Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.
Arab leaders’ alternative to Trump’s Gaza plan and the future of Bond, James Bond
We’re joined by Monocle’s Middle East correspondent, Leila Molana-Allen, to discuss the shocking hostage revelation in Israel and unpack Arab leaders’ alternative plan for Gaza. Also in the programme: former German MEP Reinhard Bütikofer on Germany’s responsibility for Europe’s defence. Then: as the James Bond franchise is sold to Amazon, we discuss the character’s future as a soft-power figure. Plus: Andrew Mueller’s ‘What We Learned’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Whose side are you on?
Guests Vincent McAviney and Isabel Hilton explore how countries are reacting to the US and Ukraine’s shifting allegiances. Then: a look at whether soft power still exists as a concept; the merits of prescribing comedy to tackle mental health; and whether men are more romantic than women. Plus: an interview with Nato’s Deputy Supreme Allied Commander, General Chris Badia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Macron hosts a second meeting on Ukraine and Trump’s approval rating slips
As Emmanuel Macron hosts another meeting on Ukraine, we ask why some European countries are frustrated that they weren’t invited to the first. Also on the programme: according to a new poll, Donald Trump’s disapproval ratings have spiked. We unpack why his lack of action on the economy is to blame for this. Then: a new study shows that left-wing activists in the UK are less likely to work with their political rivals than other groups. Plus: why people should start dressing up to go out again. Se
Is Russia sitting at the top table of global diplomacy?
The Russia and US peace talks on Ukraine in Riyadh draw to a close for now. With Zelensky disappointed by the lack of an invitation, is this exactly where Putin wants to be? Also in the programme: we get the latest as the Sudanese civil war nears the two-year mark and we discuss Spain’s positive economic figures attributed to migration. Plus: New Zealand’s controversial travel ad campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An era of transactional diplomacy?
As the US and Russia begin negotiations over the war in Ukraine, we ask whether Donald Trump’s diplomacy is ushering in a more transactional world. Plus: the latest from the Middle East as Egypt draws up a reconstruction plan for Gaza; Javier Milei is accused of fraud over the promotion of his cryptocurrency; and a resort town in Portugal warns visitors to cover up or face a fine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Day one of the Munich Security Conference and Japan helps Ukraine’s agricultural soil to recover
We’re joined by Anita Riotta to get the latest from the first day of the Munich Security Conference. Also in the programme: we hear from Annabelle Gower at the World Governments Summit in Dubai and Julia Lasica joins us in the studio to discuss Japan’s aims to help revitalise Ukraine’s famously fertile agricultural soil. Plus: Fernando Augusto Pacheco on the year’s film trends so far and ‘What We Learned’ with Andrew Mueller. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump and Putin set the agenda for peace in Ukraine
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin announce their ambitions to end the war in Ukraine. We discuss the US’s pivot in negotiating style under its new president. Also on the programme: Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan makes a diplomatic visit to Pakistan. Then: we get the latest on the attack in Munich. Plus: why people are naming bugs, rats and cats after their exes this Valentine’s Day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can Middle Eastern leaders save the Israel-Gaza ceasefire?
As a Hamas delegation arrives in Cairo for further talks, we discuss whether the region’s politicians can come together to save the Gaza ceasefire deal. Also on the programme: Trump says a prisoner exchange with Russia could play a “big important part” in ending the war in Ukraine. Plus: we explore world leaders’ changing attitudes towards AI and Belfast’s “life-changing” €1,200 cocktail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How fragile is the Israel-Gaza ceasefire?
We assess the latest as the Israel-Gaza ceasefire is on the verge of unravelling. Also on the programme: we get the latest updates from Ukraine ahead of the Munich Security Conference this week. Plus: we examine the reasons behind a new survey showing that far-right populists are much more likely to spread fake news than those on the left. Then: beavers in Czechia finish a seven-year dam project in just two days.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Regulation in the crosshairs at the Paris AI summit – and how a monkey caused a national a blackout
Rainbow Murray and Giorgia Scaturro join Andrew Mueller to discuss the Paris AI summit, where world leaders and technology executives have gathered to discuss regulation. Also in the programme: far-right politicians from across Europe met in Madrid over the weekend to share tactics ahead of upcoming elections. Meanwhile, the UK’s Labour Party broadcasts immigration raids, seemingly taking a leaf out of Donald Trump’s playbook. Plus, how a monkey brought down a nation’s power grid.See omnystudio.
Justin Trudeau heads the Canada-US Economic Summit and the future of Grenfell
Our Toronto Correspondent, Tomos Lewis, explains the future for Canada’s trade relationship with the US as Justin Trudeau holds an economic summit with the nation’s business leaders. Then: Carlota Rebelo joins us in the studio to discuss the latest Grenfell Tower news, as well as how the demolishing of the building will affect the community. Also on the programme: Gunnar Gronlid rounds up the headlines from Norway and Maisie Ringer on why a man in France has been fined €200 at a train station. P
Sabato de Sarno leaves Gucci and the UK takes a lead on Ukraine
We get the latest from Monocle’s fashion director, Natalie Theodosi, as Kering parts ways with Gucci’s design chief, Sabato de Sarno, after a short two-year tenure. Then our panellists Marion Messmer and Caroline Frost discuss why the UK is taking a lead on Ukraine’s defence strategy as the US steps back. Then: we discuss why Lisbon’s city council has instructed its transport authority to create separate queues for tourists and residents. Plus: after an Italian doctor sneaks his cat into a hospi
Trump eyes Gaza and Putin relaunches Soviet-era song contest
We unpack the latest following Donald Trump’s meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu and ask how seriously we can take the former’s bold claims on Gaza? Also in the programme: we get an update on Afghanistan as the Taliban suspends the country’s only women’s radio station. Then: we unpack why Putin is set to relaunch a Soviet-era song contest, ‘Intervideniye’. Plus: the French far right get their knickers in a twist over suggested clothes-washing rules.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informatio
Trade wars, political comebacks and sojourns in Pyongyang?
Latika Bourke and Robin Brant join to discuss how seriously Beijing is taking Trump’s tariff threats. Plus: why are so many politicians of yesteryear making successful comebacks? Then: how can cities under the geopolitical microscope appeal to tourists?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are minority governments the new norm?
Minority governments are often seen as either the cause or consequence of political turmoil in countries such as France, South Korea and Germany. Daniella Peled and Philippe Marlière join us to discuss the implications of this style of governance. Plus, what to expect from the next phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and howls of disapproval over poor pet politesse in Tokyo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The view from Damascus, Copenhagen and Basel
Monocle’s Middle East correspondent, Leila Molana-Allen, tells Andrew Mueller about her trip to Syria and what’s next for the country post-Assad. Then: Chris Cermak looks at Germany’s immigration vote, Grace Charlton reports from Copenhagen Fashion Week and Fernando Augusto Pacheco lifts the curtain on Basel’s preparations to host the Eurovision Song Contest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Germany’s risky flirtation with the far-right
The leader of Germany’s conservative opposition, Friedrich Merz, sides with the far-right AfD party, breaking political taboo. But will the move prove to be a mistake? Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Marta Lorimer and Robin Lustig to unpack this and the day’s other top stories, including Portugal and Spain’s defence commitments, when fact-checking gets muddled with politics and how one London institution refuses to break with tradition and allow female membership. Plus: Chiara R
Can the West keep up with China’s technological prowess?
We discuss the latest from the Russia-Ukraine war as Ukraine admits to attempting to strike a nuclear power plant in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod region. Also on the programme: we consider whether the West can keep up with China’s advances in its artificial-intelligence capabilities. Then: Donald Trump’s administration invites podcasters and social-media influencers to press briefings at the White House. Plus: Japanese convenience store FamilyMart introduces a sole manager system.See omnystudio.com/
Serbia’s prime minister resigns and the US freezes foreign aid to Ukraine
We get the latest from our Balkans correspondent, Guy de Launey, following the resignation of Serbia’s prime minister, Milos Vučević. Then: Aliona Hlivco and Sir William Patey discuss what’s next for Ukraine as the US freezes all foreign aid. Plus: we unpack why UK-EU diplomacy always seems to hit a snag over fishing and assess Zürich’s new number-plate legislation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Palestinians return to northern Gaza and the importance of survivor testimonies
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians head back to northern Gaza as the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continues to hold. We give you the latest. Also in the programme: as the world remembers the liberation of Auschwitz 80 years on, we discuss how survivor testimonies shape our political future. Plus, we debate the future of working habits as 200 UK companies sign up for a permanent four-day working week and Paris’s evolving noise-pollution problem. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy
Donald Trump’s first days in office and highlights from WEF in Davos
We’re joined by Monocle’s senior news editor, Christopher Cermak, to talk about Donald Trump’s inauguration and president’s first days in office. Also on the programme: highlights from the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos. Then: we ponder the future of the trade fair with Monocle’s design editor, Nic Monisse, and Andrew Mueller tells us what we learned over the past seven days.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can positive nationalism return to Europe?
Alex von Tunzelmann and John Everard join us as we head to Davos to hear the latest from the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting and Donald Trump’s address. Then: can geopolitical pressures return a positive sense of national identity to Europe? Plus: Monocle’s Fernando Augusto Pacheco breaks down the 2025 Oscar nominations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Beijing eyes Trump 2.0 and what happens after a ceasefire?
Lynne O’Donnell and Quentin Peel join Chris Cermak to discuss Israeli strikes in the West Bank, whether eradicating Hamas is possible and how Gazans are facing their return home. Plus: as president Trump toys with Tiktok and tariffs, what is the view from Beijing? Then: what would you give up to become a centenarian?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What precedent does Donald Trump’s first day in office set for the global far-right?
We give you the latest on Donald Trump’s first day in office and ask what far-right leaders across the globe will take away from his actions. Also in the programme: the German city of Essen seeks to impose a policy to make the unemployed do community service or lose their welfare and we discuss what the UK can learn from France when it comes to cultural funding. Plus, we speak to Gilles Carbonnier, the vice-president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, at The World Economic Forum’s
Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th US president and the WEF in Davos
Our senior foreign correspondent, Carlota Rebelo, gives us the latest on the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos. Also in the programme: Chris Cermak checks in from Washington as Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th US president. Vincent McAviney and Patti Cohen discuss how Europe is bracing for a second Trump presidency and how attitudes towards crime in the UK are changing. Plus, we ask why younger generations are turning to astrology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat
Will Biden’s legacy be defined by his determination to run again?
We discuss Joe Biden’s presidency and debate whether his determination to run again will overshadow his achievements in office. Plus: we look ahead to next week’s World Economic Forum in Davos. Then: Andrew Mueller’s ‘What We Learned’ and a tribute to the late, great David Lynch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joe Biden’s ominous farewell address
We discuss Qatar’s diplomatic strategy as the Gulf state positions itself as a key player in global conflict resolution. Plus: Joe Biden sounds the alarm over the growing power of “oligarchy” in the US, Keir Starmer visits Ukraine and Andrew Mueller’s letter from Melbourne. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel and Hamas reach a ceasefire deal
After 15 months of conflict, Israel and Hamas reach a deal for a ceasefire in Gaza; Nimrod Goren is in Jerusalem to update us on the latest. Also in the programme: new polls show the UK public aren’t happy with the current Labour government, Spain announces plans to impose a tax of up to 100 per cent on the value of properties bought by non-EU residents and Sydney’s swimwear spat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are world leaders above the law?
Special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into Donald Trump finds that he would have been convicted of crimes over his attempts to cling to power in 2020 if it wasn’t for his recent presidential win. Also on the programme: we discuss the future of Los Angeles as wildfires continue to rage. Then: as the statue of Ghana’s ex-president is torn down, we consider what this says about the national mood. Plus: budget airline Ryanair looks to limit the alcohol consumption of its passengers.See omnystud
Israel and Hamas make significant progress in ceasefire talks
Negotiations in Doha between Israel and Hamas make significant progress. Could the time for ceasefire be now? Also on the programme: Ukraine points to irrefutable evidence of North Korea’s involvement in its war with Russia as it captures two North Korean soldiers. Then: Mark Zuckerberg looks to Donald Trump to fight for Meta against strict European regulations. Plus: why Americans should be partying more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What’s next for Canada and is SpaceX on its way to Italy?
Monocle’s Toronto correspondent, Tomos Lewis, recaps a tumultuous week in Canadian politics as outgoing prime minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party sets a date of 9 March for the election of its next leader. Then: Julia Lasica and Anita Riotta look at Donald Trump’s sentencing, Ukrainian drones and SpaceX’s plans in Italy. Plus: could a free coffee influence your choice of commute? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron brace for Donald Trump’s return
The leaders of the UK and France are meeting today to deepen their alliance ahead of Donald Trump’s second US presidency. To discuss, Georgina Godwin is joined by Terry Stiastny and Sir William Patey, who will also take a look at India’s strengthening diplomatic ties with Afghanistan’s Taliban. Plus: do bank holidays help or hinder the economy? And our Balkans correspondent sends us a letter from Bohinj.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Europe’s response to Trump’s Greenland plan. Plus: how important are handshakes in diplomacy?
We’re joined by Marc Adelman in Los Angeles to get the latest on the California wildfires as they go from bad to worse. Then: the reaction from Europe as US president-elect Donald Trump threatens to seize Greenland on the grounds of national security. Also on the programme: after Syria’s new leader refrains from shaking the hand of Germany’s top diplomat, we ask how important handshakes are for diplomacy and a new study shows 40 per cent of Germans are worried about their political future ahead
Austria’s far-right Freedom Party looks to form a government. And: what are China’s aims in Africa?
After Austria’s centrist parties failed to agree on a coalition to prevent the far right from claiming power, the country’s Freedom Party is attempting to form its own government. What does this mean for increasing nationalist ideals across Europe? Then: China’s foreign minister begins a tour of Africa and we reflect on satire 10 years on from the ‘Charlie Hebdo’ attack. Plus: does classical music have the power to deter criminals?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Justin Trudeau steps down. Plus: why is Elon Musk interfering in politics?
Canada’s prime minister, Justin Trudeau, resigns. We get the latest from our editorial director, Tyler Brûlé, and correspondent in Toronto, Tomos Lewis. Also on the programme: as Ukraine’s armed forces begin a surprise offensive in the Kursk region of Russia, we ask what this means for the future of the conflict. Plus: Elon Musk’s inflammatory comments on social media platform X target UK politicians. We discuss his reasoning for getting involved. Plus: London is crowned as Europe’s most congest
Will Justin Trudeau resign? And: the US faces a government shutdown
Monocle’s Toronto correspondent, Tomos Lewis, discusses Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau’s future amid calls for his resignation. Then: the latest on the looming US government shutdown. Plus: Monocle’s editor in chief, Andrew Tuck, and head of radio, Tom Edwards, discuss the year in elections and Christmas diplomacy for awkward political chats around the turkey. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should Europe spend more on defense?
As Volodymyr Zelensky makes a final push to rally EU allies ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, we discuss growing pressure on Europe to boost its defense budget. Also on the programme: as Emmanuel Macron faces mounting calls to resign, could France be heading toward early presidential elections? Plus: the great Guinness shortage and what not to buy your spouse this Christmas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Canada’s Trudeau loses his shine and we ask: who will be Germany’s next leader?
Canada’s prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, is in a political crisis. We examine how bad the situation is. Also on the programme: with Germany’s chancellor, Olaf Scholz, calling a snap election for next year, we assess who the nation’s next leader could be. Then: why Donald Trump is suing the Des Moines Register. Plus: the woman who stowed away on a flight from New York to Paris last month was taken into custody again – for a very similar offence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine assassinates Russian chemical weapons chief
Ukraine claims responsibility for the killing of Russian chemical-weapons chief, Igor Kirillov. We unpack what might happen next. Also in the programme: the European Commission takes the UK to court for the alleged failure by the UK to protect the rights of resident EU citizens. Plus: we ask why there were so few young men at the impeachment rallies in South Korea and new research shows consuming arts and culture is good for your health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel’s Golan Heights expansion plan and the latest from Sudan
As Israel doubles down on its incursion into the occupied Syrian territory of Golan Heights, we ask whether this is necessary or opportunistic. Also on the programme: we discuss the latest as Turkey’s prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, offers to mediate to resolve tensions between Sudan and the UAE. Then: the remaining Bali Nine return to Australia. What does this say about Indonesia’s new leader? Plus: students at a school in England get a rude awakening when a vicar tells them the truth abo
Trouble for Spain’s prime minister and the future of Jumeirah
Ed Stocker and Simon Bouvier discuss France’s new prime minister, Francois Bayrou, and the Catalan separatists threatening to end support for Spain’s prime minister. Plus: Fiona Wilson joins to debate doggy-bag guidelines in Japan to tackle food waste. Then: ‘What We Learned’ and the future of Jumeirah in Africa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South Korea’s ongoing political crisis and does the ‘Time Magazine’ person of the year really matter?
The latest in South Korea’s ongoing political crisis and the implications for its soft-power prowess. Also in the programme: the UK’s changing attitudes toward relations with the European Union and Australia proposes new taxes on tech giants to pay for news coverage. Plus: does the ‘Time Magazine’ person of the year really matter?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scholz paves the way for an early election in Germany
Germany's chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has requested a confidence vote, setting in motion the process for the country to hold early elections next year. What happened to the EU's powerhouse? Plus: the fate of Syrian refugees in Europe, Maori tribes' plea to King Charles III and how the way we watch television is changing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to deal with Syria’s new power
Tessa Szyszkowitz and Ben Kelly discuss how Western governments might deal with a Syria newly led by a former terrorist group, the controversy over the murder of Unitedhealthcare’s CEO, the ‘Los Angeles Times’ bias debate and our favourite online searches of the year. Plus: why young Croatians are leaving and how to keep them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How will the Assad regime’s collapse affect Europe?
Robin Brant and Giorgia Scaturro discuss how the collapse of the Assad regime will affect Europe. Also in the programme: a migration solution dubbed the ‘Musk bill‘, tensions over an EU-Mercosur trade deal and whether Italy’s trains are the best in Europe. Plus: Karthik Ramanna on his book ‘The Age of Outrage’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Romania’s presidential election gets cancelled and Mercer’s ranking of the best expat cities
We are joined by Bucharest-based journalist Alison Mutler as Romania’s top court annuls the results of the first round of its presidential election. Also in the programme, we unpack Mercer’s ranking of the best and worst cities in the world for expats to live. Plus: Andrew Mueller with ‘What We Learned’ and we hear from Janine Marshall of London’s One Aldwych at the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When parliament takes charge
Guests Latika Burke and Theo Usherwood join Andrew Mueller to discuss the power of parliament. First, we head to France, where lawmakers passed a no-confidence motion to oust prime minister Michel Barnier, and then, South Korea, where MPs vetoed martial law to stop the president from taking over. Also on the programme: UK prime minister Keir Starmer launches a plan for change. Plus: our team in Cannes reports from the International Luxury Travel Market as they meet the co-founder of Fora, Henley
Can Russia afford another war in Syria?
Reports suggest that the recent rebel advance in Syria is still on the march. Will Russia have the resources to protect its interests in the nation? Also in the programme: the most recent trade dispute between the US and China over semiconductor restrictions. Plus: France and Saudi Arabia try their hand at resolving the war in Israel and Palestine. Then: Italy bans Airbnb self check-ins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South Korea’s president declares emergency martial law
We get the latest from John Everard as South Korea’s president, Yook Suk Yeol, declares martial law after accusing anti-state elements of sympathising with North Korea. Also in the programme, Ukraine is high on the agenda as Nato foreign ministers meet in Brussels. But is an invitation likely? Plus: protests in Georgia continue for a fifth day and artificial intelligence in advertising.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Biden issues a pardon for his son and France’s government on the brink of collapse
We unpack the latest as President Biden issues a ‘full and unconditional’ pardon for the charges facing his son, Hunter Biden. Also in the programme, France’s fragile government teeters on the brink of collapse following Michel Barnier pushes his social security budget past parliament, without consulting MPs and the effect of a Trump presidency for Ireland. Plus: As public service complaints in England soar, we ask whether things are getting worse or do we just moan more?See omnystudio.com/liste
Georgian protesters take to the streets and a documentary on the Taliban
Protesters clash with police in Georgia after the government’s decision to pull out of EU accession talks. Then: we meet director Ibrahim Nash’at to talk about his new documentary, ‘Hollywoodgate’, which follows the Taliban’s recapture of Kabul. Plus: ‘What We Learned’ this week, a look at Zegna with Monocle’s fashion director, Natalie Theodosi, and a look ahead to the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the EU readying for a reset of relations with the UK?
UK prime minister Keir Starmer has been invited to meet with EU leaders next year. Is this the beginning of a reset of relations with the bloc? Our guests Aliona Hlivco and Michael Binyon discuss this and other topics including the massive attack which has damaged Ukraine’s power network, the odds of Michel Barnier’s government surviving in France and why South Australia has decided to ban political donations and gifts to MPs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does an Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire mean for Gaza?
We unpack the latest as the fresh ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah takes hold and discuss what this will mean for the conflict in Gaza. Also in the programme, a police report shows that Brazil’s former president was aware of a plot to stage a coup in January 2023. Plus: Donald Trump’s threats of punitive tariffs against China and we ask whether singing should ever be allowed in the cinema?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How will history judge Angela Merkel?
We discuss tensions in Pakistan as Imran Khan’s supporters reach Islamabad and demand his release. Then: Russia calls on the US to help rebuild Afghanistan as Moscow seeks stronger ties with the Taliban. Plus: we reflect on Angela Merkel’s legacy and the release of her autobiography, ‘Freedom: Memoirs 1954-2021’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire for real?
