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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
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.
The state of Palestine
As peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestine falter once again, Monocle’s foreign editor chairs a discussion on what an independent Palestinian state might look like. Join Steve Bloomfield to discuss the challenges ahead with guests Dr Jerrold D Green and Palestinian entrepreneur, David Khoury.
Revolution Portugal
40 years since Portugal’s Carnation Revolution, Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on the country’s bloodless shift from dictatorship to democracy featuring contributions from the novelist Helder Macedo and Dr Pedro Ramos Pinto.
The Liberation Question
From South Africa to Zimbabwe, why have so many liberation movements in Africa failed to give up the power they fought for? As South Africa prepares to head to the polls Monocle’s foreign editor, Steve Bloomfield, chairs a discussion on why some liberation movements hold true to the democratic process…
Biographers’ tales
Is the political biography still a relevant force in our understanding of those who shape the world around us? Three biographers explain what it’s like to have exclusive access the lives of some of the world’s most influential figures. Featuring David Nasaw, Jacqueline Kent and Stefan Kornelius.
Karzai’s goodbye
Hamid Karzai is preparing to leave office after 12 years in power. Monocle’s foreign editor Steve Bloomfield chairs a discussion on the Afghan president’s legacy as US troops prepare to leave a country where security seems as fragile as ever. Featuring Gayle Tzemach Lemmon of the Council on Foreign Relations…
