The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Jun 24, 2019 • 22min

Lover or Leaver? How Brexit divided Britons

Tom Wainwright, the Britain editor for The Economist, discusses Brexit’s lasting impact on national identity and the economy, revealing how it has driven a wedge between Britons. He shares personal stories that illustrate the emotional turmoil and division Brexit has sparked. The conversation shifts to Istanbul, where a mayoral election signifies a challenge to President Erdogan's power, before highlighting innovative solutions in Kenya, like Flare, an 'Uber for ambulances' that significantly improves emergency response times.
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Jun 21, 2019 • 23min

Blonde ambition: Boris’s bid for power

Former London mayor Boris Johnson, the charismatic yet controversial figure in UK politics, discusses his fervent pursuit of leadership amid turbulent Brexit debates. He contrasts his bold and flamboyant style with rival Jeremy Hunt’s cautious approach. Johnson delves into the challenges he faces within the Conservative Party, particularly regarding Brexit and skepticism from Brussels. Additionally, the podcast touches on the sensational trials of Klaus von Bülow, exploring themes of wealth and justice, plus the growing rift between China and America's film markets.
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Jun 20, 2019 • 20min

Hawks, stocks and peril: Iran-America brinkmanship

This episode features John Fasman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, who dives into the fraught U.S.-Iran relationship, spotlighting tensions following Iran's downing of an American drone. He raises critical questions about the implications of military aggression in the Gulf. Additionally, the conversation shifts to facial recognition technology, addressing its potential benefits in law enforcement but also the rising privacy concerns hampering its integration. Lastly, there's a discussion on the UK's new regulations targeting harmful gender stereotypes in advertising.
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Jun 19, 2019 • 21min

Moving stories: the UN’s refugee report

Robert Guest, Foreign editor for The Economist, shares his expertise on the alarming rise in global refugees due to conflicts in Syria, Ethiopia, and Venezuela, exploring government responses. Natasha Loader, Health policy editor, discusses the significant Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and why it hasn’t been declared an international emergency. They also touch on Thailand's groundbreaking legalization of medical marijuana, discussing its implications and the public's mixed reactions to this groundbreaking initiative.
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Jun 18, 2019 • 20min

Florida Man: Trump’s re-election campaign

John Priddo, the United States editor for The Economist, and Roger McShane, the Middle East editor, delve into the implications of Trump's re-election bid as he returns to Florida, emphasizing his unique campaigning style and shifting voter dynamics. They also reflect on the death of Mohamed Morsi, Egypt's first democratically elected president, and the ongoing struggles for democracy in the region. Finally, the conversation highlights the increasing corporate investment in women's football, marking a pivotal shift in the sport’s sponsorship landscape.
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Jun 17, 2019 • 23min

Lam to the slaughter: Hong Kong’s shocking U-turn

David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for the Economist, discusses the escalating calls for Carrie Lam's resignation in Hong Kong amid ongoing political unrest. As the territory grapples with the fallout from a controversial extradition bill, he explores the implications for democracy. Meanwhile, Lane Green, author of the Johnson column, delves into the rich history of Latin and its transformation into modern languages, highlighting unique initiatives preserving its legacy. Together, they provide a thought-provoking look at politics and linguistics.
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Jun 14, 2019 • 22min

What’s yours has mines: the Gulf of Oman attack

Shashank Joshi, defense editor at The Economist, and Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent, tackle pressing global issues. They discuss the recent attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, exploring Iran's dangerous game and its implications for regional security. Joshi highlights the potential for U.S.-Iran escalation. Meanwhile, Maslin delves into Brazil’s militia violence, their ties to political leaders, and the troubling dynamics of country music, revealing the racial challenges faced by artists and the changing landscape of the genre.
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Jun 13, 2019 • 21min

Vlad the un-jailer: the Ivan Golunov case

Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia editor, discusses the Ivan Golunov case, highlighting the interplay of police brutality and public activism in Russia. Idris Kaloun, the U.S. policy correspondent, analyzes the Democratic primary landscape, emphasizing how candidates' transformative ideas face challenges due to Senate arithmetic. The conversation also weaves in the urgent health crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo, juxtaposing resources with dire health needs. Together, they provide sharp insights into pressing global issues and political dynamics.
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Jun 12, 2019 • 21min

Once more, with felines: half the world gets online

Leo Marani, a reporter specializing in the online transition of the developing world, dives into the expanding digital landscape. He discusses the universal allure of online content—think cat videos and social engagement—highlighting how emerging users face unique challenges like language barriers. Marani also unveils the complex racial dynamics in America, revealing that while overt racism declines, political polarization complicates progress. The conversation wraps around the joys of connectivity, suggesting that entertainment often reigns supreme among the newly online.
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Jun 11, 2019 • 23min

Independence say: Hong Kong’s ongoing protests

Join Caroline Carter, Deputy Asian news editor for The Economist, as she dives into Hong Kong's turbulent political scene. She discusses the recent judicial reform proposals that have sparked massive protests and sheds light on the ongoing struggle for autonomy from mainland China. The conversation also touches on solitary confinement in the U.S., with a poignant narrative from an inmate who reflects on the mental toll of isolation. Additionally, the complexities of tribal justice in Iraq reveal the unique challenges faced by citizens navigating between traditional and legal systems.

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