- Paul Coletti
- 9 May 07, 12:26 PM
One thing nobody could deny is that the journalist John Pilger is controversial. Whenever he puts pen to paper you can bet there will be opprobrium and praise in equal amounts. 
John Pilger will be appearing on World Have Your Say tomorrow, Wednesday 9th May. He'll be talking about his new film: The War on Democracy which comes out on June 15th and takes a look at Latin America. The man himself says: "I’ve long regarded Latin America as the source of hopes of freedom from poverty for the very poor, and the current, extraordinary rising of millions against the old order is defying all the stereotypes."
If you have a question you'd like Mr Pilger to answer then please let us know by posting on this site, joining the debate over on bbcnews' main debating arena 'Have Your Say', sending us an e-Mail or texting us on +44 77 86 20 60 80.
Mr Pilger has never been shy of controversy . . . .
Continue reading "John Pilger - what do you want to ask?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 8 May 07, 03:03 PM
We got a post on the blog yesterday from William in Liberia. This is it.
'Dear BBC,
I am very much troubled by the recent 12th Grade Exams that were conducted in my country Liberia. How can more than three students share one question sheet? Even the officials were involved in the sale of test questions before the administration of the test. What a shame. I demand that the entire exam administration resign and be replaced with individuals who will demonstrate high degree of trust and reliability. '
I read it on air, and we immediately got a massive response from across Africa, with more and more stories of corruption in schools. We'll hear some of your experiences, and try and get some explanations and solutions as well. We're hoping to have the Liberian Education Minister among our guests.
Continue reading "Are exam papers being sold in your country?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 7 May 07, 04:38 PM
I get very excited when we hear from people who are enjoying WHYS. Last week we got word that various top brass at NATO in Brussels and some UN peacekeepers in Togo are avid listeners. Well today, we can add a 12 year-old member of the Singaporean President's family to that list. She's just emailed me and asked to be added to the Daily Email. With pleasure…
Here are today's topics:
Continue reading "What would you tell Sarko to do?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 4 May 07, 03:33 PM
Michael in Nigeria's just emailed....'I would like have my say live on today’s show. The issues I would like to talk about are 1. Abortions 2. Borat and Bush 3. About the Man who married a goat.' That's a big range you're suggesting there Michael. We're definitely picking up on one of them....
Here are today's topics...
Continue reading " Would you buy a gender test kit for your unborn baby?" »
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- Anna Stewart
- 3 May 07, 09:05 AM
...sang the band Culture Club back in the 80's. It's a sentiment Richard from World Have Your Say would agree with I'm sure, and possibly one of worst pop lyrics of all time. That's according to a survey being conducted by British music radio station 6Music, who are on a quest to find the most ridiculous lyrics ever. Weirdly, Shakira's classic line from "Whenever, Whatever" hasn't made it into the top ten:
Lucky that my breasts are small and humble, so you don't confuse them with mountains...
Indeed Shakira.
I'd love to hear your nominations, I can't promise they'll make it onto the show, but they should at least raise a smile in the World Have Your Say office.
On to more serious matters....
Continue reading "War is stupid and people are stupid..." »
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- Ros Atkins
- 1 May 07, 02:45 PM
It's May Day and the weather's so warm and breezy I almost feel like putting on some clogs and getting a Maypole set up in the office. Sadly, our little shoe box doesn't quite have the space.
Here are today's topics...
Continue reading "Should plastic bags be banned?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 30 Apr 07, 03:04 PM
A warm welcome to Felix in Germany and Inderjit in Kuwait who've signed up to the Daily Email in the last few minutes.
700,000 Turks turned out on to the streets over the weekend to protest at the prospect of presidential candidate Abdullah Gul getting the job. They've talked of preserving 'the inseparable principles of democracy and secularism". Abdullah Gul is Muslim and the AK party he represents has close ties with Islam.
So, is there a problem when religion and politics get closely intertwined? Or do you think the point of democracy is that anyone should be able to stand regardless of their religious beliefs?
Read on for the rest of today's running order...
Continue reading "Why shouldn't a Muslim be president of Turkey?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 24 Apr 07, 03:34 PM
Not my demand, but that of the all-conquering Russell Simmons of the legendary Def Jam label. He says there's no place for words like 'bitches' and 'hos' in hip-hop and he wants the music industry stop allowing their use. Is he right or is he failing to understand the culture and language that made him his millions?
