Babel: Translating the Middle East

by Center for Strategic and International Studies

Babel will take you beyond the headlines to discuss what’s really happening in the Middle East and North Africa. It features regional experts who explain what’s going on, provide context on pivotal developments, and highlight trends you may have missed. Jon Alterman, senior vice president, Zbigniew Brzezinski Chair in Global Security and Geostrategy, and director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies hosts the podcast along with his colleagues from the Middle East Program. This podcast is made possible through the generous support of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates. All views, positions, and conclusions expressed here should be understood to be solely of those of the speaker(s).

Recent Episodes

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Recent Reviews

The Dog's Tux

great format, even better content

I've been listening to Babel for a few months and I have so enjoyed each and every episode I've heard so far. The episodes present topics in unique style. The effectiveness lies in the great analysis. The variety of topics and guest speakers have kept me coming back for more each week. I find it way more digestible than long for article or hour event recording. Keep up the great work.
RJG179

Exceptional

I enjoy most CSIS podcasts, and I feel compelled to give Babble high marks across the board. The host is exceptional in both his level of subject matter expertise and his presentation of it. I appreciate having a high quality podcast from CSIS on this important region.
FormerArabist

Highly recommended

As someone who studied the Middle East at university and wanted to keep up with it, I find Babel extremely useful. They cover a wide range of issues and often have guests I’d never heard of. Highly recommended for anyone with a professional, academic, or personal interest in the region.
pink1ove

Excellent

Love this podcast! Great insight, great conversation.
itcouldbewho

Excellent

A++++ show
Sevro60

Rich window into the ME

The highest quality of guests and discussion about a broad range to Middle East topics. I especially enjoy the short "A Mezze" episodes which provide a taste of the region that makes me want to be there (usually).
katandbrandon

Great show ! Give it a listen

Great guests. Well produced. A well rounded show. There are not many shows like this !
Edy Semaan

Fresh perspective on classic matters

This is one of the best podcasts on the Middle East. Whether you're a beginner or an expert in the field, this is both a great introduction and a pleasant and insightful content. It's the perfect go-to podcast for English speakers focusing on the region. Great guests from the region and on-point commentary on recent and emerging topics. One of my personal favorite episodes so far is the one with satirist Karl Sharro, a.k.a. @KarlreMarks, where the ME team explores the state, charactersitics, and history of satire in Arab countries and more. Always interesting and refreshing topics!
1990gary

Great podcast

Great podcast and very informative!
Whitfield2795

Very informative

I always enjoy these topics that are discussed in Babel, and the speakers are very interesting. Please continue to do more!
Popsgfhcluusjddj

Great listen!

Informative and engaging content from sharp individuals. Definitely a high-quality listen for those interested in Middle-Eastern current events.