The Munk Debates Podcast

In this engaging debate, guests include Ehud Olmert, a former Israeli prime minister advocating for a two-state solution, and Tzipi Livni, a former justice minister who emphasizes its role in preserving Israel's Jewish democracy. Opposing them are Michael Oren, a historian who questions the feasibility of a Palestinian state due to historical rejections, and Ayelet Shaked, who highlights security risks. Each speaker presents compelling arguments on how the two-state solution impacts Israel's future and regional stability.

Friday Focus provides listeners with a focused, half-hour masterclass on the big issues, events and trends driving the news and current events. The show features Janice Gross Stein, the founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and bestselling author, in conversation with Rudyard Griffiths, Chair and moderator of the Munk Debates. Chair Rudyard Griffiths and managing director Ricki Gurwitz start today's show with a brief recap of the spirited Munk Debate on the Two-State Solution that took place at Meridian Hall on Wednesday night. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside to try to shut down the debate but were unsuccessful in their efforts, thanks in large part to the fantastic security team at Meridian Hall and the Toronto Police Services. In the second half of the show Rudyard and Janice talk about the high drama out of Europe this week: leaked memos of conversations between leaders revealing a deep distrust of the US and a desperation about how to support Ukraine at this moment. Putin has said he is ready for war with Europe. What does he mean by that? And after invoking the threat of nuclear weapons for over two years now are his warnings starting to ring hollow? And finally, where do we go from here? Is there any hope for a solution to this conflict? To support the Friday Focus podcast consider becoming a donor to the Munk Debates for as little as $50 annually, or $1.00 per episode. Canadian donors receive a charitable tax receipt. This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue. More information at www.munkdebates.com.

To find out how to purchase tickets to the Munk Debate on the Two-State Solution (or to access the livestream) go to www.munkdebates.com To access a 50% discount on tickets for those under 25 become a Munk Donor, Supporter, or Curator Rudyard and Janice start the show with a preview of next Wednesday's mainstage Munk Debate on the two-state solution. What kind of arguments are they anticipating from both sides? How will this discussion resonate in Israel? And why did we feel this was the right time to convene this debate? Rudyard and Janice then turn to the stalemate between Ukraine and Russia. After all of the negotiations neither side will agree to terms of territorial concessions. Should Zelensky accept a modification of the 28-point deal that would lead to the end of his political career? and what are Russia's long term designs for Ukraine and its relationship with the West?  In the second half of the show Rudyard and Janice discuss the memorandum of understanding between Ottawa and Alberta in which both sides have agreed to work on approving a bitumen pipeline. We are witnessing a reset of Alberta's relationship with Ottawa and it is astonishing to watch Mark Carney, a liberal Prime Minister, get a standing ovation in Alberta. This agreement will anger British Columbia voters and indigenous nations in the area. Why is he doing this? Can he strengthen national unity? And if this pipeline makes it through all the approval processes and actually gets built, what will the demand for oil be in ten years? To support the Friday Focus podcast consider becoming a donor to the Munk Debates for as little as $50 annually, or $1.00 per episode. Canadian donors receive a charitable tax receipt.  

Andrew Coyne, a keen journalist and political commentator deeply immersed in Canadian politics, joins the discussion. He delves into the recent pipeline agreement between Ottawa and Alberta, questioning the necessity and feasibility of new energy projects. The conversation shifts to the challenges of carbon pricing and climate commitments. Coyne also critiques the Alberta government's mixed healthcare model, arguing that true reform requires more than just offering private care; it demands a fundamental shift away from fee-for-service practices.

A leaked 28-point peace plan for Ukraine raises eyebrows, demanding significant concessions from Zelensky, including ceding parts of the Donbas region. The potential halting of Ukraine's NATO membership is also a hot topic. As the European landscape braces for possible war, concerns mount about the effectiveness of European deterrence and U.S. policy shifts. Political vulnerability looms over Zelensky amid corruption scandals, while senior European officials grow anxious about Russian maneuvers. The dynamics of international relations and military strategy are shifting, fueling fears across northern Europe.

Join Andrew Coyne, a sharp political commentator, as he dives into the unraveling of the MAGA coalition over key issues like the Epstein files and internal GOP tensions. Hear insights on why supporters hesitate to criticize Trump despite fractures over Ukraine and tariffs. Coyne also highlights the GOP's struggles with extremism, exemplified by figures like Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes. On the Canadian front, he examines Mark Carney's challenges in uniting political leadership while addressing voter expectations. A lively mix of U.S. and Canadian politics awaits!

The Canadian military's unusual plan to train civil servants in firearms, drones, and truck driving raises eyebrows. Is this a sign of defense preparedness or a misguided effort? The concept of mandatory national service is also debated, questioning the effectiveness of such a directive. Later, revelations from the Epstein files link powerful figures, including Trump, igniting discussions about accountability among elites. The implications for the Republican Party and trade negotiations with Canada are explored, as Trump’s popularity wanes.

This lively discussion kicks off with a deep dive into Zohran Mamdani's surprising mayoral win, highlighting the power of broad coalitions in politics. The hosts debate the influence of technology and economic factors in recent elections, raising concerns about how social media might be jeopardizing democracy. They also tackle the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, detailing its impact on vulnerable populations. Finally, they critique Canada's latest federal budget, suggesting that significant sacrifices are needed to stabilize the economy.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Coyne, a seasoned Canadian political columnist, critiques the recent federal budget presented by Mark Carney's government. He calls it a 'damp squib,' highlighting its insufficient measures for economic growth, while warning of rising debt interest costs. Coyne argues for necessary radical tax and competition reforms instead of minimal operational cuts. The conversation also dives into the political implications of MPs switching parties and whether Carney is on the path to achieving a majority government.

Rudyard and Janice delve into the explosive debate on the two-state solution, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue amid ongoing conflict. They discuss the significance of speakers like Ehud Olmert and Tzipi Livni, who advocate for peace, contrasted with right-wing arguments from Ayelet Shaked and Michael Oren. The discussion expands to U.S.-China relations, pondering Trump's recent concessions and the intertwined fates of the superpowers. Insights into Canada's trade strategy with China round out this captivating exploration of contemporary geopolitical tensions.