John Lyons

Join Natasha Mitchell as she chats with a powerhouse panel: John Lyons, ABC's Washington bureau chief; Greg Sheridan, foreign editor at The Australian; Emma Shortis from the Australia Institute; and tech journalist Josh Taylor. They tackle pressing global issues, like the fragility of democracy post-WWII, the chilling impact of tech on governance, and the human cost of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The rise of AI and its repercussions on jobs and creativity also take center stage, highlighting just how much our world is shifting.

John Lyons, ABC's Global Affairs Editor, shares his firsthand insights from covering pivotal global events. He discusses the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the resilience he witnessed amid conflict. The conversation also touches on the implications of the Ukraine war and the potential political shifts as 2024 unfolds. Additionally, Lyons reflects on cultural phenomena like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, highlighting the intersection of entertainment and global issues. His anecdotes reveal the universal desire for safety and connection, even in turbulent times.

John Lyons, ABC's Global Affairs Editor, dives into the stunning fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in just eight days, highlighting the chaotic takeover of Damascus and the shift in power dynamics. He discusses how the rise of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) has transformed from an Al-Qaeda offshoot to an organization with a more moderate image. Lyons also explores the geopolitical distractions affecting support for Assad and what these changes mean for the future stability of Syria and the Middle East.