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The Rest Is Politics

362. Question Time: Labour’s education error and Blair’s mistake on mental health

Jan 16, 2025
Students are rising up in Serbia, protesting against corruption and poor infrastructure. The podcast dives into whether Labour's decision to cut financial support for Latin in schools is a wise move. Alastair shares his thoughts on Tony Blair's views regarding mental health strategies. Discussions unfold on the troubling link between education funding and mental health in the UK, emphasizing rising self-diagnosis issues among the youth. Additionally, the impact of social media on political polarization and the complexities it brings to current governance are explored.
46:11

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Student protests in Serbia, driven by corruption allegations and a tragic incident, underscore the fragility of democracy and the need for governmental transparency.
  • The Labour Party's decision to eliminate financial support for Latin language programs highlights ongoing debates about educational funding priorities and the diverse needs of students.

Deep dives

Student Protests in Serbia

Significant student protests have emerged in Serbia, primarily sparked by a tragic event where a roof collapse at a railway station led to the deaths of 14 individuals, with accusations of corruption and poor construction standards fueling public outrage. These protests are notable for their grassroots organization, lacking a central leadership, and reflecting a democratic approach among demonstrators who engage in voting to decide their next steps. The current government, under President Aleksandar Vucic, faces mounting pressure, as protesters demand transparency about the contracts related to the construction. This situation highlights the fragility of democracy in Serbia and raises questions about the influence of nationalist rhetoric amidst ongoing socio-political turmoil.

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