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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
Does the immigration debate have to be like this?
As the right engages in fearmongering and the left struggles with coherent messaging, can immigration be reformed? Is shutting the door effective? And how does anyone win against those who want to shut it?
Explainer 483: Labour’s England flag frenzy
There has been an uptick in St George’s flags festooned on buildings and spray-painted over road signs in England. But why, despite right-wing associations, is Labour endorsing the practice?
Shadow boxing in the Caribbean: Why is the US cornering Venezuela?
The US Navy sets sail for Venezuela. What does president Trump hope to accomplish with this gunboat diplomacy? How has president Maduro clung to power and will the US ever leave South America alone?
Explainer 481: Why has Australia thrown out Iran’s ambassador?
For the first time ever, Australia has expelled an ambassador. But why is Iran’s Ahmad Sadeghi packing his bags and what does it have to do with antisemitic attacks?
Who will run the world if the US doesn’t want to anymore?
As president Trump’s isolationist leanings become US foreign policy, is the era of the American hegemony over? Did the US lead us somewhere worthwhile? And if the US recedes, who steps up?
Explainer 480: Myanmar and the perks of posing as a democracy
Myanmar’s military, which has held power since 2021, has announced a general election for later this year. Has Myanmar suddenly become a democracy? Or is something else afoot?
Is a liberal Israel recoverable and might that be the key to peace?
Israel was once regarded as an essentially left-wing project. Now, the country has grown more conservative, defensive and, some would argue, extreme. Is a liberal Israel recoverable? And might that lead to peace?
Explainer 479: Who are the Balochistan Liberation Army and why have they suddenly attracted US attention?
The Balochistan Liberation Army has been reclassified by the US as a “foreign terrorist organization”. But why the sudden interest in a Pakistani bête noire?
Is popularity in politics a thing of the past?
Political leaders around the world face waning popularity and seem to be unable to change their fates. Is this the result of less effective leaders or more impatient electorates?
Explainer 478: Why does Trump care about Bolsonaro?
Jair Bolsonaro was placed under house arrest after breaking pre-trial rules this week as he faces charges for attempting to stage a coup. But why is Trump throwing his support behind Brazil’s former president?
