Simon Jenkins

Join Simon Jenkins, a Guardian columnist and bestselling author, alongside Rory Stewart, co-host of the Rest is Politics, as they unravel the fascinating evolution of British architecture. They discuss the legacy of structures from Stonehenge to the Shard, debating modernist planning versus historical preservation. The dialogue highlights the architectural charm of British cities, critiques post-war design failures, and reflects on the ongoing housing crisis while celebrating the blend of historic and contemporary styles shaping national identity.

Richard Connolly, an associate fellow specializing in the Russian economy, and Simon Jenkins, a renowned journalist, debate the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia. They argue that these penalties may not alter autocratic regimes and could even destabilize Western governments. Opposing them are Russia expert Owen Matthews and journalist Anna Reid, who discuss the challenges of imposing sanctions while managing geopolitical consequences. The debate raises pressing questions about the moral implications and actual impact of these measures on the Russian population.

Bill Browder, leader of the Global Magnitsky Justice Campaign and author, discusses targeted sanctions against human rights abusers. Simon Jenkins, a seasoned author and columnist, counters by questioning the overall effectiveness of these sanctions. They dive into how sanctions impact both the oligarchs and ordinary Russians, debating their moral implications and potential to incite internal dissent. The discussion incorporates comparisons with historical cases and explores how sanctions fit into broader international relations.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Freedland, a Guardian columnist and Orwell Prize winner, teams up with Simon Jenkins, a former editor of The Evening Standard and The Times. They delve into Boris Johnson's dramatic resignation and its profound implications for British politics. The conversation highlights the erosion of public trust and the dangers of charismatic leadership without substance. They also explore the emotional toll of political lies and the persistent influence of populism in the current political climate.

Simon Jenkins, a Guardian columnist and author known for his insights into culture and history, discusses the evolution of politics through a historical lens. He emphasizes the resilience of democracy amidst modern challenges and debates the complexities of identity politics. They examine the Labour Party's struggles with reconnecting to voters and the role of diverse media voices in shaping public opinion. Jenkins also critiques the UK housing crisis and advocates for a shift in drug policy, suggesting regulation as a potential solution to societal issues.