The Rest Is Politics

Rory Stewart and Yuval Noah Harari explore the concept of 'thinking the unthinkable,' drawing parallels between historical failures to grasp existential threats—such as the Aztec Empire's encounter with the Spanish—and modern risks like AI and pandemics. They examine how human psychology, specifically a 'brain-stomach barrier,' can lead to denial in the face of emerging technological shifts. The discussion delves into the geopolitical implications of AI, arguing that unlike previous tools, AI acts as an autonomous agent. The speakers address the challenge for nations like the UK to maintain sovereignty through independent infrastructure and open-source models, rather than becoming technological vassals to foreign powers, while warning of a future where humans may become subject to incomprehensible, autonomous systems.

This episode explores the escalating geopolitical threats in the Red Sea, specifically focusing on how the Houthi movement's control of key maritime passages poses an existential risk to global trade and the stability of Gulf states. The discussion also examines the complexities of AI regulation, debating whether calls for a pause are driven by genuine safety concerns regarding autonomous agents or corporate self-interest. Additionally, the conversation addresses the influence of massive individual political donations in the UK, advocating for stricter donation caps to protect democratic integrity. Ultimately, the speakers argue that these disparate crises—from Yemen to AI development—are symptoms of a broader collapse of established global rules and international norms.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and guests discuss the UK's independent foreign policy, focusing on recent sanctions against Israeli settlers and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The conversation explores Britain's stance on the illegality of occupation and the necessity of a two-state solution. The discussion further examines Britain's role as a middle power in a changing global order. The speakers debate the importance of building an 'alliance of middle powers' to achieve strategic autonomy from the US and China, while navigating complex Middle Eastern diplomacy involving Iran and regional stability.

Host Vicki Spratt interviews Gen Z Labour MPs Rosie Whiting and Keir Maither to explore the systemic challenges facing their generation, including housing instability, student debt, and the climate crisis. The discussion highlights a breakdown in the social contract, where traditional markers of success no longer guarantee financial security. The conversation also delves into the unique pressures of being young politicians in Parliament, navigating ageism, and addressing the mental health crisis driven by socio-economic factors. Ultimately, the speakers advocate for intergenerational connection and political engagement to bridge growing societal divides.

Rory Stewart and Alistair Campbell examine the geopolitical shifts surrounding Trump's envoys meeting with Putin and Zelensky, exploring the strategic challenges facing Ukraine amidst missile shortages and Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. The discussion also covers the difficulties in forming a 'middle power alliance' among nations like the UK, Canada, and Japan due to differing national threats. The episode further critiques the lack of radical economic vision within the current UK government and analyzes the rise of political nationalism, specifically regarding the funeral of Ratko Mladic in Serbia. The conversation concludes with reflections on modern political 'theaters of cruelty' and the disconnect between Westminster politics and local communities.

This episode explores the rise of far-right nationalism in Europe, focusing on the significant electoral gains of the AfD in Germany and its potential threat to the stability of the European Union. The discussion examines German political instability, including the uncertain leadership of Friedrich Merz and the motivations driving voters toward populist parties. The conversation also addresses an undercover documentary exposing potential illegal foreign funding within the Reform UK party and the broader erosion of democratic norms. The hosts conclude by discussing localized political tensions in Britain regarding identity and citizenship, alongside the global decline of political decorum.

This episode explores the political tension between Andy Burnham and the UK central government, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic under Boris Johnson and later under Keir Starmer. It details the friction caused by funding disputes, strategic disagreements within the Labour Party, and the eventual breakdown of the relationship between the Mayor of Greater Manchester and the Prime Minister. The discussion also addresses the political fallout from a lack of communication between leadership and regional mayors regarding the Gorton and Denton situation. Additionally, the speakers reflect on the personal evolution of leaders like Tony Blair and the current Prime Minister, noting how the pressures of office necessitate greater toughness and resilience.

The episode examines the recent Icelandic referendum where voters rejected EU membership talks, analyzing the role of disinformation and the potential for middle powers to seek economic integration through the single market. The discussion extends to the rise of far-right movements in France and Germany, noting how culture war rhetoric is reshaping global geopolitics. The conversation also explores the declining attractiveness of Britain to Americans due to perceived internal instability and the impact of Brexit. Finally, the hosts discuss the evolution of political party conferences into corporate-driven networking events, the financial motivations behind political funding, and various shifts within the Conservative and Labour parties.

