

The Globalist
Monocle
Monocle’s unrivalled coverage of news and current affairs kicks off on weekdays with ‘The Globalist’ at 07.00 GMT/08.00 CET. Anchored from London and Zürich, join our editors for insight and opinion on the big current affairs and business stories of the day and a review of the European front pages. Nominated for Best Daily Podcast in the 2020 British Podcast Awards.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 12, 2025 • 59min
Iraq’s parliamentary elections and a new EU intelligence unit
Dr. Saad Jawad, an Iraqi political scientist, dives deep into the complexities of Iraq’s parliamentary elections, discussing boycotts and the influence of external powers like Iran and the US. Phil Clark offers insights on the shifting UK political landscape, while Rob Cameron updates listeners on the turbulent Czech government formation. Aviation analyst Sally Gethin explores the impact of US air traffic control issues and what Boeing forecasts for Southeast Asia, blending politics with industry trends.

Nov 11, 2025 • 59min
Ukraine’s energy companies fighting to keep heat and electricity running
This discussion features William Yang, a Senior Northeast Asia Analyst at the International Crisis Group, who analyzes the implications of the US-China trade agreement on Asian supply chains. Inzimam Rashid, Monocle's Gulf correspondent, shares insights from Urban Future Week in Dubai, focusing on urban planning initiatives. Claudine Fry from Control Risks examines major current events like the US shutdown and BBC controversy, providing a comprehensive take on how these stories shape global news narratives.

Nov 10, 2025 • 59min
Syria announces itself on the international stage: Ahmed Al-Sharaa at the White House after sanctions lifted
Heidi Pett, a Damascus-based journalist, dissects Ahmed al-Sharaa's swift rise to power and the implications of lifted US sanctions on Syria. Hannah Lucinda-Smith, an Istanbul correspondent, shares insights on Turkey's current affairs, including a factory explosion and regional headlines. Mai Pandek, an Israeli lawyer and activist, introduces a unique 'two states, one homeland' vision for shared governance in Jerusalem. Dave Guja discusses the booming global travel market, highlighting Middle East growth, while acclaimed author Helen Garner reflects on her award-winning diary collection.

Nov 7, 2025 • 59min
Viktor Orbán at the White House: can Hungary’s PM avoid the bear in the room?
In this lively discussion, Lily Takac delves into Viktor Orbán's precarious meeting with Trump, highlighting his hopes to sidestep discussions on Russian oil. Matthew Levitt evaluates Hamas's diminished standing post-conflict and the potential for its resurgence. Julia Jen shares insights on Ukraine's new European-gauge railway amidst ongoing war challenges, while Colin Davidson discusses his artistic journey in portraiture. Andrew Muller brings humor with his satirical take on the week’s major events, rounding out a rich exploration of current global affairs.

Nov 6, 2025 • 59min
Morocco celebrates as the world gambles with Western Sahara peace
Hugh Lovett, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, discusses the implications of the UN's backing for Morocco's autonomy plan in Western Sahara and the risks of closing the UN mission. Greg Scruggs analyzes the postponement of the Summit of the Americas, highlighting regional tensions and diplomatic fallout. Iceland's Minister of Industries and Tourism, Hannah Katchen-Fridiksen, shares insights on reshaping tourism strategies and managing visitor seasons, revealing how local cultures can benefit from tourism.

Nov 5, 2025 • 59min
Why does Russia care so much about the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk?
Jenny Mathis, a Senior Lecturer in International Politics, discusses the strategic significance of Pokrovsk in the Ukraine conflict, highlighting its military importance and the brutal realities faced by civilians. Chris Chermak analyzes the recent US election results, focusing on the implications for the Democratic Party. Paul Walde outlines Canada’s budget challenges and trade strategies while discussing the potential impacts of a redistricting vote. Lastly, Harris Whitbeck shares exciting insights into Guatemala's booming tourism and sustainable initiatives.

Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 6min
What’s in a name? Taiwan’s recognition in Estonia hits a snag
Mark Edelman, a savvy communications consultant, sheds light on the complexities of gerrymandering and California's Proposition 50. Zoe Grunwald, a sharp Westminster editor, discusses the looming tax hikes in the UK budget and their potential political fallout. Meanwhile, Damian Kulash of OK Go reflects on the magic of their viral one-take music videos and why they remain relevant today. Natasha Carella, Director of Dubai Design Week, highlights the booming design economy in the region and the event's impressive growth over the years.

Nov 3, 2025 • 59min
The Novi Sad anniversary protests and Australia’s historic state treaty
Guy Delaunay, Monocle's Balkans correspondent, shares insights from the student-led protests in Novi Sad, commemorating the tragic canopy collapse. Tara O'Connor discusses the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, outlining the actions required from international players. Paul Osborne provides an in-depth look at Victoria’s significant new Indigenous treaty and its implications. Lastly, theatre critic Matt Wolfe reviews notable productions, including Paddington, giving listeners a taste of the vibrant arts scene.

Oct 31, 2025 • 59min
A 12 out of 10 meeting: Trump lowers tariffs on China, Xi cuts rare earth controls
William Yang, Senior Northeast Asia analyst, discusses the nuanced trade outcomes of the recent US-China summit, including symbolic tariff cuts and the complexities around fentanyl enforcement. Ruth Michelson, a Middle East journalist, dives into Chancellor Merz's visit to Turkey, exploring pivotal defense and migration talks. Karen Krasanovich shares spine-chilling horror movie recommendations for Halloween, while Andrew Muller rounds up the week’s cultural highlights, touching on political oddities and recent events. Simon Brook offers insights into the implications of AI deepfakes in elections and the ongoing UK-China tensions.

Oct 30, 2025 • 59min
Trump and Xi meet in Seoul and raids in Rio de Janeiro
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Thompson, a Latin America specialist, examines the controversial police raids in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting human rights concerns and the complex political landscape. Garana Gerdik, a Monocle security correspondent, explores the implications of recent nuclear testing claims and the shutdown of Radio Free Asia, addressing the potential rise of disinformation. Meanwhile, Matt Driscoll, Editor of Asian Aviation, shares insights on Cambodia's new Tekko airport and the challenges the aviation industry faces, including rising airfares and sustainability hurdles.


