Global Inquirer

In this correspondent-led episode, we discuss the international labor trafficking scandal unfolding in, perhaps surprisingly, Canada. We analyze the systems that enable the exploitation of migrant workers, the experiences of the victims, and the various responses of global actors to the revelation of this story.

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Executive Producer: Andrew Chand

Correspondents: Danial Butt and Tesher Baer

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating political situation in El Salvador, where President Nayib Bukele—who has led the country’s transformation from the murder capital of the world to perhaps the safest country in the Americas—is implementing anti-democratic policies with seemingly broad public support. How sustainable is this, and is there a fundamental trade-off between security and democracy? The Global Inquirer discusses this and more.

Executive Producer: Andrew Chand

Staff Correspondents: Khyzeima Gonzalez, Kayla Kline-Polio, Maryam Ahmed, & Allison Fuentes

Guest: Dr. Lean Sweeney

In this episode, we discuss the ongoing conflict and desperate humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We analyze how ethnic tensions, resource extraction, foreign intervention, and a variety of other factors have culminated in this devastating war, while also contemplating paths forward for the DRC.

Executive Producer: Andrew Chand

Staff Correspondents: Danial Butt & Tesher Baer

Additional Researchers: Cristina Racanelli

In this episode, we explore Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro’s blatant theft of his country’s 2024 presidential election, which evidence suggests he lost resoundingly to the most organized opposition in recent Venezuelan history. We discuss how we got here, what actually happened, and what this all means for Venezuela’s future.

Executive Producer: Andrew Chand

Staff Correspondents: Kelsey Holzman, Hannah Vinas, & Carolina Zanna-Stone

In this episode, we interview two students with vastly differing opinions on the Israel-Palestine conflict. With little commentary from our staff, the podcast’s aim with this episode was simply to amplify student voices and address what is undoubtedly the most contentious ongoing conflict in geopolitics.

Executive Producer: Andrew Chand

Staff Correspondents: James Grayken, Indigo Samson

Guests: Ella Kotok and Naima Tinsley

Additional Researchers: Julio Barroso-Perez

In this episode, we discuss the history and impact of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Placed under Azerbaijani authority since the dissolution of the USSR, the Nagorno-Karabakh region and its historically Armenian-majority population have long been in limbo. In September 2023, the vast majority of these ethnic Armenians were forced out of the region. How did this happen? Was this a sudden ethnic conflict or a longstanding nation-building effort? Join the Global Inquirer in looking through the lens of student research, the Armenian diaspora, and a scholar of Soviet history to uncover this often-overlooked tragedy.

Host: AJ Laurienti

Researchers: Danial Butt, Raffi Kanayan, Cristina Racanelli

Consulted Experts: Armik Mirzayan (UVA Anthropology); Jeffrey Rossman (UVA History)

Executive Producer: Reece Kaplan

In this episode, we provide an introduction into the world of international cybercrime. Discover how it works, who's involved, and why it matters.

Host: AJ Laurienti

Researchers: Jack Cooper, Barbara Uzun

Executive Producer: Reece Kaplan

In this episode, we provide an overview of what ranked choice voting is and why it is being advocated for in American politics. Who does this system stand to benefit? Will it be implemented further? Find out in our Season 12 opener!

Host: AJ Laurienti

Researchers: Andrew Chand, Reece Kaplan, Leslie Lan

Consulted Experts: J. Miles Coleman, Nick Co

In this episode, we discuss the arguments for and against one of the most intriguing rules in American government: the filibuster. Does it protect minority opinion, or does it result in the rule of the minority? Is the filibuster going anywhere? Find out in this episode, our season finale!

Host: AJ Laurienti

Researcher: Andrew Chand

Consulted Expert: Craig Volden

In this episode, we pick up our discussion on the War in Ukraine. We focus on the impact of Finland's ascension to NATO along with the importance--and possible future impacts--of the war.

Host: AJ Laurienti

Researcher: Reece Kaplan

Consulted Expert: Kyrill Kunakhovich (UVA history professor)