Rory Stewart and Alistair Campbell explore the growing political and social tensions surrounding artificial intelligence, focusing on the shift from technological potential to concerns over power, infrastructure, and economic inequality. The discussion covers the risks of autonomous AI agents, the geopolitical dilemma of competing with the US and China, and the potential for an AI investment bubble reminiscent of historical financial crises. The episode also examines the massive scale of data center investments and their environmental impact, alongside the profound societal risks of job displacement and economic imbalance. Finally, the conversation shifts to the challenges of climate finance and disaster response in Nepal, highlighting the difficulties vulnerable nations face in claiming compensation amidst increasing environmental unpredictability.

In this second part of the Restless Politics series on Andy Burnham, Steve Rotherham, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool region and close friend of Burnham, discusses the political rise and challenges of the Prime Minister. The conversation focuses on Burnham's experiences during the 2015 Labour leadership election, specifically the unexpected surge of Jeremy Corbyn and how the campaign managed the sudden shift in momentum. The discussion also touches upon the broader political landscape following the 2015 election, including the impact of Brexit and the difficulties faced by the Labour Party in communicating the benefits of the European Union. Rotherham provides an insider's perspective on the internal dynamics of the party during periods of both significant expectation and unexpected defeat.

The episode explores escalating trade tensions between the US and Canada, examining whether Donald Trump's demands represent an attempt to subordinate Canada. The conversation considers the potential for a new strategic alliance involving Canada, the UK, and Europe to counter American unilateralism and the rise of China. The discussion further covers shifting geopolitical landscapes, Palestinian politics regarding upcoming elections and regional pressures, and critiques of international law and the ICC. Finally, the hosts touch upon UK political strategies for PMQs and share personal anecdotes regarding media and travel.

The hosts examine the geopolitical and internal challenges facing Ukraine, including Andy Burnham's recent visit, the impact of decreasing US financial aid, and how wartime procurement rules have created opportunities for corruption. The discussion also touches upon military pressures such as desertion and the role of anti-corruption bodies. Moving to Europe, the episode explores the rise of far-right movements like the AfD in Germany through the lens of 'horseshoe theory' and their potential to destabilize the European Union. Finally, the speakers discuss the shifting media landscape, the influence of populist narratives on major media groups, and how culture wars are being used to distract from critical economic and geopolitical issues.

Steve Rotherham discusses the personal and political background of Andy Burnham, exploring how his working-class roots, family values, and religious influences shaped his political instincts. The conversation examines how the economic devastation caused by Thatcherism in Liverpool influenced Burnham's views on injustice and devolution. The episode also delves into the long-term economic impacts of Thatcherism and the failures of top-down Labour policies in Northern England. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the Hillsborough disaster, detailing the initial government attempts to scapegoat fans and how Burnham's role during the 20th anniversary served as a pivotal moment for the justice campaign.

Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart analyze Andy Burnham's modern communications strategy, focusing on his use of social media platforms like TikTok to set the political agenda through authentic engagement. The discussion explores the shifting landscape of news consumption and the challenges of political scrutiny in an era where social media and podcasts are becoming primary information sources. The episode also covers serious geopolitical issues, including settler violence in the West Bank, the legal disparities between settlers and Palestinians, and a book about Israeli-Palestinian reconciliation. The conversation concludes with lighter topics ranging from policy competitions to cultural shout-outs.

This episode reflects on the five-year anniversary of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, weighing improved local security against a devastating humanitarian crisis and 'gender apartheid' under Taliban rule. Through firsthand accounts, the discussion explores how restrictive decrees have stripped women of their education and livelihoods, while debating the political implications of international engagement and the abandonment of Afghan allies. The conversation then shifts to global geopolitics, analyzing the suppression of political opposition in Russia and the strategic logic behind Putin's actions. The episode also covers the escalating impact of maritime warfare on Black Sea grain supplies, Donald Trump's transactional approach to foreign policy regarding South Korea and North Korea, and a somber reflection on the loss of empathy in modern media coverage.

Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart welcome Caroline Lucas to discuss climate change as a critical national security issue. The conversation explores the necessity of transparent government communication, the environmental risks posed by AI data centers to water security, and the tension between advancing technological infrastructure and protecting essential natural resources. The discussion further examines the complexities of the green transition, including the economic benefits of renewables and the geopolitical risks of offshoring manufacturing. Ultimately, the speakers argue for a 'middle power' approach where Britain leads through environmental stewardship and global cooperation rather than isolation.

This episode examines the existential crisis within the British Conservative Party, exploring how fragmentation and a shift toward populist strategies under figures like Kemi Badenoch may lead to a terminal decline. The discussion extends to the strategic risks of chasing volatile voters versus engaging the moderate center ground. The conversation also tackles pressing domestic and international issues, including the UK's prison overcrowding crisis and its economic implications. Finally, the hosts analyze US political dynamics in Michigan, the impact of the Rhine water crisis on German supply chains, and the peculiar nuances of diplomatic gift-giving.

This episode examines the emergence of new strategic alliances, such as the 'Islamic NATO' between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, as a response to perceived declines in American reliability. The discussion explores how shifting US policies and cost-saving measures may be driving regional fragmentation and inadvertently strengthening adversaries like China and Russia. The conversation also covers the escalating complexities of modern warfare, specifically the rise of drone technology and hybrid attacks in Europe designed to test defenses and provoke anxiety. Finally, the hosts address the global proliferation of drone use by cartels and mercenaries, and the potential for AI to fundamentally alter the future of autonomous combat.

This episode explores the complexities of climate-driven migration, debunking the myth of a sudden, massive international exodus in favor of a more nuanced reality of internal and short-distance displacement. Through interviews with experts and former officials from Tuvalu and the Maldives, it examines the human impact of losing land and the political implications of using terms like 'climate refugee.' The discussion further highlights the profound impact of climate change on the Maldives, emphasizing the desire to remain in their homeland rather than becoming displaced. The episode underscores the disparity between the Maldives' minimal greenhouse gas contributions and the existential threat posed by global inaction, calling for a focus on resilience and adaptation.

This episode explores the widening gap between Israel's military successes and its political challenges in the Middle East, analyzing the complexities of Hamas disarmament, regional dynamics involving Iran and Lebanon, and the impact of Israeli internal politics on Palestinian self-determination. The discussion also examines systemic corruption within global sporting organizations like FIFA and the IOC, specifically regarding Gianni Infantino's leadership and the privatization of the World Cup. The conversation transitions into the political role of 'joke candidates' in UK elections as a reflection of public sentiment toward mainstream politicians. The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of satire in politics, personal reflections on profound literature from Kafka to Dostoevsky, and an announcement regarding the Restis Politics Plus summer sale.

This episode examines the complexities of migration in Europe, beginning with an analysis of the mass migration event in Ceuta and how political figures and disinformation networks have exploited the crisis to further populist agendas. The discussion explores the tension between maintaining humanitarian obligations and the political necessity of border control, noting that while overall migration numbers have decreased due to stricter borders, political narratives often rely on powerful imagery of 'invasions' to drive populism. The speakers propose a new strategy for managing irregular migration through legal routes and orderly returns to safe European countries, critiquing the collapse of resettlement programs. The conversation further addresses the geopolitical risks of migration exploitation by actors like Russia and distinguishes between displacement driven by conflict versus that caused by climate change, ultimately calling for political leaders to exercise 'rational courage' in developing a strategic vision.

This episode of 'When Nature Becomes a Security Threat' explores the emerging crisis of global water bankruptcy and its implications for national security. The discussion focuses on how water scarcity acts as a threat multiplier, exacerbating food insecurity and geopolitical tensions. A significant portion of the conversation centers on the impact of the booming AI industry, specifically how the rapid expansion of data centers threatens to deplete already stressed water systems. The host, Caroline Lucas, interviews Ollie Hayes from Global Action Plan UK regarding the lack of transparency in water consumption by data center operators. The episode highlights the risks posed by designating data centers as critical national infrastructure, which may legally protect them from water shut-offs during droughts, potentially prioritizing server cooling over human and agricultural needs.

