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
What does Brexit mean for British Overseas Territories?
Among the ever-increasing number of things that weren’t really considered during the run up to the Brexit vote was what would happen to Britain’s 14 overseas territories. For some it might pose some minor inconveniences but for others it could cut off vital trade and travel routes – or even…
Explainer 131: Korean train diplomacy
Can a rail link connecting North and South Korea help ease tensions between the countries? And, if so, why isn’t it being allowed to go ahead? Monocle’s Asia editor at large Kenji Hall explains.
Is Kosovo’s border in the right place?
Previously a red line at the negotiating table, the idea of a land swap between Serbia and Kosovo is now being touted by both countries’ leaders. However, the idea hasn’t been received well by the international community – or even by many of those living in the disputed regions.
Explainer 130: Iran: parliament vs president
This week Iran’s parliament moved a step closer to impeaching president Hassan Rouhani. Despite his high public ratings, the dire economic situation since the US pulled out of the nuclear deal have led to his colleagues losing faith in his leadership. Andrew Mueller asks if Rouhani is really to blame.
Global leaders: Narendra Modi
In the final part of our summer series on global leaders, we profile Indian prime minister Narendra Modi. He campaigned on a promise to modernise India – a task not for the faint of heart – but since taking office his lifelong links with hardcore Hindu nationalists have threatened to…
Explainer 129: The people vote again?
Since the UK voted to leave the European Union there have been many attempts to try to stop it from happening. The most recent comes in the form of a donation from the founder of fashion brand Superdry. Andrew Mueller asks if the People’s Vote campaign can be successful –…
Global leaders: Miguel Díaz-Canel
In part three of our summer series on global leaders we profile Cuba’s new president Miguel Díaz-Canel. After almost 60 years, the revolutionary Castro brothers have handed over power. Andrew Mueller – joined by Helen Yaffe, Cristina Escobar and Victor Bulmer Thomas – asks what Díaz-Canel’s plans for the country…
Explainer 128: Pacific Islands Forum
At the beginning of September, the 18 full-time members of the Pacific Islands Forum will gather on the tiny atoll of Nauru. Our Hong Kong bureau chief James Chambers explains why not everyone is looking forward to attending, and why some aren’t allowed to attend at all.
Global leaders: Theresa May
In part two of our summer series on global leaders we profile UK prime minister Theresa May. The Conservative party leader was handed the poisoned chalice of Brexit little more than two years ago. Andrew Mueller – joined by Terry Stiastny, Andrew Gimson and Meryl Kenny – asks what hope…
Explainer 127: What does Ontario’s new premier tell us about politics in Canada?
Anyone wanting a glimpse of what might be unfolding in Canadian politics should look to Ontario, which has just elected Doug Ford – brother of the late crack-smoking mayor of Toronto, Rob – as its new premier. In the opening weeks of his time in office Ford laid down the…
