Why is France's Macron in China visiting Xi Jinping?

France's President Emmanuel Macron visits China for a three-day state visit - at a tricky time in relations. Under discussion - trade and the Ukraine war - with big differences between the two.  What are the divisions - and what's at stake? In this episode:  Andy Mok - Senior Research Fellow at th…

Who benefits from India's sweeping new labour reforms?

India is rolling out a set of simplified labour codes to modernise outdated laws. Unions describe the changes as sweeping and aggressive. So, who stands to benefit -- workers seeking job security and fair wages? Or employers looking for flexibility and lower staffing costs? In this episode:  Harsh…

Can former colonial powers be held accountable for past atrocities?

African leaders want colonial-era abuses recognised and criminalised. Algeria says a legal framework would ensure reparations are neither a gift nor a favour. So, how could former colonial powers be held accountable? And can the cost of those atrocities be measured? In this episode:  Abdelkader Ab…

What would it mean for Israel if Netanyahu is pardoned in his court cases?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked for a presidential pardon to end his criminal prosecution. He says it will unite the public but critics say he's driving further division. So, what are the long-term implications for Israel?  In this episode:  Dan Perry, Political Analyst.  Neve …

What are Trump's real intentions with Venezuela?

Venezuela accuses Washington of colonialism after President Donald Trump said he's shutting down its airspace. The country's on high alert after US attacks on boats nearby and a huge military and naval build-up. Trump says he's fighting drug trafficking. But is that the real reason?  In this episo…

What does the resignation of Zelenskyy's top aide mean for Ukraine?

A corruption scandal in Ukraine claims its biggest scalp yet - with the resignation of President Volodomy Zelenskyy's top aide. Andriy Yermak had been due to lead key talks with the U.S. on the war with Russia this weekend. So what does this mean for Ukraine?  In this episode:  Olena Tregub - Secr…

Could military service become reality again in European countries?

France is to bring back a form of military service. That comes weeks after Germany announced plans to assess young people's suitability for military duty.  Russia's invasion of Ukraine has forced European states to examine their readiness. So could conscription return? In this episode:  Jacques Re…

Why was there a coup in Guinea-Bissau and what are the implications? 

The military seizes power in Guinea-Bissau - a day before Sunday's presidential election results were due to be announced. The African Union and West African regional bloc Ecowas have condemned the coup. Why has it happened - and what are the implications?  In this episode:  Kabir Adamu - Managing…

Can the US help end the Ukraine - Russia war?

Little sign of peace in Ukraine - but trans-Atlantic diplomatic efforts to end the war are intensifying.  Ukraine and its European allies are vying with Russia to sway US President Donald Trump in forging a deal. Can one be reached - or will the war go on?  In this episode:  Chris Weafer, Chief Ex…

What are the risks as tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalate?

Pakistan accused of air strikes killing civilians in Afghanistan. A day earlier, a suicide bomb in Pakistan killed three security personnel. Recent peace efforts and a temporary ceasefire have failed. What's driving the violence and what are the risks?  In this episode:  Obaidullah Baheer, Adjunct…