Monocle 24: The Foreign Desk: Recent Episodes
Monocle
Presented by Andrew Mueller, Monocle 24’s flagship global-affairs show features expert guests and in-depth analysis of the big issues of the week. Winner in the ‘best current affairs’ category of the 2018 British Podcast awards.
The migration crisis in Ceuta sparked a fierce response across Europe. Does it expose a genuine threat to the border-free Schengen zone or are governments using the surge for political gain?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Morocco confirmed this week that it has named a major highway in Western Sahara after US president Donald Trump. But what’s the strategy behind awarding Trump a personal stake in the disputed territory?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thirty years ago, it was assumed that the internet would be an engine of liberal democracy. Now, Silicon Valley’s massive wealth is embracing power and promoting right-wing ideology. How did we get here?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
India’s youth-led Cockroach Janta Party is scuttling onto the political stage. It has already claimed one minister’s resignation but can continued protests force the government to give up more ground?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Canada battles wildfires, Spain declares a national climate emergency and France evacuates tens of thousands, where do the politics around climate change stand? Is denialism gaining traction or is diplomacy winning the day?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andy Burnham became the UK’s seventh prime minister in 10 years this week. Why has Britain adopted Italian-style political turbulence and is it here to stay?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The World Cup has always been political, including previous editions hosted by juntas and dictatorships. This year, presidents thumbed the scale and small nations made us dream again. Who scored and who was caught offside?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan announced plans this week to establish its own intelligence agency, its first since the Second World War. But why now?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A special episode in association with Hitachi Energy, recorded at Midori House in London. Andrew Mueller discusses the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition with Gerhard Salge, Olga Rosca and Richard Nugee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the global competition for minerals intensifies, we consider the geopolitics at play. How did China emerge as a dominant force? And will the DRC ever benefit from its own resources?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Far-right French firebrand Marine Le Pen’s sentence for embezzlement was reduced this week, allowing her to stand in next year’s presidential election. But will the conviction hinder or help her campaign? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the US marks 250 years, is one of the pillars of its democracy, a free press, under threat? Guests including White House correspondent Maggie Haberman discuss the current administration’s relationship with the media.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week Marco Rubio hosted the latest round of talks between rival Libyan factions in an attempt to unify the country. But what’s in it for the US secretary of state?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monocle reports from Almedalen Week, the annual political summit on the island of Gotland. We assess the state of Swedish politics in an election year, with guests including minister for gender equality Nina Larsson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Poland has been one of Ukraine’s biggest allies since the full-scale invasion by Russia. But will that continue after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky’s controversial tribute?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mexico has made a promising start on the pitch but what other victories is the nation eyeing up? Andrew Mueller is joined by former ambassador to the US Arturo Sarukhán, among others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While Fifa faces reports of unsold tickets, one seat at France’s World Cup matches is being deliberately left empty. But why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Live from the Black Sea Security Forum, we hear from Ukrainian MPs on the country’s future and the state of warfare. As Ukraine fights on, it has shifted from needing aid to providing new intelligence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ivanka Trump has revealed extensive plans to redevelop Albanian island Sazan into a luxury resort. But after thousands gathered in protest, will it go ahead?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Live from the Black Sea Security Forum, we hear stories from both the front line and surrounding regions in the war against Russia, including senator Ruben Gallego and Salomé Zourabichvili, fifth president of Georgia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Italians are up in arms about the newly unveiled Ferrari Luce, the luxury carmaker’s first electric vehicle. But why the controversy? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The rapid rise of prediction markets is prompting questions about their influence on politics, military operations and the way we consume news. We discuss with guests including PredictIt founder John Aristotle Phillips.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has pardoned 15 Senegalese football fans ahead of the World Cup. But what happened at the Africa Cup of Nations final to trigger their arrest?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cubans are facing a nightmarish humanitarian crisis – and Washington is piling on the pressure. US secretary of state Marco Rubio has long dreamed of regime change on the island. But will it happen? We head to Havana for the picture on the ground.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The feud between the Philippines’ most powerful political dynasties continues. This week, vice-president Sara Duterte was impeached. Andrew Mueller unpacks the latest turn in the country’s ongoing political saga.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As great powers become increasingly unstable and unpredictable, smaller nations are building alliances and trade deals. Guests including Canada’s prime minister, Mark Carney, consider whether we have entered the age of the middle power.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What is gerrymandering and why is its recent revival bad for US democracy? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Europe contends with the multiplying conflicts on its doorstep and the withdrawal of US protection, can the continent make itself into a modern superpower? Paolo Gentiloni, Mikhail Kasyanov and more weigh in.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who are the separatists campaigning for a vote of independence in Alberta, Canada? And how real is the threat? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This year’s Delphi Economic Forum was the stage for much contemplation over Europe’s relationship with the US. Does anyone, even his own supporters, understand President Trump? We hear from Peter Baker and others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Given Donald Trump’s fondness for royalty, who better than King Charles III to smooth US-UK tensions? Andrew Mueller considers whether the current state visit has delivered a diplomatic win for palace soft power.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Live from the Delphi Economic Forum: The war in Iran’s impact as seen from Iraqi Kurdistan, the US and Estonia. Is there a strategy to resolve the conflict? Then: has the war turned cracks in the Transatlantic relationship into serious fault lines?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ethiopian superstar Teddy Afro has taken aim at the country’s prime minister, Abiy Ahmed, in new song “Das Tal”. What’s being protested and should Ahmed be concerned ahead of general elections?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In recent years, the rise of the right has seemed unstoppable. But are rifts among US Republicans over Iran and the fall of Hungary’s Viktor Orbán a sign that the tide is turning?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Despite a relatively small population and limited economic power, Hungary’s general election result, turning out far-right prime minister Viktor Orbán in favour of conservative Péter Magyar, has outsized international significance. But why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A ceasefire has been announced between Iran, the US and Israel, but are all parties in agreement on the terms? Who is the victor? And what did Operation Epic Fury actually achieve?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US vice-president JD Vance is in Hungary to bolster its prime minister, Viktor Orbán, ahead of elections this weekend. The VP accused the EU of “foreign election interference” – but why is he getting involved?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Iran’s regime is battered but intact and holding the Strait of Hormuz while the US is militarily dominant but strategically stagnant. Is victory for anyone still possible? Do realistic off-ramps exist?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At a joint press conference this week, chancellor Friedrich Merz and president Ahmed al-Sharaa encouraged Syrians to return home. But who benefits from the plan?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel has invaded Lebanon, again. With more than 1,000 people killed and 1.2 million displaced, many fear a return to civil war. What does Israel want from this? Does Lebanon have any options?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week two Russians are on trial in Angola, accused of espionage. Has the southern African nation been infiltrated by foreign spies or are they scapegoats for a failing government? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The consequences of the US-Israel war in Iran are rippling around the world. Can Volodymyr Zelensky retain focus on the war in Ukraine? Will an already fragile Nato splinter? Is this the end of rules-based order?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Despite the ongoing military strikes in Iran, Donald Trump has been sizing up his next potential conquest: Cuba. But could, would and should he actually strike the country? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US and Israel have a shared target in Iran but do they have the same goals? We discuss with guests including John Bolton and Nate Swanson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rapper turned politician Balendrah Shah was elected Nepal’s prime minister this week. Andrew Mueller traces his political ascent, fuelled by last year’s Gen-Z protests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Canada’s Mark Carney sits down with Monocle’s editorial director and chairman, Tyler Brûlé, to discuss how middle powers can shape the future, the importance of a national brand and finding opportunities in global disorder.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We head to Dubai, New York and Jerusalem for the latest developments as the war in Iran grips the Gulf. How are civilians faring? How is the US explaining this war? Is an off-ramp possible?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While the world’s eyes are on Iran, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have flared into open conflict. What is driving the latest escalation? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US senator Lisa Murkowski, Kosovo’s prime minister Albin Kurti and French minister delegate for European affairs Benjamin Haddad discuss whether Europe is ready to become a global leader as the transatlantic relationship frays.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How did the killing of “El Mencho”, head of CJNG drug cartel, lead to tourists being trapped in Puerto Vallarta? Plus: How does this fit in with President Sheinbaum’s domestic policy and her relationship with Donald Trump?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a bruising year following JD Vance’s speech at the last Munich Security Conference, we discuss the state of relations between Europe and the US.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A special episode in association with Hitachi Energy, recorded before the Munich Security Conference. Andrew Mueller and Carlota Rebelo discuss the energy transition with Hitachi Energy’s Maxine Ghavi; Markus Blume, Bavarian state minister for science and art; Prof Wolfgang Herrmann; and Bianca Rech, the director of FC Bayern Women.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was not allowed to compete in a helmet decorated with pictures of athletes killed in the war with Russia. But is it really true that the Olympics are apolitical?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the Philippines’ Rodrigo Duterte awaits trial in The Hague, we consider the difficulties around prosecuting individual leaders. Does it work as a deterrent for governments? And what is it like to defend one?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison. Despite having a British passport, the UK’s response has been limited. Andrew Mueller explains China’s latest blow to free press.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the 1979 hostage crisis to strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, US-Iran tensions have simmered for decades. But are Trump’s latest threats against the ayatollahs serious? Or will imminent talks in Muscat cool the discord?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Given Trump’s recent, more combative approach to foreign policy, it was surprising to see the US extend the hand of friendship to West Africa’s military dictators this week. So what’s behind this new alliance?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One month on from US forces seizing the now former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro, its impact still remains unclear. Will Caracas’s new leader bring any real change? Is Trump’s aversion to foreign entanglements over?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, General Johnson Olony, deputy chief of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, ordered troops to “spare no one”. Andrew Mueller unpacks the two-man power struggle at the top and how it continues to fuel civil war.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘The Foreign Desk’ reports from Nuuk as Trump’s threat of force grips Greenland. Is Nuuk closer now to Copenhagen or is independence more important than ever? Can the damage done to Nato be repaired?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are Donald Trump’s designs on Greenland in any way explainable? Andrew Mueller does his best to try.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As President Trump completes the first year of his second term, we take stock. Is there a plan underpinning the chaos – or is chaos the plan? And what will the next three years hold?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Only Malaysia and Indonesia have threatened a ban on X unless its AI assistant, Grok, stops producing sexually explicit content. Why is the rest of the world staying silent?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller and our expert panel discuss the key issues to keep an eye on in 2026.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump has pledged to ‘run’ Venezuela after US forces captured its leader, Nicolás Maduro. Is this the beginning of a tripolar world between the US, China and Russia? And should Greenland, Cuba and Colombia be on edge?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The most notable world events that we explained in 2025.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller reflects on some of his favourite, and most impactful, conversations from the year on 'The Foreign Desk'
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller and our expert panel look back at the world events that shaped 2025.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lithuania has been beleaguered by balloons drifting into its airspace from neighbouring Belarus. What are the military advantages of this seemingly whimsical mode of transportation? And how severe is the threat? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan prime minister Sanae Takaichi’s assertion that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be a threat to her nation’s survival has spurred a crisis between Tokyo and Beijing. Can de-escalation be achieved?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Benin has become the latest West African state to face a coup. Andrew Mueller explains how the region’s history of upheavals gave president Patrice Talon the tools to stop the attempt.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One year on from the spectacular toppling of the Assad regime, has the Syrian revolution achieved its aims? How well is President al-Sharaa governing and remaking his image? Will global intervention help or hurt the state?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Self-styled US “Secretary of War” Pete Hegseth is facing criticism for striking boats off the coast of Venezuela, killing more than 80 people. But will there be any consequences?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A special episode in association with Hitachi Energy, recorded at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels. Andrew Mueller discusses the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition with a panel of experts from Hitachi Energy, GE Vernova and Aurora.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How many Russians support President Putin’s worldview? Does real opposition exist? Leading dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza outlines how Russia and the West must prepare for the post-Putin era, and why those efforts must begin now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does Ukraine stand to gain anything from the US-brokered peace deal? And does Russia even want the war to end?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many politicians and diplomats serve during incidents that feel stranger than fiction. Veep writer David Quantick and former UK ambassador John Everard discuss how entertainment and politics interact.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It has been a tough week for Zelensky’s government. But is there a bright side to the corruption scandal gripping Ukraine? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the ice recedes, geopolitical tensions are emerging among arctic nations – not to mention China and the US. What are the stakes? And how can this region be better defended?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The BBC is the latest media outlet to find itself at the mercy of Trump’s legal team. Does this spell the end of the embattled British institution? Or just another passing feud for the litigious president?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Young people across the world are taking to the streets, setting fire to parliaments and toppling governments. But why now? And are these activists any different to previous generations?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After threatening Venezuela with military intervention last week, President Trump has now shifted his focus to Nigeria. But why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Argentina’s mid-terms surprised everyone, as president Javier Milei’s party doubled its parliamentary seats. Have Argentinians bought into his radical economic programme? Or will the pain and populism prove too much?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US presidents are, as we know, two-term limited. But will that stop Trump? Andrew Mueller lays out the possible paths to re-re-election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eighty years on from its inception, the United Nations is in crisis. Former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton joins an expert panel to discuss the institution’s need for change, and if reform is possible.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan made history this week as its first woman prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, was sworn in. But what are her politics and how will she manage without a parliamentary majority?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Trump has achieved what numerous other world leaders have failed to secure: a peace deal between Israel and Hamas. So is there actually merit in his unorthodox approach to diplomacy?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Andry Rajoelina flees as Madagascar’s youth follow the example of protestors in Morocco, Nepal and Sri Lanka, among others. But why are Gen Z taking to the streets across the world? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After two years of conflict, Israel and Hamas have finally agreed terms of a ceasefire. But was this the only possible path? What were the other options open to Israel since 7 October?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While neither nation is famed for their military might, the mutual defence treaty signed this week by Australia and Papua New Guinea has some strategic benefits for both. Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last Sunday’s parliamentary election was one of existential stakes for Moldova and considerable concern for Europe. But will the newly elected, pro-EU PAS keep Russian influence at bay?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following India’s recent victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, handshakes were absent and India refused to accept the trophy. Andrew Mueller plots the course of these nations’ geopolitical tensions on the cricket field.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The size, power and appetite for misinformation of the largest social media platforms is undeniable. But how real is the national security threat? And what can be done about it? We hear from MP Christine Jardine and others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ten countries recognised Palestine this week, including the UK, France and Canada. Why now? Andrew Mueller examines the geopolitical and domestic reasons behind the shift.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In democracies, it is an article of faith that nobody – not even the national leader – is above the law. As with most articles of faith, expedient exceptions are made. What impact does accountability have?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As information about Charlie Kirk’s killer slowly begins to emerge, the Republican Party’s response has been far more prompt. Andrew Mueller assesses the fallout.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following President Trump’s National Guard deployment in Los Angeles and Washington, cities across the US are bracing themselves. What is he trying to accomplish? And how can a city mayor prepare for it?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As many as 22 people are dead and hundreds injured in Nepal during riots against corruption and a social media ban. But is the government’s ruling as pure-hearted as they want it to appear?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following Trump’s first cabinet appointments, we consider what his second term might mean for tensions between international powers. Andrew Mueller speaks with Amy Mackinnon, national security reporter for ‘Foreign Policy’; John Herbst, former US ambassador to Ukraine; Stephen Young, former ambassador to China; and Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator.