The episode explores recent political unrest in India, analyzing how exam leaks and high youth unemployment have shifted protest dynamics from elite-led demonstrations to widespread movements challenging Narendra Modi's stability. The discussion also covers the shifting Indian political landscape, including concerns over electoral roll manipulation. The conversation transitions to global security risks, focusing on Saudi Arabia's pursuit of uranium enrichment and the potential for a nuclear arms race. Finally, the hosts debate the strategic necessity of building large-scale data centers for national security despite their environmental impact, alongside reflections on book publishing, political speeches, and the importance of local empowerment.

The episode explores the political communication style of Andy Burnham and his long-standing focus on social care reform, examining the legislative opportunities presented by a large parliamentary majority. The discussion delves into the tension between academic and vocational education in Britain, contrasting the UK's struggle with the successful, high-status vocational models found in Germany and Switzerland. The conversation also addresses the importance of local governance and subsidiarity in policy implementation. Finally, the speakers reflect on the devastating impact of wildfires in Europe as a visceral reminder of the climate crisis and the terrifying possibility that humanity may have already passed a critical environmental tipping point.

This episode investigates allegations of government suppression regarding high-level reports detailing the threats posed by climate and nature collapse to UK national security. The discussion centers on two specific documents: a Joint Intelligence Report from MI5 and MI6, and a 2024 DEFRA Critical Systems Report, both of which warn of catastrophic risks to food security. Featuring Professor Paul Behrens from the University of Oxford, the conversation explores the UK's extreme vulnerability to food shocks due to high import dependency, inefficient livestock production, and lean just-in-time supply chains. The episode examines the global implications of climate instability, including the impact of El Niño on harvests and the potential for geopolitical disruptions in energy and fertilizer routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

This episode explores China's rapid advancements in AI and its strategic use of open-weights models to build influence in the Global South through organizations like WAICO. The discussion also examines the political implications of Donald Trump's presidency on global stability and allegations of Chinese cyber interference. The conversation shifts to internal power struggles within Ukraine's military leadership and a debate over ideological shifts within the UK Conservative Party under Kemi Badenoch. Finally, the speakers address critical vulnerabilities in Britain's national food security and reflect on the cultural intersections of politics and sport.

This episode examines the significant political shifts following Andy Burnham's appointment as Prime Minister, beginning with a major cabinet reshuffle designed to recalibrate power towards the North of England. The discussion analyzes strategic appointments, including John Healey as Chancellor and Kanishka Narayan as AI Minister, while exploring the balance between experienced leadership and new talent. The conversation further delves into Burnham's policy priorities, such as his commitment to ending rough sleeping and his vision for constitutional reform through devolution and proportional representation. The episode concludes with reflections on the media's reaction to the new administration and a tribute to football legend Kevin Keegan.

Caroline Lucas discusses a Joint Intelligence Committee report that identifies nature loss and climate breakdown as core national security threats. Through interviews with former Lieutenant General Richard Nuge and former diplomat Arthur Snell, the episode explores how resource scarcity drives conflict and how climate acts as a catalyst for global instability. The discussion further examines how climate change is driving a new age of empire by altering global geography, such as making the Arctic a zone of contestation. It also explores how populist politicians weaponize climate policy by framing environmental regulations as an attack on the livelihoods of ordinary people.

Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart examine the political landscape surrounding Andy Burnham's potential premiership, analyzing his international profile, foreign policy vision, and the challenges of balancing domestic needs with global leadership. The discussion explores the geopolitical implications of UK and US foreign policy, including risks of isolationism, Middle East tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and the economic weaponization of maritime choke points. The episode also addresses climate change as a national security threat and the importance of international environmental expenditure. The conversation concludes with debates on wealth tax proposals, reflections on a silent meditation retreat focused on achieving equanimity, and a brief discussion on the character of the England football team.

