America’s approach to covid-19, China launches rule by fear in Hong Kong, and Africa’s soldiers of misfortune

A SELECTION of three essential articles read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. This week, how the world’s most powerful country is handling covid-19, China’s decision to impose a security law on Hong Kong threatens a broader reckoning (10:04). And why mercenaries are still hired by African governments (18:30). Runtime: 27 min

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | Stitcher | TuneIn

For more on the pandemic, see The Economist’s coronavirus hub.

Please subscribe to The Economist for full access to print, digital and audio editions: www.economist.com/radiooffer