Christina Goldbaum, the Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief for The New York Times, shares her harrowing insights from years of covering Syria. She unveils the dark reality of Assad’s prison system, where countless individuals vanished. Through the poignant story of a survivor named Bilal, listeners grasp the devastating impact of torture and the longing for lost loved ones. The dialogue reveals the complexities of a nation grappling with its past, the emotional turmoil of families searching for truth, and the flickers of hope amid despair.

Christina Goldbaum, a correspondent for The New York Times, details the catastrophic flooding in Pakistan that has claimed over 1,500 lives and displaced 33 million people. She shares vivid accounts of the destruction, as entire communities grapple with starvation and disease. The agricultural sector is on the brink of collapse, with desperate farmers struggling to salvage their harvests. Goldbaum highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the emotional toll on families living in makeshift shelters amidst the devastation.

Christina Goldbaum, a New York Times correspondent based in Kabul, shares her insights on the struggles of Afghan women under Taliban rule. She recounts heartbreaking stories of women navigating life amid severe restrictions on their rights. The conversation dives into the emotional toll of lost education and employment opportunities. Goldbaum highlights the courage of secret educators who defy oppression to teach girls. The podcast also explores contrasting views on safety versus freedom among Afghan women, revealing the resilience and resistance of those fighting for their rights.