The Interview

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the dynamic President of Somalia, dives deep into the nation's security challenges and the ongoing battle against al-Shabaab and ISIS. He passionately defends Somalia's sovereignty against external pressures, particularly regarding Somaliland's recognition. Mohamud discusses plans for constitutional reform aimed at establishing direct voting rights, emphasizing the importance of unity in his country. Additionally, he shares insights on improving relations with Ethiopia and lifting the US travel ban, signaling Somalia's progress on the international stage.

Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General and former Nigerian Minister for the Environment, shares her insights on global peace and development. She expresses concern over the devaluation of the term 'peace' and discusses the UN's challenges during its 80th General Assembly. Amina emphasizes the need for Security Council reforms to enhance accountability and African representation, while also highlighting the importance of persistent negotiation for progress. She reflects on the UN's successes and the urgency of addressing global crises through collaborative efforts.

Ione Wells speaks to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil in an exclusive, wide-ranging interview.He sets out his anger not only at the hefty trade tariffs imposed on his country by President Trump, but also at the lack of communication or negotiation from the US administration. Now, he says, he has no relationship with the American president.President Lula da Silva does not want to celebrate the recent guilty verdict and lengthy sentence handed down to his predecessor Jair Bolsanaro for plotting a coup against him. But while he hopes Mr Bolsanaro continues to defend himself, for now, he says, he is guilty. The President also attacks what he views as the outdated and unrepresentative nature of the United Nations, and claims the conflict in Ukraine would not have happened if the UN was more effective. He describes the war in Gaza as genocide. President Lula da Silva has been in office since 2023, and also led Brazil between 2003 and 2011. He’s been a figurehead of the left in the country for many decades, having risen through the trade union movement into politics.Thank you to Ione Wells and Jessica Cruz for their help in making this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Ione Wells Producer(s): Ben Cooper, Jessica Cruz and Lucy Sheppard Editor: Justine LangGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Brazilian President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Credit: Andre Borges/EPA/Shutterstock)

Moazzam Malik, Chief Executive of Save the Children UK, brings a wealth of experience in humanitarian policy to discuss the ongoing crisis in Gaza. He reveals alarming conditions on the ground, highlighting the erosion of wartime norms that endanger aid workers. Malik shares insights into the dire famine situation affecting children and the challenges facing operational staff amid violence. His advocacy for international support and the need for policy change underscores the importance of long-term humanitarian assistance for Gaza.

Stevie Wonder, a global music icon and advocate, shares insights from his extraordinary life and career. He discusses the deep connection between artists and their music, emphasizing how songs evolve over time. Reflecting on his childhood, Stevie highlights the encouragement from his mother and the spontaneity of creativity. He also addresses his commitment to social justice, recalling his advocacy for civil rights and disability rights. With a legacy spanning decades, Stevie's vibrant spirit shines through as he inspires listeners to use music as a tool for change.

In a revealing conversation, former US Vice President Mike Pence reflects on his tumultuous time in the Trump administration and the Capitol riots. He shares insights on the importance of strong alliances, especially concerning NATO and support for Ukraine. Pence discusses the challenges of upholding American democratic values in a post-truth era and reflects on the significance of unity in times of chaos. He also touches on personal experiences of resilience, divine intervention during crises, and the lessons learned from navigating a politically charged environment.

John Wilson speaks to British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason about his obsession with music, adjusting to fame and how he’s faced racist abuse.While still a student, he performed to an audience of more than one billion people at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, instantly becoming one of the most recognisable classical performers in the world. Now, still just 26 years old, he explains the unique joy of performing with his family. Kanneh-Mason is one of seven siblings, all are talented musicians and regularly play together.Of Antiguan decent, he was the first black person to win BBC Young Musician of the Year. He’s also used his profile to join calls for dropping ‘Rule, Britannia!’ from the Last Night of the Proms, explaining how difficult it is for someone whose ancestors were enslaved to hear imperial songs sung with such determination. Thank you to the This Cultural Life team for helping to make this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: John Wilson Producers: Alex Loftus, Ben Cooper and Edwina Pittman Editor: Nick HollandGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Sheku Kanneh-Mason. Photo by Ian West - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Francis Fukuyama, a renowned political economist and author known for his influential book 'The End of History', shares his insights on the current threats to liberal democracies. He warns that the US is adopting a 'Putin-esque' approach, highlighting the troubling expansion of executive power and the polarization amplified by recent political events. Fukuyama also discusses risks posed by AI, such as decision-making delegation and deepfakes, stressing their potential to undermine trust and fuel a geopolitical race.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia’s first female president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, shares her remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to leadership. She discusses the profound impact of education on her life and the critical role women played in her ascent. Sirleaf recounts the trials of rebuilding Liberia post-civil war, facing corruption and gender biases. She emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership and community engagement in restoring a nation, while inspiring young women to pursue their ambitions despite obstacles.

In this engaging conversation, Pete Townshend, the influential songwriter and guitarist of The Who, shares insights from the band's farewell tour. He reflects on the emotional complexities of saying goodbye, especially with a changing lineup. Townshend discusses how his musical roots shaped his career, revealing the family struggles that fueled his passion. He humorously explains the infamous guitar-smashing as a possible misunderstanding. Ultimately, he contemplates The Who's legacy and his unique place in the ever-evolving music landscape.