Turkish protests continue and the 2032 Brisbane Olympics bolts out of the blocks
Mar 31, 2025
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Isla Jean Yakley reports from Turkey, detailing the protests against President Erdogan's crackdown on dissent. Paul Osborne shares the excitement building in Brisbane as preparations for the 2032 Olympics kick off. Steve Crawshaw discusses the broader implications of current global events, while Ronan Lee analyzes Myanmar's plight amidst chaos. Martin Beck-Holter provides insights into Norway's oil wealth and its economic complexities. The conversation also touches on the potential impacts of US tariffs on the champagne industry and the labeling debate around American sparkling wines.
In Turkey, a crackdown on dissent has intensified, with mass protests against the government reflecting broader outrage over authoritarianism and political repression.
Myanmar's military junta is escalating its assault amid a humanitarian crisis, revealing neglect for civilians while prioritizing military objectives over their welfare.
Brisbane's preparations for the 2032 Olympics are contentious, as public dissent over infrastructure costs juxtaposes potential long-term tourism benefits from the event.
Deep dives
Crackdown on Protests in Turkey
In Turkey, the government has intensified its crackdown on dissent, detaining approximately 100 journalists attempting to report on protests against the arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Following a week of demonstrations, the chairman of the main opposition party shifted protests to a designated political meeting area with over two million participants expressing outrage not only over Imamoglu's imprisonment but against a broader authoritarian trend. Organizers are now calling for boycotts of government-affiliated companies and collecting signatures for petitions demanding early elections, reflecting a strategic pivot to channel the public's anger into political pressure. Despite Imamoglu's imprisonment silencing him, his team is working to maintain visibility through social media, emphasizing the precarious balance between opposition and government power in Turkey's polarized society.
Myanmar's Civil War and Earthquake Response
The recent earthquake in Myanmar, which sparked hopes for a ceasefire in the ongoing civil war, has instead seen the military junta escalate its bombing against rebel forces. Experts warn that the junta's response to the disaster reflects its disregard for humanitarian needs, using the situation to reinforce its grip on power rather than aiding the population. As ordinary citizens grapple with the fallout, they are faced with worsening living conditions exacerbated by the junta’s inaction and ongoing civil conflict. The prioritization of military objectives over civilian welfare highlights the junta's deep-seated neglect and the challenges facing any efforts for political change in Myanmar.
Challenges for Brisbane's Olympic Preparations
Brisbane is facing significant challenges as it prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games amidst negative headlines about its plans and infrastructure. A controversial decision to build a new aquatic center with a large capacity has been made, pivoting from previous commitments to avoid extensive expenditure, reflecting a growing realization that existing venues may not meet Olympic standards. The local government aims to leverage the Games for a boost in tourism and international visibility, despite public dissent regarding the financial implications and potential disruption to local communities. The historical narrative surrounding the Olympics suggests that while initial skepticism may exist, cities often unify and rally around the event, hinting at the possible long-term benefits for Brisbane.
Economic Strains in Norway
Norway's significant sovereign wealth fund, originally a testament to its oil riches, is now being scrutinized for contributing to economic stagnation in the country, according to economist Martin Beck-Holter. He posits that the fund’s management, which has prioritized increased public spending, has led to a passive economy where real wages have stagnated, marking the worst decade for income growth in over half a century. Beck-Holter argues that while prior generations managed the fund wisely, contemporary governance has failed to balance spending against long-term economic health, resulting in a populace that lacks incentive to work and innovate. The recent appointment of Jens Stoltenberg as finance minister presents a pivotal opportunity for Norway to re-evaluate its economic strategies and bolster its economy.
The American Champagne Controversy
Amidst trade tensions, concerns are rising in France over the potential labeling of American-made sparkling wines as 'champagne,' which would undermine stringent regulations governing true champagne production. French producers express fears that such developments, particularly amid proposed tariffs that could drastically increase the price of authentic champagne in the U.S., might render French champagne increasingly unaffordable and push consumers toward American alternatives. This shift poses risks to the French champagne market and could redefine consumer perceptions and preferences globally. The targeting of this iconic product exemplifies broader geopolitical issues and the importance of protecting regional wine identities.
Protesters hit the streets in Turkey as president Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s crackdown continues. Then: we hear the latest from Myanmar and about the game plan for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics. Plus: can the US really create a champagne industry?
