The Inquiry

Exploring the tensions and risks in the South China Sea, focusing on the Philippines' claims to disputed territories and the presence of a rusting warship, the Sierra Madre. The ongoing confrontations with China over maritime rights and international law implications are discussed, reflecting the broader geopolitical significance of the region for global trade and security.

Exploring the transmission of bird flu from birds to dairy cattle in the US, posing concerns for human infection. Virologists track the development of the virus since the 1990s, with over 400 human deaths linked to it worldwide. Experts discuss the potential for further transmission to humans and the risks of viruses adapting between different species.

Discussion on challenges faced by Joe Biden in his reelection bid, including concerns about his age and performance. Exploring the possibility of Democrats replacing him with Kamala Harris as the nominee and the potential implications. Highlights the risks and unity issues of changing candidates so close to the election, all while Republicans observe the situation to their advantage.

Exploring Hungary's upcoming EU Presidency and its divergent views on climate policy and Ukraine, amidst the rise of far-right parties in the European Parliament. How Hungary's leadership may impact European politics and alliances, especially with concerns about its cooperation with Russia and Viktor Orbán's agenda.

Artificial Intelligence's energy demands are explored, posing challenges for sustainability. AI's impact spans healthcare, climate change, and global challenges. The rise in living standards globally increases electricity demand, with AI influencing energy grids. Renewable energy for AI centers and regulations may be key for sustainability.

Kenya is leading a UN-backed security force in Haiti due to armed gang violence, while facing internal security issues and economic challenges. The podcast delves into Kenya's historical involvement in peacekeeping missions, its global partnerships, and the complexities of being in Haiti. It also explores the historical US-Haiti relationship and Kenya's humanitarian efforts, highlighting the implications of this international mission.

A hidden camera recording shows a man gifting an expensive handbag to the South Korean First Lady, sparking a political storm. The incident raised bribery and corruption concerns, affecting the country's parliamentary elections. The fallout included societal divisions and the First Lady's retreat from public life.

On the 28th of May, in a small country on the easternmost reaches of Europe, a new law came into effect.For the vast majority of people around the world, this new ruling, in a nation of fewer than 4 million inhabitants, went largely unnoticed.However, for many of the citizens of Georgia it marked a setback, throwing off course the country’s prospects of joining the European Union and aligning it more closely with Moscow.This week on The Inquiry we’re asking, ‘Is Georgia turning its back on Europe?’Contributors:Megi Kartsivadze, DPhil student, Oxford School of Global and Area Studies, University of Oxford, and an invited lecturer at the University of Tbilisi, GeorgiaProfessor Stephen Jones, Director of the Program on Georgian Studies at the Davis Center at Harvard University, Cambridge, MADr. Lia Tsuladze, Executive Director of the Center for Social Sciences and an Associate Professor of Sociology at Tbilisi State University, GeorgiaMaia Nikoladze, Assistant Director in the GeoEconomics Center, Atlantic Council, Washington DCProduction team: Presenter: Tanya Beckett Producer: Lorna Reader Technical Producer: Craig Boardman Researcher: Matt Toulson Production Coordinators: Ellie Dover & Tim Fernley Editor: Tara McDermottImage Credit: David Mdzinarishvili/Epa-Efe/Rex/Shutterstock

Discover the journey of the world's largest iceberg, A23a, from its 'calving' to its recent refloat. Explore its impact on the ecological environment, acting as a fertilizer and carbon sink for the ocean. Learn about the implications of melting glaciers on marine life, global sea levels, and the fragile future of ice ecosystems.

Myanmar faces a crisis as the military enforces conscription to combat civil war. Experts discuss the country's history, economic reforms, and geopolitical influences. The resistance movement, territorial control, and challenges in unification are explored in depth.