

The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Get a daily burst of illumination from The Economist’s worldwide network of correspondents. Our reporters dig past the headlines to get to the stories beneath—and to stories that aren’t making headlines, but should be. A unique perspective on the issues and events shaping your world.Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ at http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence.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

Jan 18, 2023 • 25min
Tanks-giving parade? Arming Ukraine
Chris Lockwood, Europe editor at The Economist, and Erin Braun, West Coast correspondent, dive into the urgent military support for Ukraine, including the pivotal decision to send tanks. They discuss the fear of escalating tensions with Russia and how NATO meetings will shape future strategies. Erin also sheds light on California's deadly floods, exploring the impacts of climate change on infrastructure and the shift from drought to emergency conditions. Their insights reveal the complex interplay between geopolitics and environmental crises.

Jan 17, 2023 • 25min
Get down to Syria’s business: coming talks with Turkey
Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, offers insights into the fragile diplomatic relationship between Syria and Turkey as they seek common ground after years of conflict. Avante Ghechel-Khati discusses the pressing issue of hunger in Brazil, highlighting President Lula's commitment to tackle food insecurity amid political turmoil. They also touch on the significant contrast between America's lawmakers' religious affiliations and the growing non-religious voter base, essential dynamics affecting political engagement.

Jan 16, 2023 • 24min
What did the president stow and when did he stow it? Biden‘s mess
A drip-feed of discoveries of classified material in Joe Biden’s home and offices—and the president’s botched messaging around them—are a gift to Republicans and to Donald Trump, who is under investigation for similar infractions. Our correspondent learns that many Ukrainian soldiers are freezing their sperm before heading to battle. And the fight about hunting in France is no small-boar matter.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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Jan 13, 2023 • 25min
Zero-sum: the imperilled global economic order
Join Henry Kerr, Economics editor at The Economist, and Tom Gardner, Horn of Africa correspondent, as they dissect the current global economic landscape. They discuss the alarming rise of protectionism and zero-sum competition, threatening long-standing international cooperation. Gardner highlights the fragile peace in Ethiopia, revealing the struggles of Tigrayan refugees and ongoing conflicts. The episode also touches on Mexico's narco corridos, reflective of the country's complexities and cultural narratives amidst crime.

Jan 12, 2023 • 25min
Unveiled threats: Iran's patient protesters
Nicholas Pelham, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the simmering unrest in Iran as protestors continue to challenge the regime behind the scenes. He highlights the resilience of activists and the ongoing struggle despite state repression. Meanwhile, Tom Easton, the South Asia business correspondent, discusses a troubling quality control scandal in India’s pharmaceutical sector, linking it to tragic incidents abroad and raising questions about global health safety and accountability.

Jan 11, 2023 • 32min
Doctors’ disorders: Britain’s overwhelmed health service
Georgia Banjo, a journalist who covers Britain for The Economist, shares firsthand experiences from a GP’s surgery in Wales, highlighting the urgent crisis in the National Health Service with rising wait times and alarming mortality rates. Max Rodenbeck, the Berlin bureau chief, presents insights into the fraught relationship between Germany and Poland, revealing historical tensions and contemporary diplomatic struggles. The conversation also touches on the U.S. Army's challenges with recruitment due to obesity and the initiatives aimed at supporting new soldiers.

Jan 10, 2023 • 26min
Unquiet on the eastern front: fighting in the Donbas
Oliver Carroll, who provides expert analysis on the Ukraine war for The Economist, and Ludwig Siegel, the European business editor, discuss pivotal topics. They delve into the brutal conflict in Bakhmut, a hub for mercenary forces like Wagner, revealing chilling battlefield dynamics. The conversation shifts to the North Sea, where a transformation to renewable energy is reshaping Europe's economic landscape. They also touch on women's empowerment in the Middle East, highlighting cultural shifts in attitudes toward sexuality amidst societal constraints.

Jan 9, 2023 • 22min
Cloud coup-coup land: riots in Brazil
Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the chaos following the riots in Brazil, drawing parallels to the U.S. Capitol riot and discussing the implications for democracy. Simon Wright, industry editor, analyzes the dramatic downturn of Tesla's share price, exploring factors like Elon Musk's divided attention and the fierce competition in the electric vehicle market. They also touch upon the cultural phenomenon of a film being remade across various countries, highlighting its universal themes and societal reflections.

Jan 6, 2023 • 27min
Bibi’s got backup: Israel’s right-wing government
Azania Patel, a writer for The Economist focusing on African social issues and human rights, discusses the ramifications of Israel's far-right government under Netanyahu. They analyze the complex dynamics of Arab-Israeli relations, particularly in light of Israel's policies on settlements and the potential for deeper ties with Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Patel sheds light on the grim reality of witchcraft accusations in Africa, spotlighting the need for social reform and community support. The conversation also touches upon the vibrant craft beer scene in America.

Jan 5, 2023 • 26min
Silva’s mettle: Brazil’s newish president
Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, discusses Lula's return to the presidency and the pressing socio-economic challenges he faces. Listeners will learn about the significant societal divides in Brazil and Lula's ambitious plans to restore key policies. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, reflects on Pope Benedict XVI's life, highlighting both his warmth and the controversies during his papacy. The conversation delves into the implications of his legacy on the Catholic Church following his passing.