African social media has been awash with scandalous videos of Baltasar Ebang Engonga, head of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency, filmed by the man himself, in his own office. Andrew Mueller explains the Shakespearian motives behind the leak and what it could mean for nation’s higher office.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the dust settles on what was a shocking election result for some, we ask how Trump’s decisive victory happened and what it means for the US and the world. Andrew Mueller speaks to ‘The Atlantic’ staff writer Tom Nichols, the US’s former deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, Heather Conley, and co-director of the UCL Centre on US Politics, Julie Norman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While we take stock of what Trump’s victory means for the world, one country’s election result has had a more reassuring effect, at least for the EU. This week, Moldova reelected president Maia Sandu. Andrew Mueller explains what it means beyond the country’s borders and why it matters.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump the peacemaker, Obama the deporter, George W Bush the foreign aider. Ahead of the election, we interrogate the counterintuitive positions candidates have taken against their party’s (and their own) image, once in office. Why do so many US presidents campaign in one direction and govern in another? Andrew Mueller speaks with former USAID administrator Andrew Natsios. Plus: a roundtable with Leslie Vinjamuri of the US and the Americas programme at Chatham House and Charles Hecker of geopolitical risk consultancy, Control Risks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the US braces itself for next week’s anxiety-inducing vote and Georgians reel at their own controversial ballot result, Andrew Mueller explains why Uruguay has enjoyed a sublimely excitement-free election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The war in Ukraine and Russia has affected East Asian foreign policy in more ways than you might expect. We explore North and South Korea's involvement in the conflict with former UK ambassador John Everard, China’s watchful eye with Oriana Skylar Mastro and the pivotal forthcoming elections in Japan with James D Brown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Charles III's first visit to Australia as king has drawn the support of some, the ire of others and indifference from most.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We explore the effects of artificial intelligence and the governments that are desperately trying to keep up with the technology. Are we all doomed or is there hope for mankind? Andrew Mueller speaks with Slovenia’s president, Natasa Pirc-Musar; Digital Europe director-general Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl; and CEO of Mission Control AI, Ramsay Brown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following attacks by Israeli troops and the discovery of a Hezbollah tunnel close to its base, the UN’s peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, UNIFIL, is under scrutiny. Andrew Mueller explains why this nearly 50-year long deployment has failed to reduce tensions between Israel and Lebanon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With arbitrary borders and conflicts becoming more fashionable of late, we explore three of the world’s stranger borders: Norway-Russia, Spain-Gibraltar and the Beaufort Sea between the US and Canada. Plus: Jonn Elledge author of ‘A History of The World in 47 Borders: The Stories Behind The Lines On Our Maps’
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Despite many countries backing out of energy deals with Russia since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, some remaining contracts have required Ukraine to maintain the pipeline between Russia and Europe. Andrew Mueller explains how this surreal business arrangement is funding both sides of the conflict, at least for the time being.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We look back on Hamas’s brutal attack, Israel’s deadly retaliation and the international community’s hopeless response. One year on, do we have any idea how this ends? Andrew Mueller speaks with Mairav Zonszein in Tel Aviv and Mina Al-Oraibi of ‘The National’ in Abu Dhabi. Plus: a roundtable with two former Israeli ambassadors and advocates of a two-state solution.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Although they have not achieved a majority, Austria’s Nazi-linked FPÖ party claimed victory after receiving the highest amount of votes at the weekend’s election. Andrew Mueller explains the group’s past and what we may learn for the present.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Foreign Desk is live in the immediate hours after Israel announced the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Andrew Mueller speaks with David Wood of the International Crisis Group in Beirut, and analysts Lina Khatib and Yossi Mekelberg of Chatham House. Plus: we hear from Hezbollah scholar Aurélie Daher.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explores the reasons why Sri Lankans ditched their traditional leaders and plumped for Anura Kumara Dissanayake instead.
It has been more than a decade since a Western Balkan nation joined the European Union and long-simmering tensions between neighbours in the region are beginning to fray. In this special episode, largely recorded at the Globsec conference in Prague, we speak to those keeping the peace including Miroslav Lajčák, Christian Schmidt and former Croatian president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović.
Andrew Mueller explains the significance of holding local elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
After the election of US president Donald Trump in 2016 and Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a consensus has formed that Europe needs to do more – and spend more – to look after itself. But at a time when the cost of living and other domestic issues remain a priority for many governments, there is little appetite to spend on something that might never be used. In this special episode recorded at the recent Globsec forum in Prague, we speak to Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, Denis Mercier, Lieutenant General Piotr Blazeusz and Jiri Sedivy to consider threats to Europe and their necessary responses.
As Germany enforces tougher checks on all its borders, Andrew Mueller questions what this will mean for the Schengen Area.
The first edition in our special series recorded at the Globsec Forum in Prague. We hear a selection of highlights including an insight into defending a country during active conflict with Ukraine’s former defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov; EU harmony with Czechia’s foreign minister, Jan Lipavský; Nato’s priorities with General Chris Badia; and the struggles of democratic journalism as the far-right rises with editor in chief of ‘SME’ Beata Balogová.
Amid this year’s elections, protests, frustrations and rise in authoritarianism, we explore what centrism really stands for – and whether it is on the march or in retreat. Andrew Mueller speaks with Monocle’s Paris bureau chief, Simon Bouvier, author and Israeli advisor Yair Zivan and former US defence official Michèle Flournoy.
Andrew Mueller explains why the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah seems to have peaked – and promptly fizzled out – over the weekend.
We explore how the US-Israel relationship has shifted over 10 months of war in Gaza and a change at the top of the Democratic presidential ticket. How might Kamala Harris approach the crisis differently than Joe Biden – and does the US still have any leverage to secure a long-term peace deal in the Middle East? Andrew Mueller speaks with Monocle’s US editor, Christopher Lord, analysts Julie Norman and Yossi Mekelberg, and former negotiator Aaron David Miller.
Andrew Mueller explains why Vladimir Putin fancies himself as a peacemaker between Azerbaijan and Armenia while his own country wages war.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How has Elon Musk reshaped political discourse and how much power does he have compared to the media barons of the past? Andrew Mueller explores the relationship between technology companies and governments, with David Gilbert of ‘Wired’, author and technologist Ansgar Baums, disinformation researcher Heidi Tworek and space-defence expert Clayton Swope.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As peace talks are set to begin in Geneva regarding Sudan’s year-long conflict, Andrew Mueller asks whether optimism about their success is foolhardy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Olympics provided some welcome respite for Emmanuel Macron and the French from their political headache. Have they learned anything about unity from the Games? In part two of our broadcasts live from Paris, Andrew Mueller speaks with French sports ambassador Laurence Fischer, Le Monde ‘M’ magazine editor Marie-Pierre Lannelongue and Paris-based journalist Simon Kuper. Plus: Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Mali has severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Olympics have never been just about the sports. We explore what it means for athletes to represent their countries, the mood in France and the history of boycotts and other geopolitical moments at the Games. Recorded at our pop-up studio in Paris, Andrew Mueller speaks to French journalist Daphnée Denis, athlete Shaun Gill of Belize and the Olympic Refugee Team’s chef de mission, Masomah Ali Zada. Plus: Taiwan-based filmmaker Garret Clarke and historian Philip Barker.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Ukraine prepares to receive some of the F-16s promised by Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway and Denmark, Andrew Mueller asks whether such a small number this late in the war can actually make a difference.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, faces a real challenge to his presidency this weekend, with a united opposition of Edmundo González and María Corina Machado campaigning for victory. What will it take to unseat Maduro and the Chavismo legacy that he represents? Andrew Mueller speaks with opposition advisor Paola Bautista de Alemán, Latin America analyst Christopher Sabatini and Venezuelan historian Miguel Tinker Salas.
Andrew Mueller explains why there have been deadly protests across Bangladesh.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, recorded partially in Washington during the Nato Summit, we take a look at the United States’ willingness and ability to assume its traditional role as leader of the free world in this pivotal era of global democracy. How much should America’s allies be worried? And if the US won’t be democracy’s arsenal any more, who will be?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ohio senator JD Vance has been announced as Donald Trump’s running mate and potential vice-president. Andrew Mueller explains his background and the likely reasons for his nomination.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘The Foreign Desk’ broadcasts from Washington for Nato’s 75th anniversary summit, with Joe Biden playing host under an intense spotlight. Andrew Mueller speaks to ministers from Estonia, Latvia and Moldova, as well as Ian Bremmer and former US defence official Ian Brzezinski. Plus: the story of Nato’s longest-serving spokesperson, Oana Lungescu.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why the West African junta have turned their back on Ecowas and what it means for the bloc.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UK sees its first change in government since Brexit. We explore how Keir Starmer will tackle relations with the EU, US and Middle East, as well as asylum policy. Andrew Mueller speaks with Claire Ainsley, Anand Menon, Mina Al-Oraibi and Sarah Singer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how the Democratic Party would replace Joe Biden should he choose to step down.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Iran’s influence is growing across the Middle East, with its proxies now dangerously close to an all-out war with Israel. Could presidential elections or an eventual ayatollah succession lead to a change in course? Andrew Mueller speaks to Iranian-American journalist Farnaz Fassihi of ‘The New York Times’, Iraqi analyst Renad Mansour and defence expert Jean-Loup Samaan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The European Union formally launched accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova this week. Andrew Mueller explains why the tortuous process that has left many countries in limbo might, nevertheless, be a good thing for these two nations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Ukraine peace summit did not lead to peace but it did surprise on the upside with more than 90 countries. Andrew Mueller was also in attendance in Switzerland. He reviews the summit’s tangible results and speaks to Australia’s Bill Shorten, as well as Iuliia Osmolovska and Lili Bivings from Ukraine and Kristian Berg Harpviken of the Peace Research Institute Oslo.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Vladimir Putin visits Kim Jong-un, Andrew Mueller explains why a warm relationship is so advantageous for both Russia and North Korea.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Voting for the far-right is no longer merely a protest for many. After the EU elections, we look at who can govern effectively, and who can be defeated. Andrew Mueller speaks with Sophie Pedder in France, Marilisa Palumbo in Italy and Ben Stanley in Poland.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains whether Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, will adhere to the UN Security Council resolution and if he even has much of a choice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Narendra Modi has secured a third term as India’s prime minister despite losing more votes than expected in the country’s election. We explore Modi’s foreign-policy doctrine and his testy relationship with Pakistan, China and Myanmar. Andrew Mueller speaks to Kapil Komireddi, Beenish Javed, Isabel Hilton and Ronan Lee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mexico has elected its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum. But, as Andrew Mueller explains, she has really been elected to continue the legacy of the incumbent president, Obrador.
Georgia has been gripped by protests as its parliament has passed a law that will force many of its NGOs and media to register as foreign agents. We look at what this means for Georgia’s future in the EU and how such laws fit into the autocratic playbook. Andrew Mueller speaks to journalist Rayhan Demytrie, Georgian opposition leader Tinatin Bokuchava, Estonian foreign minister Markus Tsahkna and Christopher Sabatini.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Armenia’s prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, has given villages to Azerbaijan, resulting in mass protests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The African National Congress looks likely to win South Africa’s upcoming election, despite facing the prospect of securing less than 50 per cent of the vote for the first time in its history. Is this the inevitable result of being in power for too long, or something else? Andrew Mueller speaks to Nwabisa Makunga of the country’s national daily Sowetan, author William Gumede and former opposition leader Tony Leon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France and New Caledonia have seen better days. Andrew Mueller explains France’s role in the South Pacific territory and why Paris is blaming a fresh round of unrest there on Azerbaijan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia celebrated its annual Black Sea Fleet Day with a notably smaller fleet in Sevastopol than just a few years ago. How has Ukraine managed to win in the sea? What has the Nato military alliance learned from that success? And how does Turkey exercise control as the gateway country to the Black Sea? We speak to Hanna Shelest in Odessa, James Bergeron of Nato Maritime Command and Turkish-American political scientist Soner Cagaptay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how the most recent Catalonian elections show that voters’ nationalist appetites may be waning.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Olaf Scholz visited the First German Brigade, which is stationed in Lithuania as part of Berlin’s new commitment to defend the Baltic states. But is Nato ready for Russia’s next move? We speak with Lithuania’s foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, Marion Messmer of Chatham House and General Richard Shirreff, former deputy supreme allied commander at Nato.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Panama has voted José Raúl Mulino as its new president. Andrew Mueller explains how, in reality, the endorsement belongs to his disqualified running mate, Ricardo Martinelli – a convicted criminal hiding under diplomatic asylum.
Why do leaders resign early? We speak with Pat Leahy of ‘The Irish Times’, Jacinda Ardern’s former chief of staff Raj Nahna, former Armenian president Armen Sarkissian, and historian Alex von Tunzelmann for a look at quitters through history.
As UN peacekeepers are being forced to leave the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Andrew Mueller speculates on the future of peacekeeping operations.
