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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
Why are Nordic nations great mediators?
Nordic nations are globally renowned for their contributions to international diplomacy. Why do Nordic countries excel as peace mediators? In this special episode, Andrew Mueller speaks to the president of Iceland, Gudni Thorlacius Johannesson; the former prime minister of Finland, Alexander Stubb; Janne Taalas, Jonathan Powell and Heini Lehtinen.
Explainer 359: It’s about time
Lebanese citizens were left hanging this week after an indecision on daylight saving time. Andrew Mueller explains.
Iran and Saudi Arabia: friends again?
Regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to restore diplomatic relations in a deal brokered by China. Will this landmark rapprochement have a ripple effect across the Middle East? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sanam Vakil, Bernard Haykel, Vali Nasr and Yossi Mekelberg.
Explainer 358: Colombia: Total Peace
In 2022, Colombia’s president, Gustavo Petro, introduced his Total Peace concept, a plan intended to encourage criminal gangs to compromise with the government. Andrew Mueller explains how recent events have impeded such ambitions.
Climate change: could militaries save the world?
Climate change is not merely an environmental problem; it’s also a threat to security and stability, and a possible cause of conflict. Could it therefore be the case that climate security and national security are the same thing? Andrew Mueller speaks to the deputy prime minister of Luxembourg, François Bausch,…
Explainer 357: The awkward truth about Aukus
The US, UK and Australia have announced details of their plan to create a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. Andrew Mueller explains how we got here.
‘We told you so’
As Russia’s attacks on Ukraine rage on, Baltic and Balkan countries are feeling vindicated in their warnings about Putin’s intentions. For years, the regions have warned about the immediate dangers posed by Russia and now the west appears to be listening. In this special episode, Andrew Mueller speaks to the…
Explainer 356: Who is Kemal Kilicdaroglu?
An opposition candidate has been selected for the upcoming Turkish presidential election. Andrew Mueller explains who he is and how he differs from President Erdogan.
Finland and Sweden: in NATO’s waiting room
It’s been more than a year since Finland and Sweden submitted their applications to become NATO’s 31st and 32nd members. While the two Nordic neighbours remain on the cusp of joining the alliance, Turkey and Hungary have yet to give them the green light. How long will this take? And…
Explainer 355: Ron DeSantis vs Disney World
Over the past year, Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, has been removing self-governing rights from Disney World and imposing government oversight on the parks. Andrew Mueller explains why.
