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The Foreign Desk

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Jan 11, 2025 • 40min

The legacies of US presidents

Join Meredith Evans, director of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, as she dives into Carter's complex legacy, highlighting his humanitarian efforts and changing public perception. Historian David Brown sheds light on Andrew Jackson's populism and its relevance today, revealing how his rise against the elite influences modern politics. Joel Allen shares insights on George McGovern's post-election humanitarian dedication, illustrating how political loss shaped his impactful legacy. This discussion uncovers the evolving views on these U.S. presidents and their contributions.
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Jan 8, 2025 • 7min

Explainer 449: Is China cutting Taiwan’s cables or are their wires crossed?

Recent damage to undersea cables near Taiwan raises questions about intentional sabotage linked to geopolitical tensions with China. The discussion delves into the implications of these incidents for Taiwan's infrastructure and how they fit into a broader pattern of global cable damage. What are the stakes for both sides in this tense situation? Explore the intricate web of international relations surrounding these crucial lines of communication.
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7 snips
Jan 4, 2025 • 36min

The geopolitical risks of 2025

Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania’s outgoing foreign minister, shares insights on the geopolitical landscape of 2025. Yossi Mekelberg, a Senior Fellow at Chatham House, analyzes the intricacies of Middle Eastern conflicts. Latika Bourke from The Nightly adds depth on global political trends. They discuss the implications of a new U.S. president, the challenges posed by China’s influence in Ukraine, and the need for stronger European unity. The conversation also touches on the complexities in the Middle East and optimistic hopes for political stability.
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Dec 28, 2024 • 35min

Elections, conflicts and the rise of the right: a look at 2024

Latika Bourke, a writer-at-large for The Nightly, joins political risk analyst Charles Hecker and Middle East expert Yossi Mekelberg to unpack the tumultuous landscape of 2024. They discuss how rising voter dissatisfaction is reshaping democracy, spotlighting movements in Ukraine and Myanmar. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its ripple effects on global politics are explored, alongside the complexities surrounding U.S.-Israeli relations. The trio reflects on the heroes and villains of the year, showcasing the stark contrasts in global leadership during crises.
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Dec 21, 2024 • 43min

The case for foreign aid

Mark Lowcock, former Permanent Secretary of the DFID, Andrew Mitchell, Conservative MP and former Secretary of State for International Development, and Kathryn Nwajiaku-Dahou, governance expert at ODI, dive into the complexities of foreign aid. They discuss its moral imperatives and how aid has historically reduced poverty and fostered development. The trio argues for a shift in perspective: viewing foreign aid as a strategic investment in global stability. They also explore innovative solutions to migration and the importance of international cooperation amidst growing challenges.
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Dec 18, 2024 • 6min

Explainer 448: Trudeau in trouble

The recent resignation of Canada’s finance minister has thrown Prime Minister Trudeau's future into jeopardy. The discussion dives into the implications of this move, scrutinizing its timing and the resulting political tensions. Delving into the challenges of leadership, the hosts examine both public perception and fiscal responsibilities. With declining support and internal party discord, Trudeau faces mounting pressures, especially with looming influences from the U.S. political landscape.
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Dec 14, 2024 • 48min

The spectacular fall of the Assad regime

Rime Allaf, a Syrian-born writer and political analyst, joins David Kilcullen, a counterinsurgency expert, along with Burcu Ozcelik and Mark Galeotti, to discuss the swift decline of the Assad regime. They delve into the complex emotions of Syrian refugees contemplating their return amid ongoing chaos. The conversation highlights the roles of foreign powers like Russia and Turkey, the military strategies of rebel groups, and the potential for a new, inclusive government in Syria's uncertain future.
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5 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 7min

Explainer 447: Why is Israel striking Syria?

As Syrians celebrate Assad’s fall, Israel is striking targets across the country. Andrew Mueller explains why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Dec 7, 2024 • 31min

The case for indigenous political inclusion

Join Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, New Zealand's youngest MP, as she advocates for Indigenous political representation. Alex Mankiewicz discusses his graphic novel that preserves Yindjibarndi creation stories, a vital intersection of art and culture. Kristen Carpenter, a Justice of the Shawnee Tribe Supreme Court, delves into the challenges Indigenous peoples face in the U.S., comparing them to advancements in Canada. Together, they explore the need for authentic voices in politics and the crucial role of storytelling in maintaining cultural identity.
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Dec 4, 2024 • 7min

Explainer 446: The South Korean coup that wasn’t

Dive into the tumultuous political landscape of South Korea as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces backlash for declaring martial law. Discover the historical context of the nation's power struggles and the delicate balance of democracy transformed by drastic measures. Uncover the public and political responses to his controversial actions, as discussions of impeachment loom large. This exploration brings to light the tensions between authority and democratic principles in a modern context.

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