Russia’s war in Ukraine has upended long-held assumptions about the subtler arts of geopolitical influence. Is the traditional order of diplomacy and cultural exchange, well, over? As our Soft Power Survey shows, not by a long shot, writes editor in chief Andrew Tuck.

Airlines making middle seats enticing, battling peacocks and poorly disguised Russian spies. Plus: photographer Steven Klein and festive chart hits from across the globe.

Freezing conditions at one airport in Lapland call for some ‘snowhow’ to keep planes and passengers safe.

The pro-cycling transport commissioner who made New York a safer, nicer place is bringing her manifesto to the world.

The CEO of the Belgian biscuit brand on why they are still guided by tradition.

There is nothing quite like browsing the shelves of curious independent boutiques to pick out one-of-a-kind gifts – or well-deserved treats for yourself – that are sure to bring joy. We’ve scoured some of our favourite cities to find the best shops, plus where to sample fine wines, taste local delicacies and spend the night in comfort.

There’s nothing like a hearty meal made up of several delicious courses to keep you warm this winter. Chef Ralph Schelling offers up a tasty selection of treats that are simple to make – and just as easy to wolf down.

Expert gift wrapper Sayaka Takagi applies a precise finishing touch.

Monocle meets Iain Macdonald, who believes that the future of energy is small and nuclear.

The soft power of Cuban doctors, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s in-tray and the mayor of Freetown’s game-changing plan.

Monocle looks at six new diplomatic missions opening in the next few years.

A South African surfing start-up, food for thought from Cop27 and 25hours Hotels co-founder Christoph Hoffmann on the future of the hotel industry.

How wealthy Russian oligarchs have changed the fortunes of the bucolic Bodrum peninsula.

A Practice for Everyday Life, a clever school extension, the revamped analogue Leica, an interview with Moshe Safdie and architecture as art.

With the international order shaken by the war in Ukraine, we celebrate the gentler art of global persuasion.

Our global index of gently persuasive nations.

The Ukraine war has stoked fears of invasion in Taiwan. But it’s at the ballot box where its future relations with China could be defined.

Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, has become the face of diplomacy against a country seemingly hell-bent on ignoring common sense.

As the hospitality industry bounces back, the Les Roches school in the Swiss Alps is training the next generation of industry stars. We check in for a stay.

A Scottish ski-maker is carving a niche with his premium kit. We visit a wintry business that’s gaining momentum.

Amid economic chaos and geopolitical shifts, Jesper Brodin is transforming Ingka Group, the firm behind Ikea, with serenity.

In an increasingly digital age, what does the future hold for paper and ink products? Four dynamic bricks-and-mortar stationers share the successful principles that are helping to revitalise a growing €20bn global sector.

After many years of war and turmoil, Iraq’s capital city is slowly regaining a peaceful equilibrium. Now its citizens can relax and look towards a brighter future – one in which art, and the artistic spaces in which to express it, are an essential part of the human experience.

The new year offers a chance to clear the musical slate and discover something fresh. But where to start? From a Malaysian singer-songwriter specialising in minimalist R&B to a modern jazz chanteuse with a voice to make Billie Holiday’s ears prick up, we profile the artists that should be on your radar. Plus: playlists for the festive season and beyond.

In art, authenticity is everything. But can the technology and knowhow that allows Factum to replicate the great works of the past down to the smallest detail democratise the art world? And could the pieces they produce open up new perspectives on the history of art?

There’s no time like winter for making yourself cosy with a good book – which is also why a well-chosen title is a great gift for the people in your life. Here’s where to pick one up, whether you’re in Kolkata or Seoul.

Sweden’s Eslöv Civic Hall is a monument to ambition. As the mid-century building is restored, we find out how it is making elite architecture a part of everyday life.

Technology and craftsmanship are putting Mattiazzi at the apex of Italy’s ‘Triangle of the Chair’.

If you’re hoping to settle into the new year surrounded by smart furniture and household wares, then recline on a comfy sofa and enjoy our pick of the best design items to set you up for 2023.

Architect Junzo Yoshimura’s seaside escape is a private, harmonious ‘mansion’ that is finally ready to be shared with the world.

Turbulent times call for bold decisions, says Pietro Beccari, the chairman and CEO of Christian Dior Couture, who has tripled the luxury firm’s revenues.

Iceland’s gentler approach to life has resulted in a unique creative scene that moves with its own rhythms. As outerwear brand 66°North steps onto the global stage, we find out what can it teach the world about Nordic-style sustainability and prioritising quality over novelty.

Whether it’s the soft lambswool of a cosy winter blanket or the seemingly delicate titanium of a premium watch, the composition of clothes and accessories matters. We profile the pieces that are sure to give your outfits a refined touch.

Embrace the festive shopping period with style and warmth. Mix smart, versatile layers with casual overcoats and practical bags.

From diet shake-ups to tableware audits, 12 ways to improve your life in 2023.