Democracy, power and governance

With the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the accession of King Charles, Britain has entered a new era — and questions about the future of the monarchy have become more pressing. In this episode, George Miller talks to Laura Clancy about the questions she think we should be asking about the monarchy in 21st-century Britain.…Read more

Kaitlin Senk shows that despite Trump’s election win, his approval has fallen sharply due to unpopular policies, while Democrats gain support through popular candidates and progressive measures.…Read more

Laura Clancy, author of 'What Is the Monarchy For?', argues that rising public support and international precedents suggest the UK could feasibly transition to a democratic, cost-effective republic.…Read more

Rodney Scott, author of 'Contemporary Public Administration in New Zealand', demonstrates that improving public services depends on cultivating a strong culture of public service values, rather than forcing them to imitate the private sector …Read more

Katie Pybus, author of 'Fairer Welfare Systems for Better Mental Health', shows how planned cuts to disability benefits risk worsening mental health and poverty, highlighting the need for a more compassionate, evidence-based social security system.…Read more

Brenda Fitzpatrick, author of 'Tactical Rape in War and Conflict', highlights how in Sudan, widespread sexual violence, famine, and mass displacement are ravaging millions, as wealthy nations cut aid and turn their backs on their moral obligations.…Read more

In early 2025, Israel’s ongoing destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system was exposed as 'medelacide', the deliberate targeting of medical infrastructure.…Read more

Jonathan Parker, author of 'Analysing the History of British Social Welfare', argues that while social security reform is necessary, compassion and Universal Basic Income are essential to protecting the vulnerable.…Read more

Martin Parker, editor of 'Life After COVID-19', hoped the pandemic might spark lasting change, but entrenched power and economic interests drove a return to business as usual, revealing that real progress demands active, sustained effort. …Read more

John Lamb, co-author of '50 Facts Everyone Should Know About the Police', explores how austerity has shifted policing in England and Wales from community-based prevention to a reactive, trust-eroding model.…Read more