Alistair Campbell briefs Rory Stewart on major global and domestic news following his silent meditation retreat, covering topics from the collapse of the Iran ceasefire to Nigel Farage's resignation as MP for Clacton. The discussion explores the political fallout of Farage's decision, including the financial controversies surrounding his party and the resulting by-election. The episode also delves into international news involving US politics, the controversial remarks of Rupert Lowe on the Joe Rogan podcast, and a retrospective on the life and career of Anne Widdecombe. The hosts conclude by discussing the complexities of police investigations and the importance of maintaining political accountability despite security threats.

Alistair Campbell and Mehdi Hassan examine the erosion of political norms and institutional stability, using Donald Trump's interference in the World Cup as a metaphor for broader American and global instability. The discussion covers the rise of extreme rhetoric in the US, the challenges of election denialism, and the use of presidential pardons as tools for corruption. The conversation also explores the shifting landscape of political journalism, specifically the dilemma of interviewing far-right figures like those in Germany's AfD party. The speakers debate the ethics of 'disagreeing agreeably,' the rise of podcasts as safe havens for politicians to avoid scrutiny, and the influence of tech billionaires on modern democratic processes.

Alistair Campbell and Mehdi Hasan analyze Nigel Farage's 'Trumpian' strategy of using the Clacton by-election to distract from investigations into his political funding. The discussion critiques the media's tendency to treat Farage as a commentator rather than a politician, while also examining Keir Starmer's leadership challenges and the shifting right-wing landscape. The conversation further explores the necessity for center-left leaders to adopt more aggressive media strategies and establish clear political identities. The episode concludes with a Q&A session covering personal faith as a source of hope, political values, and the importance of debate in democracy.

This episode examines the financial disclosures of Nigel Farage, focusing on significant payments from a gold bullion dealer and a controversial £5 million donation. The discussion explores how these funds and Farage's defensive media persona impact Reform UK's political brand and the broader erosion of political conventions. The conversation also delves into internal dynamics within Reform UK, including potential leadership succession and tensions between key figures. Additionally, the speakers analyze the rise of the 'Restore' party as a threat to Reform's voter base, the lasting economic implications of Brexit, and the ongoing investigations into the party's political financing.

This episode explores the shifting landscape of global politics, beginning with the impact of Zoran Mamdani's influence in New York and the potential risks radical left positions pose to the Democratic Party. The discussion moves to changing voter identities in the US, specifically how Latino voters are gravitating toward Republicans due to law and order concerns, alongside the rise of anti-immigrant movements in South Africa. The conversation also touches on the longevity of football legends like Messi and Modric, shifts in Australian politics via the 'Teal' movement, and a personal discovery of a century-old ancestral diary. The episode concludes with reflections on meditation and an announcement regarding the Restless Politics Plus summer sale.

The hosts analyze Andy Burnham's recent political speech, exploring his vision for devolution, the economic implications of shifting power to local authorities, and his potential path to the Premiership. The discussion delves into the challenges of 'Manchesterism,' focusing on fiscal constraints, housing, and the correlation between increased local funding and the rise of Reform UK support. The conversation then shifts to global geopolitics, examining the rightward political shift in Latin America following a period of leftist dominance. The speakers explore the potential influence of a 'Trump corollary' to the Monroe Doctrine, the rise of law-and-order politics exemplified by El Salvador, and Europe's role as a potential third political anchor for the region.

In this episode of The Rest is Politics Question Time, Dan Jorgensen, European Commissioner for Energy, discusses the complexities of energy security, decarbonization, and affordability. He addresses the risks of fuel shortages due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and explains Europe's efforts to reduce dependency on Russian fossil fuels through diversification and renewable energy. The discussion explores the economic and political realities of the green transition, highlighting how grid expansion, infrastructure costs, and the growing energy demands of AI and data centers impact energy prices. The conversation also addresses the necessity of unified European energy planning and the importance of acknowledging the real-world trade-offs involved in achieving climate stability and long-term economic security.

This episode examines the political instability in Britain following the unexpected resignation of Keir Starmer and the potential rise of Andy Burnham. The speakers analyze the economic challenges facing the government, specifically the tension between popular spending policies and the necessity of a clear strategy for national growth. The discussion further explores the strategic dilemmas for future leadership, including managing parliamentary relations, navigating global threats from Russia, China, and the US, and addressing the transformative impact of AI. The episode concludes by considering the implications of a potential Labour leadership transition without an open contest.