How has the war in Ukraine affected EU integration? And has Europe’s political and strategic centre shifted eastward? We speak to former Swedish prime minister Stefan Löfven about the EU’s parliamentary elections, and to Romanian and Moldovan officials about the bloc’s enduring appeal. Plus: Anand Menon of King’s College London on whether the UK regrets leaving.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why the US government is placing sanctions on an ultra-Orthodox group of soldiers within the IDF.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A special edition from Delphi about a newly confident Greece and its Balkan neighbours. Andrew Mueller speaks to president of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, the German ambassador to Greece, Andreas Kindl, Ukrainian MP Yulia Klymenko and Maria Gavouneli, director general of the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Iran delivered a missile strike against Israel and the potential ramifications.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Global events tend to be shaped by the great powers: those countries with vast territories, enormous populations and proportionate economic and military heft. Nevertheless, small states not only survive but prosper, particularly in terms of GDP per capita and happiness reports. What are the advantages of being a small state? How can they make their voices heard? And what is it like to lead one? Andrew Mueller speaks to Armen Sarkissian, Sim Ann and Anett Numa.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zimbabwe is introducing its new official currency, the ZiG, which is tied to the country’s gold reserves. Given that its five previous currencies have collapsed, Andrew Mueller muses on this one’s potential to last.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Black-and-white photos of Emmanuel Macron pounding a boxing bag sparked bemusement in France and abroad. The French leader’s office did not comment on the images but many have linked the ‘Raging Bull’-style photoshoot to Macron’s drive to toughen up the region’s response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Why is Emmanuel Macron flexing his political muscle and how has his foreign-policy doctrine evolved? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sophie Pedder, Bruno Tertrais and General Sir Richard Shirreff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains who the IRGC are and why they are being targeted by Israel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why did Islamic State target Russia and is the terror group still a big threat in the Middle East and Africa? Andrew Mueller speaks to Mark Galeotti, General David Petraeus, Sanam Vakil and Stig Jarle Hansen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why the China Coast Guard attacked a Filipino civilian boat with a water cannon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedian-turned-president Volodymyr Zelensky has found himself leading Ukraine in the nation’s darkest hour. How is Zelensky faring, what’s next for Ukraine’s counteroffensive and what does history tell us about wartime leadership? Andrew Mueller speaks to Simon Shuster, Yaroslav Trofimov and Alex von Tunzelmann.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the significance of Niger cutting ties with the US military – and why it might not be happening at all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Caribbean nation continues to grapple with gang violence, political upheaval and a humanitarian crisis. How did we get here and is there a way out of Haiti’s nightmare? Andrew Mueller speaks to Jacqueline Charles, Harold Isaac, Christopher Sabatini and Georges Fauriol.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why the people of Ireland said “no” to rewording their constitution – and why their response took the government by surprise.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Next weekend, Russia will hold an election that will effectively grant Vladimir Putin another six-year term as president. Combined with the recent death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, the future looks difficult for Russians who would like the choice of a different leader. Was Alexei Navalny really the last dissident standing? And what will happen if Putin remains unseated? Andrew Mueller speaks to the prime minister of Lithuania, Bill Browder and Alexis Lerner.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Haiti’s plight under gang rule has intensified as its prime minister, Ariel Henry, is refused entry into the country. Andrew Mueller explains who is – and who isn’t – answering the Caribbean state’s plea for assistance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As former US president Donald Trump undermines Nato, is it high time for Europe to get its act together and spend more on defence? What would another Trump presidency mean for the future of the alliance? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ukrainian politician Hanna Hopko, former Estonian president Toomas Hendriks Ilves, Estonia’s minister of defence, Hanno Pevkur, and Nato policy planning chief Benedetta Berti.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After the Palestinian prime minister, Mohammad Shtayyeh, announces his resignation, Andrew Mueller looks at the future of the Palestinian Authority and whether it has any hope of governing Gaza and the West Bank.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode recorded at the Munich Security Conference, Andrew Mueller sits down with the prime minister of Belgium, Alexander de Croo, the prime minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, former CIA director General David Petraeus, Israel’s ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, the prime minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, and the prime minister of Bulgaria, Nikolai Denkov.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After the Taliban refused to attend a UN conference in Doha about Afghanistan this week, Andrew Mueller takes a moment to evaluate how much the terrorist group has really changed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The role of first lady or, increasingly, first gentleman, can be one of the most potent ambassadorial positions in any nation’s diplomatic ranks. What is it really like to be the spouse of a world leader? Andrew Mueller speaks to Clarke Gayford, broadcaster and husband of Jacinda Ardern; Charity Wallace, former chief of staff to Laura Bush; and Elizabeth Natalle, co-founder of the First Ladies Association for Research and Education.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how Senegal’s president, Macky Sall, is clinging to power beyond his term limits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Voters in Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy, are gearing up to elect their next president in what is expected to be a hotly contested vote. Who is running and what are the key issues? Andrew Mueller speaks to James Chambers, Dewi Fortuna Anwar and Jacqui Baker.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller examines why bizarre conspiracy theories about Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl are spreading.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The war in Gaza is reverberating across the Middle East. How are nearby countries responding to the conflict? For a closer look at Iran, Jordan and Iraq, Andrew Mueller speaks to Vali Nasr, Merissa Khurma and Renad Mansour.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why we should care about Tuvalu’s election results.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The world has paid little attention to Sudan since war broke out there 10 months ago. In a distracted world full of hostility, why are conflicts in Africa so easily neglected? Andrew Mueller speaks to Isma’il Kushkush, William Patey and Nima Elbagir.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how Ethiopia has angered Somalia and Egypt in its efforts to secure a coastal base for its boatless navy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Foreign policy rarely wins US elections but the wars in Ukraine and Gaza have become intertwined with American politics. Will foreign policy loom large over November’s presidential election? And what would another Trump-Biden showdown mean for the world? Andrew Mueller speaks to Johanna Maska, Tom Nichols and Julie Norman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller examines the kidnapping and abuse of office charges facing Italy’s deputy prime minister, Matteo Salvini.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There is a tendency to view those in politics as diplomatic robots, solely programmed to keep the world running. But they are humans with personalities, hobbies and previous accomplishments in unrelated fields. In this special episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, we’ll meet a finance minister who plays chess, a foreign minister who played basketball and a diplomat who wrote a bestseller and ask, ‘Does success in other fields open more doors in politics?’
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains Bangladesh’s descent into a one-party autocracy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A selection of the best interviews over the past year, from the most listened-to episodes to the team’s personal favourites.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the first complicated news story of 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We look back at the big events of 2023 and peer ahead at next year. Andrew Mueller speaks to Yossi Mekelberg, Latika Bourke and Yassmin Abdel-Magied.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Nelson Mandela’s colourful shirts to Madeleine Albright’s glitzy brooches, fashion has been used as a powerful tool to communicate messages on the world stage. What role does fashion play in diplomacy? Andrew Mueller speaks to Natalie Theodosi, Samantha Conti and Desré Buirski.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As attacks by Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea continue to grow, Andrew Mueller examines what they mean for the global shipping industry, as well as order in the region.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Throughout history, music has served as an instrument of soft power, transcending divides and even catalysing the downfall of regimes. How does music shape geopolitics and international diplomacy? Andrew Mueller speaks to Reiland Rabaka, András Simonyi, Lance Price and Rhiannon Giddens.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Guatemala’s president-elect, Bernardo Arévalo, is due to be sworn into office on 14 January. However, certain powerful figures within the country seem to be doing all they can to prevent this from happening. Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tensions rose between Venezuela and Guyana this week after Nicolas Maduro boasted an “overwhelming” people’s mandate for Caracas to exploit oil deposits in the disputed Essequibo region. What happens now? Andrew Mueller speaks to Donnette Streete, Kiana Wilburg, Christopher Sabatini and Benjamin Gedan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rwanda has gone from being a place that not many British citizens could point to on a map to becoming one of the year’s biggest buzzwords, as a result of the incumbent Conservative government. Andrew Mueller explains the obsession.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The long-running battle for the Parthenon Marbles erupted again this week between Greece and the UK. In this special episode, we explore some of the bitterest and most bizarre diplomatic disputes between otherwise amicable nations. Is the British Museum losing its marbles? What does it take to resolve a conflict with a friendly state? Andrew Mueller speaks to George Parker, John Everard, Alex von Tunzelmann and Jeppe Kofod.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Though Ukraine’s next presidential election is scheduled to be held on 31 March 2024, Russia’s invasion of the country has created many issues that would prevent it from being truly free and fair. Andrew Mueller explains why some people think that Ukraine should hold it anyway.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Javier Milei shocked Argentina – and the world – after winning the country’s presidential election. So, who is Milei and what does the future hold for Argentina under an eccentric and unpredictable new leader? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ana Lankes, Benjamin Gedan and Tom Nichols.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Liberia’s president, George Weah, has been praised for his sportsmanship after peacefully conceding the country’s election this week. Andrew Mueller explains why this is remarkable and why the football legend might have lost his position in the first place.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It is six weeks since Hamas’s attack on southern Israel, which indiscriminately and cruelly killed about 1,200 people and prompted a brutal and unrelenting retaliatory ground insurgency led by the Israeli Defence Force. The local authority so far claims figures of 11,000 dead. Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, vows to bring an end to Hamas but is that even possible? And what comes next? Will there be a Gaza left to govern? And can there ever be peace? Andrew Mueller speaks to Nimrod Goren, Khaled Elgindy and Sanam Vakil.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Like a previously believed-to-be-dead character in a soap opera, former UK prime minister David Cameron’s episode-ending reveal on Downing Street caused an audible gasp, followed by questions of how, what, where, when and why? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Arctic is not simply a forbidding and fragile environment. It is a home to millions, many of whom hail from indigenous communities who have harmoniously worked with the land and sea for generations. But who actually speaks on behalf of this region? And is anyone listening? In our final episode recorded at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, we meet representatives of some of the Arctic’s indigenous peoples and a few office-holders who grapple with the unique challenges of governing in – or near – the Arctic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, pays a visit to his Chinese counterpart, Andrew Mueller muses on the fickle relationship between the two countries over the past 50 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Frozen and remote, the Arctic has long been a region of relative peace and stability. Russia’s war in Ukraine, however, has significantly altered Arctic security. What are Vladimir Putin’s polar ambitions and is the militarisation of the Arctic inevitable? Andrew Mueller speaks to Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of the Nato Military Committee; Petteri Vuorimäki, Finland’s Arctic ambassador; James Gray, UK member of parliament; Anu Laamanen, Finland’s ambassador to Iceland; and Volker Rachold, head of the German Arctic Office at the Arctic Circle Assembly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the retaliatory invasion of Gaza continues, Andrew Mueller ponders on what Israel wants to achieve and what outcome is most likely.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, recorded at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík, Andrew Mueller sits down with the president of Iceland, Guðni Thorlacius Jóhannesson, US senator for Alaska, Lisa Murkowski, and Mads Qvist Frederiksen, executive director at the Arctic Economic Council.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the history of Hezbollah and why it is claiming a stake in the conflict with Israel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feminist foreign policy is gaining traction around the world. How does it work in practice – and what is the role of women in promoting peace? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sweden’s former foreign minister, Margot Wallström, Slovenia’s minister for foreign affairs, Tanja Fajon, politics professor Jennifer Piscopo and peace-mediation expert Johanna Poutanen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Daniel Noboa, a 35-year-old son of a banana tycoon, is set to become Ecuador’s next president. Andrew Mueller takes a closer look at the centre-right political outsider’s credentials.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As fighting rages between Israel and Hamas militants, we ask what the war might mean for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and stability in the region. How did we get here and what happens next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Allison Kaplan Sommer, Yossi Mekelberg, Ghaith al-Omari and Ami Ayalon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australians are preparing to vote in a historic referendum that would recognise Indigenous citizens in the country’s constitution by establishing an official voice to parliament. What is at stake?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The race to dominate Artificial Intelligence has become a major geopolitical concern and is certain to redefine warfare and deterrence. How will AI reshape militaries and the future of great-power competition? Andrew Mueller speaks to Scott Young, General John Allen, and Ulrike Franke.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last weekend, Slovakia narrowly voted in Robert Fico, leader of the Smer party, as prime minister. He is in a legal battle with his president and one of his few allies appears to be Hungary’s pro-Putin leader, Viktor Orbán. Andrew Mueller explains how this new leadership is at odds with the country that Slovakia has been in recent years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France has withdrawn its ambassador to Niger and announced the removal of its troops from the country following a military coup whose anti-French rhetoric has stirred up animosity in the region. Is President Macron the reason or the scapegoat for France’s diplomatic and strategic reverses in Africa? And what can he do on the world stage with the rest of his term? Andrew Mueller is joined by Aanu Adeoye, Sophie Pedder, Gesine Weber and Michel Duclos.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu have both signalled a strong desire to normalise relations between their countries. Andrew Mueller explains why this would be consequential and the hurdles both parties face.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the final episode of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back at the 10-week Falklands War between Argentina and the UK in 1982. Andrew Mueller speaks to Michael Heseltine, former deputy prime minister of the UK, David Omand, former director of the British government communications headquarters, and Admiral Lord Alan West, former commander of the ‘HMS Ardent’.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Expat Eritreans around the world have been protesting against Eritrean cultural festivals held in their cities. Andrew Mueller explains why the events’ links to the country’s incumbent president, Isaias Afwerki, have incensed those who have left their homeland.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of our ‘In the Room’ series, we speak to the key players involved in the secret talks that led to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. Andrew Mueller speaks to Niël Barnard, the former head of South Africa’s National Intelligence Service, who conducted clandestine talks with Mandela, Willie Esterhuyse, an Afrikaner academic who liaised between the ANC and the government, and Greg Myre, a journalist who witnessed Mandela’s release.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how protests by the Sikh diaspora of Canada led to a frosty reception for the country’s prime minister, Justin Trudeau, at the G20 summit in India.