Israel and Lebanon agree to a ceasefire in principle but could it still collapse over the details? Our panel of Yossi Mekelberg and Rebecca Tinsley also discusses Cop29, the extension of the EU’s Schengen zone and why Germans take so many sick days. Plus: Keir Giles on his new book, ‘Who Will Defend Europe?’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump’s cabinet takes shape and Brazil’s former president is charged with plotting a coup
Simon Marks joins with the latest from Washington as president-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet begins to take shape. Also in the programme: Monocle’s Fernando Augusto Pacheco on the impact of Brazil’s former president, Jair Bolsonaro, being charged with plotting a coup d’etat. Then: we flick through the latest issue of ‘Monocle: The Entrepreneurs’ with Tomos Lewis and speak to the American political scientist, Oriana Skylar Mastro, about her new book ‘Upstart: How China Became a Great Power’.See om
The ICC issues an arrest warrant for Netanyahu
The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the grounds of possible crimes against humanity, along with his former defence minister Yoav Gallant and a Hamas military commander, who is presumed dead. Rainbow Murray and Nik Gowing join to discuss the warrants, Russia’s first intercontinental missile, social media bans and faking accents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Putin opens the door to discussing a Ukraine ceasefire with Trump
We unpack the reaction from Europe as Putin states he is willing to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine with US president-elect Donald Trump. Also in the programme: we discuss the latest sabotage in the Baltic Sea and ponder the status of a hybrid war in the region. Plus: we ask whether China and India should still be regarded as “developing” economies and Italy puts the brakes on e-scooter use.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine marks 1,000 days of war
We unpack the latest from Ukraine as the country marks 1,000 days of fighting with Russia and discuss whether the conflict is becoming a proxy war for Asia. Also in the programme: we analyse the latest protests in New Zealand against the proposed legislation that could redefine the Treaty of Waitangi and find out why Denmark is introducing a flatulence tax for livestock.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New York ramps up new policies – will local governments be re-energized in the Trump era?
What comes next as Biden allows Ukraine to strike Russia? Plus: Latike Bourke and Vincent McAviney discuss whether local governments will be re-energized in the Trump era as New York strikes broker fees for tenants. Then: how much would you spend on memorabilia?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why New Zealanders are marching and performing hakas to protest a bill
Reporter Natalia Sutherland joins Andrew Mueller in the studio to discuss the debate surrounding a controversial bill in New Zealand that’s sparked marches across the country. Plus: Gunnar Gronlid interviews British electronic producer Clark about his 2023 album, collaborating with Thom Yorke and his work on the ‘In Camera’ soundtrack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump’s cabinet picks alarm even Republicans
President-elect Trump raids the Fox News greenroom to staff his administration with only the most loyal acolytes. Under mounting cost pressures for health services, governments around the world reassess nudging versus legislating people away from junk food. As the UK sunsets its voluntary National Citizenship Service, are national-service type schemes needed to help improve the lives of young people. Plus: is department store John Lewis still king of emotionally manipulative Christmas adverts?Se
Biden greets Trump at the White House
The peaceful transition of power is under way in Washington, as Senate Republicans elect a new majority leader. Carole Walker and Theo Usherwood also discuss the ongoing political and economic crises in Berlin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How will Europe handle Trump’s unequivocal support of Israel?
With rising anti-semitism and faltering support for Israel in Europe, how will leaders contend with US president-elect Trump’s unambiguous support for prime minister Netanyahu? Also on the program: president Macron and prime minister Starmer seek to reinvigorate the entente cordiale, yet another incumbent administration suffers election defeat and does technology hold the answer to overtourism? Terry Stiatsny, Philippe Marlière and John Burn-Murdoch join the panel. See omnystudio.com/listener fo
How will Europe defend Ukraine in the new Trump presidency?
Simon Brooke and Daniella Peled stop by Midori House to discuss how Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron will define Europe's defence of Ukraine ahead of Trump’s inauguration. Plus: a four-year cruise takes passengers to more than 140 countries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We reflect on a busy week in US politics and the 2025 Grammy nominations
Monocle’s senior news editor Chris Cermak and reporter Simon Mark join us from Washington to reflect on a turbulent week for US politics – and what comes next. Plus: Gunnar Gronlid updates us on the biggest stories from the Nordics and Fernando Augusto Pacheco discusses the 2025 Grammy nominations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US election series: transfer of power
The US prepares for a peaceful transition of power from one president to a dramatically different one. Monocle’s Carlota Rebelo and Christopher Cermak are joined in Washington by former White House press secretary Dana Perino to talk about the effects of this election. Them: Brent Griffiths of Business Insider discusses Joe Biden’s speech. Plus: the Atlantic Council’s Holly Dagres and Renew Democracy Initiatve’s Uriel Epstein on what the future Donald Trump situation room might look like.See omn
US election series: the aftermath
A masterclass in political comebacks or a lucky strike? Donald Trump is only the second president in US history to win a second, non-consecutive, term. We’ll go through the latest numbers, get the view from inside the Republican Party and also assess how his future presidency might impact US-China relations with former Joe Biden advisor, Scott Mulhauser. Plus: what did the pollsters miss and the reaction from international markets too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US election series: Live from Washington
Monocle Radio is live from Washington on election day in the US, getting the view from both campaigns, speaking with international election officials, hearing why foreign policy matters this time around and why all sides believe that our democracy is at stake.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US election series: 24 hours to go
The US election offices have increased security measures amid anticipation of potential violence towards election workers. Justin Smith, election security expert and retired sheriff, tells us more. Also on the programme: Monocle’s Christopher Cermak and Julie Norman discuss the final messages from Harris and Trump as last-minute rallies take place in key swing states. Then: we assess how each candidate’s foreign-policy promises will affect voters’ choices. Plus: Monocle’s Geogina Godwin gives us
US election series: 48 hours to go
The latest poll out of Iowa suggests that this Midwest state might be back in play for the Democrats. We talk to Iowa state senator Zach Wahls and ask if voters are getting their swing back. Then: Monocle’s Chris Cermak reports from Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania and we hear from Georgina Godwin down in South Carolina. Plus: we meet the team at WSP working to revamp the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and meet the architecture duo at G+G working hard to preserve Atlanta’s
US election series: Information war in Georgia
The race for the White House has never been so close, as pollster Lindsay Vermeyen explains. With both candidates in Georgia this weekend Holly Bailey, national correspondent for The Washington Post, and Leroy Chapman Jr., the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's editor in chief, tell us what it’s been like to cover this election cycle amid a surge of disinformation. Then: Monocle’s Tomos Lewis reports from Milwaukee and we hear from developer Jim Irwin, president of New City Properties, on how Atlant
US election series: Restoring trust
The US electoral system will be put to the test in just four days, at a time when Americans’ trust in the country’s institutions is severely frayed. Caren Morrison, former federal prosecutor, and Atlanta reverend Markel Hutchins tell us what can be done to restore faith in the justice system and the police. Also on the programme: Atlanta councillor Amir Farokhi on how the devastating hurricanes that ravaged the South will influence the election. Then: are the Democrats in trouble in New York? P
US election series: On the ground in Atlanta
With five days to go until election day, Monocle Radio is broadcasting from around the US. To kick things off, we are in Atlanta, Georgia – a key swing state in this year’s race for the White House. To get a sense of the mood on the ground, we hear from Axios’s Kristal Dixon, discover the city’s urban transformation with Beltline CEO Clyde Higgs and explore what’s at stake with former congressman Kwanza Hall. Plus: we’re on the road with dispatches from Bruno Kaufmann in Las Vegas, Georgina Godw
Why do some EU officials think that the bloc would be better off with a Trump presidency?
We discuss the latest in the China-EU tariff saga, as Beijing takes a case to the World Trade Organisation, leaving some EU officials pondering whether a Trump presidency would help to create change in the bloc. Also on the programme: Canada publicly alleges that India’s home affairs minister was behind recent attacks on the Sikh diaspora. Then: we explore whether compulsory voting would make a difference to turnouts and consider the seriousness of Strava’s location blunders.See omnystudio.com/
Backlash from racist remarks at a Trump rally and Russia set to deploy North Korean troops to Ukraine
With just one week to go until the US presidential elections, we assess whether the racist remarks made at Donald Trump’s New York rally will make any difference to voter decisions. Also on the programme: intelligence reveals that Russia will deploy up to 10,000 North Korean troops to Ukraine “within weeks”. Then: we discuss why Keir Stamer is so unpopular and a new study reveals the countries with the longest-lasting relationships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia’s pro-Russia party retains power and Volkswagen shuts down three factories in Germany
We discuss the latest from Georgia, as the ruling pro-Russia Georgian Dream party claims victory in the weekend’s contested elections. Also on the programme: German car manufacturer Volkswagen closes production plants in its home country for the first time in 87 years as a result of competition from China. Then: we assess how important it is for newspapers to endorse a candidate following refusal to do so from the ‘Los Angeles Times’ and ‘The Washington Post’. Plus: a German shepherd inherits $9
Do celebrity political endorsements matter?
Monocle’s Middle East correspondent Leila Molana-Allen stops by Midori House to discuss the past three weeks reporting from Beirut and what’s next for Lebanon. Then: Poland’s plans to create a supercity, Barcelona’s new night commissioner and Beyoncé’s appearance at a Kamala Harris rally. Plus: A special interview with Oscar-winning stop-motion filmmaker, Adam Elliot, about his new film ‘Memoir of a Snail’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Middle East nuclear tensions and what’s next for Ukraine’s Nato bid?
Dr Marion Messmer and Renad Mansour discuss threats of a nuclear escalation in the Middle East, Ukraine’s Nato bid and Kamala Harris calling Donald Trump a “fascist”. Plus: can the UK get its groove back on the world stage?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Donald Trump accuses the UK Labour Party of election interference
Donald Trump has accused the UK’s Labour Party of interfering in the forthcoming US presidential election. We discuss why this complaint might be unjustified. Also on the programme: a network of Israeli citizens has been arrested after spying for Iran and a new poll suggests that the majority of French people believe that their democratic system doesn’t work. Plus: what lengths would you go to to rescue your phone?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South Korea demands North Korean troops leave Russia
South Korean media has claimed that it could send military and intelligence personnel to Ukraine after North Korea dispatched troops to support Russia in the war. Andrew Mueller is joined by Andrew Thompson and Julia Lasica to discuss the severity of these developments. Plus: is Brazil a problem for Brics and will office drinks soon become a thing of the past? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How are the US election candidates planning to sway undecided voters?
With just two weeks to go until the US presidential election, we discuss how Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are planning to sway undecided voters. Also on the programme: we consider whether Israel will see the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar as an opportunity for ceasefire. Plus: a heckler disrupts King Charles III in Australia and a New Zealand airport introduces a time limit on goodbye hugs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biden calls for Western support to Ukraine and the Netherlands launches nightclub train
Christopher Cermak and Lily Austin discuss Joe Biden’s meeting of European allies in Berlin, what we can expect from the Rome Film Festival and why not saying “hello” to a colleague could be a breach of employment law. Plus: the nightclub train in Amsterdam, a check-in with Art Basel in Paris and a visit to the Spirit of Paimio Conference. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israeli military claims it has killed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar
Nina dos Santos and Nik Gowing take a look at the claims by the Israeli military that it has killed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, Zelensky unveils his ‘Victory Plan’, why Italy is criminalising seeking surrogacy abroad and Australia takes a look at its attitudes to the Royal Family ahead of a visit from King Charles III. Plus: we receive a letter from Chefchaouen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US warns Israel over Gaza aid: how does diplomacy differ in public and private?
A letter from the US gives Israel 30 days to boost humanitarian-aid access to Gaza, we ask: how big is the difference in tone of public and private diplomacy? Also in the programme: we reflect on the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Islamabad and assess the latest cuts to the BBC. Plus: a Californian university has a new graduation requirement – a course on climate change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Canada expels top Indian diplomats and North Korea blows up inter-Korean road
We unpack the latest as a diplomatic spat erupts between Canada and India after Justin Trudeau expels six Indian envoys due to alleged involvement in the murder of a Sikh leader. Also in the programme: North Korea blows up sections of inter-Korean roads on its side of the border and we ask why bands are skipping certain locations on their tours in the UK and beyond. Plus: Prague’s strategy to attract more ‘cultured and wealthier’ tourists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
China launches war games around Taiwan and the US prepares to send troops to Israel
We discuss the latest from Taiwan as president William Lai vows to resist ‘annexation’ amid Chinese military drills around the island. Also on the programme: we assess the significance of the US putting boots on the ground in Israel and analyse how late is too late for justice as a 34-year-old murder case from Germany is closed. Plus: does Chaucer’s ‘Canterbury Tales’ really need a trigger warning?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Norway’s transition to green energy and tributes to Nobuyo Ōyama
Norway releases its annual state budget, the voice of Japan’s beloved ‘Doraemon’, Nobuyo Ōyama, dies aged 90, Elon Musk reveals his $30,000 Tesla self-driving Cybercab and larger Robovan, a startling discovery is made on Mount Everest and we check in with the Quality of Life Conference in Istanbul. Plus: We speak to the renowned artist William Kentridge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Quality of Life Conference 2024, live from Istanbul
Coming to you live from Istanbul for the ninth edition of Monocle’s Quality of Life Conference, Tom Edwards and the team detail everything they’re looking forward to at this year’s event. Expect a dizzying array of insights into urbanism, design, entrepreneurship and cocktails! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Netanyahu warns of Gaza-like destruction in Lebanon
We unpack the latest from the conflict in the Middle East, as Israeli prime minister Netanyahu threatens Gaza-like destruction for Lebanon unless they oust Hezbollah. Also: We unpack the security threats from Russia and Iran in the West and consider whether the Nobel Peace Prize is deserved this year. Plus: Frankfurt’s controversial new parking portal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hurricane Milton in Mexico and the Taliban profiting from diverted flights
As Hurricane Milton sweeps past northern Mexico, we discuss how president Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and the authorities are preparing to tackle the potential fall out. Also on the programme: we discuss how the Taliban is profiting from travel by charging diverted planes in its airspace. Then: Japan introduces laws to protect workers in customer service following a rise in harassment. Plus: a beer-can artwork is accidentally thrown in the bin at a Dutch museum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privac
War rages on a year after the October 7th attacks
We reflect on the unimaginable conflict in the Middle East, a year on from Hamas’s attacks on an Israeli music festival. How much further are we from peace in the region? We also discuss the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Sudan and, with the US presidential election just four weeks away, analyse Kamala Harris’s strategy to appeal to young voters. Plus: Sweden’s pioneering ‘grandparent’ leave.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lebanon: what happens next?
Former US ambassador David Hale joins Andrew Mueller to explore where the conflict in Lebanon and the wider region could lead next. Plus: we get a hot tip from Laura Kramer on who might win Fat Bear Week this year and Tom Edwards looks ahead to Monocle’s Quality of Life Conference in Istanbul next week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nations across the world evacuate citizens as the situation in Lebanon worsens
As Lebanon’s residents seek safe spaces or search for an escape amid Israeli airstrikes, Ingar Thordar and Terry Stiatsny join Andrew Mueller to discuss the wide range of international evacuation plans currently under way. Plus: we take a look at the CIA’s new job posting and consider what a quiet zone might be like in the capital of Bangladesh. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The world reacts to Iran’s attack on Israel
As the world reacts to Iran’s missile attack on Israel, we unpack the international community’s affirmations of Israel’s right to defend itself. Next: we assess whether the US vice-presidential debate will affect November’s election and we learn why Marine Le Pen and her far-right party, the National Rally, are currently on trial. Plus: an Italian politician gets his bachelor’s degree after more than 20 years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Iran launches an attack on Israel
Iran launches a ballistic missile towards Israel, following the IDF’s ground invasion into Lebanon. Allison Kaplan Sommer updates us on the latest from Tel Aviv. Also in the programme: Nato’s new leader, former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte, is ushered into office. We discuss the problems he will be facing from day one. Plus: Artificial intelligence helps to solve a decades-old cold case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A dramatic new chapter for the Middle East?
As Israel hints at a ground invasion into Lebanon, we discuss what might happen next as the Middle East braces for wider conflict. We also find out how Austria’s far-right Freedom Party secured a win in the nation’s parliamentary election and explore the new trend of young women becoming more liberal and young men more conservative. Plus: the problems with regularly changing your passwords, according to the US National Institute of Standards and Technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy
Zelensky and Trump meet in New York and Norway’s new carbon-capture facility
Donald Trump says he would work with both Ukraine and Russia to end their war, why vets’ incomes are rising faster than doctors’ in South Korea, Tesla checks in on home workers calling in sick and we report from the new Northern Lights CCS facility in Norway. Plus: Yaroslav Trofimov’s new novel ‘No Country for Love’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Inside the Nintendo museum and New York mayor charged with bribery
New York mayor Eric Adams has been charged with taking bribes, another day of Israeli air strikes reaches the southern suburbs of Beirut, house speaker Mike Johnson demands that Ukraine sack its ambassador to the US and we pop inside Nintendo’s new museum in Kyoto. Plus: We receive a letter from Romania.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is a diplomatic solution still possible for Israel and Lebanon?
As the death toll in Lebanon rises into the several hundreds, emergency talks begin at the United Nations General Assembly. We ask whether a diplomatic solution to this conflict is still possible? Plus: Iran’s changing attitudes to nuclear negotiations, Russia’s questionable solution to its falling birth rate and Spain prepares to give “human” rights to great apes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
China unveils bold stimulus measures to boost its ailing economy
China introduces its strongest measures since the coronavirus pandemic to boost its ailing economy. Also on the programme: we discuss the Minerals Security Partnership as it reveals fresh plans to break China’s grip on critical minerals. Then: Keir Starmer takes to the podium at the Labour conference as his ratings plummet. Plus: we ask what childhood snacks you would like to see back on the shelves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zelensky arrives in the US to present his ‘victory plan’
As Ukraine’s President Zelensky touches down in the US ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, we unpack what will be on his agenda and what his secretive peace plan for Ukraine might look like. Also in the programme: as Germany’s Social Democrats hold off the far right in the eastern state of Brandenburg, we look at why this is a major relief for Olaf Scholz and what this might mean for his future as Germany’s chancellor. Plus: two Australian supermarkets are being sued for their false clai
What will the next stage of conflict in the Middle East look like?
At the end of a week filled with violence in the Middle East, Yossi Mekelberg joins us from Israel to discuss the latest and what the next stage of the Israel-Gaza conflict will look like. Also on the programme: we round up the latest technology news from Norway, hear the highlights from London Design Festival and discuss the New Zealand bird of the year competition. Plus: we sit down with the curator of London’s Ukrainian Film Festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hezbollah leader calls fatal device attacks an ‘act of war’
The latest from the Middle East as the secretary-general of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, vows to retaliate to Israel’s deadly device attacks. Also on the programme: we discuss news from North Korea as the nation shows off its nuclear arsenal with a test of its “new, super-large” ballistic missile. Plus: we examine the row over UK prime minister Keir Starmer’s declaration of freebies and gifts totalling more than £100,000 (€119,000). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Global reaction to the communication-device attacks on Hezbollah
As the world reacts to deadly communication-device explosions in Lebanon, we’re joined by Nicholas Noe to give us the view from Beirut. Also: China and India hint at thawing ties as they begin to resolve their issues along the Line of Actual Control, the pair’s de facto border. Plus: we unpack changing attitudes to migration in Europe following Keir Starmer’s visit to Rome.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The latest on Hezbollah’s exploding pagers
We get the latest developments from Beirut after hacked pagers explode across the city. Plus: Meta bans Russian state media and we take a look at the effectiveness of Western sanctions. Then: Ursula von der Leyen announces the EU’s new Commission lineup, reflecting a shifting world order in the bloc.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One election, two assassination attempts, 50 days left: what happens now?
How will the homestretch of the US presidential election pan out following a second assassination attempt on Donald Trump? Plus: are South China Sea tensions simmering down or bubbling over? Then: a 225-year-old territorial dispute reignites. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Harris and Trump, listen to us!
With 53 days left until the US election, we swap our journalist hats for campaign-manager caps as we advise Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on how to clinch the White House. Plus: get under the cover of our autumn edition of ‘Konfekt’. Then: Monocle team members take us around the world to highlight the hidden gems of their hometowns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UN chief: Israel strikes ‘totally unacceptable’
UN secretary-general António Guterres warns Israel’s lack of accountability over a strike that killed six of his workers is ‘totally unacceptable.’ Plus: what will a new cast of leaders in Europe mean for the continent? Then: would you board the next civilian spacecraft?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One debate down, 55 days left to go
How will the first debate between Harris and Trump inform the rest of the presidential race? Then: China and the EU try to defrost trade tensions. Plus: would you live in a for-profit city?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UN General Assembly eyes Israel, while Harris and Trump face off
The UN General Assembly begins in New York, as Kamala Harris and Donald Trump prepare to face off on the debate stage in Georgia. Plus, how would you deck out your apocalypse bunker?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Moscow advances; Beijing issues a warning
Russia looks to advance its front line. China warns relations with the Philippines are “at a crossroads” as South China Sea tensions swell. Panellists Robin Brant and Olga Tokariuk tackle the day’s stories with Andrew Mueller and weigh in on how they’d distribute €25m.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Barnier, Hvaldimir and mobility
As the left scorns Macron’s PM choice, Simon Bouvier joins Andrew Mueller to consider the obstacles ahead for Michel Barnier. Plus: Monocle’s editor in chief Andrew Tuck discusses mobility, our staffers investigate the mysterious circumstances around the death of Norway’s favourite whale and we examine all the hottest looks from fashion week (no, not New York Fashion Week, the GOP’s “America First Patriotic Designer Showcase”, obviously). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Macron names Michel Barnier as new PM
As Macron finally names a new PM, Nina Dos Santos and Robin Lustig join Andrew Mueller to discuss how Michel Barnier will be received. Plus: what does Maduro’s early Christmas really mean for Venezuela? And can you guess what (or who) is Turkey’s highest-rated-tourist attraction?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zelensky’s shake up
As Ukraine undergoes further brutal attacks, Caroline Frost and Nik Gowing join Andrew Mueller to discuss whether this 10-day barrage is Putin’s reply to the Kursk incursion. Plus: we look at what to expect from the China-Africa summit and consider if sleepy air-traffic controllers might be the new normal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Netanyahu’s rage
As the UK suspends some arms export licences to Israel, our panellists Ben Kelley and Tessa Szyszkowitz join Andrew Mueller to discuss Netanyahu’s angry response and examine the growing rift between the two allies. Plus: why Mongolia is choosing the red carpet rather than handcuffs for Putin. Then: can Swedish weddings be saved from the corny clutches of Hollywood?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Urgency
While Ukraine refreshes its pleas for long-range missile use against Russia, protesters and unions in Israel call for an urgent ceasefire deal once and for all. Aliona Hlivco and Simon Brooke join Andrew Mueller to discuss how these two demands might play out. Plus: Japan expresses support for a four-day working week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Prague to Venice
Monocle’s finest staffers and correspondents discuss the day’s big stories: a high-profile gathering of world leaders in Czechia, the latest from the Middle East, municipal elections in Brazil and why in Japan it’s now illegal to ride a bicycle while drunk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the brink
Palestinian life has been pushed to the edge by Israel’s largest military assault in the occupied West Bank in decades. William Patey and Alex von Tunzelmann join Georgina Godwin in the studio to discuss why this is happening now and why the aim of the IDF’s latest actions are so unapparent. Plus: how far would you go to get some in-flight peace and quiet?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
West Bank woes
As the occupied West Bank endures further lethal strikes by the IDF and extremist settlers, John Everard and Patricia Cohen join Andrew Mueller to discuss why violence is rising in the region. Plus: could a BRICS membership be on the cards for Palestine? And which billionaire is taking one small, very expensive, leap for mankind?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine under fire
As Russia’s huge wave of strikes across Ukraine results in yet more deaths, Zelensky has vowed to respond. Joining us in the studio to discuss what this response could look like is former VICE editor in chief, Zing Tsjeng, and political journalist, Terry Stiastny. Plus: can the latest talks between the US and China help ease global tensions? And why have fears of overtourism backfired in Greece? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Decisive action
Russia’s latest barrage of strikes on Ukraine has prompted Zelensky to issue a fresh plea for direct military interventions from the West. Our panellists today, Robin Brant and Carole Walker, join Andrew Mueller to discuss Ukraine’s latest call to arms. Plus: What the future looks like for the controversial message app Telegram, and can the "right to disconnect" really save you from your boss?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Where next?
