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
Is Arctic exceptionalism on thin ice?
Frozen and remote, the Arctic has long been a region of relative peace and stability. Russia’s war in Ukraine, however, has significantly altered Arctic security. What are Vladimir Putin’s polar ambitions and is the militarisation of the Arctic inevitable? Andrew Mueller speaks to Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of the Nato…
Explainer 390: What is Israel’s endgame?
As the retaliatory invasion of Gaza continues, Andrew Mueller ponders on what Israel wants to achieve and what outcome is most likely.
Arctic Circle Assembly special edition
In this special episode, recorded at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Andrew Mueller sits down with the president of Iceland, Guðni Thorlacius Jóhannesson, US senator for Alaska, Lisa Murkowski, and Mads Qvist Frederiksen, executive director at the Arctic Economic Council.
Explainer 389: Hezbollah
Andrew Mueller explains the history of Hezbollah and why it is claiming a stake in the conflict with Israel.
What is feminist foreign policy?
Feminist foreign policy is gaining traction around the world. How does it work in practice – and what is the role of women in promoting peace? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sweden’s former foreign minister, Margot Wallström, Slovenia’s minister for foreign affairs, Tanja Fajon, politics professor Jennifer Piscopo and peace-mediation expert…
Explainer 388: Who is Ecuador’s new president-elect?
Daniel Noboa, a 35-year-old son of a banana tycoon, is set to become Ecuador’s next president. Andrew Mueller takes a closer look at the centre-right political outsider’s credentials.
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 next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Allison Kaplan Sommer, Yossi Mekelberg, Ghaith al-Omari and Ami Ayalon.
Explainer 387: Australia’s voice referendum: What is at stake?
Australians are preparing to vote in a historic referendum that would recognise Indigenous citizens in the country’s constitution by establishing an official voice to parliament. What is at stake?
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 to Scott Young, General John Allen, and Ulrike Franke.
Explainer 386: Slovakia’s new direction?
Last weekend, Slovakia narrowly voted in Robert Fico, leader of the Smer party, as prime minister. He is in a legal battle with his president and one of his few allies appears to be Hungary’s pro-Putin leader, Viktor Orbán. Andrew Mueller explains how this new leadership is at odds with…
