Paranoia politics: a Tunisian lesson in demagoguery
The Economist Podcasts
Fri, September 1, 2023
Podchat Summary

Racial Tensions and Political Distrust in Tunisia

In this episode, we delve into the rising racial tensions in Tunisia, sparked by false claims made by President Kais Said. These claims, alleging a plot by black Africans to change the nation's demography, have not only led to protests and anti-migrant violence but also diverted attention from the president's poor governance. As a result, democratic checks and balances in the country have been dismantled, further exacerbating the situation.

The Weaponization of Fear and the Erosion of Democracy

Join us as we explore how fear is being weaponized by leaders worldwide to control populations. Nationalist regimes, in particular, are becoming more corrupt and abusive of power, using fear as a tool to maintain control. We examine the consequences of this trend and its impact on democratic values and institutions.

The Growing Desire of Americans to Leave the Country

Recent years have seen an increase in the number of Americans seeking to leave the United States. We discuss the reasons behind this trend, including the rise in gun violence, racism, and a perception that the country is unable to solve its problems. We also explore the shifting demographics of Americans living in Europe, with Portugal emerging as a popular destination due to attractive tax deals and a more relaxed racial atmosphere.

A Tragic Loss: Remembering Ukrainian Fighter Pilot Andrey Pilschkov

In a somber segment, we pay tribute to Ukrainian fighter pilot Andrey Pilschkov, who tragically lost his life during a training flight. We highlight his efforts to lobby for his country's access to American-made F-16 jets and reflect on the impact of his untimely death.

Original Show Notes

The president is using racist hate-mongering as both a rallying tool and a distraction mechanism. It is the oldest trick in the autocrat playbook and it proving effective. Why are some Americans flocking to start new lives in Europe (10.36)? And, a tribute to a Ukrainian pilot who made the case for his country to get F-16 fighter jets (18.03).


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