If you want to me to send you details of our talking points each day, click here and read on for the rest of today's topics...
Continue reading "It's time for hip-hop to respect women" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 19 Apr 07, 03:27 PM
We got an email from Julie in Nairobi yesterday saying that WHYS is spending too much time talking about the Virginia Tech shootings. 'You must realise that this is a local story that has lost its appeal to the international audience.'
It's true we have discussed it every day this week. The thing is though Julie, the BBC's email inboxes suggests that there are many of you outside of the US who do still want to talk about the story. And on WHYS our agenda is always dictated by the stories that are provoking the most discussion. Julie, I hope you'll tune in all the same. See below for the other story we're debating if that is of more interest.
Today there are two questions dominating discussions across the web.
1. Have you seen the Virginia gunman's video? (If you can't see video on your computer, here's what he said.)
2. Should it have been shown?
Read on for our other story...
Continue reading "Have you watched the video?" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 16 Apr 07, 01:24 PM
Two of this morning's topics are in along with a third: Nigeria's elections. The German Army video was a good' un and my Turkey suggestion got one other backer (unusual) but ultimately, both were eclipsed by bigger talking points.
Read on for more details on what we'll be talking about on tonight's show.
Continue reading "Alan Johnston, Abstinence and Nigeria" »
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- Anna Stewart
- 13 Apr 07, 05:00 PM
Peter here, with news of today's World Have Your Say, and it's a nice mix to end the week; discrimination, diplomacy, fat and a shock jock.
Continue reading "Ban HIV positive people? Excuse obesity? Fire Wolfowitz?" »
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- Fiona Crack
- 12 Apr 07, 02:21 PM
It's a bad enough question from one woman to another, but what happens when it's your boss who's asking you? Women working in India's civil service were outraged to find questions about their menstrual cycles and maternity leave on employment forms.
I've just spoken to one, Charmari in Mumbai. She's disgusted at the move. But Prahlad, an employer of 15 women in his advertising firm, keeps tabs on the menstrual cycles of the women in his office. We'll be talking to them both on the programme.
Continue reading "Can you tell me a bit more about your menstrual cycle?" »
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- David Mazower
- 11 Apr 07, 02:49 PM
Peter Dobbie here -- with the latest on what's on World Have Your Say, today Wednesday.
Something of a mixed bag:
We're kicking off with the connection between Darfur, Google and your PC.
Continue reading "Darfur, Iraq impotence, and the h Word" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 10 Apr 07, 01:53 PM
This is Jo, sitting in for Ros again. We’ve got lots of ideas floating around today – these are the ones that made the cut.
Continue reading "Who does a frozen embryo belong to?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 9 Apr 07, 02:07 PM
Hiya,
My name’s Jo and I’m filling in for Ros for the next couple of days while he suns himself by the English coast. Not something you’d usually want to do at this time of year, but it’s unseasonably warm here. Could be some heated discussions in the studio later too. Here are the topics we’re planning on talking about today:
Continue reading "Should military personnel sell their stories?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 6 Apr 07, 04:00 PM
It's one of the stranger looking days in the WHYS office. Our colleague Rabiya is getting married, so we are all looking our smartest (which is still some grades below what some people would call smart) and are off to her reception as soon as the show's done. So if I sound a little snappier on air, you'll know it's the suit that's doing it.
Here are today's topics.... if you'd like me to email them to you each day, just let me know.
Continue reading "Has 'terrorism' become a meaningless word?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 5 Apr 07, 03:38 PM
It seems there's quite a few of you who'd like a page on the blog after yesterday's daily email - Nigeria, America, Kenya, Canada, the UK and Romania are some the countries which can expect new representation in the next few days. If you'd like one, let me know.
Here are today's stories.... and if you want them emailed to you each day, find out how here.
Continue reading "Who won and who lost in the Iran-Britain stand-off?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 4 Apr 07, 03:08 PM
As I'm writing this, this news has just been announced in Tehran. Give us your reaction and we'll talk about it later.
Other stories making the show....
Continue reading "YOUR REACTION TO IRAN FREEING THE 15 BRITISH MILITARY PERSONNEL" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 3 Apr 07, 04:23 PM
I've a little more time than yesterday to say thank you to all of you who have got in touch about our trip to the States. We had a fascinating time. Some of you even blogged about the trip such as here and here.