In part one of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back on the chilling moments that followed the September 11 terror attacks, meeting top aides who were rushed onto Air Force One with US president George W Bush, a Secret Service agent tasked with protecting first lady Laura Bush and a staffer who was evacuated from the White House.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the growing relationship between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, and the potential implications that it may have for Russia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A wave of protests across government-controlled areas of Syria gathered momentum this week, with demonstrators demanding regime change. Is a future without Bashar al-Assad still possible for Syria? Andrew Mueller speaks to Leila Molana-Allen, Firas Maksad, Lina Khatib, and William Patey.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how a once-diminished Islamic State is re-emerging across Africa.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The global fishing industry has found itself at the heart of major debates and conflicts. In this special episode we explore the curious power of fish in politics. What makes these aquatic animals so politically sensitive? Are there really plenty more fish in the sea? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tomohiko Taniguchi, Sebastian Whale, Katharine Hayhoe and Árni Matthias Mathiesen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Guatemala has elected a new president, bringing hope to the country. But with five months to go until his inauguration, it remains to be seen how smooth the transfer of power will be. Andrew Mueller explains who Bernardo Arevalo is and what kind of president he might be.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zimbabweans will head to the polls next week to elect their country’s leader amid economic turmoil and vote-rigging fears. What is at stake? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hopewell Chin’ono, Fadzayi Mahere, Robert Chapman and Georgina Godwin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rock’n’roll singer, tantric sex coach and now, presidential candidate in Argentina. Andrew Mueller explains who Javier Milei is, his politics and if he has a chance of winning the election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The war in Ukraine has shifted Europe’s centre of gravity eastward. As Poland and Ukraine rapidly expand their militaries, the two countries have positioned themselves as vanguards of Western defence. Is a new balance of power being shaped? And will this spell trouble for traditional powerbrokers Germany and France? Andrew Mueller speaks to Radosław Sikorksi, Lili Bayer and Steven Erlanger.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
El Salvador has been cracking down on gang criminals after years of widespread fear. Andrew Mueller explains how president Bukele’s barbaric methods have led to positive stats in both crime figures and leadership polls.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week the US Congress held a bizarre hearing on UFOs, which included explosive testimony about alien spacecraft defying laws of physics. What did we learn from America’s UFO hearing? Why do people latch onto conspiracy theories? And what does this mean for democracies? Andrew Mueller speaks to Marina Koren, Tom Nichols, Will Sommer and Richard Evans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller looks at the coup in Niger as a symptom of the discontent rippling through West Africa.
In this special episode, Andrew Mueller sits down with former CIA director David H Petraeus to discuss the Wagner mutiny and western support for the war in Ukraine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains what happened in Spain’s snap election and what is likely to come next.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode recorded at the Nato summit in Vilnius, we examine the high-priority issues dominating the in-trays of foreign and defence ministers. Andrew Mueller speaks to the ministers of foreign affairs of Finland, Iceland and the Czech Republic, and to Estonia’s minister of defence.
Hun Sen has been Cambodia’s prime minister since 1984. Andrew Mueller explains how he has remained in power for so long and why he will be reelected this weekend.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, the team travels to Vilnius for a historic Nato summit. What’s in store for the alliance and when will Ukraine be joining? Andrew Mueller speaks to the prime minister of Bulgaria, Nikolai Denkov; Benedetta Berti-Alberti; Ambassador Andrej Benedejcic; and Daria Kaleniuk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nato members are conflicted after the US announced that it would supply Ukraine with surplus cluster bombs. Andrew Mueller discusses the controversial decision and why the besieged country wants the munitions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Militaries around the world are enlisting novelists to dream up the wars of the future. What can defence experts learn from science fiction? Andrew Mueller speaks to political scientist Peter Singer, general Sir Richard Shirreff, major general Mick Ryan and Nato’s Ruben Diaz-Plaja.
An incident during an England-Australia cricket match this week has spilled into the geopolitical sphere as prime ministers, Rishi Sunak and Anthony Albanese, both issued pointed statements toward each other. Andrew Mueller explains why it’s such big news for all those who might find themselves stumped.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko became an unexpected major player in the apparent resolution of the dispute between Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Wagner Group and the Russian state. What does Belarus have to gain (and lose) from backing Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine? Andrew Mueller speaks to John Everard, Hanna Liubakova and Andrei Sannikov.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller considers the reasons why Wagner Group Chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, aborted his mutiny so quickly and what might happen next.
National leaders of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation are gearing up for the alliance’s high-stakes summit next month in Lithuania. How has the war in Ukraine transformed Nato? And what comes next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ingrida Simonyte, prime minister of Lithuania; Benedetta Berti-Alberti, head of policy planning in the Office of the Secretary-General at Nato; Kersti Kaljulaid, former president of Estonia; and Swedish political scientist Anna Wieslander.
Andrew Mueller explains the recent trip of African leaders to Ukraine and Russia, and assesses whether it made any difference in terms of helping to end the war.
See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
Almost 16 months since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the war shows no signs of ending. How long will the conflict last – and is the West actually afraid of a Ukrainian victory? Andrew Mueller sits down with General Philip Breedlove, Nato’s former supreme allied commander Europe, General Sir Richard Shirreff, Nato’s former deputy supreme allied commander Europe, and Russian opposition politician Vladimir Milov.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following Trump’s historic court appearance in Miami, Andrew Mueller explains the former US president’s growing laundry list of legal trouble and what it means for him politically.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the war in Ukraine rages on, calls for EU enlargement have returned to the top of the political agenda. To explore the future of European integration, the team travels to the Globsec 2023 Bratislava Forum to speak to European Parliament president Roberta Metsola, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s minister of foreign affairs, Elmedin Konaković, and journalist Suzanne Lynch.
A pilot from New Zealand has been taken hostage in Indonesia. Andrew Mueller explains who his captors are and what they want.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With no end in sight to the bloody war in Ukraine, we ask what lessons can be drawn for parallel conflicts in Taiwan and Belarus. In a special episode recorded at the Globsec 2023 Bratislava Forum, Andrew Mueller speaks to Roy Chun Lee, Taiwan’s deputy foreign minister; Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Belarus’s opposition leader; and Hanna Hopko, a Ukrainian politician.
At least 25 Nato soldiers and 52 Serb civilians have been hurt during violent clashes in northern Kosovo this week. Andrew Mueller explains what has led to this confrontation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fighting continues in Sudan despite successive ceasefire deals. Is there a way to stop two rival soldiers from destroying their country? Andrew Mueller speaks to Yassmin Abdel-Magied, Kholood Khair and Mat Nashed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Twelve years after Syria was expelled from the Arab League for atrocities committed by President Assad, he and his nation have been warmly welcomed back. Andrew Mueller explains what, if anything, has warranted this change.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s war in Ukraine has galvanised western alliances but many other countries feel no imperative to come down on either side. This new class of nations are the global swing states of the 21st century, enjoying a significant amount of sway on the world stage. What does it take to win them over? To examine the cases of South Africa, Brazil and Saudi Arabia, Andrew Mueller speaks to Tony Leon, Cecilia Tornaghi and Bernard Haykel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Though the people of Thailand have voted out the military in favour of the Move Forward Party, the way ahead remains unclear. Andrew Mueller explains why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Baroness Catherine Ashton, former high representative of the EU for foreign affairs and security policy, joins Andrew Mueller to discuss her remarkable career, the global response to the war in Ukraine and what it was like to sit across from Vladimir Putin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s Victory Day parade was a more low-key affair this year, with the exception of a vitriolic speech by Vladimir Putin. Andrew Mueller dissects the meaning behind the words.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last year’s Eurovision Song Contest was a demonstration of the extraordinary political and diplomatic potency of this curious annual circus. For many of the same reasons, this year’s Eurovision will be as well. What has it meant to Ukraine to be the Eurovision champions this past year and how is Liverpool preparing to acknowledge the rightful hosts? With MC Kilimen, Ambassador Vadym Prystaiko and Maria Romanenko.
Andrew Mueller explains what to expect from the upcoming coronation of the British monarch.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special edition of ‘The Foreign Desk’, we speak to former spies from different intelligence services serving in different eras. We’ll find out how to recruit assets, disrupt communications, adopt false identities and, if necessary, get out in a hurry. And we’ll learn how and why spies become spies.
Australia’s defence review has identified an urgent need for the country to bolster its military personnel and weaponry, despite being in peacetime. Andrew Mueller discusses whether this conclusion is paranoid or has merit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The race to be Thailand’s next prime minister could result in a major opposition victory. Will the election be free and fair? Andrew Mueller speaks to Gwen Robinson, Kiara Kijburana and Pavin Chachavalpongpun, while James Chambers meets Korn Chatikavanij and Tisana Choonhavan.
Andrew Mueller explains the background of the deadly conflict in Sudan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia’s imprisoned former president, Mikhail Saakashvili, has become a focal point for thousands of Georgians who are protesting against what they believe is the government’s increasingly authoritarian – and pro-Russian – behaviour. What is behind the crisis in Georgia? Andrew Mueller speaks to Will Cathcart, Bill Browder, Rayhan Demytrie and Olesya Vartanyan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
About 45 million Americans claim Irish ancestry – almost 10 times the population of Ireland. This is especially true of US presidents from John F Kennedy onwards. Andrew Mueller explains why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It has been 25 years since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, a landmark accord that largely ended three decades of violence in Northern Ireland. As the country marks the milestone of a quarter century of (relative) peace, what challenges remain? Andrew Mueller speaks to Jonathan Powell, Aoife Moore and Glenn Patterson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Donald Trump appeared in a New York court this week facing 34 felony charges. Andrew Mueller explains whether incarceration can preclude the former president from being re-elected.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nordic nations are globally renowned for their contributions to international diplomacy. Why do Nordic countries excel as peace mediators? In this special episode, Andrew Mueller speaks to the president of Iceland, Gudni Thorlacius Johannesson; the former prime minister of Finland, Alexander Stubb; Janne Taalas, Jonathan Powell and Heini Lehtinen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lebanese citizens were left hanging this week after an indecision on daylight saving time. Andrew Mueller explains and sets forth his argument for leaving the hands of time alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to restore diplomatic relations in a deal brokered by China. Will this landmark rapprochement have a ripple effect across the Middle East? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sanam Vakil, Bernard Haykel, Vali Nasr and Yossi Mekelberg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2022, Colombia’s president, Gustavo Petro, introduced his Total Peace concept, a plan intended to encourage criminal gangs to compromise with the government. Andrew Mueller explains how recent events have impeded such ambitions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Climate change is not merely an environmental problem; it’s also a threat to security and stability, and a possible cause of conflict. Could it therefore be the case that climate security and national security are the same thing? Andrew Mueller speaks to the deputy prime minister of Luxembourg, François Bausch, Pauline Baudu and General Tom Middendorp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US, UK and Australia have announced details of their plan to create a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. Andrew Mueller explains how we got here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Russia’s attacks on Ukraine rage on, Baltic and Balkan countries are feeling vindicated in their warnings about Putin’s intentions. For years, the regions have warned about the immediate dangers posed by Russia and now the west appears to be listening. In this special episode, Andrew Mueller speaks to the prime ministers of Lithuania and Kosovo, the president of Slovenia, the former president of Estonia and the former deputy prime minister of Latvia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An opposition candidate has been selected for the upcoming Turkish presidential election. Andrew Mueller explains who he is and how he differs from President Erdogan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s been more than a year since Finland and Sweden submitted their applications to become NATO’s 31st and 32nd members. While the two Nordic neighbours remain on the cusp of joining the alliance, Turkey and Hungary have yet to give them the green light. How long will this take? And will both nations be able to join the alliance hand-in-hand? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sweden’s minister for foreign affairs, Tobias Billström; Finland’s minister for foreign affairs, Pekka Haavisto; Norway’s minister for foreign affairs, Anniken Huitfeldt; and the former prime minister of Finland, Alexander Stubb.
Over the past year, Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, has been removing self-governing rights from Disney World and imposing government oversight on the parks. Andrew Mueller explains why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, recorded at the Munich Security Conference, Andrew Mueller sits down with the prime minister of Belgium, Alexander De Croo, Iceland’s minister for foreign affairs, Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, and the president of Open Society Foundations, Lord Mark Malloch-Brown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Moldova’s president, Maia Sandu, has warned of a Russian plot to overthrow her government. Andrew Mueller explains why this is possible and how Moldova is trying to keep Moscow at bay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Next week voters in Africa’s most populous nation will head to the polls to elect a new president. What are the main issues dominating the election and how will it impact the wider region? Andrew Mueller speaks to Aanu Adeoye, Leena Koni Hoffmann and Dipo Faloyin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains Benjamin Netanyahu’s dramatic shift towards Israel’s judiciary, leading to mass protests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As India gears up for its general election next year, anger over the Adani empire led by Gautam Adani, a Modi ally, is growing. Will the Adani affair cast a shadow on the prime minister? Andrew Mueller speaks to Shruti Kapila, Sumit Ganguly and Somnath Batabyal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Monday earthquakes devastated Turkey and Syria. Thousands have been killed. Diplomatic offers of assistance have been flooding in from usually hostile neighbours. Andrew Mueller looks to recent history and explains the successes and failures of past disaster diplomacy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many developed nations face a looming ageing-population crisis. What are governments doing to cope with this global trend that poses major political and economic challenges? Andrew Mueller speaks to Agnès Poirier, James Raymo, Marie Le Conte and Stephanie Hegarty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2020, Azerbaijan used military force to take control of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region from Armenia. Today there are reports of blockades leading to starvation and sickness. Andrew Mueller explains how Vladimir Putin could stop the siege but why he probably won’t.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Luiz Inácio “Lula” da Silva was sworn in as Brazil’s president for the third time in January in a stunning comeback following four years of Bolsonaro’s far-right government. The newly inaugurated president now faces an uphill battle to rebuild his country and reinstate Brazil as a leading player on the world stage. What will Lula’s foreign policy look like? Andrew Mueller speaks to Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Christopher Sabatini, Cecilia Tornaghi and Sarah Shenker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has been finding as many reasons as he can to prevent Sweden from being accepted into Nato. Andrew Mueller explains why and asks, when push comes to shove, will Turkey really block Sweden’s bid?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Germany found itself needing a new defence minister amid criticisms for not agreeing to supply Ukraine with Leopard 2 tanks. Why is Germany still so afraid of taking a military stance? Is Europe ready for an active German army? And how does this apprehension look to Ukrainians? Andrew Mueller is joined by Quentin Peel, Susan Neiman and Aliona Hlivco. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Less than half a year after classified papers were found at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, Maga fans are gleefully accusing Joe Biden of the same misdeeds that they defend the former president over. Andrew Mueller explains the severity of the situation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The environment and the climate are factors in every conflict; the changing of the seasons has been arguably decisive on many occasions. How have militaries learned to adapt? How can those lessons be applied to conditions that may be changing beyond recognition? And can we stop climate wars from being fought? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sherri Goodman, Jasper Humphreys and Dr David Kilcullen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are many similarities between the US elections that led up to the 6 January 2021 Capitol attack and the storming of Brazil’s Congress, two years and two days later. Andrew Mueller explains the key differences.
One usually thinks of diplomacy as something conducted at state level by presidents and prime ministers. But nation-states are no longer the sole actors in the international arena. Cities and sub-state governments are transforming the way we conduct foreign affairs. How does paradiplomacy work? And what makes a good paradiplomat? Andrew Mueller speaks to the mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, Professor Michael Keating and Kate Sanderson, head of representation of the Faroe Islands in London.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Botswana’s former president Ian Khama is facing criminal charges relating to firearms, money laundering and more. Andrew Mueller explains where these accusations have come from.
