The Bunker – News without the nonsense

Thought viceroys and colonial administrators were a thing of the past? Tony Blair is being lined up to run the “Board of Peace” for a reconstruction authority for post-conflict Gaza and observers are agog. Historian and Bunker regular Alex von Tunzelmann takes us on a tour of the inglorious history of viceregal rule. Where did the role come from? Was it ever a particularly efficient way to run a country you probably shouldn’t have been in anyway? And what cautionary tales should Blair learn from cases as diverse as the Raj, post-Saddam Iraq and Paddy Ashdown’s control of Bosnia?  • Buy Indian Summer: The Secret History of the End of an Empire by Alex von Tunzelmann through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund The Bunker by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees help support independent bookshops too. • Support us on Patreon for early episodes and more. • Head to nakedwines.co.uk/thebunker to get 6 top-rated wines from our sponsor Naked Wines for £39.99, delivery included. • We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to indeed.com/bunker to get your £100 sponsored credit. • Advertisers! Want to reach smart, engaged, influential people with money to spend? (Yes, they do exist). Some 3.5 MILLION people download and watch our podcasts every month – and they love our shows. Why not get YOUR brand in front of our influential listeners with podcast advertising? Contact ads@podmasters.co.uk to find out more. Written and presented by Andrew Harrison. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Produced by Liam Tait. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Art by Jim Parrett. Managing Editor Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this thought-provoking discussion, Natasha Lindstaedt, a Professor of Government at the University of Essex specializing in Russian politics, sheds light on Russia's military struggles. She reveals how high casualty rates and recruitment challenges affect troop levels, especially in poorer regions. The conversation dives into the experiences of conscripted soldiers, the impact of stalled frontlines, and the shift towards drone warfare. Natasha also explores the implications for Putin's regime and the potential for political change in Russia amidst the ongoing war.

Jason Blazakis, an expert on terrorism from the Middlebury Institute, joins to dissect Trump's rhetoric on left-wing terror. He argues that focusing solely on ideology overlooks mixed motivations behind radicalization. Blazakis sheds light on how online forums fuel extremism and highlights data showing minimal left-wing attacks. He warns that designating groups like Antifa could infringe on civil liberties and might be politically weaponized. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of preventive approaches over aggressive tactics in counterterrorism.

Gavin Esler, an experienced journalist and author, joins Jacob Jarvis to dissect the latest moves from Kemi Badenoch and the Conservative Party. They debate the feasibility of her US-style immigration proposals and the party's relevance amid dwindling membership. Esler explores the risks of strict policing measures and calls out potential leadership turmoil ahead. The discussion extends globally, addressing everything from geopolitical ties with India to the impact of the Ukraine conflict. Insightful and engaging, their conversation delves into the complexities of modern politics.

Joined by Damien Walter, a writer and sci-fi commentator, the discussion dives into how science fiction mirrors the rise of fascism in modern society. They explore the parallels between characters like Donald Trump and sci-fi archetypes, and debate whether classics like *V for Vendetta* serve as warnings or how-to guides. Walter also critiques *Andor* through a Marxist lens, pondering the implications of colonialism and revolutionary tactics within the Star Wars universe. Ultimately, they consider how crafting new narratives can help combat authoritarianism.

Dr. Precious Chatterje-Doody, a Senior Lecturer in Politics and co-author of a pivotal book on Russian disinformation, sheds light on the surprising ineffectiveness of Russia’s information operations. She discusses how RT's early strategies shifted towards aggressive campaigns and the clever use of local voices to gain legitimacy. Delving into culture jamming, she explains how emotional resonance plays a pivotal role in misinformation. Ultimately, she emphasizes the need for media literacy and systemic reform to combat these tactics effectively.

Dr. Tim Holmes, a criminology lecturer at Bangor University, shares insights on Keir Starmer's controversial digital ID proposal. He discusses the significant public backlash, with 2.4 million opposing signatures. Tim highlights security issues, the risks of centralized data, and the challenge of societal acceptance, especially among non-smartphone users. He warns of government abuse and stresses the need for transparency and strong protections. Their conversation delves into whether such a system can effectively deter crime and improve everyday life.

Andy Burnham has made it clear he’d be up for replacing Keir Starmer, if people want him to that is. And, well it feels like many people do. So, could it happen? How? When? And would it solve anything? Steve Richards of Rock & Roll Politics joins Jacob Jarvis to discuss.  Listen to Steve’s podcast here: https://linktr.ee/rocknrollpolitics  • We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.   • Claim the Naked Wines offer here: ⁠⁠nakedwines.co.uk/thebunker⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/bunkercast     Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Audio production: Tom Taylor. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join author and broadcaster Alex von Tunzelmann as she analyzes the Labour Party’s challenges and upcoming conference troubles. She discusses Starmer's precarious public image, the impact of low polling, and Labour's attempt to handle migration issues. The conversation also touches on international conflicts, including warnings about potential Russian aggression and the implications of Trump's political maneuvers. Alex delves into the bizarre realm of conspiracy theories, including a troubling AI deepfake linked to Trump, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of today's news.

Nikki McCann-Ramírez, a politics reporter for Rolling Stone and co-host of the American Friction podcast, joins the discussion on Stephen Miller's alarming influence in U.S. politics. They delve into Miller's roots and radicalization, revealing his vision for a white Judeo-Christian ethnostate. Nikki highlights his role as an ideological architect behind Trump’s policies, his abrasive personality, and how he has capitalized on power dynamics in the White House. The conversation raises chilling parallels between Miller and historical figures like Roy Cohn.