The Take

Manuela Picq, a Professor of International Relations at Amherst College and a veteran observer of Latin American politics, dives into Ecuador's tumultuous political climate. She discusses the shocking rise in gang violence that has turned the nation into one of the deadliest in the region, linked to drug trafficking. The presidential race features incumbent Daniel Noboa, who has militarized the streets, versus Luisa Gonzalez, who advocates for social reform. Picq also addresses the implications of corruption and the challenges facing voters who seek credible leadership.

Patricia Simón, a Spanish journalist from La Marea specializing in human rights and migration, dives deep into Ukraine's booming surrogacy industry amid war. She discusses how relaxed regulations and economic disparities have turned Ukraine into the main hub for surrogacy in Europe, despite the grim realities faced by surrogate mothers. Personal stories highlight the emotional and ethical struggles these women endure, revealing the complex balance between desperation and exploitation in a conflict-ridden landscape.

Jaime Palomera, an economic anthropologist and co-founder of the Barcelona Urban Research Institute, discusses Spain's mounting housing crisis. With home prices up nearly 50% and rent sky-high, the unrest has sparked massive protests for affordable housing. Palomera sheds light on the plight of youth struggling to secure homes and the growing influence of tenant unions combating exploitative landlords. Insights into how wealth inequality is shaping the housing landscape reveal urgent calls for systemic change echoing in cities around the globe.

Vina Nadjibulla, Vice President of Research and Strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, shares her expertise on the global trade disruptions caused by Trump’s tariffs. She discusses the unexpected impacts on American consumers, particularly lower-income groups who face rising costs. The conversation delves into the retaliatory measures from China and how Southeast Asian nations are adapting their economic strategies. Vina emphasizes finding opportunities in crisis, highlighting resilience and collective action as vital for navigating these turbulent times.

The latest discussion dives into shocking video evidence revealing the killing of Palestinian medics by Israeli forces, challenging the official narratives. Protests erupt in Washington, sparking debates about free speech amid the humanitarian crisis. The dire situation intensifies as casualty figures in Gaza continue to rise, highlighting the grim realities of the ongoing conflict.

The podcast delves into the political landscape of Muslims in France, examining the significant effects of a controversial bill on Islamic separatism. It features insights from activists on the struggle for secularism and the rise of far-right sentiments. Listeners are drawn into debates about Islam's role in national identity and legislation affecting the Muslim community. Personal narratives reveal the fear and challenges faced by Muslims under growing governmental scrutiny, all while addressing the impacts of 'Islamo-leftism' on discourse and academia.

Liliana Harrington, a Senior Campaigner for Avaaz, sheds light on the plight of Afghan women's rights activists facing deportation from Pakistan. These brave individuals risk imprisonment or death if sent back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Liliana discusses the emotional toll and the harsh realities of their lives in hiding, emphasizing the urgent need for international support. With resettlement programs shutting down, she explores potential safe havens like Brazil and calls for collective action to ensure their safety amidst escalating danger.

Marci Shore, a Yale University history professor specializing in Eastern European intellectual history, discusses the alarming exodus of academics from the U.S. due to tightening political climates. She highlights the consequences of funding cuts and growing intimidation in universities. Shore explores historical parallels to current authoritarian trends and the manipulation of anti-Semitism for political gain. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for a resurgence of courage in academia to preserve intellectual freedom and resist repression.

Bob Kitchen, Vice President of Emergencies at the International Rescue Committee, discusses the devastating aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar. He highlights the urgent need for global solidarity and aid as the country grapples with ongoing civil unrest. The conversation delves into the heroic rescue efforts amid ruins and the resilience of local aid workers. Kitchen also sheds light on the severe humanitarian challenges, including halted US support, that complicate relief efforts in this multifaceted crisis.

Nader Durgham, a Lebanese reporter with Middle East Eye, shares gripping insights on the recent Israeli airstrike in Beirut, shaking the city's fragile peace. He discusses how the chaos has impacted local residents, the skepticism surrounding government narratives of rocket storage, and Hezbollah's complex role in the aftermath. As tensions rise and the Lebanese government struggles for stability, Durgham highlights the deep longing for normalcy amidst ongoing crises, revealing a poignant picture of life caught between hope and despair.