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
Mar 21, 2022 • 22min
Blood will out: Russian mercenaries
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, and James Miles, the China writer at large, dive into the murky world of Russian mercenaries, particularly the Wagner Group. They discuss their role in Ukraine's chaos and international conflicts, raising concerns about human rights and effectiveness. The conversation shifts to Lithuania's defiance against Chinese pressure after recognizing Taiwan, highlighting the diplomatic tensions. Additionally, the emotional stories of Ukrainian refugees fleeing with their pets add a poignant layer to the ongoing crisis.
Mar 18, 2022 • 26min
Mention the war: Germany awakes
Join Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, as he unpacks Germany's dramatic shift from decades of pacifism to a more assertive foreign policy amid rising tensions with Russia. Anna Reid sheds light on the heartbreaking destruction of Ukraine's cultural heritage, emphasizing the emotional impact on its people. Anne Rowe honors aspiring actor Pasha Lee, who bravely defended his country but tragically lost his life in the conflict, highlighting the personal stories that resonate beyond the geopolitical landscape.
Mar 17, 2022 • 24min
Shock and war: global prices rise
In this discussion, Simon Rabinovich, the American economics editor for The Economist, elaborates on the economic fallout from the Ukraine war, including soaring inflation and the challenges faced by central banks like the U.S. Federal Reserve. Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief, highlights how the conflict has influenced the French presidential race, shifting voter sentiments and complicating political strategies. The conversation also touches on the disruption of scientific research at Chernobyl due to the war, showcasing the broader impact of geopolitical crises.
Mar 16, 2022 • 24min
Bear hug? China’s take on Ukraine
David Rennie, The Economist's Beijing bureau chief, provides keen insights into China’s pragmatic approach to the Ukraine conflict, revealing its strategic intent to avoid enhancing Western influence. Finance correspondent Alice Fullwood discusses how cryptocurrencies are transforming the funding landscape during wartime, highlighting their surprising role in aiding Ukraine rather than Russia. The conversation also touches on cutting-edge AI-driven cyborgs potentially revolutionizing search-and-rescue operations, pushing the boundaries of technology in crisis situations.
Mar 15, 2022 • 25min
Capital accounts: on the ground in Kyiv
Tim Judah, an Economist correspondent based in Ukraine, shares insights from Kyiv, where life continues amid war. Residents are banding together, celebrating milestones while facing critical shortages in medicine and mounting threats. Meanwhile, Eleanor Whitehead, covering Australia and New Zealand, discusses the unprecedented floods and the impact of climate change on weather patterns. They emphasize the urgent need for updated crisis management strategies as communities grapple with increasingly extreme weather.
Mar 14, 2022 • 24min
Abject lesson: the siege of Mariupol
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, and Michael Reid, author of the Bayo column on Latin American affairs, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the harrowing siege of Mariupol, revealing its strategic significance and dire humanitarian toll. The conversation shifts to Latin America, exploring the resurgence of leftist leaders like Chile's Gabriel Boric and the 'pink tide' transforming the region's political landscape. The impact of these movements amidst current socio-economic challenges is deeply analyzed, providing a captivating look at global trends.
Mar 11, 2022 • 29min
Defog of war: your questions answered
Listener questions shape a deep dive into the war in Ukraine. The dangers of no-fly zones are discussed alongside the tactical complications that mud presents for fighting forces. There's examination of how energy sanctions impact global markets and food security, and a look at the role of cryptocurrencies in evading those sanctions. Human stories also emerge, highlighting the emotional toll on refugees. This conversation sheds light on the complexities and human costs of the ongoing conflict.
Mar 10, 2022 • 23min
A non-member states: Finland’s ex-PM on NATO
Join Alexander Stubb, Finland's former prime minister and a keen observer of European politics, alongside Lena Shipper, Seoul bureau chief for The Economist. They delve into Finland's complex relationship with NATO amidst rising tensions with Russia, discussing public sentiment and the urgency of political decisions. Transitioning to South Korea, they explore the election of Yoon Suk-yeol, the difficulties he faces in a contentious political landscape, and even groundbreaking advancements in early Parkinson's disease detection using scent technology.
Mar 9, 2022 • 27min
Strikes, fear: an update from Kharkiv
Joel Budd, Social Affairs Editor at The Economist, shares insights from war-torn Kharkiv and discusses the evolution of children's play during the pandemic. He highlights how traditional games have adapted to reflect societal changes amidst conflict. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of muralism in Mexico, linking its historical significance to contemporary themes of identity and empowerment. Through poignant personal accounts, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the resilience found in both play and art.
Mar 8, 2022 • 24min
War stories: the view from Russia
Arkady Ostrovsky, Europe editor for The Economist, provides insights into the voice of dissent in Russia, highlighting protests against the war in Ukraine and the government's violent crackdowns. Kenley Salmon, Africa correspondent, discusses the escalating jihadist threat in West Africa, focusing on the effects of military coups and the challenges faced by local governments. The conversation also touches on advancements in gender equality and the complex implications for women's roles in leadership despite ongoing barriers.