This episode analyzes Andy Burnham's significant victory in the Makerfield by-election and its implications as a potential challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership. The discussion explores whether Burnham represents a viable alternative for the Labour Party, examining the shifting dynamics between Labour, the Conservatives, and Reform UK. The speakers also delve into the broader political landscape, including the importance of energy sovereignty in Aberdeen South, the impact of scandals on the SNP, and the potential for leaders to build independent power bases outside of traditional Westminster politics.

This episode explores the geopolitical and economic implications of AI development, specifically focusing on US restrictions on advanced models and the debate over whether Europe and the UK should pursue sovereign AI infrastructure or focus on application development. The conversation also examines UK defense strategy, weighing the utility of expensive legacy platforms against the need for agile software and industrial capacity. The discussion further covers the economic trade-offs between defense spending and social infrastructure, critiques political spectacles at the White House, and touches upon the narrow margins of the Peruvian election. The episode concludes with a look at Scotland's World Cup presence and upcoming political by-elections.

Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell reflect on the ten-year anniversary of Brexit, analyzing the economic consequences and the failure of 'Global Britain' promises. The discussion explores the failed vision of a 'Singapore on Thames' and the rise of disinformation, conspiracy theories, and paramilitary-style tactics in modern politics. The conversation also covers the rise of far-right movements in Europe, specifically regarding the AfD in Germany, and examines geopolitical tensions involving a US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding. The speakers evaluate the potential for trade disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and the broader economic impacts of Middle East instability.

This episode examines the political fallout following the sudden resignation of Defence Secretary John Healey from Keir Starmer's cabinet, driven by a lack of commitment to necessary defence resources and Treasury constraints. The hosts analyze the implications for Starmer's leadership and the broader geopolitical tensions involving NATO and Russia. The discussion further explores internal Labour Party dynamics, including potential leadership challenges from figures like Andy Burnham and the impact of ministerial resignations on party stability. The conversation touches upon the economic trade-offs of increased military spending and the difficulty of maintaining political authority amidst growing internal pressures.

The hosts examine the intersection of global politics and major events, starting with the increasing political tensions surrounding the upcoming World Cup, including visa denials and security concerns. The discussion moves to US domestic politics, analyzing the competitive nature of Senate races and the influence of Donald Trump on Republican candidates in Texas. The episode also explores geopolitical shifts, covering allegations of political favoritism in Albania, the impact of Russian influence on Armenian elections, and the political resilience of Armenia's Prime Minister. Finally, the conversation addresses the global landscape of AI regulation and the challenges facing centrist politics in an era of increasing polarization.

The Looming Energy and Economic Crisis. Sponsor Message: Fuse Energy. Reflections on the Finland Energy Conference. Global Renewable Progress and Economic Costs. The Vulnerability of Interconnected Energy Markets. Energy Security and the North Sea. The Death of Henry Novak and Policing Debates.

Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart examine the SNP corruption scandal involving Peter Murrell and Nicola Sturgeon, debating the implications of misappropriated party funds and the power dynamics within the leadership. The discussion extends to the political fallout from the Mandelson leaks and an analysis of Keir Starmer's leadership stability within the Labour Party. The conversation also explores global shifts in freedom of speech and surveillance, covering the potential banning of American YouTubers, the political atmosphere in Hungary, and the erosion of press freedom in Hong Kong and China. The episode concludes with reflections on the necessity of human suffering for empathy and the fundamental differences between the lived human experience and artificial intelligence.

The hosts explore the moral and political implications of Pope Leo XVI's recent encyclical on AI, examining risks such as mass unemployment, the loss of human purpose through work, and the danger of concentrated technological power. The discussion highlights how technology is never neutral and can lead toward totalitarianism if truth is abandoned. The conversation then shifts to contemporary politics, analyzing Tony Blair's critique of the Labour government's economic direction regarding energy security and net zero. The episode concludes by examining the rise of a new populist worldview that synthesizes various political anxieties, alongside book recommendations on global power dynamics.