The Inquiry

In this insightful discussion, wine critic Jane Anson reveals how Bordeaux's vineyards are shrinking due to climate shifts and lost demand. Historian Roderick Phillips highlights wine's long cultural history, juxtaposing it with its declining status today. Economist Stefano Castriota examines the impact of tariffs and lifestyle changes on global wine consumption. Meanwhile, consultant Peter McAtamney shares hopeful trends in niche markets and suggests linking wine with gastronomy to reignite interest. Together, they tackle the challenges yet provide a glimpse of resilience in the industry.

Terry Flew, a digital communication expert from the University of Sydney, discusses Australia's forthcoming social media ban for users under 16, driven by youth mental health concerns. Sonia Livingstone, a media scholar from LSE, contrasts past and present social media experiences for youth, noting both benefits and dangers. Lisa Given, an information sciences professor, highlights global reactions and the potential shift to unregulated platforms. They explore age verification challenges and ponder if this trend might spread worldwide.

Mete Hatay, a Turkish Cypriot academic, sheds light on the historical roots of Cyprus's division since 1974. Political analyst Lefteris Adilinis discusses the new Turkish Cypriot leader's pro-federation stance but warns of challenges ahead. Dr. Dorothée Schmid highlights the island's geopolitical significance and rising tensions over resources. Former ambassador Kathleen Doherty assesses the current momentum for reunification talks and the crucial requirements for progress, offering a glimmer of cautious optimism amidst deep-rooted challenges.

Dr. Massimo Faggioli, an expert in contemporary Catholicism, analyzes the nuances of wokeness in relation to the new Pope, Leo XIV. Inés San Martín shares insider perspectives on Francis's polarizing reforms and their fallout. Christopher White highlights Leo's focus on peace and social justice, while Elise Ann Allen discusses Leo's bid to bridge divides within the church. Together, they explore how Leo seeks to navigate complex issues like LGBTQ inclusion and adapt to a global demographic shift, revealing a pope with a unique approach yet grounded in tradition.

In this engaging discussion, guests share insights on climate migration. Amali Tower highlights how slow and sudden climate events displace millions, using examples from Pakistan and Bangladesh. Dr. Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson sheds light on the cultural vulnerabilities of Pacific islanders and their limited migration pathways. Alessio Terzi examines how nationalism affects migration policies, complicating international cooperation. Gaia Vince advocates for proactive international agreements to manage these population shifts effectively. Together, they reveal a world unprepared for escalating climate challenges.

This discussion features Katharine Burnett, an expert in tea culture, who dives into tea's rich history in China and its rituals. Cristina Larrea explores the nuances of tea processing and the socioeconomic dynamics affecting producers. Harki Sidhu highlights climate challenges facing Indian tea farmers, notably erratic rainfall, while Liberal Seburikoko shares insights on innovative tech like drones helping farmers adapt. The conversation unravels the pressing threats to the tea industry posed by climate change and market disconnect.

In the aftermath of World War Two, the charter that founded the United Nations was signed, with the aim of preventing a third global conflict. The UN Security Council, one of six organs of the UN, has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. It’s made up of 15 member countries, there are 10 rotating non-permanent members who are elected for two-year terms by members of the UN General Assembly, the body that represents all UN members. And there are five permanent members – the US, the UK, France, China and Russia; it’s these five that have veto power. Now 80 years on, there are growing calls for the council to reflect the world of today, not only in its representation, but in the way it functions. Criticisms of this international body include abuse of the veto power, lack of permanent representation for countries which have seen more than their fair share of conflict and an inability to reach common consensus, including on how to reform the organisation from within. So, on The Inquiry this week we’re asking, ‘Is the UN Security Council still relevant?’Contributors: Devika Hovell, Prof International Law, London School of Economics, UK Richard Gowan, Director, UN and Multilateral Diplomacy, International Crisis Group, New York, USA Dr Samir Puri, Director, Global Governance and Security Centre, Chatham House, London, UK Mona Ali Khalil, former Senior Legal Officer, UN Office of the Legal Counsel, Co-Editor and Co-Author, ‘Empowering the UN Security Council: Reforms to Address Modern Threats’, Vienna, Austria. Presenter: Charmaine Cozier Producer: Jill Collins Researcher: Maeve Schaffer Technical Producer: Craig Boardman Editor: Tom Bigwood (Photo: United Nations Security Council meeting. Credit: Reuters/BBC Images)

Benin's bold plan offers citizenship to descendants of enslaved Africans, aiming to reconnect cultural ties. The impact of the Middle Passage on West Africa is explored, revealing complex histories and tourist potential. Cultural ambassadorship by figures like Spike Lee seeks to bridge gaps with the African-American community. Guests share insights on economic challenges and the emotional journey of returnees. Can these initiatives spark meaningful connections and healing for a dispersed diaspora?

In this engaging discussion, Pranaya Rana, a Kathmandu-based journalist known for covering Nepalese politics, dives into the surge of activism from Gen Z. He explores how a ban on social media ignited protests, revealing deep-seated frustrations over corruption and political instability. As protests escalated, Rana highlights the youth's choice of a 73-year-old interim prime minister, sparking debates about political maturity and the potential for genuine change in Nepal. Can this generation reshape their country's future amidst complex challenges?

Once a skeptic, Trump now embraces cryptocurrencies, signing legislation to integrate them into mainstream finance. His family’s ventures have sparked profit and interest in digital currencies, raising questions about the US dollar's future. The podcast dives into crypto's rapid growth, regulatory challenges, and the influence of campaign donations on pro-crypto policies. It also examines El Salvador's Bitcoin experiment and the implications of integrating crypto into traditional finance, warning of potential risks amid the hype.