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
Apr 15, 2022 • 24min
Girls interrupted: Afghanistan
Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the grim reality for women in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, emphasizing the brave protests for girls' education amid severe oppression. Tom Wainwright, the tech and media editor, dives into the evolving landscape of virtual and augmented reality, discussing how these technologies could redefine digital interaction. The conversation also touches on the implications of women's exclusion in Afghanistan on global stability, making for a thought-provoking listen.
Apr 14, 2022 • 22min
Food haul: aid trickles into Tigray
Tom Gardner, Addis Ababa correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the dire humanitarian crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia, where a fragile truce has not improved aid delivery. He delves into the political complexities hindering assistance despite a ceasefire. The conversation also touches on the staggering reconstruction costs in Ukraine following the invasion and highlights an unexpected Marmite shortage in South Africa caused by COVID-19 restrictions. Gardner's insights reveal both the urgent needs and the intricate challenges of aid in conflict zones.
Apr 13, 2022 • 24min
Just fine: Boris Johnson and “partygate”
Duncan Robinson, Political Editor for The Economist, delves into the fallout from Boris Johnson's 'Partygate' scandal, highlighting the erosion of public trust and the broader political turmoil it ignited. He discusses the impacts on Johnson's leadership and the Conservative Party amidst economic crises. Meanwhile, Alexandra Sewitch-Bass tackles Florida's environmental challenges, exploring the tension between rapid population growth and the necessity of preserving ecosystems like the Everglades. Both guests share insights into how politics intertwine with pressing societal issues.
Apr 12, 2022 • 22min
A stretch and a run: Brazil’s ex-president returns
Emma Hogan, America's editor at The Economist, dissects the tumultuous return of Brazil’s ex-president, Lula da Silva, who seeks redemption after corruption charges. Joanna Lillis, the Central Asia correspondent, sheds light on Uzbekistan’s groundbreaking labor reforms in the cotton industry, where forced labor is rapidly vanishing. They also touch on the intriguing relationship between biodiversity and latitude, revealing that tropical birds boast more vibrant colors due to their proximity to the equator.
Apr 11, 2022 • 25min
Le Pen is mightier than before: France’s election
Join Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief at The Economist, and military technology writer David Hambling as they dissect the heated French presidential runoff between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen, shedding light on the surprising rise of populism. They also dive into the revelations from intercepted Russian military communications, exposing poor coordination and war crimes on the battlefield. Plus, a light-hearted segment on the quirky trend of South Korean millennials chasing Pokémon-themed snacks keeps the discussion engaging and diverse!
Apr 9, 2022 • 55min
Laïcité, extrémité, fragilité: our French-election series in full
Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, dives into the intense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming French presidential election. She discusses the complex political landscape, highlighting public discontent with Emmanuel Macron's policies and the rising influence of the far-right. The podcast examines youth support for Marine Le Pen's National Rally and debates surrounding identity and belonging in France. Petter also explores the impact of geopolitical tensions on Macron's campaign and the shifting allegiances among voters.
Apr 8, 2022 • 24min
Gota the trouble: Sri Lanka’s crises
Lena Schipper, a South Asia expert for The Economist, delves into Sri Lanka’s turmoil under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, known as Gota. She explores the dire economic crisis fueling widespread protests demanding his resignation. The conversation juxtaposes these protests with life in Kherson, Ukraine, where residents bravely navigate the challenges of foreign occupation. The podcast also tantalizes listeners with a discussion on awamori, a unique Japanese spirit, highlighting efforts to revitalize this cultural beverage amidst modern trends.
Apr 7, 2022 • 26min
Nasty, brutish and long? The war’s next stage
As Russian troops refocus on the Donbas region, the war in Ukraine intensifies with the looming threat of attrition. The podcast examines the transformation of Marine Le Pen's National Rally, showcasing its shift away from extremism to attract younger voters. It also tackles the complex political ramifications of redefining Turkey's name, highlighting the broader themes of nationalism and cultural identity in changing political landscapes. The resilience of Ukraine and the challenges facing the Russian military add layers to this multifaceted discussion.
Apr 6, 2022 • 23min
Zero's intolerance: Shanghai’s messy lockdown
Don Wineland, The Economist’s China business and finance editor, reveals the chaos of Shanghai’s strict lockdown as residents grapple with restrictions and dwindling supplies. Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, a senior correspondent, discusses uncomfortable heat conditions in American prisons due to lack of air conditioning, raising urgent questions around inmates' rights. Together, they highlight how these pressing issues reflect broader societal challenges and the ongoing struggle for human dignity in extreme circumstances.
Apr 5, 2022 • 23min
Bodies in the streets: Russian atrocities
Tim Judah, a correspondent for The Economist covering the war in Ukraine, shares haunting firsthand accounts of Russian war crimes, including executions in towns like Bucha. He paints a stark picture of the brutal realities for civilians caught in the conflict. The discussion also delves into the challenging balance between advancing technology and addressing the humanitarian crisis, linking these events to broader discussions on climate change and the urgent need for accountability in the face of atrocities.
