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The Foreign Desk
Monocle’s global-affairs show with Andrew Mueller. Expert guests, in-depth analysis, and sharp commentary on major geopolitical issues.
Latest Episodes
Explainer 526: Why Japan has been spooked into launching an intelligence service
Japan announced plans this week to establish its own intelligence agency, its first since the Second World War. But why now?
Powering Purpose in London
A special episode in association with Hitachi Energy, recorded at Midori House in London. Andrew Mueller discusses the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition with Gerhard Salge, Olga Rosca and Richard Nugee.
The scramble for critical minerals
As the global competition for minerals intensifies, we consider the geopolitics at play. How did China emerge as a dominant force? And will the DRC ever benefit from its own resources?
Explainer 525: You can’t keep a Le Pen down
Far-right French firebrand Marine Le Pen’s sentence for embezzlement was reduced this week, allowing her to stand in next year’s presidential election. But will the conviction hinder or help her campaign? Andrew Mueller explains.
Does the US still have a free press?
As the US marks 250 years, is one of the pillars of its democracy, a free press, under threat? Guests including White House correspondent Maggie Haberman discuss the current administration’s relationship with the media.
Explainer 524: Why is Marco Rubio trying to unify Libya?
This week Marco Rubio hosted the latest round of talks between rival Libyan factions in an attempt to unify the country. But what’s in it for the US secretary of state?
Live from Almedalen 2026: The state of Swedish politics
Monocle reports from Almedalen Week, the annual political summit on the island of Gotland. We assess the state of Swedish politics in an election year, with guests including minister for gender equality Nina Larsson.
Explainer 523: Flight of the White Eagle
Poland has been one of Ukraine’s biggest allies since the full-scale invasion by Russia. But will that continue after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky’s controversial tribute?
‘El juego bonito’: Can the beautiful game help Mexico win off the pitch?
Mexico has made a promising start on the pitch but what other victories is the nation eyeing up? Andrew Mueller is joined by former ambassador to the US Arturo Sarukhán, among others.
Explainer 522: The World Cup seat France won’t fill
While Fifa faces reports of unsold tickets, one seat at France’s World Cup matches is being deliberately left empty. But why?
