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 331: Who is Muqtada al-Sadr?
Earlier this week violent protesters took to Iraq’s streets, leading to several deaths and many people being injured – prompted by the sudden announcement of Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr’s retirement from politics. Andrew Mueller explains who he is and why he has such a strong hold over the country’s citizens.
Six months of war in Ukraine – what next?
As Ukraine marks 31 years of independence, exactly six months after Russia’s invasion of the country, we ask what the next few months might bring. Will Europe’s support for Ukraine hold? Andrew Mueller speaks to Marlene Laruelle, Suzanne Lynch, Anna Nemtsova and Alya Shandra.
Explainer 330: Imran Khan
Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has been charged by police with breaching the country’s anti-terror act. Andrew Mueller explains what this is all about.
Kenya’s new leader
William Ruto has been elected as Kenya’s next president, narrowly defeating veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga. Who is William Ruto and how will he position Kenya on the world stage? Andrew Mueller speaks to Moses Onyango, Naveena Kottoor and Murithi Mutiga.
Explainer 329 – Scott Morrison: That’s not my job
Revelations have emerged that the former prime minister of Australia Scott Morrison had himself sworn in to five cabinet positions while serving as the leader of the government. Andrew Mueller tries to explain his rationale.
Moldova: Putin’s next target?
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, there has been concern that Moldova might also be in Moscow’s sights. How threatened is Moldova and how can Europe help to protect it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Paula Erizanu, Valeriu Pasha, Alexandru Flenchea and General Sir Richard Shirreff.
Explainer 328: Gaza
Last week Israel launched air strikes on targets in Gaza. Andrew Mueller explains what makes this event different from the usual warfare with Palestine.
The trouble with Taiwan
Nancy Pelosi’s Taiwan trip was met with fury in Beijing, raising fears of a potential clash between the US and China. Was Pelosi’s visit a good idea? Can any lessons be drawn from Lithuania’s David-and-Goliath clash with China? Where do we go from here? Monocle’s Andrew Mueller speaks to Samson…
Explainer 327: Why is Serbia irate over licence plates?
Kosovo intends to implement a policy that requires drivers in the country to use Kosovan licence plates but Serbia isn’t happy. Andrew Mueller explains what this is really about.
The art of not taking sides
While much of the west is united against Russia’s war in Ukraine, other countries have avoided taking sides. What does it really mean to be neutral and is non-alignment still possible in today’s connected world? To examine the cases of South Africa, Switzerland, Japan and Sweden, Andrew Mueller speaks to…
