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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
World Cup dreams
Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield looks back at this year’s World Cup in Brazil, focusing on the future of the tournament and Fifa, the body that organises it. With author and broadcaster David Goldblatt and poet and football writer Musa Okwonga.
The Foreign Desk presents: The state of Kurdistan
A debate on the future of Iraqi Kurdistan chaired by foreign editor Steve Bloomfield, as Iraq’s military continues its fight against Isis forces in the country. Featuring Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Iraqi Kurdistan’s High Representative to the UK, and Irbil-based journalist Hiwa Osman.
Brits abroad
Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on British foreign policy. From involvement in the 2003 invasion of Iraq to the decisive vote on military intervention in Syria last year, we assess the UK’s role on the world stage. Featuring Sir Malcolm Rifkind and Lord David Owen..
The art of political reporting
From scandal at Toronto City Hall to a night at the theatre with Silvio Berlusconi (and a female entourage), we hear from those who have witnessed political upheaval up close. Featuring Kevin Donovan of the *Toronto Star*, Natalia Angius from Italian broadcaster Rai and Josh Gerstein of Politico.
Libya: the death of a revolution
As Libya continues to grapple with the transition from dictatorship to democracy, Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a debate on the future of the country. With Magdalena Mughrabi of Amnesty International, former Libyan MP Hassan al-Amin and journalist Mary Fitzgerald.
The future of Europe’s monarchies
As King Juan Carlos of Spain announces his intention to abdicate – the third abdication worldwide in a year – Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on the future of the royal houses of Europe. With historian Carolyn Harris, Anjo Clement of Nieuw Republikeins Genootschap and royal biographer…
World Cup legacies
World Cup legacies: As kick-off at Brazil’s World Cup edges ever closer, Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on what host nations are left with once the final ball has been kicked. Featuring football author David Goldblatt and sportswriter Musa Okwonga.
Out and African
Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on the gay-rights movements across Africa. From South Africa to Uganda and Senegal to Kenya, we assess the state of the battle for gay and transgender communities across the continent. Featuring Buzzfeed’s J Lester Feder and activist Kevin Mwachiro.
Democracy and the EU
As millions of Europeans cast their votes in this year’s EU elections, Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield hosts a discussion on just how democratic a body the EU itself is. Featuring Christine Ockrent and David Marquand.
The battle for Ukraine
Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on the future of Ukraine as the east of the country continues to splinter and the stand-off between Moscow and the West escalates. Featuring Nataliya Gumenyuk and Oliver Bullough.