With the DNC all wrapped up, and the Democrats’ chances seemingly all turned around, Monocle staffers discuss where Harris’s campaign is headed. We also ask the same of Ukraine’s incursion, taking a deeper look at an exclusive line from defence industry chief, Alexander Kamyshin, who explains Ukraine’s stated aim to be the “Israel of Europe”. Plus: we peruse the pages of Monocle with some of the writers behind our latest issue all about mobility. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informati
Harris headlines
As we look ahead to the fourth and final day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC), Andrew Mueller is joined by Aliona Hlivco and Stephen Dalziel to discuss the dramatic effect that the event has had on the election race. Plus: has “ceasefire deal” become a meaningless slogan? And why is the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage causing so much controversy? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Don’t boo - vote.”
The energy at the DNC showed no signs of letting up yesterday as the Obamas gave their speeches endorsing Kamala Harris. Next, VP pick Tim Walz and another ex-president, Bill Clinton, are due to speak. Our panellists Charles Hecker and Marta Lorimer join Andrew Mueller to discuss what else we can expect from Day Three of the DNC. Plus: Grab some popcorn for Meloni’s fight with Fiat then join us as we ride the rails on Switzerland’s Fake News train.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat
Harris takes up the torch
Barack and Michelle Obama will headline the Democratic National Convention (DNC) tonight, paying homage to Joe Biden’s legacy and making the case for Kamala Harris. We consider what’s next for the vice-president now that Biden has passed on the torch. Panellists Elizabeth Braw and Michael Binyon join Andrew Mueller to discuss day 2 of the DNC. Plus: are defence pacts trending in the Asia-Pacific? And would you want your flight cancelled if the airport misplaced a pair of scissors? See omnystudio
Biden’s swansong
Joe Biden will take the stage at the Democratic National Convention tonight as he cedes the top spot on the presidential ticket. Our panellists Julie Norman and Nik Gowing discuss whether expected nominee Kamala Harris’s unity message can survive party divisions over Gaza as prospects of a ceasefire seemingly wane. Plus: what bright idea could win you 50,000 Swiss francs?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Live from St Moritz
A special edition of the show live from the Swiss Alps. We meet the creators and entrepreneurs taking part in the first chapter of the St Moritz Makers & Shakers festival. The CEO of St Moritz Tourism, Marijana Jakic, tells us about hospitality in the region, chef Stefano Ciabarri talks about the culinary vision at the Michelin-starred Krone restaurant and we’ll hear from Monocle’s team on the ground too: Tyler Brûlé, Sophie Grove and Nic Monisse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy infor
Ukraine’s long game
As thousands more Russian civilians are evacuated from the border region of Kursk, we examine the ways in which Ukraine hopes to capitalise on its shock success to try to win the war. Plus: is Trump’s campaign starting to stall? What’s next for Venezuela? And would you pay a subscription fee for unlimited flights?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ceasefire hopes fade
Ahead of tomorrow’s scheduled truce talks in Doha, we discuss the hopes, if any, of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. Plus: how deaths in record heat are changing Europe and why Melbourne is banning the e-scooter once and for all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine piles pressure on Putin
As Ukraine’s extraordinary incursion into Russian territory continues, we consider its implications. Plus: the latest developments in the US presidential race, an Anglo-Italian plan to overhaul Europe’s police force and Hong Kong’s cabbies launch a charm offensive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Escalating conflict in the Middle East and Europe
As Ukraine continues its surprise offensive inside Russian territory, the US is accelerating its military deployment to the Middle East amid reports that Iran might attack Israel within days. Our expert panel considers what can be done to stop things escalating further.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What awaits Emmanuel Macron on the other side of the Olympics?
With the Olympics concluding this weekend, can Emmanuel Macron leverage the favourable glow of the Games to shift France’s political landscape? We discuss what’s next for the country’s divided parliament and whether it can build a coalition. Plus: Martin ‘MGbility’ Gilian talks about making the sport of breaking an Olympic event. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Olympians Regan Smith and Rowdy Gaines on a winning mentality
Regan Smith and Rowdy Gaines, two multiple medallists in Olympic swimming, pop by Maison Allianz to discuss what it takes to take home gold at the Games and dealing with losses. Plus: We meet the design team behind Paris’s new Aquatics Centre in Saint-Denis and Nyetimber’s Helen Gunn talks about its partnership with Team GB and the British sparkling wine industry as a testament to the UK’s soft power. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com
Are the Games helping or hurting France’s hospitality sector?
Journalist Marie-Pierre Lannelongue and hotelier Éric Dardé discuss how Paris’s hospitality sector is faring during the Games and France’s changing tastes for spicy food. Then: we explore how the country’s traditional savoir-faire can be updated for today's luxury market with the leaders of Officine Universelle Buly and Les Belles Heures, two brands blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary design. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. See omnyst
Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as her running mate
Ana Radelat, Washington correspondent for ‘MinnPost’, discusses the latest as Kamala Harris picks Minnesota governor Tim Walz to be her vice-presidential running mate. Plus: musician Claude stops by Maison Allianz to discuss Francophone pop, Australian swimmer Cate Campbell speaks to Andrew Mueller about her first Olympics as a spectator and Art Basel Paris director Clément Delépine explores the intersection of art and sports at the Games. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic
Rebeca Andrade wins gold and Kamala Harris and JD Vance head to Pennsylvania
As Kamala Harris and JD Vance prepare for separate rallies in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, we discuss the appeal of the state’s governor as the Democrats’ potential VP pick. Then: we discuss how the Games have transformed Paris and the importance of local manufacturing in making happier cities. Plus: is this the most luxurious Olympics on record? And: Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade takes home the gold. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic
The US-Germany prisoner swap with Russia and Olympic anthems
Thomas Chatterton Williams and Pierre Siankowski discuss the biggest prisoner exchange between the US, Germany and Russia since the Cold War, as well as the highs and lows of Olympic anthems. Plus: we check in with the Monocle team at the athletics and hear from Olympic swimmer Bruno Fratus. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israeli military claims killing Hamas commander and AC woes in Paris
Israel Defence Forces confirm that Hamas’s military chief, Mohammed Deif, was among the victims of an air strike in Khan Younis on 13 July. Our panellists, Daphnée Denis and Marie-Pierre Lannelongue discuss Franc’s changing attitude towards the Games and the air-conditioning war taking place in the city. Plus: Emma Nelson sends us a letter from Paris. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf
An Olympic political truce and JD Vance’s campaign
Our panellists, Thomas Chatterton Williams and Marc Beaugé, explore the world of Olympic outfits, Macron’s use of the Games for political neutrality and the latest from camp JD Vance. Plus: feather fashion and Lady Gaga with Janaïna Milheiro and Guatemala makes Olympic history. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Olympic Games’ economic benefit and Biden’s call for Supreme Court reform
We examine whether Paris will economically benefit from the Games with Ludovic Subran and take a look at the global papers with Vincent McAviney. Plus: we go on tour with DJ Tiga and follow Florence Martin-Kessler as she leaves Paris. Live from Maison Allianz. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nicolás Maduro’s re-election in Venezuela and has Paris become a deserted city?
We examine Nicolás Maduro’s re-election and our panel, Daphnée Denis and Anaïs Peignier, look back on the Olympic opening ceremony and ask whether Parisians have really deserted the capital. Plus: we check-in with Kieran Pender, our roaming reporter at the Games. Allianz is a Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The 2024 Summer Olympics commence
As the Games get under way in Paris, we survey the best (and worst) national-team uniforms. Plus: a closer look at Boeing’s plea deal with the US Department of Justice over the former’s 737 Max aircraft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Netanyahu in Washington
Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking to bolster support for Israel on a visit to the US. But is the controversial prime minister doing his country more harm than good? Plus: China plans to raise its retirement age and Singapore tops a ranking of world passports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the Russian economy being ‘re-Sovietised’?
A group of European finance ministers says that the Russian war economy is deteriorating and has called for increased pressure on Putin’s regime. But is their analysis correct? Plus: we consider the future of the Conservative Party, and revisit Richard Nixon and Nikita Khrushchev’s 1959 ‘Kitchen Debate’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democrats rally behind Harris
Kamala Harris is swiftly emerging as the favourite to become the Democratic presidential nominee. We discuss how her nomination has reshaped the contest. Plus: China’s evolving role in the Middle East and tensions between the EU and Hungary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What now for the Democrats?
Joe Biden has dropped out of the presidential race. But by leaving it so late, has he deprived alternative Democratic candidates of a full ‘primary test’? And can his vice-president, Kamala Harris, clinch the nomination? Plus: Israel’s airstrikes on Yemen and Costco’s ‘apocalypse bucket’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The downfall of Vaughan Gething
The scandal-fuelled resignation of Wales’s first minister, Vaughan Gething, marks Labour’s first crisis since Keir Starmer became Prime Minister. Monocle’s Tomos Lewis joins us to explain what has happened and why it matters. Plus: how the conflict with Russia has affected Ukrainian chess and Monocle heads to the Paris Olympics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The final day of the Republican National Convention
This year’s Republican National Convention has put forward a convincingly re-energised Trumpism that stands in stark contrast to Biden’s ailing Democratic campaign. We take stock on the event’s final day. Plus: Keir Starmer hosts leaders for the European Political Community summit and umbrella rentals take off in Japan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democracy in wartime
How can democracy function in a conflict zone? We explore that question with a focus on Ukraine. Plus: day three of the Republican National Convention and will Portugal force shopping centres to close on Sundays?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention
In his first public appearance since surviving an assassination attempt, Donald Trump was rapturously received at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Plus: Germany has banned a right-wing magazine and are Danish politicians spending too much time on social media?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tensions rise between China and Nato
Nato has accused China of being a ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia in Ukraine. Beijing has rejected the claim and warned Nato against stirring confrontation. What is the path forward for relations between the two military powers? Plus: the fallout from the attempt on Donald Trump’s life and the Norwegian satellite bringing broadband to the Arctic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukrainian literature in wartime
We speak to writer Anna Romandash about how Ukrainian literature has evolved over the course of the conflict with Russia. We also check in with Andrew Mueller on the final day of the 75th Nato summit in Washington and hear a live session from American singer-songwriter Madeleine Peyroux.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Macron’s letter to the French
Emmanuel Macron breaks a 10-day silence to publish a letter to the French, calling for a broad parliamentary coalition. But does his opinion matter any more? Plus: we check in on the last day of the 75th Nato summit in Washington.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biden addresses Nato
Joe Biden is at the 75th Nato summit, hoping to reinvigorate both the organisation’s image and his own. Plus: Australia appoints an antisemitism envoy. And: should politicians and entertainment media ever mix?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia, Ukraine and Nato
As Ukraine mourns dozens killed in the worst Russian airstrikes in months, Nato leaders in Washington weigh up how to respond. Plus: Narendra Modi in Moscow – and should Milan’s main airport be renamed after Silvio Berlusconi?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France’s snap election: a shake-up in parliament
France’s shock election result feels like a victory for the left but how will a disrupted and hung parliament fare when it comes to actually governing the country? Plus, a check in from the 75th anniversary Nato summit in Washington DC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Labour landslide
As Labour celebrate a landslide victory in the UK election, Monocle’s staff gather at Midori House to dissect the rout. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Polling day in the UK
As voters cast their ballots in what has been billed as a historic election, we look back on the campaign and consider the likely outcomes. Plus: Joe Biden is bullish a week on from “debate-gate” and Japan’s war on floppy disks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK elections: They think it’s all over...
On the eve of a general election, even senior Conservative Party members seem resigned to a Labour landslide. But is the real jeopardy for Keir Starmer to be found in Scotland? Plus, Pyongyang’s fears of an “Asian Nato”, Giorgia Meloni’s condemnation of fascism in her party and cheese-related police misconduct in Germany.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK election: Has Keir Starmer done enough?
With two days to go before UK voters go to the polls, we ask whether Keir Starmer and the Labour Party have done enough to end Conservative rule. Plus, can the French “republican front” hold against a resurgent National Rally and what role (if any) should the Taliban have in Afghanistan’s international relations?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Elections in France: National Rally makes big gains
After the far-right National Rally makes big gains in the first round of France’s parliamentary elections, we assess what it means for the nation’s politics. Plus: Joe Biden’s decision to soldier on and Swedish sleeper trains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monocle’s Quality of Life Survey
As Monocle’s annual quality-of-life special hits newsstands across the globe, our foreign editor, Alexis Self, explains the thinking behind this year’s rankings. Plus: a closer look at the US presidential debate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France’s election: the highest stakes in Europe?
With the far-right leading in the polls following Macron’s snap-election call, we take stock of France’s momentous forthcoming election. We also examine the new Dutch government, which will take office next week, and ask whether political debates still serve a purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK election: the perspective from abroad
We look at what the UK’s European neighbours think about its upcoming election (if they are thinking about it at all). We also take stock of a brace of new emissions taxes and charges in Denmark and Germany and ask what Mark Rutte’s selection to be head of Nato means for the bloc.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine and Moldova: EU accession talks commence
As EU accession talks for Ukraine and Moldova kick off in Luxembourg, we speak to Moldova’s secretary of state for European integration. We also take a closer look at the protests against tax rises in Kenya. Plus: an interview with Ukrainian journalist Illia Ponomarenko about his new book ‘I Will Show You How It Was: The Story of Wartime Kyiv’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The situation in Russia and Ukraine
With the Kremlin blaming the US for a Ukrainian attack on Crimea which used US-supplied missiles, we consider the risk of escalation. We also ask if Ukraine and Moldova can hope for EU membership on the eve of accession talks. Plus: crows versus humans in Busan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who wears short shorts?
To mark the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere, Monocle’s senior correspondent Fernando Augusto Pacheco and fashion director Natalie Theodosi tackle a vexed question: who wears short shorts in 2024? And should they? We also hear from Monocle’s US editor, Chris Lord, and get some live music from singer-songwriter Richard Thompson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel and Hezbollah: the situation
Description: With exchanges of fire ongoing, Israel warning of “total war” and the Biden administration frustrated, we’ll take stock of the situation in northern Israel. Plus: Ukraine’s F-16 hopes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
European elections: the fallout (so far)
We take stock of who’s in and who’s out in the wake of this month’s EU elections, and what it means for the continent. Plus: Russia at home and abroad and is there a place for pettiness in politics?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The situation in North Korea
With a visit from Vladimir Putin imminent and tensions flaring at the border, we take stock of the situation in North Korea. Plus: Joe Biden is set to give legal status to undocumented spouses, ‘The Sun’ and the UK election, and restaurants handing out yellow cards to misbehaving diners.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Summit on Peace in Ukraine: what did it achieve?
As the international peace summit wraps up in Switzerland, we ask what – if anything – it accomplished. Also, we take stock of Europe’s ongoing migrant crisis, look into the role of athletes in politics and discover that panda diplomacy is far from endangered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What to expect from Switzerland’s Summit on Peace in Ukraine
Monocle’s foreign editor, Alexis Self, checks in from the Nas Sigonella in Sicily. Then: we discuss the agenda of this weekend’s Summit on Peace in Ukraine taking place in Switzerland. Plus: Monocle’s Sophie Monaghan-Coombs heads to the Davide Campari Lounge at Art Basel to speak to UK photographer Martin Parr about curating the special exhibition ‘Bar Stories’, which celebrates bar culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Giorgia Meloni the best G7 summit host?
Julie Norman and Chris Sabatini discuss Western leaders’ embrace of G7 host and right-wing Italian leader Giorgia Meloni, whether courts could halt aggressive immigration policies in Hungary and the US, Haiti’s new government and the idea of charging for ice cubes. Plus: Antoine Melon, author of ‘The Curious Gourmand’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hamas accepts Gaza peace deal in principle
Yossi Mekelberg and Rebecca Tinsley discuss the prospects for peace between Israel and Hamas – and the risks of a wider war in Lebanon. Then: foreign nationals serving in war, the effect of US legal distractions toll on the presidential candidates and will Euro 2024 allow us to step away from politics? Plus: On This Day in 1381: The peasants’ revolt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Has the Franco-German engine sputtered?
We hear an update from Gaza before Jonathan Fenby and Marion Messmer discuss whether France and Germany’s leaders are lame ducks, whether the EU needs a defence commissioner and why a kindergarten has decided that they don’t want to be associated with a sugar-eating elephant. Plus: Fat White Family in a Midori House session.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do the EU election results mean for Europe?
Marta Lorimer and Stephen Dalziel join Monocle’s Andrew Mueller to discuss the results of the EU’s parliamentary elections – and what the rise of the far-right means for the bloc. Plus: Benny Gantz’s departure from Israel’s emergency government, Ukraine’s peace summit in Switzerland and United Airlines’ new in-flight advertising network. And we sit down with author Brian Groom to discuss his book ‘Made in Manchester’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
EU elections round-up and France’s Olympic ascendancy
Our in-house panel discusses why Rishi Sunak couldn’t get D-Day right, the latest from the EU Parliament elections, France’s Olympic moment and why Brazil might privatise portions of its lush public beaches. Plus: a letter from Delphi in Greece.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A chastened Narendra Modi and 80 years since D-Day
Carole Walker and Somnath Batabyal discuss why India’s Narendra Modi might have been punished by his electorate, lessons from D-Day as world leaders mark 80 years in Normandy and whether the EU elections matter for other countries. Plus: can classical music ward off raucous Finnish beach goers?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
North Korea destroys railways, Starmer and Sunak destroy each other
John Everard and Terry Stiastny discuss why North Korea is destroying symbolic signs of reunification, why Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer’s debate didn’t need watching, why Israel’s Flag Day and other extreme celebrations don’t help anybody and why Tokyo’s government is launching its own dating app. Plus: Finland’s alternative to AirBnb.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biden curbs number of asylum seekers, Mexico’s new president and media literacy
We get the latest from Washington as Joe Biden signs an executive order to control immigration. Then: panellists Lisette Reymer and Andrew Thompson discuss Mexico’s new leader, Claudia Sheinbaum, look ahead to how the far-right might fare in the forthcoming EU elections and examine a plan by Spain to teach primary school children about fake news and online hoaxes. Plus: we sit down with reportage illustrator George Butler to talk about his new book ‘Ukraine: Remember Also Me’.
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Russian misinformation, EU elections and the Ukraine peace summit
Stephen Dalziel and Nina dos Santos discuss the day’s big stories including how Russia is influencing the European elections, whether Ukraine risks failing in a Swiss peace summit and why North Korea’s trash balloons are our favourite example of diplomatic pettiness. Plus: the latest from Hunter Biden’s trial and a biography of Israel’s first president.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South African election results and Mexican elections preview
We get an update on Mexico’s elections before our in-house Friday show turns to South Africa, the Trump verdict and a report from the literary Hay Festival. Plus: a look at the Faroe Islands, one of the EU’s most remote constituencies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The merits of diplomacy with Israel and ‘The Evening Standard’ goes weekly
Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and David Brennan discuss Brazil recalling its ambassador to Israel, whether Trump-aligned Supreme Court justices should recuse themselves, the scaling down of London’s only local daily and whether we’d trust Uber with a trip to sample Champagne. Plus: a letter from DjiboutiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK elections and Trump trial latest
Caroline Frost and Robin Lustig dissect the UK elections and Donald Trump as a jury deliberates in New York. Plus: China’s revived panda diplomacy and a music session with Sean O’Hagan.