We look back on the big events of the past 12 months and peer ahead to next year. Andrew Mueller speaks to John Everard, Aliona Hlivco, Alex von Tunzelmann and Lada Roslycky.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Monocle’s annual Soft Power Survey hits the newsstands, we consider the established and bizarre ways that countries project themselves abroad, from panda diplomacy and royalty to the craft of culinary persuasion. Andrew Mueller speaks to Paul Jepson, Lauren Bernstein, Nic Robertson and Paul Brannagan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special Christmas episode, we head to the homeland of Santa Claus to examine some of Finland’s wonderful festive traditions. Andrew Mueller sits down with the country’s former president Tarja Halonen, Mr Claus and Markus Hippi to find out how Finns like to celebrate. Plus: Mueller gets hot and sweaty inside a sauna with Finland’s ambassador to the UK, Jukka Siukosaari. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Guinea’s former leader, Moussa Dadis Camara, stands accused of involvement in a 2009 massacre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This year’s Fifa World Cup in Qatar has a strong claim to be the most controversial football competition ever. Amid relentless criticism over the nation’s human-rights record, has Qatar’s soft-power push backfired? Andrew Mueller speaks to Craig Foster, Shaka Hislop, Laura McAllister, Paul Brannagan and Danyel Reiche. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, is mired in a convoluted corruption scandal. That is not unusual for the country but, as Andrew Mueller explains, it could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For more than two months, Iran has been rocked by protests ignited by the death of 22-year-old Mahsi Amini at the hands of the morality police. The unrest has continued steadily as women and a disproportionately young generation seek a better way of life. Why have these protests proved so durable and will it break the regime? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ramita Navai, Negin Shiraghaei and Holly Dagres.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unrest has been brewing in China, where the threat of a heavy-handed police state is usually enough to dissuade dissent. Andrew Mueller explains why there are protests – and why now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Once declared “brain-dead” by Emmanuel Macron, NATO has been rejuvenated by the conflict in Ukraine. In this special episode, Andrew Mueller speaks to General Philip Breedlove, NATO’s former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and General Sir Richard Shirreff, NATO’s former Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains Turkey’s longstanding and violent feud with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains Turkey’s longstanding and violent feud with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party.
While female representation in politics has improved in recent years, gender parity remains a distant dream. Women comprise more than half of the global population but only 26 per cent of lawmakers around the world are female. Why aren’t there more women in politics? And what will it take to finally shatter the glass ceiling? Andrew Mueller speaks to Iceland’s minister for foreign affairs, Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Dr Meryl Kenny and Lance Price.
Why would Fifa host the World Cup in a country that not only has a hostile climate for sport and abuses human rights but has also never taken part in the competition? Andrew Mueller tries to explain. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why would Fifa host the World Cup in a country that not only has a hostile climate for sport and abuses human rights but has also never taken part in the competition? Andrew Mueller tries to explain. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why would Fifa host the World Cup in a country that not only has a hostile climate for sport and abuses human rights but has also never taken part in the competition? Andrew Mueller tries to explain.
Andrew Mueller explains why truck drivers have been protesting in Ottawa, Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part three of our historical series, we travel back to the Bronze Age to revisit the Trojan War. Why did the Trojans fall for the Greeks’ wooden-horse stunt? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hannah Lucinda Smith, Jane Draycott and Daisy Dunn.
In part three of our historical series, we travel back to the Bronze Age to revisit the Trojan War. Why did the Trojans fall for the Greeks’ wooden-horse stunt? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hannah Lucinda Smith, Jane Draycott and Daisy Dunn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part three of our historical series, we travel back to the Bronze Age to revisit the Trojan War. Why did the Trojans fall for the Greeks’ wooden-horse stunt? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hannah Lucinda Smith, Jane Draycott and Daisy Dunn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the allegations that China is influencing democratic elections in the West. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the allegations that China is influencing democratic elections in the West. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the allegations that China is influencing democratic elections in the West.
In part two of our historical series, we travel back to 1916 to chart the Easter Rebellion. What was happening in Ireland and how did the British authorities not see this coming? Andrew Mueller speaks to Bríona Nic Dhiarmada, Quentin Peel and John Dorney.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of our historical series, we travel back to 1916 to chart the Easter Rebellion. What was happening in Ireland and how did the British authorities not see this coming? Andrew Mueller speaks to Bríona Nic Dhiarmada, Quentin Peel and John Dorney.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of our historical series, we travel back to 1916 to chart the Easter Rebellion. What was happening in Ireland and how did the British authorities not see this coming? Andrew Mueller speaks to Bríona Nic Dhiarmada, Quentin Peel and John Dorney.
Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be on course to lead the most right-wing government in Israel’s history. Andrew Mueller unpacks the former prime minister’s dramatic political comeback.
Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be on course to lead the most right-wing government in Israel’s history. Andrew Mueller unpacks the former prime minister’s dramatic political comeback. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be on course to lead the most right-wing government in Israel’s history. Andrew Mueller unpacks the former prime minister’s dramatic political comeback. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part one of our historical series, we travel back in time to 1957 to unpack the Sputnik crisis. What did this new satellite foreshadow, and how did the Soviet Union do it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Henry Rees-Sheridan, Tom Nichols, Mark Galeotti and Linda Dawson.
In part one of our historical series, we travel back in time to 1957 to unpack the Sputnik crisis. What did this new satellite foreshadow, and how did the Soviet Union do it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Henry Rees-Sheridan, Tom Nichols, Mark Galeotti and Linda Dawson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part one of our historical series, we travel back in time to 1957 to unpack the Sputnik crisis. What did this new satellite foreshadow, and how did the Soviet Union do it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Henry Rees-Sheridan, Tom Nichols, Mark Galeotti and Linda Dawson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has criticised Israel for not sending military aid to Kyiv. Andrew Mueller examines Israel’s reluctance to send weapons and where this comes from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has criticised Israel for not sending military aid to Kyiv. Andrew Mueller examines Israel’s reluctance to send weapons and where this comes from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised Israel for not sending military aid to Kyiv. Andrew Mueller examines Israel’s reluctance to send weapons and where this comes from.
This week’s special guest on The Foreign Desk is NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg, whose role has unexpectedly been extended for a year in light of current events. Andrew Mueller asks Stoltenberg for his thoughts on Russia-Ukraine, China and NATO expansion.
This week’s special guest on The Foreign Desk is NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg, whose role has unexpectedly been extended for a year in light of current events. Andrew Mueller asks Stoltenberg for his thoughts on Russia-Ukraine, China and NATO expansion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week’s special guest on The Foreign Desk is NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg, whose role has unexpectedly been extended for a year in light of current events. Andrew Mueller asks Stoltenberg for his thoughts on Russia-Ukraine, China and NATO expansion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Jamaican government has banned certain music, and other culture broadcasts, in an attempt to curb the country’s issues with violence. Andrew Mueller looks to recent history to explain why this probably won’t work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Jamaican government has banned certain music, and other culture broadcasts, in an attempt to curb the country’s issues with violence. Andrew Mueller looks to recent history to explain why this probably won’t work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Jamaican government has banned certain music, and other culture broadcasts, in an attempt to curb the country’s issues with violence. Andrew Mueller looks to recent history to explain why this probably won’t work.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, Andrew Mueller sits down with Angela Merkel’s former foreign policy advisor, Belarus’s opposition leader and Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, Andrew Mueller sits down with Angela Merkel’s former foreign policy advisor, Belarus’s opposition leader and Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, Andrew Mueller sits down with Angela Merkel’s former foreign policy advisor, Belarus’s opposition leader and Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, Andrew Mueller sits down with Angela Merkel’s former foreign policy advisor, Belarus’s opposition leader and Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, Andrew Mueller sits down with Angela Merkel’s former foreign policy advisor, Belarus’s opposition leader and Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Haiti’s government has asked for urgent military assistance from the international community to deal with the chaos caused by gangs. Andrew Mueller examines whether storming another country is always a bad idea.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Haiti’s government has asked for urgent military assistance from the international community to deal with the chaos caused by gangs. Andrew Mueller examines whether storming another country is always a bad idea.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Haiti’s government has asked for urgent military assistance from the international community to deal with the chaos caused by gangs. Andrew Mueller examines whether storming another country is always a bad idea.
In this special episode recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, we examine what the world has learnt from nearly eight months of war in Ukraine. Andrew Mueller speaks to General Philip Breedlove, Nato’s former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Emma Searle meets Ingrida Šimonytė, the prime minister of Lithuania.
In this special episode recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, we examine what the world has learnt from nearly eight months of war in Ukraine. Andrew Mueller speaks to General Philip Breedlove, Nato’s former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Emma Searle meets Ingrida Šimonytė, the prime minister of Lithuania.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode recorded at the Warsaw Security Forum, we examine what the world has learnt from nearly eight months of war in Ukraine. Andrew Mueller speaks to General Philip Breedlove, Nato’s former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Emma Searle meets Ingrida Šimonytė, the prime minister of Lithuania.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lebanon and Israel seem to be close to striking a deal on a disputed border in the Mediterranean. Andrew Mueller explains why this is surprising and why we shouldn’t see it as the beginning of a peace negotiation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lebanon and Israel seem to be close to striking a deal on a disputed border in the Mediterranean. Andrew Mueller explains why this is surprising and why we shouldn’t see it as the beginning of a peace negotiation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lebanon and Israel seem to be close to striking a deal on a disputed border in the Mediterranean. Andrew Mueller explains why this is surprising and why we shouldn’t see it as the beginning of a peace negotiation.
Right-wing victories in Italy and Sweden have unsettled Europe, stoking concerns about a new rightward tilt. What’s behind the rise of populism in both countries and what does this mean for Europe? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ed Stocker, Nicholas Aylott, Francesco Costa and Chiara Rimella.
Right-wing victories in Italy and Sweden have unsettled Europe, stoking concerns about a new rightward tilt. What’s behind the rise of populism in both countries and what does this mean for Europe? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ed Stocker, Nicholas Aylott, Francesco Costa and Chiara Rimella. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right-wing victories in Italy and Sweden have unsettled Europe, stoking concerns about a new rightward tilt. What’s behind the rise of populism in both countries and what does this mean for Europe? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ed Stocker, Nicholas Aylott, Francesco Costa and Chiara Rimella. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right-wing victories in Italy and Sweden have unsettled Europe, stoking concerns about a new rightward tilt. What’s behind the rise of populism in both countries and what does this mean for Europe? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ed Stocker, Nicholas Aylott, Francesco Costa and Chiara Rimella. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller takes a look at the alleged founder of the Russian network of mercenaries the Wagner Group.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller takes a look at the alleged founder of the Russian network of mercenaries the Wagner Group.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller takes a look at the alleged founder of the Russian network of mercenaries the Wagner Group.
Twenty-five years ago, Hong Kong was handed back to China under a novel arrangement called “one country, two systems”. Following a tumultuous decade of unrest and government restrictions, what kind of future awaits Hong Kong? Andrew Mueller speaks to exiled pro-democracy activist Nathan Law, Professor Steve Tsang, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Tara Joseph and Monocle’s James Chambers.
Next month, Prague will host the first summit of the European Political Community. Andrew Mueller explains what it is and how it differs from the European Union.
The funeral of Queen Elizabeth II will be one of the largest diplomatic events in history. Emperors, kings, queens and other foreign leaders will descend on London to pay their respects to the UK’s longest-reigning monarch. How important will this event be in terms of international relations? Andrew Mueller speaks to King Letsie III of Lesotho, John Everard, Lucy Hume, Nic Robertson and Helen Zille.
Monarchies can last only for as long as their citizens believe in them. Andrew Mueller examines what happens when the public doesn’t have a choice.
From nuclear armageddon to climate change, fears over doomsday scenarios have a long history. But where does this obsession with the end of the world come from and what does this reveal about real-world politics? Andrew Mueller speaks to Mike Bruford, Asmund Asdal, Tea Krulos, Sarah Posner and Michael Mills.
This week, Liz Truss was announced as the new prime minister of the United Kingdom. Andrew Mueller explains why visiting the Queen is the first (and last) stop for each PM.
Nato secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg has called for the alliance to boost its presence in the Arctic amid Russia’s military build-up in the region. As the Arctic undergoes significant shifts due to climate change and increasing interest from major powers, we ask what this means for the future of the region’s security. Andrew Mueller speaks to Benedetta Berti-Alberti, Malte Humpert, Caroline Kennedy-Pipe and Mia Otokiak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nato secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg has called for the alliance to boost its presence in the Arctic amid Russia’s military build-up in the region. As the Arctic undergoes significant shifts due to climate change and increasing interest from major powers, we ask what this means for the future of the region’s security. Andrew Mueller speaks to Benedetta Berti-Alberti, Malte Humpert, Caroline Kennedy-Pipe and Mia Otokiak.
Earlier this week violent protesters took to Iraq’s streets, leading to several deaths and many people being injured – prompted by the sudden announcement of Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr’s retirement from politics. Andrew Mueller explains who he is and why he has such a strong hold over the country’s citizens. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Earlier this week violent protesters took to Iraq’s streets, leading to several deaths and many people being injured – prompted by the sudden announcement of Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr’s retirement from politics. Andrew Mueller explains who he is and why he has such a strong hold over the country’s citizens.
As Ukraine marks 31 years of independence, exactly six months after Russia’s invasion of the country, we ask what the next few months might bring. Will Europe’s support for Ukraine hold? Andrew Mueller speaks to Marlene Laruelle, Suzanne Lynch, Anna Nemtsova and Alya Shandra.
Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has been charged by police with breaching the country’s anti-terror act. Andrew Mueller explains what this is all about.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has been charged by police with breaching the country’s anti-terror act. Andrew Mueller explains what this is all about.
William Ruto has been elected as Kenya’s next president, narrowly defeating veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga. Who is William Ruto and how will he position Kenya on the world stage? Andrew Mueller speaks to Moses Onyango, Naveena Kottoor and Murithi Mutiga.
