The spiked podcast

Gérard Biard, Editor-in-chief of Charlie Hebdo, shares insights from his experience after the tragic 2015 attack on his newspaper. He discusses the ongoing struggle for free speech and the essential role of secularism in democracy. The conversation also covers the controversial Muhammad cartoons and their impact on global discussions of freedom of expression. Biard emphasizes the links between religion, human rights, and societal courage, stressing the need to stand firm against fear and censorship in the pursuit of truth and satire.

The discussion opens with a tragic New Year's Eve car attack in New Orleans, raising alarms about Islamist terrorism linked to ISIS. Speakers urge a deeper dialogue on the ideologies fueling such violence. They then explore the normalization of violence in society, exemplified by a shocking incident involving an explosive-equipped vehicle. Additionally, the podcast tackles the UK's grooming gang scandal, highlighting the political resistance to inquiries and the urgent call for accountability to protect vulnerable individuals.

In this engaging discussion, Greg Lukianoff, President of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, shares insights on the alarming state of free speech in the UK, where arrests for online comments are rising. He critiques the harsh laws surrounding hate speech and the panic over misinformation that threaten personal liberties. Delving into the complexities of incitement and cultural differences in free expression, Lukianoff calls for open discourse, especially amidst campus censorship related to heated global issues.

Rakib Ehsan is a Spiked columnist, while Sabine Beppler-Spahl provides expertise from the ground in Germany. They dive into the tragic car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, discussing its implications for societal safety and the political landscape. The duo addresses the suspect's complex background, highlighting the need to navigate anti-Muslim sentiments amid terrorism discussions. They also critique the German security services' effectiveness and debate Europe’s approach to immigration and integration in light of rising terror threats.

Inaya Folarin Iman, a sharp Spiked columnist, and Francis Foster, a contributor to Trigonometry, dissect the tumultuous year of 2024. They explore the rise of populism, highlighting Trump's influence and discontent with traditional politics. The duo critiques the fading 'woke' culture and its implications on societal norms while pondering the chaos of political events and international relations, especially concerning the Middle East and Ukraine. They blend serious analysis with humor, reflecting on the absurdities of modern politics.

This is the audio from a video we have just published on our YouTube channel – an interview with Michael Lind. To make sure you never miss great content like this, subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@spiked  A month on from Trump’s seismic victory, Democrats are still in denial about the significance of their defeat. Party elites think slicker messaging alone can claw back lost support. Here, Michael Lind – author of Hell to Pay and The New Class War – explains why this is so delusional. Identitarianism, illegal immigration and green extremism made America ripe for a populist revolt. Lind also weighs in on the tensions in the MAGA movement and the farmers’ protests in Europe. Please donate generously to spiked’s Christmas give-a-thon. If you give £50 or more, you can get a free spiked mug, while stocks last. Donate here: https://www.spiked-online.com/donate/  (Mugs can only be sent to UK addresses, sadly.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claire Fox, Director of the Academy of Ideas and independent peer, joins the hosts to dissect pivotal changes in Syria as the Assad regime falters. They analyze how international influences shape the region and the controversial rebranding of rebel group HTS. The conversation also delves into America's complex responses to violence, including a trial that highlights racial tensions. Finally, they discuss Reform UK's rise against disillusionment with mainstream parties, indicating a shifting political landscape in the UK.

Rakib Ehsan, a sharp Spiked columnist known for his insights on political and cultural issues, joins the discussion with hosts Tom Slater and Fraser Myers. They dive into the MasterChef scandal, examining how it reflects society's reaction to media trials. Ehsan critiques the media's role in feminism, emphasizing the risks of presuming guilt. The conversation shifts to the collapse of the French government, linking it to broader European political turmoil and the challenges facing Labour in defining its identity amid pressing issues.

Macer Gifford, a former City of London currency trader, traded his suit for combat boots to fight against ISIS in Syria and then for Ukraine against Russian aggression. He shares gripping tales from the frontlines, including the joy of liberating Kherson and the intense realities of modern warfare. Gifford discusses the evolving role of international volunteers and the complexities underlying the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the unity of the Ukrainian people and their fierce determination for freedom.

Jacob Reynolds, a regular contributor known for his incisive commentary, joins Tom Slater and Fraser Myers to explore the controversial assisted-dying bill pushed by a Labour MP. They delve into the profound ethical dilemmas surrounding legalized assisted suicide and discuss societal implications for the elderly and vulnerable. Additionally, the trio tackles a debate on potential blasphemy laws, unpacking the tension between free speech and religious criticism, highlighting the risks faced by dissenters in today's politically charged climate.