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Macron urges the strengthening of European sovereignty
Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz plea to defend democracy against nationalism, scepticism over Vladimir Putin’s offer to achieve a ceasefire with Ukraine, why the future of the ANC looks uncertain in South Africa and why the public is turned off by dating apps. Plus: we take a look at the film ‘Last Shadow at First Light’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 27th May
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The ICJ orders Israel to stop its Rafah invasion
We get the latest from the International Court of Justice ruling in The Hague. Then: Monocle’s Tom Webb and Alexis Self analyse election campaigning here in the UK and Natalie Theodosi reviews the latest Paris-heavy edition of Monocle magazine. Plus: a music session with The Longest Johns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UN votes on Srebrenica genocide memorial day
Our guests, Mark Lowcock and Nabila Ramdani, discuss the latest from Gaza, the UN’s vote on Srebrenica genocide memorial day, how the Rwanda plan could affect the UK’s general election and Bark Air’s inaugural flight. Plus: a letter from Baden-Baden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK announces snap election and the US fights London’s congestion charge
Our guests, Marie Le Conte and Ben Kelly, discuss the UK’s general election, which is now planned for 4 July. Then: we delve into European recognition of Palestinian statehood, the National Rally’s abandonment of one-time ally AfD and why the US embassy insists that it doesn’t have to pay London’s congestion charge. Plus: Our ‘On This Day’ historical series explores the caning of Charles Sumner in 1856.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nato’s Ukraine predicament, unrest in New Caledonia and hiding tourist attractions
Vincent McAviney and Alex von Tunzelmann discuss the day’s biggest stories. We examine Nato’s predicament over the conflict in Ukraine, unrest in New Caledonia – and what this means for European territories overseas – and putting up barriers to hide Mount Fuji from tourists. Plus: Dorian Lynskey on his new book ‘Everything Must Go’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The death of Iran’s president Ebrahim Raisi
How will the death of Iran’s president affect conflicts in the Middle East? Meanwhile, Benny Gantz threatens to leave Israel’s war coalition, China and the West continue their tit-for-tat trade war and the Vatican tightens rules over supernatural apparitions. Plus: an interview with singer-songwriter Judith Hill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lviv Media Forum, Brazil’s floods and NYCxDesign
We hear from Olga Tokariuk at the Lviv Media Forum, Fernando Augusto Pacheco on Brazil’s devastating floods, US editor Christopher Lord on NYCxDesign and Gunnar Gronlid on Norway’s curious coming-of-age tradition known as “russ”.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia’s ‘foreign agent’ law: the tools of autocracies?
Our guests Julie Norman and Chris Sabatini discuss China and Russia’s throwdown to the US, the spread of “foreign agent” laws in autocracies around the world, the looming Trump-Biden presidential debate and South Korea’s K-pop “plogging” campaign. Plus: a letter on Danish happiness from Copenhagen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Slovakia’s prime minister attacked and Putin in Beijing
We get the latest from the assassination attempt on Slovakia’s Robert Fico. Then: our panellists, Isabel Hilton and Sean Ryan, discuss Vladimir Putin in Beijing, whether Arab nations could be peacekeepers in Gaza and why we hate being on-call with UK tax authorities. Plus: The Chandler Good Government Index.
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Biden ramps up tariffs on Chinese-made electric cars
Why Joe Biden announced a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles, Michael Cohen confirms that Donald Trump asked him to keep stories about his personal life out of the media and Copenhagen Democracy Summit begins at a time when faith in governments is declining worldwide. Plus: the passenger rail service linking Russia to North Korea is set to resume and we visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine on the back foot as Russia claims more villages
Vladimir Putin removes Sergei Shoigu from Russia’s defence ministry, Ukraine’s north east sees hard fighting in a new ground offensive, a court in Germany backs the nation’s domestic intelligence agency’s designation of far-right party Alternative for Germany as a suspected case of extremism, and why lost property reports in Japan hit new record in 2023. Plus: Laurie Bristow on his new book, ‘Kabul: Final Call: The Inside Story of the Withdrawal from Afghanistan’.See omnystudio.com/listener for
Taiwan’s new tourism campaign and the Eurovision Song Contest
The UN General Assembly is set to back a Palestinian bid for membership. Then: Donald Trump’s campaign wants to lure international visitors, Taiwan launches a new tourism slogan and we report from Malmö and the Eurovision Song Contest. Plus: the Monocle x Gucci collaboration begins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The EU approves a €3bn plan to arm Ukraine
Sir William Patey and Dr Marion Messmer join Monocle’s Andrew Mueller to discuss the day’s top stories, including: the European Union’s plans to buy weapons for Ukraine; Spain and Ireland inching closer to recognising Palestine as a state and the Taliban attempts to appeal to Chinese tourists. Plus: have young people killed the phone call and we bring you a letter from Mexico City.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UK allows Ukraine to use British weapons in Russia
Ukraine granted permission to use British weapons within Russia, protests in Georgia escalate and rampant violence in Mexico kills tourists and politicians. Plus: the story of the first glass of Coca-Cola ever sold.
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Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing
Israeli forces take control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, Vladimir Putin is sworn in as president of Russia in a ceremony boycotted by the US and UK, the French-speaking part of Belgium that has delivered a far-right regional-media boycott and the aftermath of Joe Biden hitting out at “xenophobic” Japan. Plus: the most eccentric museums in Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 6th May
Christopher Cermak discusses the day’s news stories with managing editor of the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, Daniella Peled and Newshub’s Europe correspondent, Lisette Reymer.
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Turkey cuts ties with Israel and the return of the diss track
Our in-house edition of The Monocle Daily includes a look at the World Press Freedom Index, the return of the diss track and Madonna in Brazil. Plus: Ukraine’s cricket team and the latest on Turkey cutting ties with Israel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine’s parliament reopens to journalists
James Rodgers and Nina dos Santos discuss the Ukrainian parliament reopening to journalists, the benefits of voter ID in elections, an OECD report on how immigrants contribute to global growth and Japan’s concerted effort to tackle hay fever. Plus: an update on the US university protests and a clam fight in our letter from Seattle.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will the US grant Ukraine long-term security guarantees?
Our panellists Rebecca Tinsley and Stephen Dalziel discuss warnings of another genocide in Darfur, whether the US will agree to a long-term security deal for Ukraine, May Day protests and the appropriateness of standing ovations. Plus: Author Edward Acton Cavanough on the Solomon Islands’ evolving relationship with China.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will tensions on Israel’s northern border mean all-out war with Hezbollah?
As tensions on Israel’s northern border mount, we look at whether an all-out war with Hezbollah is possible. Plus: campus protests spread from Columbia University to Sciences Po, what China president Xi Jinping’s charm offensive in Europe might look like and the nightmare that is the restaurant-reservation economy. Plus: @andrew_mueller speaks to Peter Grk, the secretary-general of the Bled Strategic Forum and Western Balkans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why Western banks pay taxes in Russia
Western banks in Russia pay €800m in taxes to the Kremlin; EU candidates get ready to debate ahead of June elections; Pedro Sanchez stays on as Spain’s prime minister and a forklift exam in South Korea draws more test takers than ever before. Plus: we speak to Mark Kuijpers, head of Greystar for Netherlands, Germany and Austria.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Portugal’s Carnation Revolution and the science of queuing
This week’s in-house edition explores US university protests and the 50th anniversary of Portugal’s Carnation Revolution. Plus: the annual Monocle Design Awards and the science, politics and culture of queuing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine’s financial future and Macron’s vision for Europe
Our guests, Olga Tokariuk and Ben Kelly, discuss Emmanuel Macron’s latest vision for Europe and whether Ukraine can secure long-term funding. Plus: whether presidents like Donald Trump should ever be immune from prosecution and our favourite voting incentives. Plus: a letter from the Lithuanian resort town of Nida.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Olaf Scholz meets Rishi Sunak and Helsinki’s AI coffee blend
Terry Stiastny and Bill Hayton discuss David Cameron’s trip to Central Asia, Rishi Sunak’s time in Germany, why world leaders are visiting Donald Trump and why Australians are bringing snakes to hospitals. Plus: can artificial intelligence brew you a better coffee? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Europe’s problem with China spies
Our panellists, Mellissa Fung and Nik Gowing, discuss the recent espionage arrests in Germany, the growing unrest at New York’s most prestigious university and what Taiwan should do with its controversial statues. Also in the programme: is Elon Musk right to tell Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, that he can’t control the internet? Plus: an interview with the chief investment officer for Hines Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel threatens increased military pressure on Hamas
Julie Norman and John Everard discuss the latest news from Israel, Washington’s views on Asia, North Korea’s missile test and the backlash against Milan’s ban on selling ice cream after midnight. Plus, will the UK’s Rwanda bill finally be passed? And we speak to Ibrahim Mahama, the artist behind ‘Purple Hibiscus’ at the Barbican in London.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US House considers Ukraine aid and a Salone del Mobile review
Our in-house edition of ‘The Monocle Daily’ explores the US House of Representatives’ fight over military aid for Ukraine and the next steps to secure funding for Ukraine’s reconstruction. Plus: reviews of Salone del Mobile and the Venice Biennale from Monocle’s teams on the ground.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The EU, US and China
Our guests Latika Bourke and Vincent McAviney discuss Europe rising to the challenge of the US and China, why it’s so hard for Trump jurors to be impartial and why Japanese doctors are suing Google Maps. Plus: Croatia’s elections, with Guy de Launey, a check-in from Salone del Mobile and a letter from Railay BeachSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zelensky calls for increased air defence after Chernihiv strike
G7 foreign ministers meet in Italy amid calls for sanctions on Iran, Ukraine struggles against Russia from lack of US aid, Australia unveils its new defence strategy and bad news for Europe’s smokers. Plus: ‘On This Day’ examines The Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US and Iran make contact through Swiss intermediaries
Switzerland represents US interests in Iran, jury selection continues in Trump’s hush-money trial, China’s economy makes a surprising expansion and why Georgia’s parliament descended into mass brawl. Plus: The role of art during times of war and suffering. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 15 April
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russian attacks destroy Kyiv’s largest power plant
Power shortages hit Ukraine after Russian attacks, the Ukrainian World Congress Summit commences in Bucharest, the heatwave in Paris that could bring the Olympics to a standstill, highlights from the Watches & Wonders trade fair in Geneva and the final day of the Delphi Economic Forum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trudeau claims China unsuccessfully meddled in Canada’s elections
According to Justin Trudeau, China has meddled in Canada’s past two elections; after an eight-year deadlock the EU passes an asylum and migration pact; a Japanese astronaut is set to be first non-American to walk on the Moon and Italy finally launches its long-awaited digital nomad visa. Plus: we receive a letter from Milan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan’s Fumio Kishida warns world at ‘historic turning point’
Joe Biden welcomes Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, as a “global partner” at a White House summit, the Arizona Supreme Court upends Donald Trump’s gambit on abortion, UK ministers consider banning sale of smartphones to under-16s and a German gallery fires employee for hanging their own art in exhibition. Plus: ‘Saveur’ magazine is back in business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
ECHR rules that Switzerland’s climate failures breached human rights
Iran looks to respond to Israel’s attack on its Damascus consulate, the ECHR condemns Switzerland for climate inaction in the first ruling of its kind, how cholera disinformation led to the Mozambique ferry disaster and why Putin miscalculated his threat about Finland’s border. Plus: Bollywood’s influence on India’s elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, arrives in China
Sergey Lavrov is in China to discuss Ukraine and Asia-Pacific relations. Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice hears a case accusing Germany of facilitating genocide in Gaza through its support of Israel. Plus: tensions between India and Pakistan over basmati rice, how war has changed life in Ukraine’s Swedish-speaking village and Dwayne Johnson rescinds his endorsement of Joe Biden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A look ahead to South Africa’s elections and a total solar eclipse
Monocle’s Emma Searle discusses South Africa’s parliamentary election next month and how significant it is among the roster of global polls in 2024. Then: Tom Webb and Fernando Augusto Pacheco talk artificial intelligence, robotaxis in San Francisco and juice conspiracies. Plus: we report from Niagara Falls as it braces for a once-in-a-century total solar eclipse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nato’s past and present
Daniella Peled and Ali Borhani discuss Nato at 75 and how its mission has changed. We also explore Israel’s alleged use of artificial intelligence in warfare, Kuwait’s unheralded elections and why Bavarian police are doing without trousers. Plus: a letter from Washington during cherry-blossom season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World Central Kitchen and the humanitarian aid imperative
Mark Lowcock and Caroline Frost discuss Israel’s strike on World Central Kitchen and the risky work of humanitarian organisations. We also explore whether Ukraine will get enough funding to hold the frontline, why Botswana’s threat to send Germany 20,000 elephants is nothing to laugh about, and why the moon is about to get its own time zone. Plus: The death of Jesse James on this day in 1882.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel’s take on foreign media and Swiss councillors give up ski passes
Nina dos Santos and Jonathan Fenby discuss Israel’s new “Al-Jazeera law”, whether China’s influence extends to rail and why Swiss federal councillors have given up their biggest job perk. Plus: we preview Slovakia’s presidential election run-off. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 1 April
Simon Brooke and Lynne O’Donell discuss all the day’s big stories. Plus: we meet Ukrainian film director Ivan Sautkin, director of documentary film, ‘A Poem for Little People’.
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The built environment, from Turkey to sports stadiums
Monocle’s Istanbul correspondent, Hannah Lucinda Smith, joins our in-house show to discuss Turkey’s municipal elections and the built environment under president Erdogan. Plus: the role of stadiums in cities and we check in with The Chiefs conference in Hong Kong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia blames everyone but its intelligence services
Our panellists discuss Russia’s embarrassing intelligence failures and why it’s cracking down on gay nightclubs. Plus: the UK’s record migration levels, Donald Trump’s Bible copies and the role of religion in politics. Plus: saving the dachshund and a letter from the French Alps.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Afghanistan to Moscow’s Crocus City Hall
Our panellists, Kate Clark and Vincent McAviney, explore whether Afghanistan is in danger or re-emerging as a hub of global terrorism, why the UK’s veterans’ affairs minister could face jail time, whether the great olive-oil strike of Frankfurt’s European Central Bank is justified and why moonshine is making a return. Plus: musician John Miller is live in the studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is accusing Israel of genocide useful?
Our panellists discuss whether the UN is right to accuse Israel of genocide, whether Julian Assange’s extradition should be blocked over the US death penalty, whether NBC should have hired Ronna McDaniel and why Vienna’s horse-drawn carriages could get a new lease on life. Plus: Michael Kimmage on his book, ‘Collisions’, about the war in Ukraine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UN Security Council demands a ceasefire in Gaza and the Yemen Listening Project
Terry Stiastny and Stephen Dalziel discuss the Russia attack, the UN Security Council’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza and why Kamala Harris probably wishes that she had learned Spanish. Plus: Nina dos Santos on the UK’s allegations of Chinese spying and the Yemen Listening Project.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brazil’s presidential row over missing furniture
Monocle’s Fernando Augusto Pacheco and Christopher Cermak discuss the ongoing furniture row between Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and former president Jair Bolsonaro – and compare it to their US counterparts. Then: the latest report on global music consumption, fridge magnets as souvenirs and a music session by The Staves. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The rebirth of the Weimar Triangle
Quentin Peel and Nadine Batchelor-Hunt examine Antony Blinken’s visit to the Middle East to discuss a postwar plan for Gaza. Then: does the return of Donald Tusk signal the rebirth of the Weimar Triangle? And why does one German politician want children to prepare for war?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ireland’s political uncertainty and Finland the happiest nation
We discuss the surprise resignation of Ireland’s Leo Varadkar, whether frozen Russian assets should be used for Ukraine and why director Jonathan Glazer’s Oscars speech is sparking heated debate. Plus: Finland’s UK ambassador on why his nation is the world’s happiest and Sasha Issenberg on his new book ‘The Lie Detectives’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nuclear threats, isolationism vs interventionism and contemporary villains
Panellists Rebecca Tinsley and Charles Hecker discuss the UN’s warnings about nuclear threats, the unintended consequences of the US’s slide towards isolationism, Niger’s rejection of Western interventionism and the V&A’s decision to label former UK prime minister Margaret Thatcher a “contemporary villain”. Plus: Andrew Mueller recounts the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge on this day in 1932. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russian elections, border shutdowns and attic discoveries
Our panellists Julie Norman and Petri Burtsoff discuss the fallout of Russia’s predictable elections, border policies from the US to Finland, the latest from Washington’s government-shutdown fight and one family’s curious attic discovery. Plus: comedian Joel Morris offers some tricks of the trade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will Ukraine’s plans to restart commercial flights from Kyiv take off?
Ukraine begins talks with aviation regulators to resume international flights during martial law, we reveal the world’s coolest streets and an Australian billionaire revives their dream to set sail on ‘Titanic II’. Plus: a look back at Mipim and we explore the film ‘Banel and Adama’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is a far-right takeover of the EU under way?
EU parliamentary elections are approaching and polls are predicting big gains for far-right parties. Panellists Robin Lustig and Marta Lorimer discuss the state of populist politics in Europe and whether mainstream politicians can do anything to turn the tide. Then: Denmark plans to conscript women to military service. Should the West be preparing its civilians for war? Plus: a look at the role of chess card games in politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Putin ramps up nuclear threats
Sean Ryan and Tina Fordham discuss Vladimir Putin’s recent nuclear rhetoric and whether independent candidates will spell trouble for Donald Trump and Joe Biden in the US presidential election. Plus: does having children really ruin your career? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Europe’s defence wake-up call
Special counsel Robert Hur testifies before Congress about his investigation into Joe Biden’s handling of classified documents. Thomas Gift discusses the political implications. Meanwhile, as US support for Ukraine dwindles, pressure is mounting on Europe to get its act together and take charge of its own security. Vincent McAviney and Olga Tokariuk examine Europe’s defence wake-up call, the curious role of humour during wartime and China’s panda diplomacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privac
Are Portugal’s far-right gains a bellwether for Europe?
China’s National People’s Congress ends with a show of unity despite economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, Kyiv slams the Pope’s call for negotiations to end the war with Russia and have ‘the courage to raise the white flag’. Plus: the far-right’s gains at Portugal’s election, the Tasmanian premier’s vow to build the world’s largest chocolate fountain and Peter Pomerantsev on his new book ‘How to Win an Information War: The Propagandist Who Outwitted Hitler’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy
10 years since the disappearance of flight MH370
Monocle’s Carlota Rebelo joins Andrew Mueller to look ahead to Portugal’s general election this weekend and the rise of the far-right. Then: Lilian Fawcett with a dispatch from Singapore, we hear from the director of Arco Madrid art fair and ‘On This Day’ in 2014, flight MH370 disappeared. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sweden officially joins Nato
Our guests, Marion Messmer and Lynne O’Donnell, discuss Sweden officially becoming a member of Nato, how foreign diplomats will be exempt from a new definition of extremism and the role of independent journalism as Pakistan jails Asad Ali Toor. Plus: Monocle’s Tom Webb brings us a letter from St Moritz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gaza ceasefire talks continue in Cairo
Daniella Peled and John Everard look at Super Tuesday, as Donald Trump and Joe Biden sweep their respective primary elections and caucuses; Hamas pushes ahead with ceasefire talks in Cairo, despite the absence of Israeli negotiators; and we look at when political interviews go wrong. Plus: we sit down with the director and stars of ‘Wicked Little Letters’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Emmanuel Macron is in Prague to request Ukraine arms
Aliona Hlivco and Patti Cohen discuss Emmanuel Macron’s push to send arms to Ukraine, Hungary’s opposition of Mark Rutte’s Nato candidacy and China’s economic growth target. Plus: we hear from former Australian tourism minister John Brown and Switzerland opens a clinic for TikTok addicts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No press conference for premier Li Qiang at China’s National People’s Congress
China’s premier Li Qiang will not be holding the customary press conference at the National People’s Congress in Beijing. We discuss the implications of China’s decision to break with tradition. Meanwhile, Kenya signs a deal with Haiti to send 1,000 police officers to the Caribbean; Germany faces a backlash after accidentally leaking UK military secrets about operations in Ukraine; and Miami Beach attempts to discourage spring breakers from visiting with a new campaign. Plus: we speak to Brian K
Why is Ankara helping Somalia defend its waters?
As Turkey and Somalia expand their defence deal to include maritime security, we get the latest from our correspondent in Istanbul. Then: our design editor brings us a round-up of the latest architecture and urbanism stories, we’re at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair and musician Buffalo Nichols stops by to play us ‘The Difference’ song.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
India’s farmers take to the streets
Latika Bourke and Somnath Batabyal join Monocle’s Andrew Mueller to discuss Vladimir Putin’s state of the nation address – and his warnings to the West of a nuclear war. Then: India’s farmers are protesting but how will this affect Narendra Modi ahead of the country’s election? Plus: Rotterdam’s mayor wants tougher drug controls, the French satirical newspaper that is only published on leap years and a letter from our man in the Balkans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How is the war in Gaza affecting US elections?
Guests Elisabeth Braw and Vincent McAviney discuss the primary elections in Michigan and assess how the war in Gaza is affecting voters in the US. Then: the future of European defence, a look at whether the Olympic Games will help revitalise the Seine-Saint-Denis suburb of Paris and a look at Pew Research Center’s new survey on democratic governance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Could Western troops fight in Ukraine?
