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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
Mosul: the end of the fight against Isis?
In Iraq, Mosul is all but recaptured from Islamic State. In Syria, Raqqa looks likely to be freed next. Does the caliphate have a future if it holds no territory? And how can the retaken cities be rebuilt to stop IS coming back?
Explainer 71: Canada’s 150th Birthday
As Canada reaches the ripe old age of 150, Tomos Lewis asks what, exactly, is Canada celebrating?
The Gulf – another Cold War?
As tensions continue to rise between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Andrew Mueller asks if the co-ordinated shunning of Qatar by many of its neighbours is just a distraction – and where this political stalemate could be heading.
Explainer 70: Who are Mali’s Islamists?
After Sunday’s attack on a tourist resort just outside Bamako, Andrew Mueller asks who are Mali’s Islamists and what do they want?
Does independence always matter?
Independence movements don’t always mean a heroic struggle against oppression. Some countries that appear functional and pleasant to the outside world are home to people who do not agree. They want to be free – but from what?
Explainer 69: How will Hong Kong celebrate its return to China?
As Hong Kong prepares to celebrate 20 years since its return to the motherland, Monocle’s Ceinwen Thomas asks who is celebrating what?
Horn of Africa – Kenya
In the last part of a special series looking at the Horn of Africa, we turn to Kenya ahead of this year’s election. Its old problems are still unresolved. So what sort of nation will emerge after the vote?
Explainer 68: Is the US becoming a rogue state?
Monocle’s Steve Bloomfield on what it means if the leader of the US walks, talks and acts like an autocrat.
Horn of Africa – Ethiopia
In the second of a three-part special looking at the Horn of Africa, we explore a country in a state of emergency: Ethiopia. Protests have put the government under pressure and hundreds have been killed. So what’s next?
Explainer 67: Mongolia votes
Monocle’s Asia editor at large, Kenji Hall, looks at the upcoming election in Mongolia.
