The Inquiry

“There is no longer any debate that space is a war fighting domain,”These were the words of Commander General Stephen Whiting from the US government’s Space Command at a conference earlier this year. China, the US, India and Russia have tested anti-satellite weapons in space, and technology is blurring the lines between civilian and military satellites.But will there be war in space?Joining us to discuss the threat of satellite warfare are: Dr Raji Rajagopalan, a resident senior fellow with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in Canberra; Juliana Suess, an associate with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs; Saadia Pekkanen, professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA and Dr Bleddyn Bowen is an associate professor of Astro politics with the Space Research Centre at Durham University in the UK.Presenter: Charmaine Cozier Producer: Vicky Farncombe Researcher: Maeve Schaffer Technical producer: Nicky Edwards Production Coordinator: Tammy Snow Editor: Tara McDermottImage: Getty Images

Japan is witnessing a political shift with the rise of the far-right Sanseito party, now gaining traction after the Covid-19 pandemic. Led by Kamiya Sohei, their nationalist platform capitalizes on voter unease about immigration and the economy. Meanwhile, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party faces internal strife as it loses ground. The discussion also touches on Japan's controversial military stance and the country's historical reliance on American defense, posing questions about the future of its democracy and political identity.

This week, discover Indonesia's ambitious initiative to provide free school meals as a solution to rampant childhood malnutrition, where one in five kids are stunted. Dive into the political and economic repercussions of the plan, with budget cuts affecting vital services like health and education. Hear about protests from students who feel this program is compromising their futures. Additionally, comparisons with India's successful free meal scheme raise questions about efficacy and sustainability in the fight against poverty and hunger.

The podcast delves into the pivotal role of drones in modern warfare, particularly during the Ukraine conflict. It highlights how drones have evolved from peripheral tools to central weapons for surveillance and combat. Ethical concerns and the challenges posed by autonomous drones are discussed, as well as the growing number of countries acquiring military drones. Lastly, experts explore defensive strategies against drone threats, emphasizing the complexities nations face in adapting to this rapidly changing landscape of warfare.

Recent violence in Syria, triggered by a highway hijacking, raises alarm over sectarian tensions and the effectiveness of interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa's leadership. The podcast dives into the struggles of governing a diverse population reflecting on the Druze community's historical role and their complex dynamics with other groups. It also addresses identity and legitimacy issues within the conflict, highlighting the repercussions of shifting alliances and external influences on governance. The challenges of unifying the nation in the wake of civil war are critically examined.

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalate due to a leaked phone call meant to ease border disputes. The call reveals vulnerabilities of Thailand's Prime Minister, leading to public outrage and a governmental crisis. Political dynamics are examined, highlighting the historic influence of the Shinawatra family and the rise of reformist movements. Diplomatic relations deteriorate, raising concerns over political stability and economic implications for Thailand in the Southeast Asian landscape.

A groundbreaking telescope in Chile is about to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. Capturing stunning images with its massive digital camera, it will map the entire Southern Hemisphere sky every three days for a decade. The discussion highlights its key focus areas, including dark matter, solar system formation, and the birth of stars. Contributors reflect on the significance of these advancements in astronomy and the challenges of processing vast amounts of cosmic data. Exciting discoveries await as we peer deeper into the cosmos!

The podcast dives into the growing dependence on artificial intelligence and its potential impact on critical thinking. Studies suggest that using AI might cause cognitive laziness, affecting decision-making abilities. However, there's a debate over whether AI can actually enhance our learning experiences. The discussion touches on AI's role in education, enhancing student engagement, and the balance between using technology and maintaining mental agility. Experts share insights on how AI can aid teachers without sacrificing critical thinking skills.

Dive into the world of Brazil's Zebu cattle, known as 'supercows,' celebrated for their impressive genetics and prime beef quality. Discover how these resilient animals, imported from India, have shaped Brazil's booming beef industry. With soaring global demand, particularly from China, the podcast explores the financial stakes and environmental challenges of cattle farming. Can Brazil's innovations in genetics provide sustainable solutions for a rising population? Join the discussion on the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation.

The podcast dives into Taiwan's precarious position between the U.S. and China, questioning Donald Trump's commitment to its defense amid strategic ambiguity. It highlights Taiwan's transformation into a democracy and its growing national identity, particularly post-2019 protests. The discussion reveals the significance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry to global trade and U.S. interests. Furthermore, it explores the military implications of potential Chinese occupation and China's evolving ties with Russia, raising concerns about regional stability.