The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Apr 4, 2022 • 21min

No-confidence interval: Pakistan’s embattled PM

Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief for The Economist, discusses Prime Minister Imran Khan's fight against potential ouster amidst rising public dissatisfaction and military pressure. Meanwhile, finance correspondent Mathieu Favas dives into the global oil market, highlighting how sanctions on Russia have led to decreased demand and new buying patterns from India and China. They also touch on the surprising ecological impact of invasive earthworms on North America's soil health, showcasing nature's unexpected complexities.
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Apr 1, 2022 • 23min

All opposed, say nothing: Hungary’s election

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, provides keen insights into Viktor Orbán's tightening grip on Hungary as the nation heads into a crucial election, raising implications for democracies worldwide. Margaret Kadifa, Britain correspondent, explores the growing dependency of UK universities on Chinese student fees, stirring debate over academic integrity and free speech. They also discuss the renewed interest in the Ukrainian film 'Atlantis,' capturing the resilience amidst conflict and the power of storytelling in wartime.
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Mar 31, 2022 • 23min

Oil and vodka: Russia’s resilient economy

In this engaging discussion, Callum Williams, Senior economics writer for The Economist, reveals the surprising resilience of Russia's economy following harsh sanctions post-invasion of Ukraine. He delves into how financial markets have stabilized and the historical context that allows Russia to adapt. The conversation also touches on Russia's dependency on fossil fuels amidst ongoing political tensions, painting a complex picture of economic survival in uncertain times.
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Mar 30, 2022 • 25min

Capital outflow: Russia changes tack

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, shares his keen insights on the evolving dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting Russia's troop withdrawal and the implications for future peace talks. He reveals skepticism surrounding Russia's narrative and discusses the impact of Western sanctions. The conversation also delves into Singapore's controversial anti-gay law, shedding light on the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, an exploration of Bolivia's illegal car market offers a glimpse into the cultural significance of contraband vehicles.
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Mar 29, 2022 • 21min

Talk in Turkey: Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations

Chris Lockwood, Eurobed editor at The Economist, shares insights on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations happening in Istanbul. He discusses the skepticism surrounding the talks, emphasizing the challenges in reaching a viable ceasefire. Lockwood also highlights the psychological impact of Russian tank armor meant to counteract anti-tank munitions, questioning its actual effectiveness. Additionally, he touches on the concerning heatwave in Antarctica, linking it to broader climate change implications that could affect global stability.
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Mar 28, 2022 • 25min

In the war room: our exclusive visit to Zelensky’s “fortress”

In this insightful discussion, President Volodymyr Zelensky, known for his unwavering leadership during Ukraine's war with Russia, shares his thoughts alongside Zany Minton-Beddoes, Editor-in-chief of The Economist. They explore Zelensky's choice to remain in Kyiv, the critical support from allied nations, and his unexpected humor amid immense pressure. The conversation reveals the resilience and determination at the heart of Ukraine's struggle for freedom, emphasizing the profound implications of global unity against aggression.
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Mar 25, 2022 • 27min

Under fire: Life in Kharkiv

Stephen Mazey, courts correspondent at The Economist, shares insights on the intense confirmation process of Ketanji Brown Jackson, highlighting the unique challenges she faced as the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, John Bleasdale, film critic, reminisces about the Oscars' comedic moments, emphasizing the blend of humor and tradition that defines the ceremony. Additionally, a poignant update from Kharkiv reveals the human stories of resilience amidst war, with a focus on daily struggles and community efforts in the face of danger.
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Mar 24, 2022 • 22min

What little remains: The destruction of Mariupol

Oliver Carroll, a correspondent for The Economist in Ukraine, dives deep into the harrowing humanitarian crisis in Mariupol. He shares heart-wrenching stories of residents facing starvation and relentless bombardment, highlighting the resilience of those still in the city. Carroll discusses the extensive destruction, revealing the contrasting experiences of refugees and those trapped behind. The stark realities of life in this besieged port city serve as a chilling reminder of the conflict's toll on civilian life.
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Mar 23, 2022 • 23min

Vlad the in-jailer: Alexei Navalny sentenced

Joining the discussion is Andrew Miller, the Culture editor for The Economist, who sheds light on the tough climate for Russian artists amid the Ukraine war. They delve into Alexei Navalny's sentence extension and its implications for dissent in Russia. The conversation touches on the resilience of Navalny's anti-regime movement, despite increasing risks. Additionally, they explore the cultural fallout impacting artists due to sanctions and the flight of creatives, contrasted with a poignant look at African-American contributions to American cuisine.
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Mar 22, 2022 • 24min

Russian to judgment: Putin accused of war crimes

Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the significant impact of the Ukraine war on global wheat supplies and food security in vulnerable regions like the Middle East and Africa. He breaks down how rising bread prices threaten political stability in countries like Egypt and Lebanon. The conversation dives into the complexities of war crime accusations against Putin and raises urgent questions about accountability in conflict. Additionally, Karlstrom touches on controversial public works projects in Mexico.

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