The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Nov 22, 2019 • 22min

Bibi in the corner: Binyamin Netanyahu’s indictment

Israel's Prime Minister faces serious corruption charges, with implications for his political future amidst governance challenges. The podcast also discusses the emotional toll of childhood homelessness and links between eviction and job loss, highlighting recent policy changes for better tenant rights. Lastly, listeners are taken on a journey through the revival of Leonardo da Vinci's vineyard, which has transformed from wartime ruin to a thriving wine destination.
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Nov 21, 2019 • 20min

Fuel to the fire: growing unrest in Iran

Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the fierce protests in Iran sparked by slashed petrol subsidies and the government's struggle to maintain control amid heavy crackdowns. Meanwhile, science correspondent Matt Kaplan introduces innovative strategies to save rhinoceroses from poaching, including synthetic horn production aimed at disrupting the illegal market. The conversation highlights the link between social unrest and wildlife conservation, along with the complex environmental implications of dietary choices.
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Nov 20, 2019 • 21min

Settling in: Israel-Palestine policy

Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist’s Israel correspondent, dives into the complexities of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and their implications for a potential Palestinian state. He discusses the U.S. administration's fluctuating stance and its impact on peace efforts. Tom Easton, the Mumbai bureau chief, reveals the rise of Indian gin, highlighting the shift from low-quality imports to innovative local brands. The conversation explores changing consumer preferences and how Indian gins are making a mark on the global stage.
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Nov 19, 2019 • 22min

Bits in pieces: a fragmenting internet

The discussion reveals how the internet's initial vision of freedom is clashing with increasing censorship, particularly in China. Doug Jones shares insights into his moderate approach and broader lessons for the Democratic Party. As public health faces new challenges, misinformation on social media about vaccinations leads to rising measles cases in Britain. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality crisis presents a dire threat to children's health, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and the long-term cognitive risks of pollution.
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Nov 18, 2019 • 21min

Head for the Hill: this week’s impeachment hearings

Join John Fassman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, and Henry Tricks, author of the Schumpeter column, as they dive into the heated impeachment hearings against President Trump. They discuss the Democratic Party's struggle to convince undecided voters while navigating a deeply polarized landscape. Shifting gears, Tricks reveals the challenges faced by the online grocery sector, with giants like Amazon grappling to innovate. They also explore how music consumption has evolved in the digital age, impacting artists and album longevity.
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Nov 15, 2019 • 21min

Better the devil they know? Sri Lanka’s election

Namini Vijadasa, a political reporter from Colombo, provides an insightful look into Sri Lanka’s looming elections amid security fears following devastating bombings. She discusses the rivalry between candidates Gautabaya Rajapaksa and Sajid Premadasa, highlighting how economic woes weigh heavily on voter decisions. The conversation also touches on surprising nostalgia for past regimes, drawing parallels with Egypt's Hosni Mubarak, and finishes with a fascinating twist on Shakespeare's posthumous rise to fame.
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Nov 14, 2019 • 22min

Language barrier: Cameroon’s forgotten conflict

John McDermott, Africa correspondent for The Economist, dives deep into Cameroon’s Anglophone crisis. He sheds light on the shocking brutality faced by civilians from both separatists and government forces. The conversation explores the historical roots of the conflict and its devastating impact on education and community life. McDermott also discusses the resilience of the local population amidst the turmoil and the complexities involved in seeking a peaceful political resolution.
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Nov 13, 2019 • 22min

Umbrellas to firebombs: Hong Kong’s escalating protests

Joel Budd, Social Policy Editor at The Economist, and Mariana Palau, a Latin America reporter based in Colombia, dive into two pressing global issues. They discuss the escalating violence in Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests, driven by unmet demands and government resistance. Meanwhile, Mariana reveals the surprising ecological impact of Pablo Escobar's hippos in Colombia, as authorities grapple with controlling their growing population and the challenges it poses to local ecosystems. A fascinating blend of social justice and environmental concerns!
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Nov 12, 2019 • 22min

The American Dreamer: DACA in the Supreme Court

Stephen Mazey, a Supreme Court reporter for The Economist, and Matt Steinglass, the Europe correspondent, dive into the legal complexities of DACA amidst the Trump administration's challenges. They discuss the crucial implications of the Supreme Court's stance on young immigrants' futures. Also featured are the intense protests by Dutch farmers against strict environmental regulations, showcasing their frustrations and determination to challenge the government's approach. Finally, a look at Disney's competitive strategy in the streaming wars adds to the discussion.
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Nov 11, 2019 • 21min

Unpresidented: Bolivia’s leader resigns

Sarah Maslin, the Brazil correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from Bolivia as political chaos erupts after Evo Morales's resignation. She discusses the implications for stability and democracy in the country. James Astle, who writes about US politics, reflects on his visit to Walter Reed hospital and the striking disconnect Americans have with their veterans, revealing their struggles and resilience. The podcast also touches on the controversial fate of rickshaws in Dhaka, highlighting the tension between transportation needs and government policies.

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