As Emmanuel Macron says that Western troops could fight in Ukraine, our guests Tessa Szyszkowitz and William Patey assess whether France is trying to become Europe’s military leader. Then: the Taliban releases an Austrian far-right extremist in a deal mediated by Qatar and we speak with Yaroslav Trofimov about his new book ‘Our Enemies Will Vanish’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Protests, CPAC and the return of cash
Terry Stiastny and Ben Kelly discuss the role of protests during a conflict, whether Ireland could ever join Nato, short-haul flights and whether cash is becoming king for a new generation. Plus: A look back at the weekend that was at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in the US. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
We speak to Monocle’s US editor, Chris Lord, about political threats in the US and UK, and Julia Lasica about the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Plus: a letter from Kyiv and an interview with a Japanese violinist playing Norway’s traditional fiddle.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Live from Warsaw
Monocle Radio broadcasts live from our inaugural party in Warsaw, with guests and Monocle contributors exploring what makes the Polish capital tick – and why Poland should be on everyone’s radar.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US role in Gaza and London’s thinnest hotel
Julie Norman and Charles Hecker explore whether the US and UN have any real influence over the war in Gaza and why the US still needs to make a point about Julian Assange. Then: we discuss whether the Conservative Political Action Conference is still important and why London will soon get its thinnest hotel. Plus: an interview with Austrian General Robert Brieger.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gaza aid, forgotten crises and Haiti’s indictments
Our guests Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Mark Lowcock discuss the trouble of getting aid into Gaza and the forgotten crises of Sudan and Tigray, Ethiopia. Then: a study on the differences between men’s and women’s brains. Plus: we hear from Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and get the latest on the 50 people implicated in a former Haitian leader’s assassination. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukraine’s way forward after Munich
Daniella Peled and Bill Hayton discuss Ukraine’s way forward, Israel’s deadline for a Rafah ground offensive, China’s law-enforcement deal with Hungary and Donald Trump’s shoe brand. Plus: On This Day looks at the world’s shortest-ever presidency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World leaders react to the death of Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny
We speak to the prime ministers of Greece and Lithuania about the death of activist and Putin critic Alexei Navalny in a Russian prison. Plus: the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, global leaders gather in Dubai and the renaissance of Swedish pop powerhouse Roxette in Brazil. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US warnings over Russia’s nuclear advances and Japan’s slip into recession
Christopher Cermak is joined by political commentator Carole Walker and Asia defence expert Alessio Patalano to discuss US warnings that Russia is developing a space-based nuclear weapon. Plus: Andrew Mueller checks in from Germany ahead of the Munich Security Conference.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former general leads Indonesia’s presidential race and the dating app that requires a high credit score
Justin Trudeau discusses the possibility of ceasefire in Gaza with King Abdullah II of Jordan, a former general leads Indonesia’s presidential race, why China recognises the Taliban’s envoy to Beijing, and North Korea hacks emails of an aide to South Korea’s president. Plus: the dating app that can only be joined by those with a credit score of 675 or above.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Senate passes Ukraine aid bill and France accuses Russia of disinformation campaign
Monocle’s US editor, Christopher Lord, on the Senate’s approval of a long-delayed $95bn (€88bn) aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. Plus: France uncovers a Russian disinformation campaign in Europe, the Super Bowl breaks TV records and a special interview with historian Tripurdaman Singh about his new book, ‘Sixteen Stormy Days’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biden-Netanyahu relations sour and Germany fears a far-right takeover of the judiciary
Joe Biden disparages Benjamin Netanyahu in private but hasn’t changed US policy towards Israel; Germany looks to prevent far-right takeover of the judiciary; Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, heads to France and Germany to strengthen alliance as fears grow over Russia and Trump; and why a Waymo robotaxi was attacked and set on fire in San Francisco. Plus: Elizabeth Braw on her new book, ‘Goodbye Globalization: The Return of a Divided World’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information
Rio de Janeiro braces for Carnival
We start in Ukraine to hear how the country has reacted to an interview with Vladimir Putin before turning our focus to urbanism with Monocle’s design editor, Nic Monisse and heading to Brazil as it prepares for Carnival. Plus: a look at the Sanremo Music Festival and the anniversary of The Beatles arriving in the US. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
China’s consumer prices fall and Australia introduces new laws for workers
China’s consumer prices suffer their biggest fall since 2009, Pakistan suspends mobile services on voting day, Russia blocks remaining anti-Putin campaigner Boris Nadezhdin from the country’s elections and Australia allows workers the right to ignore calls from bosses outside of work hours. Plus: Christopher Lord sends a letter from Los Angeles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What will come out in Putin’s interview?
As US conservative media figure Tucker Carlson touches down in Moscow to interview Vladimir Putin, our guests, Marta Lorimer and Sean Ryan, discuss how this will play out with Republicans back home. Then: Germany urges Hungary to allow Sweden into Nato, a new conservative movement in the UK and why French lovers are in trouble. Plus: ‘On This Day’ in 1986, Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier went into exile.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Antony Blinken’s Middle East tour
Holly Dagres and Samira Shackle discuss Antony Blinken’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, assess plans for a joint naval drill by Iran, Russia and China, and see how Pakistan is voting under the shadow of an imprisoned Imran Khan. Plus: we visit Ganni’s Copenhagen studio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A leadership reset in Ukraine?
Tina Fordham and Stephen Dalziel join Andrew Mueller in the studio to discuss rumours of a leadership reset in Ukraine and assess the effect of the US strikes on Iran-backed groups on the Israel-Hamas war. Plus: Martin Sixsmith on his new book, ‘Putin and the Return of History’, and the Parisians who want to triple parking costs for SUVs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Drones strike on a US base in Jordan
Monocle’s US editor, Christopher Lord, discusses the pressure on Joe Biden to respond to the drone strike on a US base in Jordan that killed three American soldiers. Plus: Farmer protests across Europe, Apple’s Vision Pro release and Rob Bound speaks to The Last Dinner Party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
EU approves funding for Ukraine and the inaugural Anzmin meeting
We discuss the EU’s support of Ukraine, the inaugural Australia-New Zealand Foreign and Defence Ministers Consultations and civil-servant training in navigating modern sensitivities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joe Biden’s Jordan dilemma
The US president says that he has decided what his response to the Jordan attack will be – so what comes next? Our guests, William Patey and Terry Stiastny, discuss this and other top stories, including: how Brexit still dominates headlines four years on, why Russia wants to confiscate assets of those who discredit the army and why soft-drink sommeliers are on the rise. Plus: an interview with Leonard Bernstein’s children about ‘Maestro’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hamas considers new truce proposal
Our guests Rebecca Tinsley and Ivor Gaber look at the latest reports of a new truce proposal between Hamas and Israel, unpack the outcomes of the Italy-Africa summit and assess the power of celebrity endorsements ahead of elections this year. Plus: band Blackberry Smoke stops by the studio to play its latest single, ‘Azalea’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Iran distances itself from attack on US troops
Latika Bourke and Elisabeth Braw consider Joe Biden’s next steps following a lethal drone strike on US troops in Jordan. The UNRWA runs into a diplomatic storm, Finland gets closer to choosing a new president and we discuss new book ‘What Iranians Want: Women, Life, Freedom’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Finland’s elections and the ICJ’s Gaza ruling
We hear from Markus Hippi on Finland’s presidential elections, Georgina Godwin on the Hay Festival in Cartagena and Andrew Mueller on Australia Day arguments. Plus: the ICJ’s ruling on Gaza, a North American round-up and a ‘cute’ exhibition at Somerset HouseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Nato ready for a return of Donald Trump?
Our panellists, Marion Messmer and Nina dos Santos, discuss Poland’s renewed alliance with Ukraine, whether Nato is really prepared for Trump, Taiwan’s extended military conscription and what diplomats will get up to with Saudi Arabia’s new alcohol store. Plus: a ‘Letter from Istanbul’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The aftermath of New Hampshire’s primary and a Gaza ceasefire proposal
Julie Norman and Ben Kelly discuss the aftermath of New Hampshire’s primary, a Gaza ceasefire proposal, the Doomsday Clock and a US scientist’s advice to put salt in tea. Plus, an interview with Misan Harriman, the director of short film ‘The After’, and its star David Oyelowo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sweden’s Nato bid and western countries press China on minority rights
Prime minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán invites his Swedish counterpart for talks on Sweden’s Nato bid; western countries press China on minority rights; New Zealand sends a defence team to the Middle East for maritime security in the Red Sea and at least one in 10 MPs in Belgium has a parent who also held office. Plus: Fernando Augusto Pacheco delivers the rundown of the Oscar nominations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Showdown in New Hampshire and EU foreign ministers push for peace
We report as EU foreign ministers meet their Israeli and Palestinian counterparts. Also on the programme: religious leaders banished from Nicaragua, Cameroon starts the world’s first malaria vaccine programme for children and Philippines president sparks an outcry for using the presidential helicopter to see a Coldplay concert. Plus: In Davos Christy O'Grady reflects on the realities and future of AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World Economic Forum: the final day. Plus: Maison & Objet
What happened on the final day of the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting? Plus: the future of the music magazine, the Paris Olympics, all you need to know from Maison & Objet and the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pakistan-Iran tensions and whether novelists should use AI
Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Alex von Tunzelmann and Enrico Franceschini. They discuss Pakistan’s retaliatory strikes on Iran, President Biden’s dwindling polling results and whether authors should use AI to write novels, and tackle the age-old question, do potatoes count as vegetables? Plus: a letter from Helsinki.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Middle East support for the ‘three Hs’ and the cancelled GOP debate
Tessa Szyszkowitz and James Rodgers discuss Middle East support for the three Hs: Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis. Plus: Hungary’s role in the EU elections, the cancelled Republican debate and ‘On This Day’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World Economic Forum: day two
A special broadcast from our pop-up studio in Davos for the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting. Monocle Radio’s Carlota Rebelo and Tom Webb speak to journalist Juliet Linley and Microsoft’s chief data scientist, Juan Lavista, about the prevalence of AI at this year’s summit. Plus: Spain’s former foreign minister on elections around the globe and Joe Árvai on sustainable enterprise.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World Economic Forum: day one
A special broadcast from our pop-up studio in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2024. Monocle’s Carlota Rebelo and Tom Webb speak to political economist Shirley Ze Yu, the WEF’s managing director, Mirek Dušek, and Stan Stalnaker, founder of Hub Culture, about the conversations happening on the ground.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The risk of a proxy war with Iran, Norwegian prisons and Ukraine’s Eurovision-mania
Why the US should be wary of Iran’s reaction to strikes on Houthi rebels with Jason Rezaian of ‘The Washington Post’. Plus: our panel of Monocle voices discuss the state of Norwegian prisons, Ukraine’s Eurovision selection process and we look forward to Monocle Radio’s presence in Davos.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should public bodies be allowed to boycott Israel?
The UK bill to ban public bodies from boycotting Israel; North Korea’s 2024 world strategy; the role of artificial intelligence in language-learning technology; and the normalisation of lying in public. Plus: a letter from Syros.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South Africa takes Israel to court and the art of a band member reshuffle
Georgina Godwin is joined by panellists Carole Walker and Bill Hayton. They discuss the growing tensions between China and the US ahead of the Taiwanese elections, South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, whether presidents should receive political immunity and the art of a band member reshuffle. Plus: Monocle’s Tamsin Howard speaks to the creator of hit TV show ‘The Traitors’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russian propaganda in Italy and the importance of handwriting
Emma Nelson is joined by panellists Lisette Reymer and Robin Lustig. They discuss the view from abroad on the UK’s Post Office scandal; why the Italian city of Modena cancelled a Russian event on the future of Mariupol; the environmental impact of the modern space race; and the importance of handwriting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s winter of discontent and the art of being a flâneur
Panellists Ben Kelly and Rebecca Tinsley discuss the lack of coverage of Sudan, dropping temperatures and growing discontent in Russia, whether the EU should form an army and the dying art of being a flâneur. Plus: we head to Singapore’s National Gallery to explore the exhibition ‘Tropical: Stories from Southeast Asia and Latin America’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Serbian licence plates in Kosovo and the closure of the French embassy in Niger
Kosovo’s threat to block visits by Serbian officials, Donald Trump’s foreign earnings as president, the closure of the French embassy in Niger and Giorgia Meloni’s end-of-year press conference. Plus: ‘On This Day’ explores the mystery of UK pilot Amy Johnson, who disappeared 83 years ago today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Myanmar’s Independence Day amnesty and Argentina president Javier Milei’s first setback
Stray artillery shells hit a town in China near Myanmar during its Independence Day, a top court in Argentina suspends a package of labour reforms announced by the country’s new president, Javier Milei, and new data shows that Australian federal MPs have been booted from parliamentary question time 118 times. Plus: the ultra-long cruises going viral and a letter from Singapore.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 3 January
Emma Nelson and her panel discuss the day’s biggest stories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 2 January
The Monocle Daily returns for 2024 with a panel hosted by Vincent McAviney.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Election 2024 special
Andrew Mueller and experts from around the world preview the elections that will shape the year ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Looking back at 2023
Andrew Mueller and members of the Monocle team look back at their favourite stories of the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The day’s biggest headlines from Israel to Argentina
Daniella Peled and Andrew Thompson join Andrew Mueller for a look at the day’s biggest stories from Latin America to Israel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 20 December
Stephen Dalziel and Nadine Batchelor-Hunt join Andrew Mueller to discuss the latest developments in Russia almost two years since its invasion of Ukraine, the state of young voters in the UK, the South Korean exam system and the art of phubbing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Strange diplomatic gifts and disappearing winter pop ballads
Aliona Hlivco and Lew Lukens discuss the future of aid for Ukraine, tensions between China and Myanmar, the strangest diplomatic gifts and the sad fate of winter pop ballads. Plus: American musician Bob Moulds joins us in the studio.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
North Korean missile testing and Miss France 2024’s controversial hair
Nina dos Santos and William Patey join Andrew Mueller to discuss the growing calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, North Korea’s first test of an intercontinental ballistic missile in months, the drama around Miss France 2024’s hair and the merits of a Scottish proposal to tax mega concerts. Plus: an ode to the Christmas Pudding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Phone hacking returns to haunt UK media
Ukraine is set to proceed with its EU membership application but what challenges will it face in 2024? New research shows reading on paper is better for comprehension than on screens. As an English court finds Prince Harry and others’ phones were hacked by the Mirror Media Group, is phone hacking about to haunt UK papers again? Plus: the latest on Serbia’s elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does the Joe Biden impeachment inquiry matter?
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Julie Norman and Isabel Hilton to discuss the Joe Biden impeachment inquiry and assess the ongoing EU summit. Plus: what role will China play in the Israel-Palestine peace process? And: we look at a database for scents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Journalists’ access to Gaza and the best cuisines of 2023
Description: Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Ivor Gaber and Lisette Reymer. They discuss the calls for access to Gaza by international journalists, the UK prime minister’s dwindling popularity and the best cuisines of 2023. Plus: Marisa Mazria Katz takes us on a tour of the biggest supper club in the northeastern US, Chan’s Fine Oriental Dining.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Zelensky pushes for US aid and political parties’ Christmas merchandise
Vincent McAviney and Patricia Cohen join Andrew Mueller to discuss Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky’s US aid push, whether we’re approaching the second Cold War and Zara’s latest marketing nightmare. Plus: which political party does the best Christmas merchandise? Finally, Monocle’s Isabella Jewell takes us on a Christmas walk around Naples. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vladimir Putin’s electoral bid and Google’s most searched words
Terry Stiastny and Charles Hecker join Andrew Mueller to discuss Vladimir Putin’s presidential bid, threats to UK prime minister Rishi Sunak’s leadership and risks to the UK’s power grid. Plus: what do Google’s most searched words of 2023 say about the state of the world?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monocle projects in the pipeline and our Christmas market
Andrew Mueller is joined by fellow members of the Monocle team, who discuss plans for 2024, what Monocle publications you can find on the newsstands and this weekend’s Christmas party. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russian interference in the UK and K-pop stars join the military
The UK summons the Russian ambassador over accusations of FSB meddling in British public life, we examine the phenomenon of solidarity strikes in Scandinavia and Venezuela looks set to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region. Plus: a letter from New York and members of K-pop group BTS begin their military service. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘Me Too unless you’re a Jew’ and Boris Johnson’s Covid-19 inquiry performance
Monocle’s Washington correspondent, Christopher Cermak, discusses the US filing its first war-crimes charges related to the Russia-Ukraine war. Then, our panellists Yossi Mekelberg and Mellissa Fung explore whether international bodies and NGOs were too slow to condemn Hamas’s 7 October sex crimes, ask what Putin is up to in the UAE and rate Boris Johnson’s Covid-19 inquiry performance. Plus: why Taylor Swift is ‘Time’ magazine’s Person of the Year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informa
Israel’s “second stage” war strategy and the benefits of a rant
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Annette Dittert and Mark Lowcock to discuss Israel’s “second stage” war strategy, the EU’s debate over using frozen Russian assets in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in the Horn of Africa. Plus: is venting good for you? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Gaza buffer zone proposal and the state of Slovakia’s free press
Panellists Tessa Szyszkowitz and Michael Stott discuss an Israeli proposal for a buffer zone in Gaza, a controversial Venezuelan referendum and how journalists are under increasing pressure in Slovakia. Plus: the morality of battle re-enactments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
George Santos is expelled from Congress and special guest Billy Bragg performs
We have the latest as George Santos becomes the sixth member of Congress to ever be expelled from the US House of Representatives. Plus: Tyler Brûlé joins the show with a sneak peek at what’s in store at this weekend’s Monocle Christmas Market in Zürich. We visit a new food-research laboratory in Copenhagen and Billy Bragg stops by to perform a song from his new compilation album, ‘The Roaring Forty’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Henry Kissinger’s legacy and the BBC makes cuts to Newsnight
How will history remember the late former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger? Carole Walker and Ivor Gaber discuss his achievements, mistakes and lasting influence on global politics. Plus: Can Liz Truss drum up support for Ukraine in Washington and is the BBC right to make cuts to its investigative programme, Newsnight?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rishi Sunak’s “reverse Midas touch”
Talks between Israel and Hamas to extend the six-day truce continue. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to limit foreign nationals’ freedom of speech with a “loyalty agreement”. And after UK opposition leader Keir Starmer mocks Rishi Sunak for his “reverse Midas touch”, we ask: when will the next general election be? Plus: what should legislators wear in assemblies? Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Stephen Dalziel join Andrew Mueller.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The role of first spouses in diplomacy and Ridley Scott’s ‘Napoleon’
A fifth day of the Israel-Hamas truce in Gaza. Plus: Rebecca Tinsley and Philippe Marliere discuss the risks that social media poses to democracy, the legacy of Rosalynn Carter and Ridley Scott’s epic ‘Napoleon’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel and Hamas extend their truce
Israel and Hamas extend their truce by two days in the hopes of agreeing more hostage and prisoner exchanges. The UAE gets caught trying to exploit hosting the Cop28 climate change summit to strike new oil and gas deals. Plus: Ukraine comes under pressure to hold elections next year and why do US universities think that family lineage is more important than academic prowess when determining admissions? Terry Stiastny and Lewis Lukens join Andrew Mueller to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for
Norway’s new super missile and a music session with Rhett Miller
Norway announces a new ‘super missile’ and EU and Canadian leaders meet in Newfoundland. Plus: Monocle’s in-house urbanists Carlota Rebelo and Nic Monisse on public transit in Paris and renter’s rights, and musician Rhett Miller steps into the studio to play some tunes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does Australia even exist?
A Nexit referendum? Why Geert Wilders dramatic victory in the Netherlands’ election will cause headaches in Brussels. Plus: the debate about illuminating public buildings following tragedies, Russia’s propaganda outlets evade restrictions and does Australia even exist? Aliona Hlivco and Jonathan Fenby join Andrew Mueller. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the eve of a truce in Gaza, is an end in sight for the Israel-Hamas conflict?
As the first ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war is due to come into effect on Thursday, with hostages being swapped for prisoners, is an end to the conflict in sight? Also in the programme: Ukrainians enter a second winter of war after a stalled counteroffensive. We hear the latest about the conditions and mood on the frontline. Plus: is crypto coming of age and how do you make friends later in life? Isabel Hilton and Steve Cannane join Andrew Mueller.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy infor
Closing in on an Israel-Hamas truce and elections in the Netherlands
Israel and Hamas are reportedly close to a truce that would allow the release of dozens of hostages and a four-day pause in fighting. Northern Ireland’s unpopular new Troubles amnesty law is put to the test in court and the Netherlands prepare to enter a new political era with tomorrow’s elections. Plus: the world’s weirdest taxes. Latika Bourke and Andrew Thompson join Andrew Mueller.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The risk of a wider conflict in the Middle East and Argentina’s libertarian president
As fighting between Israel and Hamas continues, we look at the risk of a wider conflict and when a deal for the release of Israeli hostages might be reached. Plus, Argentina elects a libertarian and the UK makes another attempt at its Rwanda immigration policy. Finally, Guy De Launey finds out why fine-art photographer David Yarrow is in Ljubljana.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
George Santos faces expulsion from Congress and Kristin Hersh performs
The latest on George Santos’s troubles as the House ethics chairman introduces a resolution to expel him from Congress. Plus: how Cape Verde is leveraging digital platforms to engage with its significant diaspora living abroad. Kristin Hersh also stops by to perform a track from her latest album, ‘Clear Pond Road’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Cameron visits Ukraine and Pedro Sánchez is re-elected in Spain
David Cameron marks his first trip as the UK’s new foreign secretary with a surprise visit to Ukraine, Pedro Sánchez is re-elected as prime minister of Spain and why the WHO says loneliness is a “global public-health concern”. Plus: why France’s cheesemakers are furious with the EU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UK’s Rwanda migration policy is struck down
Rishi Sunak’s flagship immigration policy to tackle small-boat crossings has been ruled unlawful. Will the UK government now exit the European Court of Human Rights? Plus: Israel enters Gaza’s biggest hospital, the EU looks at a Tinder-like app for jobs to bolster ageing economies and is it the end for the dreaded “unexpected item in the bagging area” warning? Daniella Peled and Enrico Franceschini join Andrew Mueller to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Putin’s election plans and the Western Balkans’ EU-membership frustrations
Israel’s war on Hamas has provided cover for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But with Vladimir Putin planning to run as an independent in next year’s elections, we discuss what he has been up to. Plus: frustration in the Western Balkans at the slow pace of EU membership applications, Nepal’s Tiktok ban and how reality TV rehabilitates disgraced politicians. With Elisabeth Braw, James Rodgers and Andrew Mueller. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The return of David Cameron to British politics
Charles Hecker and Patricia Cohen on former UK prime minister David Cameron’s appointment as foreign secretary, part of a cabinet reshuffle. Also in the programme, Israel pushes forward with Gaza ground invasion, all eyes are on the Joe Biden-Xi Jinping meeting, and the case for power naps. Plus: V&A’s ‘Japan: Myths to Manga’ exhibition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australia offers Tuvalu residents climate change visas and Metric performs live
Australia offers climate refuge to Tuvalu citizens, Nestlé axes the Caramac bar after 64 years, the company offering $2,500 (€2,343) to watch Christmas films for the festive season and Jenny Mathers on her new bilingual book. Plus: Metric is in Midori House with new live music.
