When Monocle published a lighthearted idea encouraging Brazil, Sweden and Turkey to work together, its message reached their capitals. We brought together the three foreign ministers for this issue’s round table series.

For the second in this month’s special round-table series we talked with four businessmen about craftsmanship, manufacturing and the importance of where things are made.

For a nation founded on the libertarian spirit, France’s media has traditionally kept a respectful distance when reporting on those in power. But recent high profile exposés are pushing the debate back into the spotlight.

For our round-table series, we invited four leaders in the graphic design industry to talk about the state – and the future – of their craft, in print and online.

Denmark: home to the world’s first obesity tax, a globally revered restaurant (Noma) and a galaxy of informed and innovative food experts. We got four of the best together in a room to chew the (unsaturated) fat on their profession.

Monocle's third annual Soft Power Survey is an attempt to push the debate on where soft power comes from and how to use it. With current shifts in the global power balance, never has it been more relevant.

You don’t have to do it all alone. Make sure you know who to call whether you are running for re-election, rebuilding your city or rethinking your retail business in 2013.

Iraq has plans to build a shipping route that’s a cheaper alternative to the Suez Canal, starting with a port just south of Basra. It’s the biggest project ever undertaken by Iraq but will the war-ravaged city’s residents benefit?

Global leaders may be lacking in ambition but that hasn’t stopped us doing the heavy lifting for them. Monocle presents 10 grand projects that would make a big difference.

Spain’s economic woes are creating a spirited entrepreneurial culture in its capital. We meet the people turning their fortunes around and revitalising neighbourhoods in the process, and speak to the mayor about the new business initiatives.

The small community of Kirkenes is set to witness big changes as global warming opens up the Arctic. Can it cope with the influx of businesses keen to take advantage of its position on the Northern Sea Route?

In a prime location in the heart of Munich there is a building for retired actors, artists and journalists who have their rents subsidised by a foundation that made its money in the circus. A good portfolio helps win you admission.

When it comes to a Friday night out at the movies, we’ll be booking our seats in Bangkok, Singapore and Tokyo. Now pass the Peranakan menu and a blanket.

Within the monolithic UN Headquarters there’s a chamber that is being restored to its former retro glory. It was originally designed by the Danish architect Finn Juhl and now, in a brave move, it’s being put back to exactly how it was in 1953.

The largest of its kind, Orgatec is a biannual trade fair that draws office furniture manufacturers from around the globe to the outskirts of Köln. It’s a chance for the industry’s largest names to showcase the office of the future.

Cebu is the manufacturing base for many high-end international furniture brands but it’s only recently gaining the recognition it deserves for its skilled craftsmanship. Meet the people boosting the city’s reputation and supporting local talent.

Following the success of our Hong Kong shop and bureau set up, we’ve replicated the concept in Toronto’s Little Italy – only it’s 20 times the size.

Brands, sectors and players that will set the business agenda in the near future.

The elections, the people, the big ideas and the issues you'l be hearing more about in Europe in the year to come.

The economy in Latin America, education in the US, elections in Ecuador, Paraguay and Chile, plus other things set to make the news in 2013.

Why 2013 will be a year of economic and political uncertainty in Asia, and the politician Jakarta has high hopes for.

Issues high on the agenda in Australia, including defence and security, plus the big elections coming up and contenders to watch.

Zimbabwe will see a violent election, Africa will begin to reject the IMF's prescriptions and all eyes will be on the new leader of the African Union.

As the days get shorter and gift lists grow longer, we asked some of our favourite bright minds to think up the perfect holiday night in with film, music and books.

Clothes, accessories, designers, retailers and labels to keep an eye out for.

For our double issue we’ve augmented our Essays section to cover a whole host of subjects: everything from online terrorism to overly obedient road-crossers is covered.

From an exceptionally helpful member of hotel staff to a great view from your room, every little thing counts towards making a pleasant travel experience truly great. We’re sticklers for detail and in this annual survey our editors have selected 50 things from our travels this past year that we felt were exceptional.

Commercial flying is always that little bit more enjoyable when you’re surrounded by passengers who cut a neat and well accessorised dash down the aisle. Monocle settles in for a two-hour continental flight.

The Finns know how to do winter. This open-plan Helsinki penthouse is warm and inviting while still being bright and airy. It’s the perfect pad for hunkering down.

As we sat in Midori House we dreamed of one city where you could do all your Christmas shopping with ease. Then we realised where it was: Vienna.

From glassware to gloves and we’ve scoured Vienna to find the best Austrian goodies you can take home and give to your loved ones this Christmas. Providing you can squeeze them into your Rimowa.

As Burma opens up slowly and businesses trickle in, there is a growing movement to preserve the former capital’s architectural heritage.

Over the Christmas season Monocle will be going up a gear rather than winding down. But of course we’ll still find time to enjoy a glühwein or two in St Moritz.