On to today's talking points….
Continue reading "SHOULD NANCY PELOSI BE IN SYRIA?" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 29 Mar 07, 03:46 PM
Kathy Sierra is a blogger in the US. She's frightened to go out. Click to the pic to hear why . . .
Andy Carvin was so shocked he's come up with a Stop Cyber Bullying day tomorrow March 30th. We'll be hearing from Andy on tonight's show . . . read on for more details.
Continue reading "The Trolls of the Blogosphere" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 29 Mar 07, 01:53 PM
Hi everyone -- Peter Dobbie from World Have Your Say here, with our daily tease about what we're planning for today's show.
We're focusing on Iran at the top of the programme, to get behind what's going on with the 15 detained British Royal Navy personnel, who're all being held (we think) somewhere in Tehran.
Continue reading "Thursday's agenda" »
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- Anna Stewart
- 28 Mar 07, 12:35 PM
We're quite a depleted team today, so apologies for the fact there's no early post asking what you'd like to talk about today. In a rare move for World Have Your Say, I'm going to tell you what we'll be discussing on today's show.
The League of Arab States holds it's annual summit in the Saudi capital of Riyadh today. The starting point for discussion will be an initiative first proposed in 2002 at the annual Arab League summit. Apparently this is a good place to start as it's a point on the Palestinian issue that most parties can accept. With reservations. And it's only a starting point. So will it be just another talking shop, or can progress on the issue finally be made?
Continue reading "Peace at last?" »
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- Anna Stewart
- 27 Mar 07, 12:46 PM
Hi All,
It's Madeleine presenting the show again today.
It's a sunny day in London and we've got a spring in our steps, but we've got some big topics to discuss on today's programme.
1) Alan Johnston
Today marks fifteen days since BBC Gaza correspondent Alan Johnston disappeared in the territory. We've been receiving plenty of emails of support for Alan, and plenty of criticism of the people who may be holding him. We'll speak to some journalists in Gaza about how they're viewing his disappearance also.
Continue reading "Abolish the news coverage of slavery?" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 26 Mar 07, 01:48 PM
On today's show we'll be talking about the latest on the murder of the Pakistan Cricket Coach Bob Woolmer. We'll be speaking to cricket fans in Pakistan and asking them how the team will be received when they arrive home.
A May date for the return of Northern Ireland devolved government has been agreed following an historic meeting between the leaders of the DUP and Sinn Fein. On today's programme we'll be asking will power sharing work?
AND...
Continue reading "Woolmer, Northern Ireland and Egyptian reform" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 22 Mar 07, 12:30 PM
We London-based WHYSers have just had a chat with the team in Portland and have a rough outline of what we think Oregonians will want to talk about tonight. However, we can never be sure what listeners want to say. As Ros has mentioned, once you turn on that tap, you better be ready for the gush . . . .
Continue reading "Tonight in Portland" »
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- David Mazower
- 19 Mar 07, 03:00 PM
Ok, we've had the conference call between London and Cleveland, where Ros, Mark and the rest of the team are busy setting up for today's show from the gleaming new auditorium at East Cleveland Public Library. The weekend of anti-war protests across the US is our starting point for today's show....read on for Ros' blog.
Continue reading "US and Iraq - has patriotism trumped protest?" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 15 Mar 07, 12:41 PM
It's a single issue show today and it relates to Mark's earlier post and the story about Leeds University. They've been accused of "selling out" academic freedom of speech by scrapping a talk on links between the Nazis and Islamic anti-semitism after allegedly receiving emails from Muslims protesting about the event. So, are university's shying away from discussing the Middle East? If you can't discuss issues like this at university where can you? Your thoughts.
Here are the one's that got away...
Continue reading "Are universities stifling debate on the Middle East?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 14 Mar 07, 03:37 PM
Here's today rundown. If you'd like our topics emailed to you each day, if you email me I'll put you on the list. More details here.
IS SOUTH AFRICA DOING ENOUGH ABOUT ZIMBABWE?
We've talked about what's happening in Zimbabwe for the past two shows and still more issues are being raised. Today we're picking up on a fierce debate surrounding the policy of the South African government towards their next door neighbour.
