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Daily inbox intelligence from Monocle

Andrew Mueller

Culture

Beyond a joke

In an era where comedy walks a tightrope between relevance and risk, satirists worldwide navigate the delicate balance of wielding humour as political weapon while avoiding cancellation or worse.

  • Issue #150
  • 42 min read
Beyond a joke
Affairs

Should Emmanuel Macron stay or go?

As France's president seeks re-election, two distinguished voices weigh his turbulent first term against pandemic pressures, economic stagnation and the looming threat of far-right challengers.

  • Issue #150
  • 13 min read
Classical temple building with columns partially submerged in water with French flag colors on the roof
Politics

Before the shooting stars

As Russian troops gather on its eastern border, war dominates the conversation in Ukraine. In its bustling capital, Kyiv, a novelist and reservist explores the uncertainty and escapism of a life lived in suspense.

  • Issue #150
  • 17 min read
Monument of Prince Volodymyr the Great overlooking Kyiv's modern skyline at dusk with river and bridge visible
Affairs

Affairs

Updates on international issues, Mr Bean and the futility of sportswashing.

  • Issue #150
  • 9 min read
Affairs
Society

Should museums heed calls for restitution?

Do the Elgin Marbles belong in the British Museum, where they have been safely housed for more than 200 years – or are they stolen goods? Monocle's expert panel discusses art repatriation.

  • Issue #149
  • 12 min read
Portrait of Alex von Tunzelmann during the panel discussion
Diplomacy

Affairs: Global

How Abba’s humility has contributed to its soft-power success. Plus: trouble in Nicaragua.

  • Issue #149
  • 5 min read
Stylized holographic illustration of four people arranged in a triangular formation
Affairs

Icebreakers: life on board

Many seamen see icebreaking as a career pinnacle. We peek into the snug cabins, well-kitted kitchen and memorabilia-filled gym to see what serving on icebreaker ‘Kontio’ is really like. You can also catch up…

  • Film
  • 8 min watch
Icebreakers: life on board
Affairs

Icebreakers: rescue know-how

Finland has obvious natural advantages that have helped it become an icebreaking powerhouse but the country’s dominance in the field is startling. We travel to the Bay of Bothnia to bear witness to the…

  • Film
  • 10 min watch
Icebreakers: rescue know-how
Monocle Films

Icebreakers at work

Throughout the long Finnish winter, the country’s ports are kept open by a small but determined fleet of icebreakers. Monocle Films hops on board to see how it’s done.

  • Film
  • 1 min watch
Icebreaker towing a ship

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