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Rising anti-Semitism across Europe and Spain’s political compromise with Catalan separatists
As Germany marks the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht, we discuss rising anti-Semitism across Europe and allegations that Russia might have been attempting to stoke it in France. In Spain, Pedro Sánchez might have struck a deal with Catalan separatists to become prime minister again but will it reignite tensions over their 2017 independence attempt? Plus: Republican presidential candidates debate once again without former president Donald Trump. And are tongue twisters the key to determining so
Abortion at the US elections and Germany’s migration policies
With the US presidential election less than a year away, Julie Norman and Sean Ryan look at two issues that are likely to take centre stage: abortion, as Ohio becomes the seventh state to enshrine reproductive rights in its constitution, and the Israel-Hamas war. Plus: Germany and Australia’s migration policies, Bashar al-Assad’s invitation to Cop28 and how best to go about getting yourself fired.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Portugal’s prime minister resigns and Israel readies for Gaza push
Monocle’s Carlota Rebelo discusses the surprise resignation of Portugal’s prime minister António Costa and what it means for the country. Also in the programme: panellists Lisette Reymer and Yossi Mekelberg discuss one month of “carnage” in Israel and Gaza according to the UN; G7 ministers meet in Japan; and Kenya marks a nationwide tree-planting day. Plus: we report from the World Travel Market in London.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Humanitarian efforts for Gaza and does the West have ‘war fatigue’?
Daniella Peled and Mark Lowcock on the latest humanitarian efforts in Gaza, as Israel intensifies its bombardments. We also ask what the media shift to the Israel-Hamas conflict has meant for Ukraine. Plus: Donald Trump’s day in court and Amsterdam rejoices as it successfully drives away British tourists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deadly robots at the AI summit and Turin’s C2C Festival
Elon Musk and Rishi Sunak discuss deadly robots at AI summit, Russia’s assault in Donbas town, Turin’s C2C Festival and the £1.5bn (€1.7bn) Liverpool Street Station development. Plus: we speak to the American film director Scott Hamilton Kennedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US-China arms control talks and the UK civil service
As the US and China agree to rare arms control talks, Russia revokes the ratification of a 1996 treaty banning nuclear tests. And, as the UK’s ongoing Covid-19 inquiry reveals chaos at the heart of government, is Britain’s civil service still the “Rolls-Royce” standard? Plus: Bolivia cuts ties with Israel and the Pentagon finally gets serious about UFOs. Annette Dittert and Michael Stott join host Andrew Mueller to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rafah border crossing and Indonesia’s new airport
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt opens, Indonesia plans a new international airport in the country’s future capital, scientists say that meat should have cigarette-style warning labels and efforts are under way to clear the names of those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts. Plus: Nathan Thrall on his new book, ‘A Day in the Life of Abed Salama’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s recruitment strategies and Kenya scraps visas for African nationals
A Russian mercenary group attempts to recruit women for combat roles in Ukraine, Kenya scraps visas for all African nationals, a Barcelona museum throws open its doors to nudist visitors and why the Halloween trend in Japan this year is a celebration of the mundane. Plus: Rosanne Reid on her new album. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Antisemitism in Russia and Colombia’s presidential struggles
Israel urges Russia to protect “all its citizens and all Jews” after protesters stormed an airport in Makhachkala and shouted antisemitic slogans. Plus: China’s crisis-hit property giant Evergrande is given one last chance to sort its huge debts or face liquidation, Colombia’s first leftist president struggles in local elections, and is it time to abandon turning the clocks back for daylight savings? Isabel Hilton and Oscar Guardiola-Rivera join Andrew Mueller in the studio to discuss.See omnyst
Nigeria upholds president Bola Tinubu’s election win, Arctic diplomacy
Aanu Adeoye, West Africa correspondent for the ‘Financial Times’, discusses the significance of the Nigerian Supreme Court upholding president Bola Tinubu’s election win for political stability in the country. Plus: changing geostrategic relations in the Arctic due to the war in Ukraine and how radio is a medium for art.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pyongyang’s arms transfers to Russia and a new House Speaker is elected
Former British ambassador to North Korea John Everard and broadcaster Carole Walker discuss trilateral condemnation of Pyongyang’s arms transfers to Russia. Plus: what are the implications of electing a speaker of the House who opposes aid to Ukraine? And: French intelligence claims that Moscow state actors are behind the bedbug panic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel and the United Nations, plus Donald Trump’s legal woes
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by Isabel Hilton and Alessio Patalano to examine Israel’s relations with the United Nations, discuss China foreign minister Wang Yi’s visit to Washington DC and look at Donald Trump’s latest legal woes. Plus: Italy tells Hollywood to hire local talent or lose tax breaks and film-maker Maysoon Pachachi talks about her film ‘Our River... Our Sky’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What would an international coalition against Hamas look like?
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by Yossi Mekelberg and Nadine Batchelor-Hunt to discuss Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Israel and his calls for a coalition to fight Hamas. Plus: Sweden is a step closer to Nato membership, the US continues without a speaker of the House and ‘On This Day’ takes us to 1901.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel-Hamas: where does the EU stand?
Panellists Tessa Szyszkowitz and Quentin Peel assess the response to the war between Israel and Hamas, and the challenging task for journalists covering the conflict. Plus: Iceland braces for a full-day women’s strike and we visit Hauser & Wirth’s new gallery in Paris.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Arctic Circle Assembly and the future of Berlusconi’s art collection
As leaders convene at the Arctic Circle Assembly, we hear from our team on the ground in Reykjavík. Plus: a look ahead to elections in Argentina, a report on China’s Belt and Road Initiative and what will happen to Silvio Berlusconi’s worthless art collection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is dysfunction in the House affecting US security?
We get the latest from Israel with Allison Kaplan Sommer. Also in the programme: our panellists, Lew Lukens and Marta Lorimer, discuss the ongoing dysfunction in the House of Representatives and its impact on security. Plus: Poland tries to form a new government and the oddest uses of diplomatic immunity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jargon busting: how to say everything and nothing at once
Panellists Phil Clark and Patricia Cohen join Emma Nelson to discuss whether businesses should be getting involved in geopolitics, what’s behind China’s surprising economic success and why media mogul Rupert Murdoch is under pressure to break up News Corp. Plus: taking an axe to corporate communications jargon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 17 October
As reports emerge of an exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, we get the latest from the ground in Lebanon. Also in the programme: panellists Nina dos Santos and Simon Brooke look ahead at Joe Biden’s visit to Israel, Vladimir Putin touches down in Beijing and we discuss who the next speaker of the US House of Representatives could be. Plus: a look at Stockholm’s attempt to create a new city district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 16 October
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by Australian journalist Latika Bourke and Latin America expert Andrew Thompson. They unpack the divided international response to the Israel-Hamas war, the legacy of former Finnish president and peace broker Martti Ahtisaari, and election results in Ecuador and New Zealand. Plus: after hundreds of EU officials accidentally ended up in Disneyland Paris rather than Strasbourg, the panellists share their most surprising detours.See omnystudio.com/listener for pri
Friday 13 October
Almost a week after the start of war between Israel and Hamas, we get in-depth analysis on where the conflict is headed and how the rest of the Middle East has reacted. Plus: optimism remains in the Australian ‘Voice' referendum and we discuss our staff favourites from this year’s Frieze London art fair. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 12 October
We get the latest on the increasingly bleak humanitarian situation arising from the Israel-Hamas war. We also examine the differing positions of the US, EU and Russia to find out where Israel has support and why it matters. Plus: crucial elections in Poland loom and Australians look set to vote ‘no’ in the historic Indigenous Voice referendum. All that, plus a letter from New York. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 11 October
As Israel trades fire with Lebanon, we examine where the conflict might go next and whether Hezbollah will continue its involvement. Also in the programme: a look at the Israel-Hamas war disinformation that’s swamping social-media sites, why Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is keen to maintain the world’s attention and Europe’s oldest student newspaper is saved. Plus: we take a tour of a new exhibition at The Museum of Finnish Architecture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat
Tuesday 10 October
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Monday 9 October
As Benjamin Netanyahu announces that the retaliation against Hamas has only just begun, we discuss the response to the surprise attack. Plus, we assess the fallout of an earthquake in Afghanistan’s Herat Province and ask whether the politics of migration is heading down a dangerous path in the US and the UK. Plus: we interview Jarosław Kuisz about his new book, ‘The Politics of Poland’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Friday 6 October
We explore the scale of Ukraine’s current landmine problems, preview Sunday’s general election in Luxembourg and speak to Juan Manuel Santos, former president of Colombia. Plus: our panel of Monocle photographers explores some of the forthcoming print highlights as well as the top Comedy Wildlife photos of 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 5 October
In Granada, European political leaders are converging to debate over Ukraine, EU expansion and migration. Meanwhile, in Sudan, a TikTok account uses AI to craft deceptive “leaked” audio of the former Sudanese president, Omar al-Bashir, unveiling a foreboding wave of sophisticated misinformation. Plus: as economic and logistical burdens soar, we scrutinise the increasingly precarious future of hosting global sporting events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 4 October
Following the unprecedented removal of US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, we delve into the forthcoming shifts within the House of Representatives, exploring potential successors and discussing the consequences for Ukraine. In Portugal, digital nomads might be nearing the end of their warm reception as the government appears to be on the brink of discontinuing the programme. We also bring you updates on UK prime minister Rishi Sunak’s contentious decision to abandon the northernmost segment of the
Tuesday 3 October
Police carry out early morning raids on a news portal office in Delhi; the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, will visit Israel and Saudi Arabia later this month amid a diplomatic push; why a super-bright satellite in space is giving astronomers sleepless nights; and the Spanish city of Seville cracks down on tourists’ bad behaviour. Plus: Kathryn Cramer Brownell on the rise of cable news. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 2 October
EU foreign ministers meet in Kyiv amid concerns about weakening support for Ukraine. Also in the programme: scientists whose work enabled the mRNA coronavirus vaccine win the Nobel Prize for medicine, the Vatican puts the Church’s most sensitive issues on the table and bed bugs sweep Paris. Plus: Marisa Mazria Katz speaks to Tunisian artist Rafram Chaddad about his latest exhibition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 29 September
Democratic party senator Dianne Feinstein, who represented California for 31 years, has died at the age of 90. We look at her trailblazing legacy but ask if she’s added to the argument for age limits in politics? Her tenure is juxtaposed with Greece, where a 35-year-old political outsider has taken the reins of the opposition promising modernisation. We’ll get the latest on deteriorating relations between Ukraine and Hungary, which could thwart President Zelensky’s EU accession ambitions. Plus:
Thursday 28 September
Donald Trump heads to Michigan to speak to autoworkers. Meanwhile, Tiktok dismantles a “covert influence operation” to intensify social conflict, Northern Ireland changes anonymity rules for those accused of sexual assault and the UK’s most photographed tree is felled. Plus: Gavin Esler on his new book about British identity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 27 September
Costa Rica declares a state of emergency due to the number of migrants passing through en route to the US. Plus: should frozen Russian assets be used to fund the rebuilding of Ukraine? We also meet the founder of a ground-breaking new digital archive of Nigerian newspapers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 26 September
As Daniel Andrews resigns as premier of Victoria, panellists Steve Cannane and Preethi Nallu discuss his legacy and impact on Australian politics. Plus: Joe Biden heads to Michigan to show solidarity with the striking members of the United Auto Workers union ahead of Donald Trump’s visit to Detroit. And: what’s driving Greece’s economic revival? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 25 September
We report as France is set to withdraw its ambassador and troops from Niger after the coup and ask if an Israeli-Saudi pact could upend the Middle East. We also report as the European Union commissioner for trade reiterates the importance of a ‘level playing field’ with China and screenwriters and studio bosses reach a deal to end the strike. Plus: we review the Chinese Canadian Museum’s first exhibit, ‘The Paper Trail’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 22 September
Volodymyr Zelenksy concludes his North American tour with a trip to Canada after spending time at the UN in New York and meeting congressional leaders in Washington. But 18 months in to the war, is international support starting to fracture? With Rupert Murdoch’s career at the helm of his media empire having been thoroughly eulogised and critiqued since the announcement of his semi-retirement, we look ahead at what to expect under succession battle winner Lachlan Murdoch. Plus: we review the Boo
Thursday 21 September
Rupert Murdoch steps down as chairman of News Corp and Fox. Is it the end of arguably the most influential media career of our times? Also in the programme: France arrests a journalist after reporting on leaked documents that claim French intelligence was used to target civilians in Egypt and India introduces a quota for women politicians – but do quotas actually work? Plus: a new book looks at how conspiracy theories found in anti-Semitism continue to persist.See omnystudio.com/listener for pri
Wednesday 20 September
What the ceasefire between ethnic-Armenian forces in Azerbaijan’s breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh tells us about a distracted Russia. In New York, the UN discusses the plight of girls and women two years after they were banned from education in Afghanistan. Plus: Japan stocks up on missiles, Spain opens its first public pet cemetery and King Charles tries to repair the Entente Cordiale on his state visit to Paris. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 19 September
The UN General Assembly kicks off in New York but does the organisation still matter? Plus: Austria rethinks its cosy ties with Russia and a look at some of the most bizarre diplomatic gifts given to world leaders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 18 September
Qatar’s role in peacemaking as the US and Iran agree to a prisoner swap brokered by Doha. Plus: as local authorities in Lampedusa say that they’ve reached ‘a tipping point’ in migration management, what’s the EU and Italian reponse? And the Swiss government weighs up joining the international taskforce to track down Russian oligarchs’ money.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 15 September
The latest on the “three-way co-operation” with Russia and North Korea proposed by Belarus’s president, Alexander Lukashenko. Plus: Taylor Hanson is in the studio to discuss his version of Iranian protest anthem “Baraye”, ahead of the one-year anniversary of the murder of Mahsa Amini at the hands of Iran’s morality police.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 14 September
Andrew Mueller is joined by Somnath Batabyal and Carole Walker to discuss the role of former and shadow leaders in diplomacy, as Boris Johnson calls for more aid to Ukraine and Keir Starmer meets with Europol officials. Plus: is workplace feedback out of fashion?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 13 September
North Korea promises its full support for Russia’s ‘sacred fight’, Ursula von der Leyen delivers the annual EU state of the union and Germany’s economy teeters. Plus: why New Yorkers are living with bathtubs in the kitchen and artist Julianknxx’s exhibition ‘Chorus in Rememory of Flight’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 12 September
Israel’s Supreme Court showdown over controversial judicial reform, Putin says that the Soviet invasions of Hungary and Czechoslovakia were wrong, Sweden increases its defence budget, the new Swiss fighter jets that can only defend in good weather and junk food and alcohol dominate Australian diets. Plus: On This Day in 1970: the denouement of the Dawson’s Field hijackings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 11 September
British MPs express anger at the arrest of a parliamentary researcher accused of being a Chinese spy, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly heads to Russia to meet Vladimir Putin and the Indian superfood millet finds its way onto the G20 dinner menu. Plus: a French app to help tourists avoid being ripped off and David Stubbs discusses his new book, ‘Different Times: A History of British Comedy’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 8 September
David Plaisant has the latest from the 35th Bienal de São Paulo, while the in-house panel discusses eco-anxiety and global attitudes on work-life balance. Plus: a special interview with writer-director Celine Song about her debut film, ‘Past Lives’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 7 September
Palestinians set out terms for agreeing to a historic Saudi-Israeli deal; Mexico now likely to elect first woman president in 2024; Anthony Albanese to meet with Chinese premier Li Qiang for one-on-one talks; and the ban on taking photographs of Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ is quietly lifted. Plus: Nic Monisse checks in from the Maison et Objet design fair in Paris.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 6 September
The UK is to declare Russia’s Wagner group a terrorist organisation but will other nations follow? Our guests, Elodie Goulesque and Quentin Peel, discuss. Plus: France’s talks with Niger over potential troop withdrawal, India’s possible name change and a spotlight on Croatia’s tourism sector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 5 September
We discuss Italy’s plan to make a diplomatic exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Kim Jong-un’s upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin and why books on Joe Biden don’t sell well. Plus: Margo Price stops by for a studio performance and a chat about the making of her new album ‘Strays II’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 4 September
Xi Jinping confirms that he will not attend G20 summit in India, Africa’s landmark climate summit begins, South Korean teachers protest suicide deaths linked to parent bullying and Burning Man attendees cope with muddy treks home following weather-related festival fallout. Plus: Barbie Kyagulanyi and Christopher Sharp in conversation with Monocle’s Alexis Self.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 1 September
We’re coming to you live from Munich for our annual Quality of Life Conference. Today we’re joined by a collection of Monocle’s seasoned editors to run down their favourite moments from the beautiful Bavarian capital. Plus: we wrestle a few of today’s speakers back behind a microphone to share more about what brought them to the city.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 31 August
Washington’s first-ever military aid package to Taiwan, Russia launches Islamic banking for the first time and Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York. Plus: Tom Edwards hosts a special extension of the programme from Schumann’s Bar to celebrate the official start of Monocle’s Quality of Life Conference in Munich.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 30 August
The latest on the coup in Gabon, Kyiv’s big drone attack in Russia and Canada’s travel warning to LGBTQ+ citizens heading to the US. Plus: Andrew Mueller interviews ‘The Times’ defence editor, Larisa Brown, about her new book ‘The Gardener of Lashkar Gah’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 29 August
EU enlargement returns to the top of the political agenda. Our Balkans correspondent has the latest on the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia. Plus: Lynne O’Donnell and Mark Lowcock discuss diplomatic engagement with the Taliban, the UN’s successful operation to avert a catastrophic oil spill off the coast of Yemen and the decision to ban e-scooters in Paris.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 28 August
A scandal over the head of Spain’s football federation escalates bizarrely. Football journalist Flora Snelson has the latest. In the studio, Chris Cermak and Jonathan Fenby consider the potential collapse of China’s Evergrande, the US senator holding up military appointments and the British Museum under fire over stolen artefacts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 25 August
Bill Browder on the reported death of Yevgeny Prigozhin. Plus: Monocle’s Friday staff panel discusses celebrity mugshots, politics in dating and tipping culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 24 August
Ukraine celebrates the likely death of Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. In the studio, Nabila Ramdani and Simon Brooke discuss the expansion of the Brics bloc, what to do with no-show politicians and the world catches on to Japanese sumo. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 23 August
India becomes the first nation to land a spacecraft on the south side of the moon. What does it mean for space travel – and for India? Plus: professor of European politics Philippe Marlière and Canadian journalist Mellissa Fung discuss natural disaster responses, a proposed German law allowing dual citizenship and unexpected tourist attractions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 22 August
The Brics summit kicks off in South Africa and expansion is at the top of the agenda. Also in the programme: former Ukrainian regional MP Aliona Hlivco and journalist Robin Lustig discuss the Russian strikes on Ukrainian ships. Plus, Tel Aviv finally gets a metro and why Paris’s outdoor café culture is upsetting the city’s residents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 21 August
After Russia’s first moon mission in 47 years ends with a catastrophic crash, pressure is mounting for India to become the first country to land a spacecraft on the lunar south pole. Meanwhile, Russia analyst Stephen Dalziel and Latika Bourke of ‘The Sydney Morning Herald’ discuss Donald Trump’s boycott of the US Republican Party debate. Plus: coverage of Anthony Albanese’s son in the Australian media and the soft power of royal families, as Spain’s Queen Letizia takes centre stage at the Women’
Friday 18 August
It’s Friday, which means Andrew Mueller is joined by Monocle staffers. On the agenda: the upcoming Argentine election, politicians’ music choices and the Women’s World Cup. Plus: Laura Kramer on her nerdy pleasure: American infomercials.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 17 August
Catalonian separatists agree to support Spain’s Socialists, bringing the ruling party closer to forming a new government. Spain correspondent Barney Jopson of ‘The Financial Times’ has the latest from Madrid. In the studio, Lew Lukens and Rebecca Tinsley discuss the Niger coup as Ecowas and the African Union disagree on how to respond. Plus: the joys of letter writing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 16 August
Belarus’s neighbours up their defences. Plus: collaboration between American and Chinese scientists is on the decline, Saudi Arabia shocks the Middle East by releasing ‘Barbie’ and should transport networks provide announcements in foreign languages? With Caroline Frost and Sir William Patey. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 15 August
Donald Trump is indicted – again. Our Washington correspondent has the latest. Plus: Marie Le Conte and Ivor Gaber discuss the suspected Russian spies arrested in the UK, North Africa’s response to the coup in Niger and the most absurd tourist charges that it has been hit with.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 14 August
A raid on a local paper’s offices in Kansas has triggered condemnation from press-freedom groups and journalists. We hear from its co-owner and editor. In the studio, Yossi Mekelberg and Nadine Batchelor-Hunt discuss Saudi Arabia-Israel normalisation, Qur’an burnings in Sweden and sports diplomacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 11 August
As Poland moves thousands of troops to its Belarusian border, Ben Stanley and Oleksiy Melnyk consider Warsaw’s military rise. Plus: Monocle staff discuss political controversies from Germany and New Zealand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 10 August
West African leaders meet after the military junta in Niger refuses to reinstall President Bazoum. In the studio, Charles Hecker and Marta Lorimer discuss new US curbs on Chinese tech, hardline European rhetoric on immigration and a Belgian university’s new Taylor Swift literature course.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 9 August
Panellists Alex von Tunzelmann and Somnath Batabyal join Monocle’s Andrew Mueller to discuss Russia’s influence in Niger and whether the US should wade in – and ask if there’s a new global order on the horizon. They also debate the issue of domestic air travel, after it emerged that 72 per cent of flights at Antwerp airport last year were internal, and ponder whether social media is dead. Plus: an interview with former Syrian political prisoner Omar Alshogre. See omnystudio.com/listener for priv
Tuesday 8 August
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined for a lively discussion with journalist Vincent McAviney and founder of China Dialogue Isabel Hilton. They talk through the global impact of China’s economic slowdown, Ireland’s options for managing a budget surplus and the ethics of cashless societies. Plus: Japan mulls over transport etiquette as it phases out snack carts on some bullet trains and Andrew reflects on the 1963 Great Train Robbery. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 7 August
Russia lambasts peace talks hosted by Saudi Arabia – to which Moscow was not invited. With Ian Bond and Daniella Peled. Plus: Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, rows back on parts of his judicial overhaul, ‘Barbenheimer’ causes a stir in Japan and the Bidens’ favourite holiday spots in Delaware.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 4 August
