Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Nosheen Iqbal and Helen Pidd, Today in Focus brings you closer to Guardian journalism. Combining storytelling with insightful analysis and personal testimonies, the podcast takes you behind the headlines for a deeper understanding of the news, every weekday. Today in Focus is unmatched in both scope and depth, delivering analysis and storytelling from right across the planet. With a global network of over 900 journalists and five dedicated editions covering news in the US, UK, Australia, Europe, and beyond, the Guardian offers comprehensive reporting across every continent. Most recently we have introduced new correspondents in the Caribbean, South America and Africa.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 35min
New Zealand: the fight to protect Māori rights
Eva Corlett, The Guardian's New Zealand correspondent, and Annette Sykes, a prominent Māori lawyer and activist, dive into New Zealand's historic hikoi, where 42,000 rallied for Māori rights. They discuss the government's rollback of these rights and the urgent community response. The conversation highlights significant disparities faced by the Māori, critiques of current policies, and the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi. Together, they underscore the need for unity, cultural pride, and a reassessment of governmental relationships with Māori communities.
Nov 29, 2024 • 31min
Lebanon: a fragile ceasefire in a shattered nation
Will Christou, a Guardian journalist based in Beirut, shares his insights on Lebanon's recent turmoil. He discusses the fragile ceasefire after two months of war, revealing the humanitarian crisis that has left thousands dead and many displaced. Christou highlights the haunting emotional toll on civilians returning to their ravaged communities. He delves into the complexities of Hezbollah's evolving influence and the strategic dynamics of the ceasefire amidst ongoing regional tensions, painting a vivid picture of a nation struggling for peace.
16 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 34min
Assisted dying: a historic vote comes to parliament
Jessica Elgot, The Guardian's Deputy Political Editor, shares insights on the heated parliament discussions regarding the assisted dying bill. Lucy Thomas, a palliative care doctor, voices her concerns about its implications for vulnerable patients. They delve into the ethical complexities and emotional challenges surrounding assisted dying, discussing personal stories and the societal attitudes toward end-of-life decisions. Both guests emphasize the need for careful consideration and consultations to ensure the protection of those most affected.
12 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 29min
The rise of ketamine addiction in the UK
Jack Curran, a recovered ketamine addict, shares his eye-opening journey through addiction, emphasizing the drug's devastating impact and the struggle for effective support. Elle Hunt, a Guardian feature writer, highlights the alarming rise of ketamine use in the UK, particularly among young people. They discuss the troubling normalization of substance use and its intertwining with mental health challenges. The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for specialized treatment and the complexities of navigating recovery in a society facing increased addiction rates.
15 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 38min
The Israeli settlers preparing to move to Gaza
Bethan McKernan is the Guardian's Jerusalem correspondent, and Ruth Michaelson reports from across the Middle East. They discuss the controversial plans of Israeli settlers moving to Gaza amid ongoing conflict. The duo highlights the precarious situation for Palestinian civilians and the motivations behind settler aspirations, driven by ideology and governmental backing. They delve into the implications of resettling Gaza, exploring themes of ethnic cleansing, community resilience, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian dynamic.
36 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 25min
A mystery in Finnish Lapland, and what it means for the climate crisis
Patrick Greenfield, a biodiversity and environment reporter at The Guardian, delves into the declining carbon sink of Finnish Lapland. He explores the beautiful yet threatened primeval forests, underscoring the impact of deforestation on both local communities and climate goals. The discussion highlights the Sami people's deep connection to the land, particularly through traditional reindeer herding. As rising temperatures threaten their identity and ecosystem, Greenfield advocates for urgent action to safeguard these crucial environments from the looming climate crisis.
12 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 35min
Nigel Farage and his ‘historic mission’: on the ground with Reform UK
Nigel Farage makes a surprising return to politics, launching a parliamentary campaign as he aims to revamp Reform UK. The podcast delves into the party's rise amid a changing political landscape, particularly attracting younger supporters. It addresses the nuanced discussions on identity and immigration, reflecting personal stories against the backdrop of evolving political sentiments. Local engagement and community concerns highlight a grassroots movement, while the challenges of accountability and representation in politics are also examined.
10 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 13min
An arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu – Today in Focus Extra
Julian Borger, The Guardian's senior international correspondent, breaks down a significant development in international law involving arrest warrants issued for Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in connection with alleged war crimes. The conversation explores the unprecedented nature of this action, contrasting it with the ICC's historical focus on African leaders. Borger discusses how these warrants might reshape geopolitical relations, particularly between the U.S. and Israel, and the potential impact on leadership decisions amidst ongoing conflict.
12 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 28min
What’s behind the escalating situation in Ukraine?
Dan Sabbagh, The Guardian's defense and security editor reporting from Kyiv, offers a gripping analysis of the escalating conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the impact of long-range missiles and the alarming involvement of North Korean troops. Sabbagh explores the psychological toll on Ukrainian soldiers and the ethical complexities of drone warfare. He raises questions about U.S. military aid, the realities of the battlefield, and the broader geopolitical ramifications that could signal a turning point in the war.
Nov 20, 2024 • 28min
Starmer v farmers – will the government have to backtrack?
Heather Stewart, the Guardian's economics editor, dives into the heated debate as over 10,000 farmers protest against Labour's inheritance tax plans threatening family farms. She highlights the emotional strains on traditional farmers grappling with rising costs and government policies, contrasting their struggles with wealthier landowners who exploit tax loopholes. Stewart also discusses the potential political fallout for Labour, emphasizing the disconnect between rural realities and government decisions that could reshape the landscape of British farming.
