Sensemaker

A High Court injunction, granted to Epping Forest District Council, will mean the end of asylum seekers being housed in a local hotel. Writer & Producer: Amalie Sortland with additional reporting from Xavier GreenwoodEpisode Photography: Joe MeeExecutive producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Millions of Afghans who fled decades ago are now being returned from neighbouring Pakistan and Iran as part of one of the largest deportations in recent history.Writer: Serena CesareoProducer: Serena CesareoHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One region in western Ukraine has become a key sticking point in President Trump’s attempts to bring the war to an end.Writer: Casey MagloireProducer: Casey MagloireHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ADHD prescriptions have risen 18% year on year in England since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic. Writer: Jonathan LewisProducer: Amalie SortlandHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Sofia FentonExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nepal’s Department for Tourism says it hopes that by waiving permit fees for the 97 lesser-climbed Himalayan peaks it can ease overcrowding on Everest and stimulate the local economy.Writer: Poppy BullardProducer: Jonathan Lewis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump and Putin met in Alaska for a high-stakes summit discussing how to end the war in Ukraine.Writer & Producer: Amalie SortlandExecutive producer: Matt RussellPhotography: Joe Mee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A recent outbreak of bovine tuberculosis disrupted farming on a well-known UK farm, revealing serious challenges for local farmers. The emotional and financial toll of the disease is immense, as personal stories highlight its impact on cattle and livelihoods. Discussing the controversial practice of culling badgers, the conversation shifts towards more effective solutions like testing and vaccination. The call for sustainable strategies in managing this persistent issue underscores the urgency for both farmers and the agricultural community.

The podcast delves into the staggering impact of plastic pollution and highlights Coca-Cola's dubious role in the crisis. Listeners learn about the health risks linked to microplastics and the troubling decline in major companies' commitments to reusable packaging. The discussions also cover the challenges faced by regions like Samoa in managing plastic waste. Finally, the ongoing negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty reveal a tug-of-war between environmental reform advocates and industry lobbyists, emphasizing a critical moment for global cooperation.

A Palestinian activist filmed his own death at the hands of an Israeli settler, sparking outrage and highlighting the challenges in the West Bank. The podcast dives into the escalating violence from settlers and the profound impact on local communities. It shares Auda al-Hathleen's brave resistance against oppressive policies and the aftermath that ensued. Listeners hear about the community's fight for justice and the haunting legacy left by activism amid ongoing conflict.

The discussion kicks off with a heated debate over a call for police to disclose more personal details about alleged criminals, sparking community outrage. The complexities of sharing such information are examined, especially regarding asylum seekers. Potential biases in legal outcomes are explored, highlighting the risks of public perception swaying trial fairness. Finally, the podcast tackles the Labour Party's struggles in navigating political challenges amidst misinformation and shifting voter loyalties.