Donald Trump speaks to a friendly Republican crowd in Alabama after pleading not guilty to attempting to overturn the 2020 election. Our Washington correspondent has the latest. Plus: we ask which cultural artefacts you would send into space and look at when government ad campaigns go wrong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 3 August
Pakistan goes for growth, Ireland ponders its military neutrality and why Germany’s army is struggling to recruit. With Quentin Peel and Atika Rehman. Plus: our panellists’ memorable driving moments and Henry Rees-Sheridan considers longevity in his latest Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 2 August
Donald Trump’s legal troubles continue as he is indicted for the third time. Monocle’s Washington correspondent Chris Cermak has the latest while panellists James Rodgers and Terry Stiastny consider the former president’s 2024 chances. Plus: as more drone strikes hit Moscow, is the war entering a new phase? And why some Nordic residents are revolting against modern design trends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 1 August
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 31 July
After more drone attacks on Moscow, President Zelensky says “that war is returning to Russia”. Stephen Dalziel and Lynne O’Donnell consider the implications. Also on the programme: the UK grants new oil and gas licences, the Taliban meet US officials in Doha and why Twitter’s new sign is upsetting neighbours. Plus: the rules of Italian beach clubs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 28 July
Former president Donald Trump faces additional charges and the US Congress debates the country’s defence budget. Monocle’s Washington correspondent has the latest. And it’s Friday, which means a panel of Monocle staffers: Christy O’Grady, Grace Charlton and Carolina Abbott Galvão discuss beach etiquette and comfort foods. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 27 July
Soldiers in Niger claim to have seized power. Deutsche Welle’s West Africa correspondent Olisa Chukwumah has the latest. Plus, Antony Blinken tours the Pacific, Ukraine threatens an Olympic boycott and why dictators like to pose on horses. With Lisette Reymer and Jonathan Fenby.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 26 July
Black Sea security is top of the agenda as the Nato-Ukraine Council meets for the first time. Plus, Sean Ryan and Caroline Frost on European populist parties’ move away from green policies, Japan’s population woes and the iconic British comic celebrating its 85th birthday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 25 July
Beijing ousts its foreign minister after he disappeared from public view. Anna Rosenberg and Latika Bourke consider the political and economic implications. Plus, Germany invests in domestic and foreign chip production, the Paris 2024 Olympic torch is unveiled and we discuss pets on public transport.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 24 July
Israel’s parliament passes the first part of a controversial judicial reform bill. Yossi Mekelberg and Anette Dittert consider what’s next. Plus: Spain’s conservatives fall short of a majority in a snap general election and we ask if ‘Barbenheimer’ is a saviour for the cinema.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 21 July
Nina dos Santos is joined by Monocle’s Tom Edwards and Fernando Augusto Pacheco who discuss novel prison solutions, the future of e-bikes and an unlikely style icon – King Felipe of Spain. Plus, we head to Bangkok for the last instalment in our series, ‘The Commuter’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 20 July
Nina dos Santos is joined by journalist Marie Le Conte and political commentator and Times Radio presenter Carole Walker to discuss the Sweden-Iraq tensions over the recent Quran burning, and the banks being told to respect free speech. Plus, are tourists pushing worshippers out of sacred spaces? And is the EU right to rename the Falkland Islands? Finally, we head to Wellington, New Zealand for the latest episode of ‘The Commuter’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 19 July
Nina dos Santos is joined by political journalist Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Chatham House’s Bill Hayton to discuss the climate strategy clash between the US and China, the UK by-elections and the growing pressure on public broadcasters. Plus, we head to Los Angeles for the latest in ‘The Commuter’ series and talk about weird and wonderful office buildings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 18 July
Former British diplomat John Everard and ‘Foreign Policy’ columnist Elisabeth Braw join Monocle’s Andrew Mueller to discuss the arrest of a US soldier who crossed the North Korean border, the state of China’s economy and whether governments should engage with the Taliban. Plus: we head to New Delhi for the latest in our weeklong series, ‘The Commuter’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 17 July
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by journalists Simon Brooke and Patricia Cohen to discuss Russia’s seizing of Danone and Carlsberg units, the impact of digital nomad visas on cities, and the minister encouraging Hong Kong residents to give smokers a disapproving stare. Plus: we head to Tunis for the first in our week-long series, The Commuter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 14 July
Former UK diplomat John Everard and arts journalist Amah-Rose Abrams discuss the significance of the US formally rejoining Unesco to counter Chinese influence. Plus: as a new edition of ‘The Monocle Companion’ hits shelves, editor Josh Fehnert and Carlota Rebelo talk about their favourite essays in the handsome paperback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 13 July
Andrew Mueller is joined by Rachel Cunliffe and Charles Hecker for a wrap of the Nato summit in Vilnius. Plus: the latest on Ukraine as a telephone conversation between Russian and American intelligence chiefs is confirmed, a chat with Congressman Dean Phillips and Hollywood braces for a shutdown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 12 July
Nina dos Santos is joined by Alex von Tunzelmann and Michael Binyon to discuss the state of Russia’s economy, North Korea’s latest long-range ballistic missile and the world’s most dangerous travel destinations. Plus, what are the worst political books?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 11 July
Nina dos Santos is joined by Ivor Gaber and Julie Norman to discuss Ukraine’s future Nato membership, war crimes in Darfur and the disbandment of The New York Times sports department. Plus, why the tip box has ignited online debate over unnecessary tipping in South Korea.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 10 July
Nina dos Santos, Vincent McAviney and Isabel Hilton discuss US Treasury secretary Janet Yellen’s China trip, Turkey’s bargaining over Sweden’s Nato membership, Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte’s departure from politics and France’s ban on fireworks sales ahead of Bastille Day. Plus, Andrew Mueller’s On This Day: the 1985 bombing of the Greenpeace ship ‘Rainbow Warrior’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 7 July
War correspondent Tim Mak unpacks escalating concerns in Ukraine surrounding the fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Plus: Andrew Mueller’s weekly roundup and the politicians embracing the power of AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 6 July
Jens Stoltenberg makes a push to secure Sweden’s Nato membership. Also in the programme: Somnath Batabyal and Daniella Peled discuss the resignation of Tel Aviv’s police chief, Ami Eshed. Plus: the effects of artificial intelligence on the world order and the value of soft power in times of crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 5 July
Panellists Stephen Dalziel and Rebecca Tinsley discuss plans to replace Wagner in Ukraine for Russia, next year’s planned elections in South Sudan and whether the Netherlands is right to ban mobile phones in schools. Plus, Andrew Mueller heads for a guitar lesson at London’s Flamenco Festival 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 4 July
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by journalists Simon Brooke and Lynne O’Donnell to discuss divisions in France, how water is threatening peace in Afghanistan and the latest Nato developments. We also hear from Monocle’s Mary Fitzgerald and Atlantic Council senior fellow, Emadeddin Badi, about their new book on Libya. Plus: why bad reviews are the most fun to read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 3 July
The latest on the violence in the West Bank with Julie Norman, associate professor in politics and international relations at University College London. In the studio, Terry Stiastny and Ian Bond discuss the EU’s approach to Russian assets, why France and Germany have fallen out of love and how ‘Barbie’ has become an unlikely agitator in Vietnam. Plus: a tribute to Ukrainian author Victoria Amelina and New Zealand’s Martin Phillipps serenades Monocle’s Andrew Mueller. See omnystudio.com/listener
Friday 30 June
Resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, Elisabeth Braw, discusses how Sweden has sparked outrage in Muslim countries by allowing a Qur’an to be burnt. In the studio, Monocle’s Helmi Pillai and Markus Hippi react to the resignation of a Finnish minister and Korea’s new K-pop school. Plus: Emma Searle on her love for ‘Lord of the Rings’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 29 June
The aftershocks of the Wagner group’s failed mutiny continue as a senior Russian general has reportedly been detained. James Rodgers and Yassmin Abdel-Magied give you the latest. Also in the programme: three months on from Russia’s detention of US journalist Evan Gershkovich, we speak to his friend and colleague Pjotr Sauer. Plus: an Eid ceasefire collapses in Sudan and the millennials bucking political trends in Australia and the US.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 28 June
After Yevgeny Prigozhin’s aborted march on Moscow, we ask what’s next for the Wagner mercenary group’s operations in Africa and the Middle East. With Sean Ryan and Barbara Serra. Plus: Stockholm risks tensions with Ankara and Italian authorities search for a Colosseum vandal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 27 June
Toronto elects Olivia Chow as its new mayor. Plus: China’s premier critiques “the politicisation of economic issues” by the West at an economic forum in Tianjin and journalists at France’s main Sunday newspaper go on strike over their new editor. With Lisette Reymer and Jonathan Fenby.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 26 June
Former Ukrainian MP Aliona Hlivco and journalist Caroline Frost discuss the effect of the Wagner group’s semi-mutiny on the Kremlin, Italy’s attempts to appoint more Italian museum directors and the Chinese young people looking to God for guidance in moments of hardship. Plus: Monocle’s Andrew Mueller sits down with rapper Chuck D and former GCHQ director David Omand. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 23 June
Guy De Launey discusses the failure of the EU-mediated crisis talks between the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo, and Markus Hippi and Isabella Jewell examine Ireland’s plan to pay up to €84,000 to those who are willing to relocate to a remote island. Plus: the Dutch students slamming plans to slash English courses and Monocle’s Tom Webb on his guilty pleasure: the rock band Genesis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 22 June
Nina dos Santos and Nik Gowing on The Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in Paris, India and China strengthen ties with defence, the Spanish government allocates €160m to promote audio in Spain and the latest on trade agreements. Plus: Rome sends Russell Crowe into battle with Riyadh for the right to host the 2030 World Expo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 21 June
Rebecca Tinsley and Charles Hecker on Joe Biden’s threat to the US-China detente by calling Xi Jinping a ‘dictator’, the end of a three-day ceasefire in Sudan’s capital and why a UN expert urges a different approach to resolve the crisis in Myanmar. Plus: why British five-year-olds are up to 7cm shorter than their Western peers.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 20 June
Alex von Tunzelmann and Robin Lustig look at the day’s top stories, including the first state visit to the US by India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, companies hiring refugees in Europe and why an invitation to see the mayor of Tehran led to the resignation of a Brussels minister. Plus: Josh Rudolph of the German Marshall Fund on rebuilding Ukraine and part two of our Quality of Life series.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
Monday 19 June
US secretary of state Antony Blinken’s China trip is off to a good start. Panellists Julie Norman and Owen Matthews discuss this, the new trial of Alexei Navalny and France’s air-defence plan. Plus: we begin a series looking at our annual Quality of Life survey.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
Friday 16 June
Olga Rudenko, editor of The Kyiv Independent, on running stories critical of the Ukrainian military in wartime and her paper’s new war crimes investigations team. Plus: a political row in New Zealand over bilingual road signs and what would be on your country’s citizenship test?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 15 June
Iranian activist Masih Alinejad tells Monocle Radio that the West is failing to act over the treatment of women in Iran. Plus: former British prime minister Boris Johnson lied to parliament according to a report by MPs – Carole Walker and Steve Cannane discuss his political future. Also in the show: the latest on Ukraine’s counteroffensive and should children learn the national anthem in school?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 14 June
How will Donald Trump’s arraignment affect his re-election chances in 2024? Terry Stiastny and Yossi Mekelberg discuss. Plus: Italy marks the death of Silvio Berlusconi, Germany unveils its first dedicated security strategy and China offers support for peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 13 June
The latest from Miami, where Donald Trump has arrived for his arraignment. In the studio, Lynne O’Donnell and Phil Clark discuss Australia’s forthcoming referendum on an indigenous ‘Voice’ and the author facing backlash for a book set in Russia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 12 June
Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is dead at 86. Monocle’s Europe editor at large Ed Stocker, with Latika Bourke and Sir William Patey, discusses his legacy on Italy and international politics. Plus: a New Zealand broadcaster investigates after an employee adds pro-Russia lines to stories and the US moves to rejoin UNESCO.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 9 June
EU agrees radical reforms on migration and asylum laws, Google demands that employees will have to spend at least three days a week in the office and a week in animal news. Plus: we speak to Ukrainian expert and civil society activist Olena Halushka, who was in London this week to advocate for the confiscation of Russian assets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 9 June
Daniella Peled and Vincent McAviney discuss warnings that Nato members may send troops to Ukraine, Russia faces UN court over the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 and Australia to ban Nazi symbols but not the salute. Plus: why companies are hired to handle resignations on behalf of Japanese employees who are too nervous to confront their boss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 7 June
Thousands flee Nova Kakhovka following the dam disaster in Ukraine, Rishi Sunak to meet with Joe Biden and Canadian wildfires blanket New York in smoke. Plus: the world’s most expensive cities and the Film on Film festival at London’s BFI. With Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Stephen Dalziel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 6 June
The latest on the Kakhovka dam disaster in Ukraine, Iran unveils what it calls its first hypersonic missile and France prepares for future wars with the help of sci-fi literature. Andrew Mueller, Barbara Serra and Bill Hayton cover the day’s main news stories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 5 June
Ana Revenco, Moldova’s minister of internal affairs, joins us to discuss her country’s relationship with the EU and Nato, and what the future might hold. Also in the programme: Terry Stiastny and Somnath Batabyal on India’s disastrous train crash, possible candidates to be Nato’s next secretary general and the etiquette of wearing headphones in the office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 2 June
Brics ministers call for a rebalancing of the global order, India removes the periodic table and evolution from school textbooks, and every individual cigarette in Canada will soon carry a health warning. Plus: we speak to Rodrigo da Costa, executive director of the European Union Agency for the Space Programme.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 1 June
We ask if Ukraine could ever be part of Nato, with Rachel Cunliffe and Isabel Hilton. Plus: an Australian soldier loses a war crimes defamation case and Novak Djokovic attracts criticism for entangling sport and politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 31 May
President Macron reaches out to eastern and central European allies in a speech at Globsec security forum. Plus: Pakistan is urged not to try civilians in military courts and the UK’s trade deal with Australia and New Zealand kicks in. With Lynne O’Donnell and Enrico Franceschini.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 30 May
Our Balkans correspondent gives us the latest on the unrest in Kosovo as ethnic Serbs protest the appointment of Albanian mayors. Plus: Sudan’s warring military factions extend a fragile ceasefire, South Africa gives Vladimir Putin diplomatic immunity and an Italian film festival aims to reinvigorate rural communities. With Yassmin Abdel-Magied and Simon Brooke.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 29 May
Tessa Szyszkowitz and Ivor Gaber join Andrew Mueller to discuss the day’s biggest global stories. Plus: a new exhibition on the Northern Ireland Troubles, the first of its kind in the UK.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 26 May
Christopher Cermak brings us a Washington round-up as US debt-ceiling talks progress. Lilian Fawcett and Isabella Jewell discuss why the US is giving away lighthouses and why radio broadcasters are replacing music with sounds of nature. Plus: a check-in with Gaia Lutz at Arco Lisboa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 25 May
Patricia Cohen and John Everard discuss Russia’s deal to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, Germany falling into recession and UK net migration rising to a new record. Plus: Why France is struggling with the arrival of spring tourists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 24 May
Charles Hecker and Sasha Dovzhyk discuss Ron DeSantis’s bid for the US presidency, Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, on tour in Africa and the return of a library book after almost 100 years. Plus: CNN’s Nick Paton Walsh on walking the Darién Gap, one of the world’s most dangerous migrant routes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 23 May
Russia’s sanctioned interior minister visits Saudi Arabia, Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán casts doubt on Swedish NATO membership and should a school shooter’s diaries be made public? With Julie Norman and Quentin Peel. Plus: why Germany can’t recruit spies and we hear from a judge for this year’s International Booker Prize.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 22 May
A surprise election result in Greece, President Biden and house speaker Kevin McCarthy meet to discuss the US debt limit and Swedish press freedom is recognised by Unesco. With Philippe Marliere and Elisabeth Braw. Plus: the day’s events at the Cannes Film Festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 19 May
Tom Webb and Markus Hippi discuss Russia’s efforts to lure Western attendees to the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, the announcement of new sleeper routes across Europe and the world’s first-ever kiss. Plus: a cultural round-up with Steph Chungu and Saj Huq on the global security threats facing governments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 18 May
In today’s programme, we report as Pakistan braces for unrest as Imran Khan fears another arrest, France holds up the EU energy agreement over nuclear power and the secretive Bilderberg Group begins its annual meeting in Lisbon. Plus, should child-free zones be lifted after South Korea considers the move? With Terry Stiastny and Yossi Mekelberg See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 17 May
Sir Mark Lowcock and Rebecca Tinsley discuss the UN’s $3bn (€2.8bn) aid appeal for Sudan, Russia’s new pro-war symbol, decentralising politics and the proposed building dividing Sydney. Plus: Madeleine Bunting’s new book on the UK’s seaside towns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 16 May
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 15 May
Turkey’s presidential election heads for a runoff, Volodymyr Zelensky tours Europe and China jails a US citizen for life on spying charges. With Jonathan Fenby and Caroline Frost. Plus: Amsterdam’s Rembrandt Museum offers a pop-up tattoo studio and Malaysian author and International Booker Prize judge Tan Twan Eng discusses his third novel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 12 May
Ankara-based journalist Victoria Craig on the key issues and latest polls ahead of Turkey’s pivotal election this Sunday. Plus: the countdown to the Eurovision Song Contest grand final, the physicist who turned seismic tremors into music and novelist Caleb Azumah Nelson on his new release.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 11 May
Volodymyr Zelensky says that Kyiv needs more time for its long-awaited counteroffensive as the UK confirms that it is sending cruise missiles to Ukraine. Also in the programme: a presidential candidate pulls out of Turkey’s election, CNN’s town hall with Donald Trump and the politics of names. With Lisette Reymer and Enrico Franceschini. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 10 May
As an immigration policy signed by Donald Trump during his presidency expires, Latika Bourke and Sean Ryan discuss the US-Mexico border. Plus: Pakistan’s Imran Khan is under arrest, Saudi Arabia mulls launching an English-language news channel and we talk to Michael Cragg about his book ‘Reach For The Stars’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 9 May
Ukraine celebrates Europe Day, while Russia marks Victory Day: Marie Le Conte and Mark Hollingsworth discuss. Plus, the question of who should hold the Supreme Court accountable, food snobbery and the first Eurovision Song Contest semi-final in Liverpool.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 8 May
As China’s foreign minister begins a tour of Europe, Isabel Hilton and Simon Brooke discuss what Beijing wants from the trip. Plus: Chile’s far-right win a key vote on the country’s constitution, protesters detained in London over coronation weekend, and are company towns a good idea?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 5 May
President Joe Biden meets top technology CEOs to asks them to mitigate AI perils, the king’s coronation draws apathy and criticism in former colonies and we speak to author Jacob Mikanowski about his new book, ‘Goodbye Eastern Europe: An Intimate History of a Divided Land’. Plus: the latest news from the animal kingdom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 4 May
Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits The Hague, Germany’s Olaf Scholz kicks off a visit to east Africa and Austrian newspapers protest against changes to the national broadcaster’s funding model – with Tessa Szyszkowitz and Stephen Dalziel. Plus: Mellissa Fung on ‘Between Good and Evil’, her new book about the girls held captive by Boko Haram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 3 May
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 2 May
The Vatican’s peace mission for Ukraine that doesn’t have Kyiv’s blessing. Plus: a writers’ strike in Hollywood, how North American media is covering King Charles’s coronation and pianos in public spaces. With Charles Hecker and Mellissa Fung.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 1 May
The collapse of First Republic Bank and its sale to JP Morgan, explained by economist Vicky Pryce. In the studio, Barbara Serra and Ivor Gaber discuss the expat vote in Turkey’s May election, an affordable travel scheme for Germans and ask when is ‘art’ not art? Plus: a new exhibition of work by acclaimed British artist Isaac Julien.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 28 April
The latest from Ukraine after a wave of Russian airstrikes kills civilians. In the studio, Monocle’s Fernando Augusto Pacheco and Tom Edwards discuss the resignation of the BBC’s chairman, Richard Sharp, and the return of Tiffany’s flagship New York shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 27 April
Will Sudan’s fragile ceasefire be extended? With Yassmin Abdel-Magied and Daniella Peled. Also: Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, visits Jerusalem and the youth wing of Germany’s far-right Alternative für Deutschland party is designated an extremist group. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York lands on the Monocle Radio doormat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 26 April
Why China and Taiwan is a key issue in Paraguay’s election, press freedom under pressure in Europe and Lisbon trials a car-free city centre, with Terry Stiastny and Oscar Guardiola-Rivera. Plus: the world’s oldest operating newspaper faces closure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 25 April
Joe Biden announces his 2024 re-election bid, Ukrainian forces move across a key eastern river and the logistics behind a country’s evacuation. With John Everard and Nina Dos Santos. Plus: On This Day in 1915, the storming of Gallipoli by troops from Australia and New Zealand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 24 April
The latest from New York as Russia’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, chairs a UN Security Council meeting. Also in the show: Paula Erizanu and James Rodgers discuss an upcoming election in Gagauzia, an autonomous region of Moldova, and why it matters. Plus: an isolated Scottish island for sale and the third edition of the European gull-screeching championship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 21 April
Members of the Monocle team discuss the best and worst political resignations, cycle-friendly cities and the week’s pop-culture moments. Plus: Swiss-Argentine designer Alfredo Häberli at Salone del Mobile and Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 20 April
After a brief ceasefire breaks down in Sudan, we discuss what could happen next. In the studio, Anna Rosenberg and Carole Walker discuss the EU’s plan for curbs on Ukrainian grain, Ron DeSantis’s road to 2024 and the return of cassette tapes. Plus: the designers behind a new “Sculpted Series” of furniture at Salone del Mobile.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 19 April
Russian spy ships in the North Sea, India’s population boom and the UN’s potential departure from Afghanistan. With Lynne O’Donnell and Robin Lustig. Plus: we hear from the head of British lighting brand Tom Dixon at Salone del Mobile.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 18 April
Vladimir Putin visits occupied regions in Ukraine, another Scottish National Party figure is arrested in a finance probe and Canada settles a land dispute with First Nations communities. With Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Phil Clark. Plus: we meet the team behind a generative artwork project at Salone del Mobile.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 17 April
The latest from Sudan amid fighting between rival military factions. In the studio, Tessa Szyszkowitz and Somnath Batabyal discuss the Russian opposition figure jailed for 25 years and the former Indian MP shot on live TV. Plus: as Melbourne overtakes Sydney as Australia’s biggest city, we ask what makes a metropolis great.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 14 April
