The Foreign Desk

Recent Filipino elections were, arguably, a political episode of family feud. We examine the creation and durability of political dynasties. Plus: a banned would-be Thai leader explains how to run against a prime minister. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Russia has become the first country to recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s government. Andrew Mueller explains why.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

As last year’s rapid descent of Syria’s president Bashar al-Assad attests, when a dictator falls, they fall fast. But what are the conditions under which that fall occurs? And how can they be sparked? See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Andrew Mueller explains the relocation ballot being offered to Tuvaluans by Australia and what’s in it for the host nation. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Despite Trump’s assertions, the state of play between Israel and Iran remains unclear. We’re joined by Arash Azizi, Tara Kangarlou and Tom Nichols to consider the possible consequences of the past 12 days. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.