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
Burma
As the country gears up for the most important election since military rule was imposed in 1962, we ask how significant this step towards democracy will be. Steve Bloomfield is joined by guests Bill…
Mohamed Fahmy
In his first full interview since leaving Egypt after his release from prison, former Al Jazeera journalist Mohamed Fahmy talks to Steve Bloomfield about his fight for freedom.
Russia in Syria
As Russia’s bombing campaign in Syria intensifies, questions are raised over who Vladimir Putin is really targeting; we take a careful look at what his ambitions in the region might be. Our guests are…
Canada’s political attack ads
From the outside, the world of Canadian political attack ads is bemusing; from the inside it’s a vital part of any successful campaign. Misquoting your opponents, lambasting their policies or insulting their hair –…
When Europeans were the refugees
In the wake of the migrant crisis currently affecting Europe, we look back to the times when Europeans were the ones seeking refuge. From those who left for political reasons to those with their…
Whistleblowers: Exposing the truth
Grand corruption, missing billions, and state-sponsored violence: would you turn a blind eye or blow the whistle? Monocle’s Steve Bloomfield hears from three whistleblowers to learn how they discovered the truth and how exposing…
Millennium Development Goals
Fifteen years after the Millennium Development Goals were set, it’s time for a review. Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion asking if these targets for global development worked. Michela Wrong and Simon…
Rwanda’s Paul Kagame
Despite his dubious approach to democracy and his role in regional conflict, Rwanda’s president Paul Kagame has received the ear and praise of many world leaders. Why? Steve Bloomfield asks his guests Phil Clark…
Politics on the big screen
In the final episode of our series on politics and the arts, we turn to film. From drama to documentaries, what makes for great political cinema? And who decides whether or not a film…
Politics on the small screen
In the third episode of our series on politics and the arts, we turn to television. From ‘Borgen’ to ‘The West Wing’, what makes for a great political drama? And what grabs audiences? With…
