Sponsored by
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
Post-Putin Russia
At some point, be it soon or not, Vladimir Putin will stop being the president of Russia. But after 18 years at the top and no clear line of succession, is it possible to imagine what that Russia might look like – and who or what could even replace him?…
Explainer 93: Is India losing its influence in Nepal?
With Nepal’s landmark general election heading into the next stage, Hong Kong bureau chief James Chambers explains why Kathmandu’s towering neighbours, China and India, are watching closely.
Zimbabwe after Mugabe: now what?
Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule has come to an end amid jubilation at home and relief abroad. Emmerson Mnangagwa has been sworn in as the new president of Zimbabwe and faces the daunting task of rebuilding the country – and of meeting the hopes and expectations of its residents. Andrew Mueller…
Explainer 92: What next for Angela Merkel?
After talks to form a new coalition government collapsed, the chancellor of Germany is facing the biggest crisis of her political career. Andrew Mueller asks what’s next for Angela Merkel?
Does Japan need a military?
Since the Second World War Japan has been a pacifist nation. But during that time it has built up an impressive defence force that, if it was a fully fledged military, would be the eighth largest in the world. In an ever more unstable region is it time for this…
Explainer 91: Should Democrats be feeling confident?
With a recent string of electoral successes under their belts and the all-important mid-terms on their way next year, New York bureau chief Ed Stocker asks if the Democrats finally have something to celebrate.
Trouble in the House of Saud
After an abrupt and significant week in Saudi Arabia, from shock resignations to missile interceptions, Christopher Lord looks at the state of the House of Saud and the reasons behind its recent change of strategy. Also in the studio: Ahmed Al Omran, Jane Kinninmont and Mohammed Khalid Alyahya.
Explainer 90: Should South Korea have better missiles?
With Donald Trump taking his first tour of Asia, all eyes are on a region wracked with tensions. But would more missiles be helpful or detrimental to the situation?
A ‘new era’ for China?
Xi Jinping is, officially, China’s most powerful leader since Chairman Mao – his doctrine is enshrined in The Party’s constitution forever. But is China really at the start of a ‘new era’? Or have corruption, a slowing economy and the authoritarian regime started to have a negative impact on one…
Explainer 89: What is the Balfour Declaration?
This week marks the centenary of the Balfour Declaration – a short paragraph that paved the way for the establishment of the State of Israel. What did it say and why are we still talking about it 100 years later?
