The Global Story

Jess Parker, BBC's Berlin correspondent, sheds light on Germany's shifting stance on migration since the 2015 crisis, highlighting a Syrian family's struggles with integration amidst rising far-right sentiments. Mark Lowen, a former Southern Europe correspondent, discusses newly established migration routes and the political fallout in Italy. They explore the divided views across Europe on migration policy, the challenges of identity politics, and the lasting impact of the migrant experience in shaping public sentiment.

In this discussion, Anne Soy, the BBC's Deputy Africa Editor, provides deep insights into the tangled history of the Democratic Republic of Congo. She explores Rwanda's alleged backing of the M23 rebel group, unraveling the complex legacy of the Rwandan genocide. The conversation dives into the economic factors behind the conflict, examining how valuable minerals fuel ongoing violence. With shifting international perceptions, Rwanda's controversial policies and their implications for global relations are also interrogated, revealing the intricate balance of power in the region.

James Landale, a BBC Diplomatic Correspondent, dives into Europe's security landscape amid shifting U.S. defense commitments. He details how rising tensions with Russia force European leaders to reconsider their reliance on American military support. They explore historical ties like NATO, current disparities in military spending, and the potential for a unified European defense strategy. Landale also discusses the cultural attitudes toward military service that complicate defense autonomy, painting a complex picture of Europe's security future.

Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, shares her insights on a surprising diplomatic phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, aimed at addressing the Ukraine conflict. She highlights the skepticism expressed by Ukraine's President Zelensky regarding Russia's intentions. The discussion dives into the complexities of NATO's role, the emotional landscape of the Ukrainian people amidst losses, and the implications of American and European perspectives on diplomacy. Doucet's analysis sheds light on the precarious future of international alliances.

Dominic Hughes, BBC's Global Health correspondent, shares insights on the chilling link between war and antibiotic resistance. He discusses how conflicts, particularly the situation in Ukraine, are exacerbating the emergence of superbugs, rendering treatments less effective. Hughes highlights the historical role of antibiotics in wartime and how current military conflicts endanger the progress made in modern medicine. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for a coordinated global response to the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis.

Will Grant, a BBC correspondent in Central America, offers gripping insights into El Salvador's ongoing battle with drug gangs under President Bukele's controversial policies. The discussion unveils Bukele's aggressive crime control measures, leading to mass arrests and the construction of a mega-prison. Personal stories from two mothers capture the complex emotions surrounding safety and grief amid this crackdown, raising critical questions about human rights and judicial challenges that many families face. It's a poignant look at a nation's struggles.

Jayme Poisson, host of the CBC's Front Burner, offers a deep dive into Canadian affairs, while Peter Goffin, a BBC reporter, shares on-the-ground perspectives. They discuss the impact of Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum and the provocative suggestion of Canada as the 51st state. The conversation navigates the tug-of-war between admiration and rivalry in Canadian-American identity. With humor and historical anecdotes, they explore how recent political moves threaten to shake the foundations of a long-standing friendship.

Sergi Forcada Freixas, a BBC journalist from Madrid, and Sofia Bettiza, the BBC's gender and identity correspondent, discuss the explosive fallout from Luis Rubiales' controversial kiss at the Women's World Cup. This incident has overshadowed Spain’s victory and sparked a national dialogue on consent and sexism. Bettiza connects the case to Spain's ongoing cultural evolution from patriarchal norms to gender equality, significantly influenced by prior events like the La Manada case, highlighting a vital shift in public perception and legal frameworks regarding sexual assault.

Zoe Conway, the BBC's employment correspondent, and Nicholas Bloom, a Stanford economics professor, delve into the shifting landscape of remote work. They discuss how the pandemic initially revolutionized work dynamics, but companies now push for office returns amid productivity concerns. The conversation also covers global variations in remote work practices, Amazon's strict in-office policy, and the socio-economic divide affecting workers. Insights into the future of hybrid work highlight technological advancements and changing leadership trends shaping the work environment.

Paul Adams, BBC's diplomatic correspondent with deep expertise in the Middle East, joins to discuss Trump's ambitious plan for Gaza as a business hub. They delve into the implications of moving Gazans out and what that means for the two-state solution's viability. Adams examines the historical context and current political realities influencing Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The conversation highlights the entrenched challenges and shifting perspectives that complicate any hope for lasting peace in the region.