Continue reading "Zimbabwe's neighbours and satirising religion" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 13 Mar 07, 03:08 PM
Today we're going back to Zimbabwe, and after yesterday's explosive show and the comments we've received since, it's clear that there's still an appetite to talk about this. I can't promise you the fireworks of last night but I can promise you a picture of what's been going on from Zimbabweans and all the up to date news developments from various correspondents.
Next...
Continue reading "Zimbabwe and Pakistan" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 12 Mar 07, 02:44 PM
Here's today rundown. If you'd like our topics emailed to you each day, if you email me I'll put you on the list. More details here.
1. SHOULD LATIN AMERICA BE MORE GRATEFUL TO THE UNITED STATES?
Hugo Chavez and George Bush are both touring around Latin America giving their distinct views of the role the US has to play in the region. White House officials have called this a "year of engagement" to counter what they acknowledge is a negative view of their country. But is that view deserved?
Continue reading "Should Latin America be more grateful to the US?" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 8 Mar 07, 03:20 PM
Hi it's Jane here on behalf of Mark (who's off getting his photo taken) using Richard's log in. Still with me??
Anyway, lots of discussion in this morning's meeting on International Women's Day. Is it patronising and out of date? Or still massively important with so
many of the world's poorest women struggling in horrific circumstances with basic freedoms, rape, forced abortions, arranged marriages, genital mutilation?
We'd like to hear from you. Is there a...
Continue reading "Thursday's women only blog" »
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- Fiona Crack
- 8 Mar 07, 09:44 AM
A court in Turkey has blocked access to YouTube, the popular video-sharing Web site, over a video deemed insulting to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.
The media has dubbed it a "virtual war" of videos between Greeks and Turks.
An interesting article on Bush impeachement has lead up to consider finding a Washington State senator who's pro-impeachment and a pro-Bush anti-impeachment voice to debate it, with particular reference to the new troops line.
Continue reading "The Greek v Turk online war and International women's day" »
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- Anna Stewart
- 7 Mar 07, 04:15 PM
After quite a lot of two-ing and fro-ing today (I'm going to ignore the advice of my spell check and keep that sentence in) we have settled on today's topics:
1. Should it be illegal for a brother and sister to be in a relationship?
Patrick Stuebing and Susan Karolewski are German and are brother and sister - though they didn't know each other when they were growing up. When Patrick was 23 and Susan 16 they met and began a sexual relationship. They now have four children.
"Many people see it as a crime, but we've done nothing wrong," says Patrick. Do you agree?
Continue reading "Tuesday's talking points" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 6 Mar 07, 01:14 PM
Kicked around a lot of ideas around Ghana's 50th anniversary of independence.
Our excellent colleague Michael in Nairobi joined the meeting and has already canvassed opinion from many different African countries on whether Ghana - and indeed other independent countries- have made the most of their "freedom".
One guest already fixed by "casual" Karnie Sharp is Audrey Gadzekpo , a senior lecturere at the University of Ghana who argues her country has "squandered opportunities". Is she right?
Away from the celebrations....
Continue reading "Independence - what is it good for?" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 23 Feb 07, 01:41 PM
We went to Boston for the Public Media conference, but it seemed foolish to go for just one programme. So today we'll be broadcasting from the Institute of Politics at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government.
And in addition to the usual stations that carry us in the US, the show will go out on WBUR in Boston as well, and Bob Oakes will host alongside our very own Ros Atkins.
Continue reading "Boston - part II" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 13 Feb 07, 03:57 PM
Sounds like the new Richard Curtis film but no, it's the menu for tonight's show: Congress debates Iraq this afternoon and as I write the new security plan in that troubled country is biting: they've closed the borders with Syria and Iran. We'll also touch on the gay NBA player who has come out but only after he finished playing. And weddings: how much is enough? We in the West are now reaching obscene levels of outlay when planning a wedding but church officials are saying it's time to reign in the spending. . . read on . . .
Continue reading "War, Weddings and Gays . . ." »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 12 Feb 07, 03:38 PM
Sorry everyone, a bit of a breakdown in the process today. But better late than never, so here's what we're talking about today.
First up, the decision of a German court to release a former member of the Baader-Meinhof gang on probation after serving 24 years in jail.
Continue reading "Free to leave" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 9 Feb 07, 12:31 PM
Well, it's day 5 of our India tour and juding by the talk after last night's programme it feels like day 50!
Tonight we’ve been invited to broadcast the show from the terrace of one of yesterday’s audience members, Ketan. His office is in Mahalaxmi West, and has a beautiful terrace over looking this side of Mumbai.