Former CIA operations officer Marc Polymeropoulos on the leaked US intelligence documents – and the man accused of leaking them. Also in the show, Monocle writers Grace Charlton and Carolina Abbott Galvão on South Korea’s plan to get lonely young people back into society. Plus: our culture editor, Chiara Rimella, checks in from EXPO Chicago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 13 April
The latest revelations about a massive leak of US intelligence documents and simmering violence in Sudan, with Rebecca Tinsley and Ivor Gaber. Plus: our fashion editor reflects on the legacy of British designer Mary Quant, who has died aged 93.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 12 April
We discuss Russia’s plans for digital military draft papers and why Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has declined an invitation to July’s Nato summit. Also, we ask: should university syllabuses come with content warnings? Plus: why French schools are choosing trips to Ireland over Britain and our Lisbon correspondent’s trek in the Atacama Desert. With Latika Bourke and Stephen Dalziel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 11 April
Derek Chollet, a counsellor in the US state department, speaks to Monocle’s US editor about diplomacy in the 21st century. In the studio, Vincent McAviney and Alice Sherwood discuss Joe Biden’s trip to Belfast and Ireland – but not London. Plus: political attack ads and Italy sets sail to promote its food and wine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 10 April
Andrew Mueller is joined by panellists Elisabeth Braw and Marie Le Conte to discuss the day’s biggest stories. Plus: we speak to Mai Nardone about her fiction debut, ‘Welcome to the Kingdom’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 7 April
Monocle’s Andrew Mueller is joined by Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Christy O’Grady and Carlota Rebelo to unpack some of the week’s top stories. Plus: an Easter-egg tasting in the studio as we discuss why Brazil goes crazy for the sweet treat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 6 April
A rapprochement is on the cards for Middle East rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia, a top Russian general is sacked by Putin and the formation of a civilian government in Sudan is delayed yet again. Plus: fake meat, ChatGPT and English loan words are on Italy’s blacklist. With Julie Norman and Enrico Franceschini.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 5 April
The latest in Donald Trump’s ongoing criminal case, with US pollster Frank Luntz, Volodymyr Zelensky visits Poland, Japan strays from its aid rules and Israeli police clash with Palestinian worshippers in Jerusalem. With Aliona Hlivco and Charles Hecker. Plus: Italy’s plans for an immersive new mafia museum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 4 April
Finland becomes Nato’s 31st member, India rejects China’s fresh attempts to assert influence in Arunachal Pradesh and in Syria, US forces kill a senior Islamic State leader. With Alex von Tunzelmann and Michael Binyon. Plus: it’s a crash landing for Richard Branson’s satellite-launch company, Virgin Orbit, as it files for bankruptcy in the US.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 3 April
South Korea and the US join forces for anti-submarine drills as the threat from North Korea looms. Plus: Argentina’s infamous ‘Buenos Aires Herald’ opens again after a six-year hiatus, how the BBC is trying to educate girls in Afghanistan, why daily hotel cleaning might become a thing of the past and remembering pioneering Indigenous Australian activist Yunupingu. With Isabel Hilton and William Patey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 31 March
We report as the rift widens between the US and Russia, as pressure mounts on Moscow to release arrested WSJ journalist Evan Gershkovich; Finland is the latest country set to add its flag to the Nato alliance, and why Bali’s governor wants to stop Russian and Ukrainian travellers coming. Plus: the Ukrainian group making music, not war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 30 March
As the UK nears a deal with the Indo-Pacific trade bloc, Lisette Reymer and Philippe Marliere ask if it’s a win for Brexit. Plus: Kyiv calls for oil companies to help rebuild Ukraine and the US Senate votes to repeal the authorisation for the war in Iraq – 20 years later. Also in the show: why Italy wants to ban synthetic meat and a Letter from New York City.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 29 March
The UK government’s plans to house migrants in former army barracks, South Africa considers whether it would arrest Vladimir Putin, and Amsterdam says to some British tourists, don’t come. With Caroline Frost and Phil Clark. Plus: the Chinese zoo struggling to recruit a panda keeper and the Indian uprising that began on this day in 1857.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 28 March
As details emerge from a school shooting in Nashville, Nina dos Santos and Robin Lustig discuss how journalists should cover incidents like it. Plus: more Western weapons arrive in Ukraine, the waning importance of religion and patriotism to Americans, and an interview with the CEO and president of Porter Airlines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 27 March
The latest from Jerusalem amid a political crisis over controversial judicial reforms. In the studio, Bill Hayton and Tessa Szyszkowitz discuss what makes a protest movement succeed or fail, Scotland’s new leader and a show of strength by Myanmar’s military leadership. Plus: an interview with Katja Hoyer, historian and the author of a new book about East Germany.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 24 March
‘Hotel Rwanda’ figure Paul Rusesabagina is expected to be released from prison. Plus: our panel discusses a New Zealand campaign to help teens with break-ups, and the most confusing transport systems. We also reveal the highlights of the April edition of Monocle magazine and find out how one Kyiv theatre has continued performances through the war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 24 March
‘Hotel Rwanda’ figure Paul Rusesabagina is expected to be released from prison. Plus: our panel discusses a New Zealand campaign to help teens with break-ups, and the most confusing transport systems. We also reveal the highlights of the April edition of Monocle magazine and find out how one Kyiv theatre has continued performances through the war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 23 March
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 22 March
We report as French president Emmanuel Macron defends his controversial pension reforms. Plus: Boris Johnson is questioned by MPs, Sudan’s military sets out plans for a civilian government, and we profile some easily offended leaders. Also in the show: a conversation with Angelle Siyang-Le, director of Art Basel Hong Kong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 21 March
Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, visits Kyiv while China’s Xi Jinping is in Moscow. Barbara Serra and John Everard also discuss Donald Trump’s legal troubles and Egypt and Turkey’s thawing relations. Plus: global music trends with Fernando Augusto Pacheco.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 20 March
The fallout from the UBS takeover of Credit Suisse. In the studio, Yossi Mekelberg and Rachel Cunliffe discuss the legacy of the Iraq war, 20 years on, and Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow. Plus: what makes the Nordics so good at diplomacy?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 17 March
The International Criminal Court issues an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin, while Ankara gives the green light to Finland’s Nato accession. Plus: do we need rules on rudeness in political spaces? And Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 16 March
We discuss the split among US Republicans over support for Ukraine and the perception of most Europeans that Russia is an adversary. Also in the show: we explore food diplomacy and whether competition between colleagues is a good thing. With Carole Walker and Vincent McAviney. Plus: On This Day in 1978, Italy’s former prime minister was kidnapped.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 15 March
Moscow says US-Russian relations are in a “lamentable state” after an American drone and Russian jet collided over the Black Sea; Isabel Hilton and Stephen Dalziel discuss. Also on the show, Honduras turns away from Taiwan and towards China, the Oxford English Dictionary adds Maori words and the Japanese classes that are teaching people how to smile. Plus: Australian musician Robert Forster pays a visit during his UK tour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 14 March
China responds to the submarine deal between the UK, Australia and the US. Plus: Paris’s rubbish collectors strike over pension reforms, getting Brits back to work and would you hand in £200,000 worth of cash you found on the street? With Simon Brooke and Terry Stiastny.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 13 March
The latest on the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. In the studio, James Rodgers and Daniella Peled ask what would make Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, back down on the country’s controversial judicial reforms. Plus: how the Ukraine war has affected the global arms trade and a row in the UK over the BBC’s impartiality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 10 March
Iran and Saudi Arabia restore relations. Plus: Laura Kramer and Fernando Augusto Pacheco look ahead to the Oscars on Sunday, review Eurovision tracks and discuss their upcoming holiday plans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 9 March
The European Union seeks to establish the outlines of a trade deal with the US tomorrow. Plus: an escalation of violence in Afghanistan as an Islamic State-affiliated organisation claims several deadly attacks, the French Senate’s vote to raise the retirement age by two years to 64 and the launch of Monocle’s new travel programme, ‘The Concierge’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 8 March
The UN secretary-general meets Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv amid concerns that Russia will refuse to extend a multilateral grain deal. Plus: US Republicans are split over Fox News host Tucker Carlson, and the UK introduces new sanctions on 'global violators of women’s rights'.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 7 March
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is doubling down on defending Bakhmut – but what would happen if Kyiv retreats? Panellists Marie Le Conte and Steve Cannane discuss this, as well as the protests over pension reform in France and the UK’s plan to remove migrants arriving on small boats. Plus: should the workplace have a soundtrack? And we look at the new book ‘Pegasus: The Story of the World’s Most Dangerous Spyware’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 6 March
As protests break out in Tehran following the suspected poisoning of hundreds of schoolgirls, we discuss what we know so far. Plus: why Joe Biden is promising to strengthen US voting rights, the UN High Seas Treaty that took almost two decades to get right and why Toblerone is facing a rebrand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 3 March
Laura Kramer and Tom Webb take a look at the US increase of its military assistance in Somalia. Plus: we shed a light on a day of fake news and wrap the latest stories in the animal world. Markus Hippi and Fernando Augusto Pacheco join us to discuss Finland and Brazil’s state of mind and we have Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 2 March
The US agrees to send arms to Taiwan as Western allies warn China not to arm Russia. Plus: President Macron’s tour of central Africa, a row over journalistic ethics in the UK and which are the best careers for young people? With Alex von Tunzelmann and Jonathan Fenby. Plus: On This Day in 1969, the first test flight of Concorde.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 1 March
Bola Tinubu of Nigeria’s ruling party is declared the winner of the presidential election. Plus: Ukraine dominates the agenda as G20 foreign ministers meet in New Delhi, US concerns over Iran’s nuclear development and the moment when a Hong Kong protest song was played instead of the Chinese national anthem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 24 February
On the show: reflections from a Ukrainian reporter in Kyiv, plus we discuss a strengthened Nato, changes in Europe and Ukraine’s soft-power push.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 28 February
The latest from Lagos as Nigerian opposition parties call foul play in the presidential election. Plus: Ukrainian forces come under pressure in Bakhmut, Taiwan plans to make “disinformation” illegal during wartime and could a new Brexit deal over Northern Ireland improve the UK’s relationship with its closest allies? With Lisette Reymer and Ivor Gaber.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 27 February
Vincent McAviney has the latest as the UK and EU reach a new agreement to resolve post-Brexit trade friction in Northern Ireland. In the studio, Isabel Hilton and Oscar Guardiola-Rivera discuss China’s calls for peace in Ukraine, protests in Mexico over electoral reform plans and nostalgic drinks as a British 1970s favourite is set to be relaunched.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 24 February
On the show: reflections from a Ukrainian reporter in Kyiv, plus we discuss a strengthened Nato, changes in Europe and Ukraine’s soft-power push.
Thursday 23 February
As the UN general assembly prepares to vote on a motion that demands Russia leaves Ukraine, Rebecca Tinsley and Anna Rosenberg discuss the view of the war in the global south one year on. Plus: as Jill Biden visits Namibia and Kenya, how is the role of first ladies changing? And Starbucks launches olive-oil infused coffee... in Italy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 22 February
Joe Biden meets Nato allies in Eastern Europe, religion in politics and the row over trains that forced Spain’s transport secretary to resign, with Barbara Serra and Lew Lukens. Plus: the third instalment in our series marking a year of war in Ukraine, with a look at the role of culture and the arts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 21 February
We report as Presidents Biden and Putin double down ahead of the first anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine; and the EU imposes new sanctions on Myanmar. Plus: in the second part of our special series on Ukraine, the mayor of Mykolaiv speaks about rebuilding his besieged city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 20 February
President Biden announces additional military aid for Ukraine. Daniella Peled and Enrico Franceschini discuss his surprise visit to Kyiv, as well as protests in Israel ahead of a vote on judicial reforms, editing children’s books to match contemporary mores, and the AI chatbot confounding reporters. Plus: Ukrainians reflect on their favourite prewar memories in the first part of a series marking the one year anniversary of the Russian invasion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information
Friday 17 February
We bring you the latest from the Munich Security Conference with Andrew Mueller. In the studio, Laura Kramer and Fernando Augusto Pacheco chat about changing work patterns, the return of Rio Carnival and what to see at the cinema this weekend. Plus: a new book about the Welsh landscape and how it is threatened by climate change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 16 January
Daniella Peled and Jonn Elledge discuss Jens Stoltenberg, Nato’s secretary general, urging Ankara to approve Finland and Sweden’s membership bids, and Syrian president Assad’s ‘earthquake diplomacy’. Also in the show: city authorities question free travel for South Korea’s elderly, and would you buy caviar from a vending machine? Plus our weekly Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 15 January
We speak to one of the reporters who was part of an international investigation looking into a team of Israeli contractors claiming to have meddled in more 30 elections worldwide. In the studio, Sarah Churchwell and Vincent McAviney discuss Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation, where Biden and Trump stand ahead of the 2024 election and the German etiquette society calling for MPs to dress better.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 14 February
Nato defence ministers meet in Brussels as the West struggles to keep up with Ukraine’s need for arms. Plus: Bashar al-Assad’s decision to open more routes for aid into Syria, a Berlin neighbourhood’s plan to go car-free, newly published Victorian love letters and Mexican film-maker Guillermo del Toro on his new ‘Pinocchio’ adaptation. With Olga Tokariuk and Michael Binyon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 13 February
Russian troops claim territorial advances in eastern Ukraine, the BBC chairman comes under pressure after a political scandal, and the fallout after the mayor of Toronto’s resignation, with panellists Terry Stiastny and John Everard. Plus: ‘Haywire’, with satirist Craig Brown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 10 February
Finland prepares to discuss Nato ratification, Mexico bans shark tourism and government employees receive triple pay on Valentine’s Day in a Philippines town. Plus: Natacha Ramsay-Levi on her new design collective. With Emma Searle, Tom Webb and Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 9 February
Volodymyr Zelensky visits Brussels, Chinese-made security cameras are to be removed from Australian government buildings, a restituted Kandinsky painting lost in the Holocaust could sell for €42m and France will turn excess wine into industrial alcohol to combat surplus. With Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Philippe Marliere. Plus: Michael Shermer on his new book, ‘Conspiracy’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 8 February
Volodymyr Zelensky visits London, Australia blocks a new coal mine, the left makes gains in Ecuador’s local elections and a new musical about Silvio Berlusconi. With Oscar Guardiola-Rivera and Yassmin Abdel-Magied. Plus: On This Day in 1983, the IRA kidnapped a star racehorse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 7 February
The international response to huge earthquakes on the Syria-Turkey border. Plus: US-China relations ahead of Joe Biden’s State of the Union address and troublesome former leaders. With Julie Norman and Shelby Wilder.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 6 February
The aftermath of the huge earthquakes on the Turkey-Syria border. In the studio, Yossi Mekelberg and Lynne O’Donnell discuss protests in Tel Aviv and diplomatic flight from Kabul. Plus: a classic East German novel translated into English for the first time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 3 February
Kyiv sets out its bid to join the EU at a summit with European officials in Kyiv and the Pope visits South Sudan. Plus: our favourite independent music venues and Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 2 February
The EU-Ukraine summit kicks off in Kyiv, as a new bust of Stalin is unveiled in Volgograd. Plus, 100 days of Rishi Sunak, Germany’s security relationship with its allies – and who would you choose to appear on a banknote? With Carole Walker and Stephen Dalziel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 2 February
As the FBI searches President Biden’s Delaware home, our Washington correspondent has the latest. Plus: Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, heads for Paris; India’s new budget; and do we really need wi-fi on the metro? With Daniella Peled and Somnath Batabyal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 31 January
Brexit, three years on. And is the war in Ukraine approaching a stalemate? With Phil Clark and Alex von Tunzelmann. Plus: the Pope visits the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Brits and bragging at work, and an interview with Samuel D Hunter, writer of Oscar-nominated film ‘The Whale’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 30 January
The latest from Peshawar after a deadly bomb blast at a mosque. In the studio, Latika Bourke and Alessio Patalano discuss NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg’s visit to South Korea and Japan, the debate in Australia over an “indigenous voice” and San Antonio Zoo’s unorthodox Valentine’s Day fundraising campaign. Plus: ‘Away from Beloved Lover’, Dee Peyok’s new book charting Cambodian history through its music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 27 January
Memphis braces for the release of the police video of an arrest that led to the death of Tyre Nichols, the latest available data from South Korea’s statistics agency put the fertility rate at 0.81 and Olena Halushka is in the UK to with a message that the tank coalition needs to scale up with the sense of urgency. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 26 January
Isabel Hilton and Sir William Patey discuss Washington’s new ambassador in Moscow, Taliban plans to loosen a ban on female NGO staff, and ask if life is back to normal in China. Plus: why Brazil loves unusual names and Andrew Mueller reflects on the New South Wales ‘Rum Rebellion’, which took place on this day in 1808.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 25 January
Germany and the US agree to send armed tanks to Ukraine. Ivor Gaber and Terry Stiastny discuss what time means for Ukraine’s war effort, the Doomsday clock, US media layoffs and book hoarding. On the back of the Oscar nominations, Laura Kramer reports on Cate Blanchett’s controversial new film, ‘Tár’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 24 January
Hear our take on the news and enjoy sharp reporting on the big stories every weekday. Tune in as our guest panel reviews the day’s events in Europe, follows developing stories in the Americas and welcomes early risers in Asia and Australasia. Plus: reports and analysis from Monocle’s correspondents and bureaux around the world. Nominated for ‘Best Daily Podcast’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 23 January
We bring you the latest on the Lunar New Year shooting in California from our US editor. In the studio, panellists Rachel Cunliffe and Dipo Faloyin discuss Russian influence in Africa, French troops in Burkina Faso and UK government scandals. Plus: the remarkable story of how Sesame Street went to Russia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 20 January
Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeals for more tanks at a meeting of defence ministers in Germany. Also on the show: Monocle’s team in Davos reflects on the World Economic Forum as it draws to a close, an interview with the chair of Latvia’s foreign relations committee and Madonna is back on tour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 19 January
An update from our team at the World Economic Forum in Davos. In the studio, Elisabeth Braw and Vincent McAviney discuss Sweden’s Nato bid, the art of quitting well and the world’s rudest cities. Plus: Henry Rees-Sheridan’s Letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 18 January
The latest from Moscow as Russia’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, accuses the West of waging a “hybrid war”. In the studio, Marie Le Conte and Lewis Lukens ask how to make federalism work and discuss new congressman George Santos’s lies and the food regulator who compared cake in the office to passive smoking. Plus: an interview with Peter Wolodarski, editor in chief of Swedish national newspaper ‘Dagens Nyheter’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 17 January
Barbara Serra and Jonathan Fenby discuss what China’s shrinking population could mean for its place in the world. Plus: Germany’s changing role in Europe, Italian organised crime and the French town order to remove a statue of the Virgin Mary. And our team at the World Economic Forum in Davos speak to Shirley Yu of Harvard Kennedy School’s Ash Center about expectations for the Chinese economy in 2023.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday 16 January
As Davos returns, we ask in what practical ways it will help to address the world’s problems. James Rodgers and Allison Kaplan Sommer discuss Russia and Belarus’s joint air-force drills, the threat to Israel’s independent judiciary and Rishi Sunak’s proposal for a “free speech tsar”. Plus: a new book puts the efficacy of sanctions to the test.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 12 January
What do we know about Russia’s new top general? Lisette Reymer and Simon Brooke discuss the latest talks on post-Brexit trade, young leaders and Italy’s failed ‘Netflix of culture’. Plus: a letter from New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 13 January
Markus Hippi is joined in Zürich by Carlota Rebelo and Tom Webb to discuss Ukraine’s future within Nato and look ahead to the World Economic Forum. Plus: a report from Pitti Uomo and Art SG opens its doors in Singapore.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 12 January
What do we know about Russia’s new top general? Lisette Reymer and Simon Brooke discuss the latest talks on post-Brexit trade, young leaders and Italy’s failed ‘Netflix of culture’. Plus: a letter from New York.
Wednesday 11 January
Charles Hecker and Agathe Demarais join Emma Nelson to discuss Joe Biden’s classified documents and the efficacy of sanctions on Russia, and ask: how young is too young to be a politician? Plus, the best and worst parliament buildings and a new artists’ residence programme in Uruguay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 11 January
Charles Hecker and Agathe Demarais join Emma Nelson to discuss Joe Biden’s classified documents and the efficacy of sanctions on Russia, and ask: how young is too young to be a politician? Plus, the best and worst parliament buildings and a new artists’ residence programme in Uruguay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday 10 January
Description: Terry Stiastny and Michael Binyon on the day’s big stories: Pressure on Germany to send battle tanks to Ukraine; Republican hardliners wield power in the US Congress; French president Emmanuel Macron faces resistance to his plans to raise the retirement age; and how working from home is changing reading habits. Plus: comedian and writer Al Murray on his “first book without jokes”, ‘Command: How the Allies Learned to Win the Second World War’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy i
Monday 9 January
The latest from Brasília as thousands of pro-Bolsonaro rioters are arrested. Quentin Peel and Julie Norman discuss the North American Leaders’ Summit in Mexico and why UK voters are losing faith in Brexit. Plus: the controversial holiday celebrated by Bosnian Serbs and an interview with the founder of an innovative e-bike company.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday 6 January
Reviewing an extraordinary week in American politics and the state of US democracy, with our Washington correspondent Chris Cermak and panellists Laura Kramer and Tom Webb. Plus: M23 rebel fighters in the DRC and a growing row with Rwanda, the ethics of donating money for a personalised Ukrainian weapon and top travel destinations for 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday 5 January
The latest on Vladimir Putin’s call for an Orthodox Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine. Latika Bourke and Mark Lowcock discuss coronavirus tests for travellers from China, Estonia’s plans to give frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, a new dynamic for the UN security council and the “nano-flat” in Shanghai where you can sit on the toilet and cook at the same time. Plus: Andrew Mueller looks back on the Prague Spring, On This Day in 1968.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday 4 January
Daniella Peled and Yossi Mekelberg join Emma Nelson to discuss some of the day’s big stories: Israel’s changing stance on Ukraine and Russia, the US reopening consular services in Cuba, the minister worried about the decline of Finnish, and the debate about when children should stop learning maths. Plus: Andrew Mueller meets a professional whistler.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.