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
Rouhani’s ‘referendum’
On 19 May Iranians get to decide their next president. In an election that’s more a test of current president Hassan Rouhani’s policies than an act of democracy, its importance might seem secondary to…
Trump’s first 100 days
We look at five key days that have defined Donald Trump’s presidency so far: from healthcare, to the relationship with the media, turning against old allies, imposing a travel ban and the ongoing investigation…
The legacy of colonialism
Countries that were colonised don’t tend to forget – but for the colonisers it’s a little more complicated. We look at three different periods in colonial history: Belgium and Congo; Portugal and Angola; and…
What does the election mean for France?
As Europe’s next big election draws closer, France has a choice to make: socialist, far-right populist or straight down the middle. But what are the issues that matter to the only people who matter,…
The French election and Europe
France’s presidential election has 11 candidates, from established parties and no party at all. The winner will not just take France in a new direction but will also have a major impact on the…
The future of Ireland
The UK and Ireland have a long and bloody past but since the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 the countries have remained mostly at peace. But since Britain’s exit from the EU, the relationship…
After Mosul
The battle for Mosul was supposed to be over by now but the coalition has found it harder than it predicted. The toll has been great: hundreds of civilians have died and tens of…
Iceland’s triumph
No nation fell as far during the 2008 global financial crisis as Iceland. But unlike other countries Iceland decided to hold those responsible for the crash to account. Now, nine years on, the country…
Why the Dutch election matters
The first of Europe’s big-three elections of 2017 takes place next week; in the Netherlands it is yet another test for liberal democracy. Monocle’s Steve Bloomfield is joined by Philippe Remarque, editor in chief…
Brexit – what Europe wants
At some stage this month the UK prime minister Theresa May will trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, formally announcing that the UK wishes to leave the European Union, kickstarting two years (or…
