Today in Focus

Kiana Hayeri, a photojournalist focused on Iran and women's rights, shares her eye-opening return to Tehran, where defying hijab rules is becoming increasingly visible. Deepa Parent, a journalist for The Guardian, analyzes the aftermath of the Women, Life, Freedom movement, detailing the societal shifts and the harsh repression that followed. They discuss the surprising defiance seen on the streets, the complex reality of life in Iran post-protests, and the evolving dynamics within the regime as economic pressures mount.

Sean Binder, a former volunteer who faced trial in Greece for aiding refugees, shares his harrowing experience of rescue operations on Lesbos. Katy Fallon, a migration reporter, provides insights into the shifting local climate and the criminalization of NGOs. They discuss the serious charges against Sean, including smuggling allegations, and the alarming trend of political narratives turning volunteers into targets. Together, they illuminate the risks posed to humanitarian aid in Europe and the broader implications of a potential guilty verdict.

Heather Stewart, the Economics editor at The Guardian, dives into Labour's budget unveiling by Rachel Reeves, dissecting its potential impact on the UK economy. She discusses the challenges Reeves faced, including political pressures and spending reversals that could affect families. Stewart explains controversial measures like the mansion charge and increased taxes on unearned income. With rising minimum wages and theatre in the Commons, she evaluates whether this budget can truly support working people and restore public trust.

Piotr Sauer, a Russian affairs reporter for The Guardian, dives into the complex landscape of ongoing peace negotiations in Ukraine. He discusses three competing peace proposals and the contrasting moods in Kyiv and Moscow. Sauer reveals the contentious demands from Russia, including troop caps and amnesty, while detailing Ukraine's priorities for any deal. He examines the impact of public sentiment on both sides, the challenges of diplomacy led by unconventional figures, and the pressing need for a resolution amid war fatigue.

Luke Harding, Senior foreign correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the shocking case of Nathan Gill, a former MEP jailed for accepting bribes linked to pro-Russian propaganda. Harding reveals Gill’s rise alongside Nigel Farage and his alarming connections to Kremlin-aligned figures. He discusses Gill's recruitment tactics and the wider implications of foreign influence on Brexit-era politics. From Kyiv, Harding emphasizes the need for a reckoning on such foreign interference, branding Gill's actions as traitorous amidst ongoing conflicts.

Corey Doctorow, a renowned tech critic and activist, dives into the troubling concept of 'enshittification' of the internet, explaining how platforms like Amazon and Google have shifted from user-friendly to profit-driven models. He illustrates the three stages of this decline, emphasizing the negative impacts on local businesses and the search experience. Doctorow argues that individual choices aren't enough to combat these issues and stresses the importance of collective action and policy reforms to reclaim a more democratic internet.

In this eye-opening discussion, Daniel Boffey, a chief reporter at The Guardian, investigates claims about Nigel Farage’s troubling conduct during his time at Dulwich College. He reveals allegations of racist and anti-Semitic behavior, including chants of fascist slogans. Former pupil Peter Ategi shares his personal experiences of being targeted, highlighting the emotional scars left behind. Together, they examine the implications of Farage's past on his current political stance and the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths.

Estefanía Vela Barba, a feminist activist from the NGO Intersecta, and Ann Deslandes, a journalist specializing in Mexican politics, discuss the alarming state of women's safety in Mexico. They dive into reactions to the recent assault on President Sheinbaum, exploring the broader implications for gender rights. The duo highlights the grim realities of femicides and everyday harassment, while examining the failures of law enforcement and grassroots efforts for change. They also debate the complex relationship between militarization and women's freedom in an evolving political landscape.

Jessica Elgot, Deputy Political Editor at The Guardian, dives into the radical asylum reforms proposed by Shabana Mahmood. She discusses why these changes are necessary and outlines key measures, including a controversial 20-year path to settlement. Elgot examines tightening family reunion policies and the implications of asset seizures on refugees. The conversation also highlights public perceptions influencing tougher immigration laws and whether Mahmood can balance compassion with stricter rules for asylum seekers.

Jonathan Freedland, a seasoned political journalist and presenter of Politics Weekly America, dives into Donald Trump's complicated ties to the Epstein files. He discusses how Trump's reluctance to release documents has become a political hotbed. Freedland reveals the contents of emails linking Trump to Epstein and highlights the extensive connections Epstein had with elite figures. He also examines the push by some Republicans for transparency and how this scandal resonates with Trump’s base, suggesting that his recent U-turn might only offer temporary relief.