Episodes

  • The choice millions of young Chinese are making

    The choice millions of young Chinese are making
    Jul 1 2026
    With more than 101 million members, the Communist Party of China is one of the world's largest political organizations. More than 40% of its members are under 45, and millions more have applied to join. As China marks the Party's 105th anniversary, one question stands out: Why are so many young Chinese choosing this path?
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    26 mins
  • The governance philosophy behind the CPC's new campaign

    The governance philosophy behind the CPC's new campaign
    Jun 29 2026
    What makes a good public official? In China, it's increasingly not about flashy projects or impressive GDP figures, but whether people's lives genuinely improve. This idea, known as the "correct understanding of governance performance", is at the heart of a campaign launched by the Communist Party of China earlier this year. What does it mean in practice? How does it shape the way officials are evaluated? And are there any comparable mechanisms within Western political systems?
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    26 mins
  • Why are more people around the world backing China?

    Why are more people around the world backing China?
    Jun 26 2026
    Confidence in the United States is declining across much of the world, while international perceptions of China continue to improve, according to multiple global opinion surveys. From Gallup and Pew Research to Australia's Lowy Institute, a common trend is emerging: More people around the world are viewing China more favorably. But why is this happening? What makes a country trustworthy in today's world? In this episode, we examine the latest polling data and explore the factors driving one of the most significant shifts in global public opinion.
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    26 mins
  • US-Iran talks

    US-Iran talks
    Jun 22 2026
    After negotiations in Switzerland, mediators Qatar and Pakistan announced that the United States and Iran have agreed on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final deal within 60 days. But major challenges remain. Can Washington and Tehran resolve the complex nuclear issue in just two months? Can tensions over the Strait of Hormuz be eased? And is this the beginning of a lasting breakthrough, or simply another pause before tensions resurface?
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    26 mins
  • Why one British publisher dedicated his life to translating Chinese literature

    Why one British publisher dedicated his life to translating Chinese literature
    Jun 20 2026
    When most English-speaking readers knew little about contemporary Chinese literature, one British publisher set out to change that. In this episode, we sit down with veteran publisher and translator Martin Savery, whose decades-long career has helped bring contemporary Chinese literature to English-speaking readers around the world. In an era dominated by short videos, social media, and shrinking attention spans, why does he still believe in books? And what can stories reveal about China that headlines cannot?
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    26 mins
  • Inside Beijing's latest white paper on global governance

    Inside Beijing's latest white paper on global governance
    Jun 17 2026
    China has released a new white paper titled "More Just and Equitable Global Governance: China's Principles, Proposals and Actions," offering its latest vision for improving global governance. The document expands on the Global Governance Initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, and outlines China's ideas for creating a fairer, more inclusive international system. Why is Beijing releasing this white paper now? What are its key proposals? How does it connect with China's broader vision for the future of global governance?
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    26 mins
  • US-Iran Agreement

    US-Iran Agreement
    Jun 15 2026
    The United States and Iran have announced an agreement set to take effect on June 19, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of US naval restrictions. President Donald Trump hailed the development as a "big, beautiful peace," while Iranian officials confirmed that a peace framework has been finalized and is expected to be signed in Switzerland. Is this truly the end of the crisis, or the beginning of a new phase of negotiations? Does this represent a diplomatic victory for President Trump? What challenges could still derail a final agreement?
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    26 mins
  • Why do classics still matter today?

    Why do classics still matter today?
    Jun 10 2026
    In an era of rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty, and cultural transformation, why are scholars from around the world gathering to revisit ancient wisdom? The Second World Conference of Classics, held in Athens, Greece, brings together leading experts to explore the enduring relevance of humanity's intellectual heritage. What messages do the organizers hope to share with the world? Why is dialogue between civilizations more important than ever? How can ideas from ancient Greece, China, and other classical traditions help us better understand the challenges of today?
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    26 mins