William Ruto has been elected as Kenya’s next president, narrowly defeating veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga. Who is William Ruto and how will he position Kenya on the world stage? Andrew Mueller speaks to Moses Onyango, Naveena Kottoor and Murithi Mutiga.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Revelations have emerged that the former prime minister of Australia Scott Morrison had himself sworn in to five cabinet positions while serving as the leader of state. Andrew Mueller tries to explain his rationale. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Revelations have emerged that the former prime minister of Australia Scott Morrison had himself sworn in to five cabinet positions while serving as the leader of the government. Andrew Mueller tries to explain his rationale.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, there has been concern that Moldova might also be in Moscow’s sights. How threatened is Moldova and how can Europe help to protect it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Paula Erizanu, Valeriu Pasha, Alexandru Flenchea and General Sir Richard Shirreff.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, there has been concern that Moldova might also be in Moscow’s sights. How threatened is Moldova and how can Europe help to protect it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Paula Erizanu, Valeriu Pasha, Alexandru Flenchea and General Sir Richard Shirreff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week Israel launched air strikes on targets in Gaza. Andrew Mueller explains what makes this event different from the usual warfare with Palestine. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week Israel launched air strikes on targets in Gaza. Andrew Mueller explains what makes this event different from the usual warfare with Palestine.
Nancy Pelosi’s Taiwan trip was met with fury in Beijing, raising fears of a potential clash between the US and China. Was Pelosi’s visit a good idea? Can any lessons be drawn from Lithuania’s David-and-Goliath clash with China? Where do we go from here? Monocle’s Andrew Mueller speaks to Samson Ellis, Lithuania’s minister of foreign affairs, Gabrielius Landsbergis and Bonnie Glaser.
Kosovo intends to implement a policy that requires drivers in the country to use Kosovan licence plates but Serbia isn’t happy. Andrew Mueller explains what this is really about. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kosovo intends to implement a policy that requires drivers in the country to use Kosovan licence plates but Serbia isn’t happy. Andrew Mueller explains what this is really about.
While much of the west is united against Russia’s war in Ukraine, other countries have avoided taking sides. What does it really mean to be neutral and is non-alignment still possible in today’s connected world? To examine the cases of South Africa, Switzerland, Japan and Sweden, Andrew Mueller speaks to Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Benno Zogg, Pälvi Pulli, Tomohiko Taniguchi and Elisabeth Braw.
Former leader of the Ulster Unionist Party David Trimble has died at the age of 77. Andrew Mueller explains how he helped to bring peace to Northern Ireland in 1998. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former leader of the Ulster Unionist Party David Trimble has died at the age of 77. Andrew Mueller explains how he helped to bring peace to Northern Ireland in 1998.
Five months after Russian troops invaded Ukraine, the Monocle 24 team is back on the ground to update us on the conflict. Are Ukrainians afraid of dropping out of the news cycle in allied countries? How do you prevent that from happening and why is it important to keep the war on the front pages? Andrew Mueller speaks to Martin Bell, Olga Tokariuk, Carlota Rebelo and Chris Cermak.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Earlier this week, Mali arrested 49 soldiers from the Côte d’Ivoire who had arrived in the country as part of an ongoing UN mission. Andrew Mueller explains if this was a moment of confusion, or defiance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sri Lanka has plunged into political chaos in the face of financial meltdown. As the crisis rages on, the future of the country's 22 million people is uncertain. How did we get here and what happens next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tanya Warnakulasuriya, Shanta Devarajan, Charu Lata Hogg and Bhavani Fonseka.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Russia’s gas supply to Europe has been halted due to what Russia says are annual maintenance works and technical issues. Andrew Mueller offers an alternative explanation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After weeks of clinging on, Boris Johnson has at last agreed to step down as UK prime minister. What legacy does he leave behind? What challenges will his successor face? How have Ukrainians reacted? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tobias Ellwood, Lance Price, Vincent McAviney and Aliona Hlivco.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the proposed Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, the team travels to Madrid for Nato’s most important summit in generations. How much stronger has Russia made the alliance, if only by accident? Andrew Mueller speaks to Lithuania’s foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis; the head of policy planning in the office of the secretary general at Nato, Benedetta Berti-Alberti; and Slovenia’s minister of foreign affairs, Tanja Fajon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Roe vs Wade was just the beginning. Now the current US Supreme Court appears to be overturning a whole host of previous rulings. Andrew Mueller explains how two different Supreme Courts can read the same constitutional text and get two different answers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller sits down with former US secretary of defence Mark Esper to discuss his tumultuous tenure in the Trump administration, the ongoing Capitol Hill committee hearings, and how he thinks other Western militaries ought to respond to current challenges.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Belgium has returned a tooth, the last remains of the murdered Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, to members of his family. Andrew Mueller explains why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The course of recent world history and the future of Ukraine rests on the whim of one man: Vladimir Putin. Was Putin’s rule of Russia always going to end up like this? In this episode, we hear from people who understand the evolution of Putin better than most. Andrew Mueller speaks to the former deputy energy minister of the Russian Federation Vladimir Milov; the president of Montenegro, Milo Đukanović; former president of Poland Aleksander Kwaśniewski; and the former president of Estonia Kersti Kaljulaid.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the UK government’s plan to deport certain migrants to Rwanda.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second of our special episodes recorded at Globsec, Andrew Mueller sits down with Romania’s state secretary, Simona Cojocaru, former Swedish prime minister Carl Bildt and Ukrainian MP Maria Mezentseva.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains how two throwaway, ill-thought-out comments from members of India’s BJP party sparked mass indignation around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode of The Foreign Desk, we travel to Slovakia for the Globsec 2022 Bratislava Forum. Andrew Mueller sits down with world leaders to discuss how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has triggered a major shift in European defence policy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following the release of Fusako Shigenobu, the co-founder of the Japanese Red Army, Andrew Mueller explains the origins of the terrorist group.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, Andrew Mueller sits down with the former prime minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd, to discuss the volatile relationship between superpowers China and the United States, the possibility of a catastrophic war between them – and how to avert such a conflict – and what he learned during his lengthy meetings with Xi Jinping.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the president of Senegal prepares to visit Moscow and Kyiv in the coming weeks on behalf of the African Union, Andrew Mueller explains why African nations are divided over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sweden and Finland have submitted their applications to become Nato’s 31st and 32nd members. We ask what Sweden and Finland would bring to the alliance, and if this expansion would make Nato’s mission of defending the west easier or harder. Andrew Mueller speaks to Jukka Siukosaari, the Finnish ambassador to the UK, Mikaela Kumlin Granit, Sweden’s ambassador to the UK, and to former Nato chief General Sir Richard Shirreff, among others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following a Covid delay, the annual World Economic Forum at Davos is finally taking place again from 22 to 26 May. This year, there will be some new participants – representatives from eight cutting-edge Finnish companies that are innovating within energy, technology, healthcare and education under the banner Finnish Flow. They are aiming to take Davos by storm with their solutions to everything from the green-energy transition to helping children catch up on their Covid-struck education. In this special edition of ‘The Foreign Desk Explainer’, we hear from five Finnish Flow members, and their messages to the leaders of the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, we speak to the descendants of major political figures. What’s it really like to be the child of a head of state? How weird is it when everyone else’s president is your parent? And are the descendants of villains able to move on from their ancestor’s crimes? Andrew Mueller speaks to Josina Machel, Gerald Posner and Nina Khrushcheva.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the Taliban retook power in Afghanistan in the wake of the allied forces’ sudden departure, they assured the world that things would be different this time. This was the Taliban 2.0 after a progression of 20 years. But this week saw the return of the burqa along with hefty consequences for any woman who dares to show her face in public. Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We all suffer from illness but, for world leaders, it can be a major PR challenge. Can one person’s illness change the course of history? Andrew Mueller speaks to Dr Dan Poulter, Alex von Tunzelmann, Lance Price and Leah J Greene.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller delves into the world of wartime legends and explains who “the ghost of Kyiv” really is.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller delves into the world of wartime legends and explains who “the ghost of Kyiv” really is.
As space enthusiasts celebrate the 50th anniversary of Apollo 16, we examine how space has been used throughout history as an arena for international co-operation. Andrew Mueller speaks to Nasa’s former chief historian Bill Barry, astronaut manager Christina Korp and veteran Nasa astronaut Nicole Stott.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As space enthusiasts celebrate the 50th anniversary of Apollo 16, we examine how space has been used throughout history as an arena for international co-operation. Andrew Mueller speaks to Nasa’s former chief historian Bill Barry, astronaut manager Christina Korp and veteran Nasa astronaut Nicole Stott.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Almost 30 per cent of the French electorate declined to vote last weekend, while a projected 90 per cent of voters will turn out for Australia’s federal elections later this year. The difference is compulsory voting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On St George’s Day, we discuss the complexities of Englishness. What does it mean to be English, as opposed to British? Why are so many on the left hesitant to embrace the national flag and how has this shaped the country’s politics? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ailsa Henderson, Christy Evans, Tariq Modood and Billy Bragg.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The far-right conspiracy website, headed by radio host Alex Jones, has filed for bankruptcy following defamation lawsuits. Andrew Mueller explains the effect of Jones’s fake-news empire and asks whether its legacy can be so easily quelled.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shehbaz Sharif has been sworn in as Pakistan’s 23rd prime minister, following the ousting of Imran Khan. How did we get here and what’s next for the politically volatile country? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ian Talbot, Samira Shackle and Ahmed Rashid.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Australia prepares to return to the polling booths in May, Andrew Mueller discusses prime minister Scott Morrison’s chances of retaining his position as leader and who could oust him.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine has exposed Europe’s longstanding dependence on Russian fossil fuel. Amid mounting pressure to cut ties with the country’s energy providers, many European governments are scrambling for alternatives. But how quickly can this be done and why wasn’t it done before? Andrew Mueller speaks to Daniel Yergin, Javier Blas and Stefanie Bolzen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains the likelihood of Vladimir Putin and other senior Russian officials being put on trial for alleged war crimes in Ukraine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The war in Ukraine has stoked fears around the world, especially among those living in countries that share a border with Ukraine. How nervous are Ukraine’s neighbours and what are they doing to help Ukraine? Andrew Mueller hears from Poland, Romania, Moldova and Belarus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A proposed pact between the Solomon Islands and China was leaked last week. Andrew Mueller explains why the Australian government has concerns.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The war in Ukraine has put Russia’s partnership with China to the test – but it remains unclear precisely where Beijing stands on the crisis. How solid is the alliance between the two countries and how have events in Ukraine changed things? Andrew Mueller speaks to Nina Khrushcheva, Isabel Hilton and Sergey Radchenko.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Global outrage over Russian attacks on schools and healthcare facilities in Ukraine has mounted as residents of Mariupol remain trapped in the besieged city. But these strikes are nothing new for Moscow’s military. Andrew Mueller looks back at this terrible wartime tradition.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Putin’s invasion of Ukraine isn’t going as he planned. This week on ‘The Foreign Desk’ we explore a number of events that most observers weren’t expecting. What happened to Russia’s Air Force? Why hasn’t Ukraine’s government and military collapsed? And why have Russian cyber and disinformation offensives not been catastrophic? Andrew Mueller speaks to ambassador Vadym Prystaiko, Olga Tokariuk, Glen Grant, Justin Bronk, Ciaran Martin and Maria Avdeeva.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Influential western individuals, companies and governments are busy loudly decrying Russia, packing up their businesses and slamming the door behind them while deftly opening new ones in Saudi Arabia, Venezuela and Borduria (probably). Andrew Mueller explains that while morality is free, acting on it has a price.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We get the latest from the ground in Ukraine and an update on the diplomatic talks in Turkey. Plus: the view from Estonia and a look at how the conflict could reshape the world order. Andrew Mueller speaks to Ukrainian MP Alona Shkrum, Chris Cermak, Estonian foreign minister Eva-Maria Liimets and Mark Galeotti.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Since late 2021, several heads of state have been heard attempting to dissuade Russia’s president Putin from launching an invasion on Ukraine. Since 24 February 2022, the same heads of state have been attempting to encourage him to cease his invasion. Andrew Mueller explains who, if anyone, can get through.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller gets the latest from on the ground in Ukraine. Plus: is this an opportunity for Putin’s political opponents? What’s the view from the Baltics? And how do you run an effective government in wartime? With Yulia Marushovska, Leonid Volkov, Artis Pabriks, Alona Shkrum and Alex Riabchyn.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has seen many high-profile Western conservatives scrambling to distance themselves from their former idol, Vladimir Putin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On 24 February, Russia commenced a full invasion of Ukraine. What is the latest? Can Ukraine continue to defend itself? And what is likely to happen next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ukrainian MP Lesia Vasylenko, former Nato chief Richard Shirreff, as well as Russian journalist Ekaterina Kotrikadze and Russia expert Mark Galeotti.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The thorny issue of how to manage Vladimir Putin’s Russia is one of the biggest foreign-policy challenges facing Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, who has come under fire for his perceived passivity in the face of Moscow aggression towards Ukraine. Where does Germany’s foreign-policy stance come from? How has it evolved over time? And will Scholz’s strategy be more of the same? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ulrike Franke, Quentin Peel and John Kampfner.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Mauritius flag was raised over the Chagos Islands this week in defiance of the UK home office, which claims to have bought the deeds fair and square. Andrew Mueller explains the history of the contested ownership and how one person’s home is another’s military base.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As protesters in trucks continue to paralyse the centre of Ottawa, Justin Trudeau has demanded an end to the so-called Freedom Convoy blockade. Are we witnessing a pivotal moment in Canadian politics? What options do authorities have? And could this catch on elsewhere around the world? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tomos Lewis, Christopher Federico, David Cochrane and Paula Newton.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller discusses the furore over Boris Johnson’s Jimmy Savile insult to the leader of the opposition, Keir Starmer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller discusses the furore over Boris Johnson’s Jimmy Savile insult to the leader of the opposition, Keir Starmer.
Amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, one thing is clear: Vladimir Putin’s obsession with the former Soviet republic is unlikely to waver. But this concern is nothing new for Russia’s eastern neighbours. How should the West deal with Moscow? And are there any lessons to be learned from its surrounding nations? Andrew Mueller speaks to Paige Reynolds, Latvia’s former foreign minister Sandra Kalniete, former president of Estonia Toomas Hendrik Ilves, Latvian defence minister Artis Pabriks and Tom Nichols.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller explains why truck drivers have been protesting in Ottawa, Canada.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tensions between Moscow and Nato members are at their highest in years, as Russian troops mass on Ukraine’s border. Do Ukrainians believe a full-scale war is imminent? How are soldiers preparing on the front line? And what would a Russian assault on Ukraine look like? Andrew Mueller speaks to Monocle’s team on the ground in Kyiv, photographer Amos Chapple, Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK, Vadym Prystaiko, and former Nato chief General Sir Richard Shirreff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The government of Australia has just purchased the licence to the Australian Aboriginal flag for AU$20m. To mark Australia Day, Andrew Mueller explains why such a transaction was necessary and how the news has been received.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative has manifested in railways, airports, seaports and highways all over the world. What is China’s endgame? How do locals feel about these development projects? And are we witnessing old-fashioned empire building but with Chinese characteristics? Andrew Mueller speaks to Isabel Hilton, Lucinda Elliott, Fiona Ey and Aly-Khan Satchu.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine tighten, Andrew Mueller reflects on their fickle friendship and speculates on what Putin really wants from the situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Turkey, once an economic powerhouse, is experiencing a currency meltdown as inflation skyrockets against a backdrop of unorthodox policies. What can we learn from past currency crises? How do people get around hyperinflation woes? And how can governments address it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hannah Lucinda Smith, Andrew Walker, Marija Tesic Fidelak, Penny Stone and Richard Beattie.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UN-sponsored talks are taking place in Sudan after more than 60 people died demonstrating against the most recent coup-d’etat in October. Andrew Mueller explains how far back the unrest extends and ponders whether a resolution can be reached.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a rare joint statement issued on Monday, five of the world’s most powerful nations pledged to avoid nuclear war. In this episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, we examine the doctrine of nuclear deterrence. Does possessing a nuclear deterrent make the world safer? Is a world without atomic weapons even possible? And what’s it like to be the person tasked, if the order to unleash the apocalypse ever did come, with turning the key? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tom Nichols, Margaret MacMillan and Dana Struckman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One year ago on 6 January, a violent mob forced its way past lines of police officers and into the US Capitol building in Washington. As investigators continue to examine exactly what happened that day, many questions remain unanswered. Andrew Mueller shares his take on what we’ve learned since the insurrection.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We look back on the big events of the past 12 months and peer ahead to 2022. Andrew Mueller speaks to Quentin Peel, Latika Bourke and Lewis Lukens.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As millions of families tuck into their Christmas turkey and load up their plates with leftovers from the festive season, we examine the role of food in global politics. What is culinary diplomacy? Is the kitchen really the new venue for foreign policy? And what exactly goes into preparing the menu for a state banquet?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Exotic animals have long been used as unlikely but effective furry ambassadors to further a country’s international influence. Whether it’s China strategically loaning giant pandas as a gesture of goodwill, Australia flaunting the kangaroo as part of its national brand or Taiwan dispatching pangolins to Prague, animals have been used as diplomatic tools for centuries. How does animal diplomacy actually work? How does one Fedex a wild animal? And what can animals teach humans about global cooperation?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Almost 80 years since North Korea signed an armistice deal, South Korea’s president, Moon Jae-In, has announced that talks are in progress officially to end the war between the two states once and for all. Andrew Mueller explains why this is happening now, and, if it’s likely to happen at all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will Bosnia break apart? Andrew Mueller speaks to Guy De Launey and Irma Baralija, as well as ambassadors Vanja Filipovic and Bruce Berton.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The decarbonisation of industry is perhaps the greatest challenge we face in the race to achieve carbon neutrality. Think of it as the invisible stuff, the ugly stuff and the boring stuff we’d probably rather not think about: shipping, construction, steel, data processing and so on. In this episode of The Foreign Desk Explainer in association with the Nordic Council of Ministers, we will hear from the Nordic companies that are attempting to achieve carbon neutrality and create a paradigm shift in their industries.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the inaugural Saudi Arabia Grand Prix kicks off in Jeddah, allegations of sportswashing have resurfaced relating to the country’s poor human rights record. What is sportswashing? What does it look like? And does it actually work? Andrew Mueller speaks to Paul Michael Brannagan, Areej Al Sadhan and Bruce Kidd.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Barbados has officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state after 55 years living independently from the UK. The divorce was amicable among all parties and opens the door for more member states to do the same. Andrew Mueller explains how, and when, that might happen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wearing a backwards baseball cap, El Salvador’s president Nayib Bukele unveiled plans to build “Bitcoin City” at the base of a volcano and adopt cryptocurrency as legal tender. While supporters have hailed the president’s ambitions, not all Salvadorans “Feel the Bit”. Is Bukele’s big idea as mad as it sounds? Andrew Mueller speaks to Carmen Valeria Escobar, Danielle Mackey and professor Cathy Mulligan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
People in the Nordics often joke about global warming bringing better weather to a region not overly blessed with sun and warmth but, of course, climate change is already having a negative impact – and it’s probably going to get worse. In this episode of the Foreign Desk Explainer, in association with the Nordic Council of Ministers, we hear from experts in the Faroe Islands, Iceland and Sweden about how the wide-ranging challenges are likely to affect populations there, and how they are preparing for the worst.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller is joined by Albin Kurti, the prime minister of Kosovo, for an in-depth conversation. They discuss the unusual challenges the country faces, its tumultuous relationship with Serbia and how a prankster became a politician.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, we explore an uncomfortable and challenging subject: war. Why do we fight wars? How does conflict shape us? And does human nature doom us to fight one another? Andrew Mueller sits down with celebrated historian, Margaret MacMillan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Migrants hoping for a new life in Europe have been trapped at the Belarusian border for weeks, clashing with the authorities of countries such as Poland. Andrew Mueller explains what Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, who promised them easy access to the EU, stands to gain.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Climate change is not an issue that governments enjoy confronting. Nevertheless, the recent Cop26 summit and its predecessors have made it abundantly clear that the crisis is not going anywhere. In this episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, Andrew Mueller speaks to people who know what it takes to keep politicians and citizens focused and optimistic, a mayor rebranding a city with sustainability in mind, and a business hoping to be profitable because it is environmentally friendly, not despite it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As an economic sector, agriculture accounts for almost a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions but agreement on how to reduce that is proving difficult. In this episode of The Foreign Desk Explainer in association with the Nordic Council of Ministers, we hear from campaigners, farmers, ministers and foresters about how the Nordics are attempting to cut emissions from the fields and forests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode, we explore an uncomfortable and challenging subject: war. Why do we fight wars? How does conflict shape us? And does human nature doom us to fight one another? Andrew Mueller sits down with celebrated historian, Margaret MacMillan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ethiopia’s government has declared a state of emergency as the Tigray People’s Liberation Front gains ground in Addis Ababa. Andrew Mueller explains how we got here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Mueller sits down with Fiona Hill, former White House aide and senior director for Europe and Russia at the National Security Council, to discuss her memoir, working for the White House and how she prepared for her testimony at the impeachment hearing of Donald Trump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With COP26 approaching, communicating the reality of climate change is clearly important but it’s a notoriously tricky message to get across. As recent protests in the UK and elsewhere have shown, it’s easy to alienate the public, which risks climate fatigue setting in. People shut down if the picture is too dystopian and yet climate-change deniers still need to be confronted.
In this episode of ‘The Foreign Desk Explainer’ in association with the Nordic Council of Ministers, we will hear from various actors in the climate debate, from the corporate sector, and government to grass-roots campaigners on how they get their message across.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A landmark trial is taking place in Burkina Faso over the assassination, 34 years ago, of Thomas Sankara, the country’s then-president. Today, Sankara remains something of an icon for his interpretation of the philosophy of pan-Africanism. Who was Thomas Sankara? What did he stand for? And what does pan-Africanism mean today? Andrew Mueller speaks to Sam Mednick, Oumar Zombre, and Reiland Rabaka.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Earlier this month, Joe Biden allowed the US National Archives to grant access to the first batch of documents requested by the House Committee investigating January’s Capitol riots. Donald Trump has responded with a lawsuit to suppress these documents, citing executive privilege. Andrew Mueller explains what success this might have outside the courtroom.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many of us want to make more sustainable choices when we shop for food but Nordic governments are going a step further and integrating climate issues into their official dietary suggestions. As the region awaits the new, updated Nordic Nutrition Recommendations next year, drawn up by the Nordic Council of Ministers, we hear from those involved in creating them and about the issues involved in trying to nudge the Nordics to eat more sustainably.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week Iraq held a parliamentary election several months early, with Shia cleric and militia commander Muqtada al-Sadr emerging as the winner. What kind of Iraq does al-Sadr want? Andrew Mueller is joined by Sofia Nitti, Jane Arraf and Renad Mansour.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special edition of ‘The Foreign Desk’, Andrew Mueller and the team look back at some highlights of the show’s contribution to Monocle 24’s first decade.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At least nine Cuban baseball players have defected during a tournament in Mexico. Andrew Mueller reflects on history’s most notable examples.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Germany faces months of tough negotiations to form a coalition government following the country’s federal election on Sunday. As the intense process of horse-trading and manifesto-trimming gets underway, we examine the strengths and weaknesses of coalition-building. When are coalitions effective? What are the secrets to making one work? And what’s it like to actually negotiate one? Andrew Mueller speaks to Quentin Peel, Françoise Boucek and Sean Kemp.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A week after the AUKUS fallout, France has confirmed a defence deal with Greece, providing the latter with warships and combat aircraft. The timing couldn’t be better and, as Andrew Mueller explains, this long-awaited pact might provide President Macron with more than just money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France has recalled its ambassadors to the US and Australia as a response to the new AUKUS deal and Australia’s cancellation of a French submarine contract. But what do such gestures really mean? Do some countries just want to make a scene? How does a diplomatic spat actually work? Andrew Mueller speaks to Agnès Poirier, Quentin Peel and John Everard.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
France has, not for the first time, attempted to apologise to the Harki community for its treatment of them following the country’s historic war with Algeria. But are President Macron’s morals and motives closely aligned?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police have increased security around the US Capitol ahead of a planned pro-Trump rally on 18 September. The expected demonstrations have brought a new wave of concern about the rise of populist anger. What is fuelling this resentment? Is far-left and far-right populism growing in Europe? And what does all this mean for democracy? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tom Nichols, Evan Osnos and Marlene Laruelle.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Once a good friend and political ally of Nicaragua’s president Daniel Ortega, novelist Sergio Ramírez finds himself an enemy of the state. Andrew Mueller explains how this plot developed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the US commemorates the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the Taliban are back in power in Afghanistan. How has the threat of terrorism changed in the two decades since the beginning of the War on Terror? Andrew Mueller speaks to Nathan Sales, David Kilcullen and Farah Pandith.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Guinea is no stranger to military coups but it had been hoped that the appointment of the country’s first elected leader, President Condé, would mark a new era of democracy. A little more than a decade, and a constitutional amendment, later Condé was ousted. Andrew Mueller explains what we know so far.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was a case of sixth time lucky for Hakainde Hichilema, who has become Zambia’s new president after five unsuccessful attempts. He inherits a troubled economy but his victory has raised hopes for change. How has he triumphed at last? And what effect might he have on aspiring leaders across Africa? Andrew Mueller speaks to Bizeck J Phiri, Michael Kaluba and Steph Chungu.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel’s defence minister and deputy prime minister, Benny Gantz, paid a visit to the West Bank, marking Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas’s first official meeting with a senior Israeli politician in more than a decade. Andrew Mueller explains how this appears to be more than it really is.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US president Joe Biden has vowed to plough ahead with the evacuation of those trying to flee Afghanistan, despite Thursday’s deadly bombing by Islamic State. As tens of thousands move to escape Taliban rule, Afghanistan’s diaspora is about to grow larger. What is the journey out of Kabul like? Will the US welcome this wave of new arrivals with compassion? And what lessons can we learn from previous generations of Afghan refugees? Andrew Mueller speaks to Fatimah Hossaini, Ryan Williams, and Nelufar Hedayat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The president of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, has accepted an endorsement from his PDP party to run for vice-president at next year’s elections. Andrew Mueller explains why many see it as a way to cling to power beyond the six-year limit set out by the country’s constitution.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Twenty years of American-led intervention in Afghanistan ended in chaos last weekend after the Taliban retook Kabul in the face of minimal resistance. Why did Afghanistan’s expensively trained army melt away so quickly? Where does this leave Afghan civilians? And will this Taliban rule be any different from the previous regime of the 1990s? Andrew Mueller speaks to a woman in Afghanistan as well as Fazelminallah Qazizai, David Kilcullen, Jackie Northam and Haroun Rahimi.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Diplomatic ties between Poland and Israel are severing swiftly. It after the passing of a law in Poland that prevents the descendants of Holocaust survivors from claiming homes stolen from their families by Nazis and communists during, and since, the Second World War. Andrew Mueller explains why this is not a new point of contention between the two nations and why it has finally come to a head now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ten years ago, Tunisia was praised as the only democracy to blossom from the Arab Spring. It managed to cast out a long-time dictator and establish political pluralism. But now the future of the country’s democracy is in limbo following president Kais Saied’s dismissal of parliament. How long will this last? Why do so many Tunisians support the president’s power grab? And is there a way out of this crisis? Andrew Mueller speaks to Layli Foroudi, Safwan Masri and Saida Ounissi.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over the past few days the Taliban have laid claim to several key cities across the outer provinces of Afghanistan. As fighting continues, Andrew Mueller outlines the history of these insurgents.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The tiny southern African nation of Eswatini has been rocked by civil unrest in recent weeks. Violent clashes between security forces and anti-government demonstrators have led to the deaths of more than 50 people. What has triggered these protests? Is King Mswati III willing to change course? And what’s to become of Africa’s last absolute monarchy? Andrew Mueller speaks to Mako Muzenda, Menzi Ndlovu, Christopher Vandome, and Louis Harnett O’Meara.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nine months have passed since ‘The Foreign Desk’ last reported on the conflict in Ethiopia in episode 395. Andrew Mueller explains the latest events and why a resolution seems a distant possibility.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part four of our historical summer series, we travel back to 1979 to examine the Iran Hostage Crisis. Where is the Ayatollah Khomeini going with this? What are President Carter’s options? And how, why, and when did relations between the United States and Iran deteriorate to this perilous point? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ramita Navai, Holly Dagres, Vali Nasr, and Lew Lukens.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coronavirus has offered us an opportunity to rethink our travelling habits. But how will we travel in a greener way in the future? ‘The Foreign Desk’ and Michael Booth, our Denmark correspondent, have teamed up with the Nordic Council of Ministers for a series of five special episodes delving deeper into topics of global importance from the region. The fifth episode looks at green transport, as we discover how the Nordics are electrifying everything from ferries to planes, and hear how a certain Swedish environmental campaigner has persuaded her compatriots to shift to long-distance trains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part three of our historical summer series, we travel back in time to 1962 to chart the Cuban Missile Crisis. What does Fidel Castro think he’s playing at? Who is making the decisions in the Kremlin and the White House? And is there any peaceful way out of this? Andrew Mueller speaks to Henry Rees-Sheridan, James Rodgers, Alex von Tunzelmann, and Tom Nichols.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Venezuela’s president Nicolas Maduro was comfortably re-elected to office in 2018. Or was he? Allegations of a false result have led the UK government to formally recognise opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country’s official premier despite simultaneously continuing diplomatic relations with Maduro’s administration. Both are trying to access gold reserves held by the Bank of England. The British courts must now make a conclusive decision.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of our special historical series this summer, we examine the Suez crisis of 1956. Ever since Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser announced his plans to nationalise the Suez Canal, the UK hasn’t looked quite so sure of itself. What does the country think it’s doing? What is Israel’s long game? And how will this impact the UK’s relationship with the United States? Andrew Mueller speaks to Michael Binyon, John Everard, Anshel Pfeffer and Alex von Tunzelmann.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
