Economist Podcasts

Zan Smiley, Editor-at-large at The Economist, shares insights on the future of the Commonwealth under King Charles III, exploring its diverse membership and significance in modern geopolitics. Nicholas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, discusses the rapid transformation of Jeddah, raising concerns about cultural heritage as the city faces demolition in the name of progress. The conversation also touches on the economic rivalry between China and the U.S., analyzing China's current struggles and its prospects in the global economy.

Two years in the making, the country’s new foundational document was summarily swatted down in a referendum. We ask how it went so wrong, and what comes next. Data show a long-held view on fertility and prosperity is not as straightforward as thought; we examine the policy implications. And learning about HARM—the missiles causing so much harm to Russian forces.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for the Economist, shares insights into the ongoing struggles of the Rohingya people, five years after their expulsion from Myanmar. He highlights the dire living conditions and systemic discrimination faced by refugees. Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor, discusses new railway routes in Central Asia, emphasizing their potential to shift trade dynamics away from Russia and boost economies in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. The conversation underscores urgent calls for international attention on both crises.

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and defense editor Shashank Joshi delve into the intricate relationship between China and Russia amidst the Ukraine crisis. They discuss the implications of Putin's military setbacks for Xi and explore the nuances of their 'no-limits friendship'. Additionally, they shed light on the growing jihadist threats in Africa post-U.S. operations against terror leaders. The conversation also touches on South Korea's cultural shift, as many young urbanites embrace farming, seeking a reprieve from city life.

In this discussion, Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, and Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, tackle the resurgence of tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia, linked to historical conflicts and the shifting influence of Russia. They explore how Azerbaijan's ambitions are bolstered by rising oil prices and what this means for the region. The conversation also touches on the new economic dynamics in Gulf countries, questioning whether they will invest responsibly or indulge in lavish spending.

In this insightful discussion, Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe Editor for The Economist, and Avantika Chilkoti, International Correspondent, dive into the geopolitics of energy amid the Ukraine conflict. They address Vladimir Putin's strategy of weaponizing gas supplies to pressure Europe and the measures taken by nations to secure energy stability. The conversation also touches on the disruption of Ukraine's surrogacy industry, highlighting personal stories of resilience. Their analysis reveals the interconnectedness of energy policy and humanitarian crises.

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, discusses Ukraine’s impressive counter-offensive, highlighting how it reclaimed territory faster than Russia could manage. He emphasizes the critical support of Western weaponry and the implications for diplomatic relations. Meanwhile, Tamara Gilkes Borr, U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, revealing systemic failures and calling for urgent federal action. The conversation connects global conflicts to local struggles, weaving a tapestry of pressing issues.

Miranda Mitra, Senior Editor at The Economist, shares insights on Queen Elizabeth II’s passing and its profound implications for Britain. They explore her remarkable reign, reflecting on her unwavering duty and ability to unite the nation in times of crisis. The discussion shifts to the challenges facing King Charles III as he inherits a monarchy in a complex and uncertain landscape. Mitra emphasizes the emotional public response and the legacy Elizabeth leaves behind, setting the stage for a new era in the British monarchy.

Sarah Maslin, the São Paulo bureau chief for The Economist, tackles Brazil's political landscape as fears grow around Jair Bolsonaro potentially challenging election outcomes. Mark Johnson, the publication's Education correspondent, discusses the pressing need for free school meals and the transformative impact they have on communities. Amidst rising tensions in Brazil's elections, the podcast also reflects on the changing gender imbalance in India, highlighting the global implications of cultural and social inequalities.

Shoshan Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist with expertise in Asian geopolitics, and Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent focused on cultural restitution, delve into fascinating topics. They discuss a predictive model for the midterm elections, revealing potential outcomes for both parties. Joshi explains the current nuclear balance in Asia and why an arms race hasn’t emerged yet. Nixey highlights the ongoing debate over the Rosetta Stone's return to Egypt, emphasizing the complexities of cultural heritage and ownership.