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
Explainer 56: Should we be working fewer hours?
The dream of working less and relaxing more is not a new one. But for too long we’ve talked about work purely in terms of money.
Why the Dutch election matters
The first of Europe’s big-three elections of 2017 takes place next week; in the Netherlands it is yet another test for liberal democracy. Monocle’s Steve Bloomfield is joined by Philippe Remarque, editor in chief of ‘De Volkskrant’, and [Emilie van Outeren](https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2017/03/08/who-is-geert-wilders-the-dutch-populist-who-could-win-but-not-rule-a1549168), a political journalist for ‘NRC’, to discuss why this…
Explainer 55: When Angela meets Donald
German chancellor Angela Merkel heads to Washington to meet Donald Trump. It will be his trickiest meeting since taking office – Merkel is one of the few world leaders who has made no attempt to hide her disdain for him.
Brexit – what Europe wants
At some stage this month the UK prime minister Theresa May will trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, formally announcing that the UK wishes to leave the European Union, kickstarting two years (or more) years of negotiations. We’ve heard a lot from May and her merry band of Brexiteers…
Explainer 54: Why Turkey’s referendum matters
Turkey is gearing up for a constitutional referendum in April that could give executive powers to President Erdoğan. Our Istanbul bureau chief Christopher Lord explains how important and disruptive this could be for the country.
The revival of American satire
President Trump presents a formidable challenge to satirical writers, broadcasters, comedians and visual artists. What are the ins and outs of covering such an unpredictable president and more importantly, how do you satirise the self-satirising?
Explainer 53: Nato’s Trump card?
Could Donald Trump’s presidency end up leaving Nato better armed and better defended?
North Korea in the age of Donald Trump
Kim Jong-un now finds himself facing a foe who also understands the awesome and disorienting power of unpredictability. How will North Korea negotiate the age of Donald Trump?
Explainer 52: What will Brexit mean for the UK’s border with Ireland?
With the triggering of Article 50, Brexit will mean that the UK will have a physical border with the EU. But how would that work?
Who is Martin Schulz?
As Germany gears up for the federal election in September, we profile SPD’s candidate for chancellor, Martin Schulz. After a successful stint as European Parliament president, his popularity at home is growing. But is it enough to beat Angela Merkel?
