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
The Foreign Desk Live: Israel-Hamas war
As fighting rages between Israel and Hamas militants, we ask what the war might mean for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and stability in the region. How did we get here and what happens…
How will AI revolutionise warfare?
The race to dominate Artificial Intelligence has become a major geopolitical concern and is certain to redefine warfare and deterrence. How will AI reshape militaries and the future of great-power competition? Andrew Mueller speaks…
France’s foreign policy
France has withdrawn its ambassador to Niger and announced the removal of its troops from the country following a military coup whose anti-French rhetoric has stirred up animosity in the region. Is President Macron…
In the Room: Falklands War
In the final episode of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back at the 10-week Falklands War between Argentina and the UK in 1982. Andrew Mueller speaks to Michael Heseltine, former deputy…
In the Room: Secret talks with Nelson Mandela
In part two of our ‘In the Room’ series, we speak to the key players involved in the secret talks that led to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. Andrew Mueller speaks to Niël Barnard,…
In the Room: September 11 attacks
In part one of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back on the chilling moments that followed the September 11 terror attacks, meeting top aides who were rushed onto Air Force One…
The future of Syria
A wave of protests across government-controlled areas of Syria gathered momentum this week, with demonstrators demanding regime change. Is a future without Bashar al-Assad still possible for Syria? Andrew Mueller speaks to Leila Molana-Allen,…
With Cod on Our Side
The global fishing industry has found itself at the heart of major debates and conflicts. In this special episode we explore the curious power of fish in politics. What makes these aquatic animals so…
Zimbabwe’s high-stakes election
Zimbabweans will head to the polls next week to elect their country’s leader amid economic turmoil and vote-rigging fears. What is at stake? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hopewell Chin’ono, Fadzayi Mahere, Robert Chapman and…
Europe swings east
The war in Ukraine has shifted Europe’s centre of gravity eastward. As Poland and Ukraine rapidly expand their militaries, the two countries have positioned themselves as vanguards of Western defence. Is a new balance…
