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 8, 2019 • 22min
In the after-Ba’ath: Syria’s rising Kurds
Nick Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses the extraordinary rise of Syria’s Kurdish population from years of suppression to empowerment amid ongoing conflict. He highlights their cultural resurgence and strategic significance in combating ISIL. Wendelin von Bredow reflects on the chilling assassination of German politician Walter Lübcke, exploring its implications for rising far-right extremism in Germany and the urgent need for societal vigilance. Together, they delve into crucial moments shaping resilience in troubled regions.
Jul 5, 2019 • 23min
New Democracy in an old one: Greece’s election
Jeremy Cliff, a political columnist for The Economist, discusses the imminent Greek elections and the potential leadership of Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He emphasizes Mitsotakis’s centrist approach aimed at modernization and economic revitalization. Additionally, the podcast delves into the grim realities of children in detention at the U.S. southern border, spotlighting the need for humane immigration policies. Lastly, there's an enlightening analysis of the surge in women's football, highlighting its rising standards and the ongoing fight for pay equity.
Jul 4, 2019 • 23min
Putin on a show: Russia’s resurgence
Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor for The Economist, shares insights on President Putin’s charm offensive in Italy and the contrasting reality back home. He dives into Putin's twisted version of liberalism and how younger Russians crave genuine human rights. The discussion also critiques Amsterdam's proposed sex work laws, warning of their dangers to safety. Lastly, Ostrovsky examines the innovative role of robots in hazardous environments like Fukushima, showcasing the potential of technology for safety and efficiency.
Jul 3, 2019 • 22min
Growth anatomy: America’s expansive decade
Idris Kalun, U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, dives into the record-breaking economic growth in America post-2008 and its sustainability. He discusses the narrowing racial gap in life expectancy, highlighting health improvements for black men amidst ongoing challenges like the opioid crisis. Additionally, Kalun explores the role of the Federal Reserve in navigating potential economic downturns, all while touching on cultural phenomena like the obsession with avoiding spoilers in entertainment.
Jul 2, 2019 • 21min
Break a LegCo: Hong Kong’s protests boil over
Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the boiling tensions in Hong Kong as protesters clash with authorities, ultimately storming the Legislative Council. He discusses how the demonstrations reflect deep-rooted frustrations against governmental control while questioning the effectiveness of these protests in achieving freedom. The conversation also shifts to the surprising evolution of Gulf sovereign wealth funds, moving from cautious to disruptive investments, and examines their implications on both local economies and global politics.
Jul 1, 2019 • 22min
Armoured Khartoum: Sudan’s bloody transition
Protests erupt in Khartoum as citizens demand democracy, facing violent crackdowns from the military. Personal accounts highlight the bravery of demonstrators amid an internet blackout. Meanwhile, China's pork industry grapples with a swine flu crisis, potentially leading to much-needed reforms. In San Francisco, a controversial ban on e-cigarettes sparks debate on youth health and the efficacy of vaping compared to traditional smoking. How will these developments shape public policy and individual choices?
Jun 28, 2019 • 23min
Census and sensibility: landmark SCOTUS rulings
Stephen Mazy, who covers the Supreme Court for The Economist, and Alexandra Sewage Bass, a columnist on Silicon Valley culture for 1843 magazine, dive into pivotal U.S. Supreme Court rulings affecting voter representation and gerrymandering. They discuss how a citizenship question in the census could disenfranchise minorities. The conversation shifts to increasing tensions between the U.S. and China amid trade disputes, and they explore the surrogacy boom in Silicon Valley, reflecting changing family dynamics and legal challenges.
Jun 27, 2019 • 22min
Fight if you Haftar: the struggle for Libya
In this engaging discussion, guest Matt Steinglass, The Economist's deputy Europe editor, sheds light on Libya's chaotic power struggle while a warlord threatens Tripoli. He contrasts this turmoil with Moldova's recent political miracle, where anti-graft crusader Maya Sandu rises to prime minister. Their conversation explores deep political transformations, the impact of foreign military support, and the forgotten significance of primary debates in shaping candidates' fortunes. Tune in for insights on resilience and reform amidst adversity!
Jun 26, 2019 • 22min
Rights on Q: same-sex marriage in Japan
David McNeil, a correspondent for The Economist focused on Japan, and Olivia Ackland, who reports from the Democratic Republic of Congo, delve into pressing social issues. They discuss Japan's stalled same-sex marriage bill, highlighting the gap between public opinion and political action. Activists leverage the Tokyo Olympics for change amid a conservative backdrop. The conversation also shifts to Burundi's political turmoil, addressing the impacts of an oppressive election tax that drives citizens to flee, illustrating the harsh realities of governance on individual lives.
Jun 25, 2019 • 21min
Money in the West Bank: Kushner’s peace plan
David Smith, Argentina correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the geopolitical landscape affecting Jared Kushner's Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative, which focuses on economic investment but lacks political resolve. He also discusses the surprising return of former Argentine president Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, exploring whether Argentines will embrace her populism amid economic turmoil. Additionally, Smith highlights how social media vigilance is becoming crucial for travelers heading to America, as online activity now influences immigration scrutiny.
