move to legalize casinos, addressing public fears of addiction and crime. The discussion also touches on the impact of political scandals on this ambitious project, revealing a complex landscape of public sentiment.
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Feb 12, 2020 • 23min

Bern turn: New Hampshire’s primary

Idris Kalun, U.S. policy correspondent, and David Smith, Argentina correspondent, are the insightful guests. They discuss the New Hampshire primary, highlighting Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg's strong showings and the implications for the Democratic race. Kalun explains how the upcoming primaries will test candidates, especially Biden. Smith dives into Argentina's dire economic situation, detailing the looming IMF negotiations while also shedding light on the country's historical defaults, capturing a sense of cautious hope amid financial turmoil.
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Feb 11, 2020 • 22min

Christian Democratic disunion: Germany’s political upheaval

Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, sheds light on the turmoil within Germany's Christian Democratic Union after the resignation of its leader. He discusses the CDU's struggle against the rising far-right, particularly in Thuringia, where controversial alliances are reshaping political dynamics. The conversation also touches on American legislative battles surrounding transgender minors and how these issues contribute to wider culture wars. Additionally, Lockwood explores how music can influence emotions, linking tunes to national moods.

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