England has been awash with ugly outbursts of racism during the Euro 2020 football competition and since the national team’s defeat against Italy at the final, it has been directed at the home squad. How was bigotry allowed to fester during the tournament and how are the England players working to combat it? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part one of our special historical summer series, we travel back in time to 1914 to discuss the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Who has done this and why? Is this a big deal or not? Or could it possibly become one by accident? Andrew Mueller speaks to Guy de Launey, Quentin Peel and Tamara Scheer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The party is over for former vice-chancellor of Austria, Heinz-Christian Strache, who faces corruption charges following investigations into ‘Ibizagate’. But what was the big scandal about and does it end there? Andrew Mueller explains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week the Australian government announced plans to halve the number of international arrivals it accepts – the latest among a string of restrictions imposed in the country. On numbers alone, Australia can claim to have been a coronavirus success story. But a lockdown as rigorous as the one Australia has imposed on itself is easier to get into than out of. So when will the country actually reopen? What is the way out? And is science or politics driving the decision-making? Andrew Mueller speaks to Karen Middleton, Latika Bourke, Dr Chris Smith and Professor Marc Stears.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Co-operation between the Nordic countries is experiencing a bit of a wobble. The refugee crisis and now coronavirus have exposed the fissures in this usually well-functioning cross-border fraternity. ‘The Foreign Desk’ and our Denmark correspondent Michael Booth have teamed up with the Nordic Council of Ministers for a series of five monthly special episodes delving deeper into topics of global importance from the region. The fourth episode looks at Nordic co-operation. What’s gone wrong, and what can be done to bring a little more harmony to the countries of the north?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sometimes art imitates life; sometimes games do too. And parallels between chess and the political arena have existed for centuries. But are there really any similarities? How was the game used as a pawn in the cold war? And could the chessboard once again become a soft-power battleground? Andrew Mueller speaks to Judit Polgar, David Edmonds, and Dana Reizniece-Ozola.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ebrahim Raisi has been elected as the next president of Iran. The former judiciary head enjoys backing from the hardline revolutionary camp and is set to take over from the moderate outgoing President Rouhani in early August. Who is the conservative leader? What does he stand for? And what are his presidential ambitions?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The United States’ ongoing withdrawal from Afghanistan marks the end of America’s longest war. But it may also signal the end of humanitarian intervention. Perhaps as a consequence of the Afghanistan and Iraq interventions, the world appears to have turned its back on the crises in Syria, Myanmar, Tigray and Xinjiang. Is the age of intervention really over? What circumstances would justify a revival of the idea? And what are the costs of doing nothing? Andrew Mueller speaks to Jaclyn Streitfeld-Hall, General Roméo Dallaire, and David Scheffer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Naftali Bennett, the leader of the nationalist Yamina alliance, was sworn in on Sunday as Israel’s new prime minister, ending the 12-year reign of incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu. Bennett has promised to unite the country despite the fragile government coalition made up of centrist, right-wing, left-wing and Arab parties with very little in common. Who is Naftali Bennett and what are his prospects as Israel’s new prime minister?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The European Football Championship and Copa America kicked off at the weekend in Europe and Brazil, and the Olympics are slated to happen in Japan in July. The organisers of these spectacles will no doubt seek to keep politics out of the events. But sport – especially international sport – is inherently political. So why do we insist on pretending it isn’t? And is it necessarily a bad thing if it is? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tim Marshall, Fiona Wilson, Fernando Augusto Pacheco and John Taylor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nigeria has banned Twitter after the social-media firm removed an inflammatory tweet by President Buhari. This is not the only issue the Nigerian government has with the platform but, as Andrew Mueller explains, the move is unlikely to work out as desired.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The remains of 215 indigenous children were found last week at the site of a former residential school in British Columbia, Canada. The devastating discovery prompted nationwide outrage and sent shockwaves abroad. But are we witnessing a watershed moment for indigenous peoples? What do we understand about Canada’s dark past? And is the global struggle for indigenous rights making meaningful progress? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tomos Lewis, Tina House and Kristen Carpenter.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hamid Mir, a well-known journalist in Pakistan, has been prevented from broadcasting, following comments he made criticising the country’s authorities. This is just the latest incident in a series of serious attempts by the military to silence outspoken reporters but, as Andrew Mueller explains, the unofficial junta may have finally gone too far in the eyes of the public.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US secretary of state Antony Blinken made his first visit to Israel this week in hopes of bolstering the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The trip epitomises the importance of the US-Israel relationship: a diplomatic alliance that has long been critical to the foreign policy of both countries. But what do the US and Israel really get out of the alliance? Why is Israel so important to American evangelical voters? And what’s the future of this “special relationship”? Andrew Mueller speaks to David Makovsky, Sarah Posner and Anshel Pfeffer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The global environmental agenda has been dominated by aims to reduce CO2 emissions but increasingly the Nordic countries are turning their focus to biodiversity and protecting nature. ‘The Foreign Desk’ and our Denmark correspondent Michael Booth have teamed up with the Nordic Council of Ministers for a series of five special, monthly episodes delving deeper into topics of global importance from the region. The third episode looks at how the region is balancing the often-conflicting demands of CO2 reduction, industrial agriculture and the natural world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Celebrations broke out on the streets of Gaza following the announcement that Israel and Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire. And yet, many analysts doubt that the truce will last and question whether meaningful dialogue is possible. More than 240 people have been killed in this latest round of fighting and Israel’s 11-day bombardment of Gaza has had a devastating effect on the everyday lives of its civilians. But even when there is no conflict, what is life in Gaza actually like? Who are Hamas and how have they evolved? And is a long-term peaceful resolution still possible?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After years of mass demonstrations against the inequities in Chile’s constitution – which was drawn up during the 1980s military dictatorship – the government of president Piñera granted the citizens a referendum to scrap it. The result was an overwhelming “yes”. Voting took place last weekend to determine representatives who would write a new set of principles but, as Andrew Mueller explains, the results have not quite worked in the government’s favour. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Eurovision Song Contest is back and so are its noisy fans. Europe’s most popular cultural event will take place in Rotterdam next week, following last year’s cancellation. While the glitter-encrusted contest is primarily about musical performances, it has, and still does, function as an effective arena for major displays of soft power. But what are the dos and don’ts of using Eurovision to project your nation? Does it really have real-world political potency? And does it even matter? Andrew Mueller talks to Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Carlota Rebelo and Lance Price. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Inflammatory claims in an open letter penned by several hundred members of the French military are causing a stir in France. The letter warns of the risk of civil war and targets radical Islam and national immigration policies – issues likely to loom large in next year’s presidential election. Andrew Mueller explains why the controversial letter matters in French politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chinese rocket debris is expected to fall to Earth this weekend but it’s not clear when or where. The major space-power launched the first module of its new space station this week and also plans to build a lunar station in co-operation with Russia. But what are the rules of space – who makes them and how are they enforced? And what would conflict in space look like? Andrew Mueller talks to Chris Hadfield, Namrata Goswami, David Burbach and Christopher Newman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australia has been incredibly successful in curbing the spread of coronavirus within the country, mainly due to the reactive and stringent lockdown measures that have been in place over the past year. However, many Australian citizens have found themselves stranded around the world with no hope of returning any time soon. Andrew Mueller explains why the Australian government isn’t feeling pressured to reverse its decision.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talks on the future of Cyprus took place in Geneva this week, attempting to find an answer to the decades-old questions of if and how the divided island can be reunified. How did Cyprus get here? And is there a way out of this? Andrew Mueller is joined by Anna Koukkides-Procopiou, Sertac Sonan and Hubert Faustmann. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What’s behind the great Nordic cultural wave which has swept across the world in recent years – the great TV series, burgeoning art scene, and Oscar-winning films? The answer is collaboration, as we hear from star of ‘The Bridge’ Sofia Helin, among other leading figures from the Nordic arts scene. ‘The Foreign Desk’ and our Denmark correspondent Michael Booth have teamed up with the Nordic Council of Ministers for a series of five special, monthly episodes delving deeper into topics of global importance from the region, the second of which looks at cultural collaboration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One thing that coronavirus didn’t change in the US was the country’s shocking rate of gun deaths: even under widespread lockdowns, mass shootings spiked sharply. But Joe Biden has declared his intention to address a scourge he has described as a national embarrassment. What can actually be done? And is a beleaguered NRA quite the obstacle it once was? Andrew Mueller speaks to Kris Brown, Robert Spitzer and Frank Smyth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The European Super League was proudly presented on Sunday 18 April as a new facet of weekday football, set to earn the 12 confirmed teams vast sums into the hundreds of millions. Just three days later, only two teams remain committed. Andrew Mueller explains why it all fell to pieces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an Iranian nuclear facility was reportedly the subject of an attack over the weekend, Tehran’s fingers firmly pointed in the direction of Israel. Andrew Mueller explains why this may not be a false judgement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an Iranian nuclear facility was reportedly the subject of an attack over the weekend, Tehran’s fingers firmly pointed in the direction of Israel. Andrew Mueller explains why this may not be a false judgement.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How did the Middle East get broken, and how can it be fixed? What does the future look like for its 500 million – mostly very young – people? And what role should the West play? These are among the questions considered by Iyad El-Baghdadi and Ahmed Gatnash in their new book ‘The Middle East Crisis Factory’. Andrew Mueller is joined by El–Baghdadi to explore a vision for peace and democracy in the region and asks former member of the Tunisian parliament Khawla Ben Aicha how she went about trying to achieve it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jordan’s usually placid and stable monarchy has been rocked this week, after the sudden arrest of Prince Hamzah following claims of a planned coup against his brother, King Abdullah II. Andrew Mueller explains how Saudi Arabia might have played a role in the events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the biggest crisis of Jair Bolsonaro’s presidency so far, the heads of the army, navy and air force all resigned. What are they trying to achieve? What does it mean for Bolsonaro’s future? And what role has the military played in Brazil’s recent political history? Andrew Mueller asks Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Vinicius Mariano de Carvalho and Samantha Pearson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘The Foreign Desk’ has teamed up with the Nordic Council of Ministers for a series of five special, monthly episodes delving deeper into topics of global importance from the region, the first of which looks at education. The Nordic countries have a proud history of high achievement in international education rankings but how are they future-proofing the next generation, and what can the world learn from the Nordic model? Michael Booth finds out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, Monocle’s news editor Christopher Cermak speaks with United Nations secretary-general António Guterres about his plans to revive international diplomacy and reform the UN, and why he is feeling “hopeful” about 2021. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The results from Israel’s fourth election in two years are currently inconclusive. Andrew Mueller explains what prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu might need to do to retain power.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever since Boko Haram abducted 276 schoolgirls in Chibok in northeastern Nigeria in 2014, other groups have copied their tactics. Some 800 students have been taken from Nigerian schools since December, including 30 from a college in Kaduna last week. Who are the kidnappers? Are they criminals or terrorists – or both? And how can they be stopped? Andrew Mueller asks Chika Oduah, Nnamdi Obasi and David Kilcullen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After over six years of a split government, Libyans are now looking forward to a new united leadership headed by interim prime minister, Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh. Andrew Mueller explains whether Dbeibeh’s promises are enough to fix the fractured country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Violence in Afghanistan has increased in recent months, notably in the form of targeted attacks on female journalists. In a letter addressed to Afghan president Ashraf Ghani this week, US secretary of state Anthony Blinken outlined proposals aimed at accelerating the peace process to align with the 1 May deadline negotiated by the Trump administration to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan. Will Biden stick to the looming deadline? What would it mean for Afghanistan’s people? Nearly 20 years after the removal of the Taliban, are they on the cusp of reclaiming power? Andrew Mueller is joined by Lyse Doucet, Suzanne Lynch and Belquis Ahmadi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recent fallings out within the British royal family have caused quite the stir around the world. Often, the noise can be dismissed as an obsession with tattletale gossip but the discourse currently emanating from England is a symptom of something more serious. Andrew Mueller, an Australian residing in London, offers an explanation as to why a portion of the English populace are royally vexed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Pope Francis makes the first ever papal visit to Iraq, we look at his unofficial but important role as a diplomat. What does a papal visit look like? Who decides where he goes? How far does the Pope’s soft power reach? And what will Francis’s visit mean for Iraq? Andrew Mueller is joined by Samya Kullab, Joshua McElwee and Neal Ascherson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has been convicted for attempted bribery and potentially faces more legal consequences for other crimes of corruption. While the domestic ramifications are likely to be small, Andrew Mueller explains how it may be significant for countries struggling with corruption.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Colombia’s president Iván Duque Márquez has announced that the country will grant nearly one million undocumented Venezuelan migrants the right to stay for 10 years, arguably a surprising move by a conservative government. Might other governments take notice of this compassionate and pragmatic pitch? In a world rebuilding itself, could a more enlightened, albeit opportunistic, policy towards migration make sense? Andrew Mueller is joined by Anastasia Moloney, Panu Poutvaara and Tessa Szyszkowitz.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To enact genocide is to commit the most heinous of crimes deserving the strongest of consequences. But calling it out comes with ramifications. Andrew Mueller explains why most leaders will call it anything but ‘that’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the past six months, Indian farmers have been protesting against agricultural reforms that they say will destroy their way of life. This week, the arrest of a young environmental activist who supported them sparked international outrage. We examine what the protests are about and ask how Narendra Modi’s response fits into a pattern of government by disruption. Andrew Mueller is joined by Shruti Kapila, Joanna Slater and Kapil Komireddi. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.