Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Helen Pidd, Nosheen Iqbal and Annie Kelly, 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
12 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 31min
Revisited: The chilling policy to cut Greenland’s high birth rate
Bula Larsen, a Greenlandic woman who endured forced contraception in the 1960s, recounts her harrowing experiences. Joining her is Celine Klint, a journalist who investigated the Danish policies behind this dark chapter. They discuss the chilling details of coerced IUD insertions and the emotional trauma faced by women. The conversation also highlights Denmark's troubling relationship with Greenland, the fight for justice, and the critical importance of consent in healthcare.
21 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 33min
The Syrian civil war and a stunning reversal for the Assad regime
Foreign correspondent Ruth Michaelson, an expert on the Middle East, dives into the complexities of the Syrian civil war. She discusses the fall of Aleppo and the rise of Islamist militants, describing the chaos in the Syrian army. Michaelson highlights the challenges faced by residents, sharing their emotional turmoil amidst the conflict. She also examines the shifting alliances supporting Assad’s regime and the implications of diminishing support from Russia and Iran. This insightful analysis reveals the personal and political stakes in a war-torn nation.
31 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 24min
Why Joe Biden pardoned his son
Chris Michael, US Live editor for The Guardian, dives into the surprising pardon of Hunter Biden by his father, President Joe Biden. He discusses the balance between family loyalty and presidential integrity amidst Republican backlash. The conversation unpacks the historical significance of the pardon and Hunter's tumultuous legal issues. Michael also touches on the notorious laptop controversy and its impact on public perception, revealing the intricate ties between family, politics, and ongoing partisan tensions.
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.
