UnHerd with Freddie Sayers

Aris Roussinos, a contributing editor and war reporter, provides firsthand insights from Romania's recent presidential election. He discusses the unexpected victory of a pro-EU candidate, highlighting its implications for Eastern Europe's political landscape amid rising tensions with Russia. Roussinos reflects on the contrasting views between younger urban voters and older rural constituents, while navigating concerns over electoral malpractice and potential Russian interference. The conversation raises questions about Romania's future direction and its impact on regional stability.

Sohrab Ahmari, US editor of UnHerd and a practicing Catholic, discusses the implications of Pope Leo XIV's election, the first American Pope. They explore his controversial social media posts critiquing figures like Trump and Vance, and the potential impact of his papacy on traditional values and politics. The chat delves into the Pope's balancing act between liberals and conservatives, his views on immigration and climate change, and the historic tensions between religious authority and national identity. What does this mean for faith and populism?

Peter Hitchens, a British journalist known for his conservative stances, passionately discusses the complexities of capital punishment. He tackles the moral dilemmas surrounding justice versus revenge and reconciles his views with his Anglican faith. Hitchens highlights recent trends in public opinion favoring the death penalty among younger generations amid rising crime rates. He further critiques wrongful convictions and the current justice system, urging for meaningful reform before considering reinstatement, all while exploring the philosophical and ethical dimensions of this contentious issue.

Yanis Varoufakis, a former Greek Finance Minister and renowned economist, joins Wolfgang Munchau, Eurointelligence founder, to discuss Europe's precarious position in the escalating trade war with the U.S. and China. They dive into the complexities of post-Brexit trade dynamics and critique the EU's outdated economic strategies. The future of global trade is examined, highlighting the need for reforms in response to rising powers like China. Concerns about Europe's diminishing influence and fragmentation amid global tensions are central to their thought-provoking conversation.

Malcolm and Simone Collins, co-founders of the Pronatalist Foundation, tackle the pressing issue of declining birth rates and its societal implications. They discuss the philosophical underpinnings of pronatalism, countering misconceptions linking it to eugenics. The duo emphasizes the role of diverse parenting styles and cultural identity in fostering a high fertility culture. They also navigate the complex interplay between demographic decline and family dynamics, advocating for a cultural shift that honors motherhood beyond financial incentives.

Freddie Sayers hosts Michael Ignatieff, former Canadian Liberal leader, to dissect the 2025 Canadian election and Mark Carney’s leadership.Ignatieff breaks down Carney’s global expertise, his strategy against Trump’s tariffs, and the possibility of a grand coalition with Canada's Conservatives.While the Liberals narrowly edged out the Right, Ignatieff argues the results reflect a complex mix of liberal resilience, populist setbacks, and converging policies — hinting at a Canada craving change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Renaud Camus, a right-wing French philosopher known for his contentious theories on remigration and the 'Great Replacement,' joins the conversation. He shares his views on the societal implications of demographic changes and the historical context of migration. Camus discusses the challenges of identity in multicultural societies and the responsibility of public intellectuals amidst rising far-right sentiments. The dialog navigates complex themes of race, colonization, and the impact of controversial ideas, advocating for open debate despite the heated nature of the topics.

Julie Bindel, a feminist journalist and author renowned for her work on violence against women and children, delves into the UK's grooming gang crisis. She highlights systemic failures and the neglect faced by victims and their families. The conversation covers personal stories of exploitation, the political struggles surrounding these crimes, and the need for accountability and better support for vulnerable individuals. Bindel challenges the left's response to women's rights and emphasizes the importance of confronting these ongoing issues.

In this captivating discussion, Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, a lifelong pro-life activist, shares insights into her fight against abortion. Army veteran Adam Smith-Connor recounts his arrest for silently praying outside an abortion clinic, questioning the boundaries of free speech. Livia Tossici-Bolt, a retired scientist, discusses her conviction for holding a supportive sign, highlighting the contentious nature of public faith. Together, they examine the implications of buffer zones on personal freedoms, sparking a transatlantic debate over censorship and religious expression.

JD Vance, the US Vice President and author of "Hillbilly Elegy," discusses his vision for US-UK relations and the promise of a new trade deal. He comments on the complexities of the Ukraine conflict and the need for a more independent Europe. Vance critiques European defense spending while noting changing perceptions of Trump among European leaders. He also highlights how social media helps bridge the gap between high-ranking officials and the public, offering insights into modern political communication.