The bonus of tonight’s venue is that it has lights, seating and a table. Unfortunately no illuminated palm tree, but hey, we can’t have everything..
Continue reading "Final stop" »
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- David Mazower
- 8 Feb 07, 12:18 PM
Help! It's Rabiya here in Mumbai. You may remember a few blog posts back that I said there was some good news on the horizon to do with our ISDN lines, which are basically our radio link to the rest of the world. That was all totally premature, since we still don’t have working lines in, and we’re on air in 6 hours.
Continue reading "Bollywood blues" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 5 Feb 07, 10:18 AM
Hi there. It's Ros here. How are you? We're just getting all our kit ready for tonight's show from Chandigarh - you can listen live here at 1800gmt.
I’m three days into my time in India and it’s a little like having my eyes peeled back. I’ve never been here before and am spending most of my time taking it all in and bugging Anu with endless questions. (If you’re a guest coming along to tonight’s show in Chandigarh you can expect more of the same.)
Cars are playing a major role in my experience. Having heard so much about Delhi’s traffic, I was impressed that my cab from the airport got involved in a snarl up just 2 metres from our parking space. Then I spent Saturday getting a tour of the city with a friend who works in Delhi.
Continue reading "Relax – it’s a red light" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 2 Feb 07, 12:48 PM
We can't avoid the IPCC report on Climate Change. It's leading every major news outlet and a lot of blogs. The question we'll pose is: WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO ABOUT IT? Read on . . .
Continue reading "So what are you going to do?" »
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- Fiona Crack
- 1 Feb 07, 10:06 AM
I should be on my way to India for next week's special India Rising season but red tape has stopped me going and I'm now in a windowless office in Shepherd's Bush. It's not that I'm bitter, well, maybe a little.
Still, on with the show.
Top stories today including, the US issuing a warning to Iran, telling them to stop helping Iraqi militants to make lethal bombs, while France announces a smoking ban in public places.
And the parents of sextuplets in Canada are protesting in court against the provincial government after social workers seized three of their babies and doctors gave two of them blood transfusions. As Jehovah's Witnesses the parents oppose the treatment on religious grounds. Two of the six children have died since their birth on January 7.
Continue reading "In the news today" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 30 Jan 07, 02:49 PM
Ruth blogging and we've got one vice in mind today: gambling. Britain's first Las Vegas style super-casino is opening in Manchester, while in Russia President Putin has ordered all casinos out of main towns. Are casinos beneficial to the local economy? Or a blight on the community?
The dark side of gambling is addiction. The exponential growth of online gambling companies means it's never been easier to have a flutter wherever you are in the world. Does gambling online remove social stigma? Is gambling too easy and accesible now?
In the U.K, doctors have called for gambling addicts to be treated free on the National Health Service. How far are you responsible for your gambling? When does gambling become a problem? This test by Gamblers Anonymous UK could tell you if you are a compulsive gambler.
The U.S have heavily restricted online gambling. Do you think your country needs further restrictions?
Continue reading "Is gambling too easy?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 29 Jan 07, 12:21 PM
1. A survey of young British Muslims shows that thirty-one percent believe that if a Muslim converts to another religion they should be punished by death, compared to only one-in-five (19 per cent) of those aged 55 or older. Younger Muslims also are more in favour of the veils and Sharia Law than their elders. Why are young Muslims more radical?
Read on for more on today's discussions...
Continue reading "Why are young Muslims more political?" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 26 Jan 07, 12:34 PM
Tonight we'll be talking about memorials and friends. . . read on for more details.
Continue reading "Friends and memories . . ." »
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- Paul Coletti
- 25 Jan 07, 12:43 PM
It's Britishness and Second life for tonight's talking points.
Can you teach Britishness? Should you teach it? And the phenomenon that is Second Life . . . do these folks seriously need to get a real life? Read on for more . . .
Continue reading "Second Life and Britishness" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 23 Jan 07, 11:57 AM
March 2nd: Thanks to everyone who contributed to our programme discussing this question. There's been a massive response to this blog post, and it was great to be able to put the conversation on air. We heard from Iraqis both at home and abroad, BBC correspondents, and lots of listeners called in to ask questions and share their views.
Kenneth was one listener who caught the show:
I was very moved by the topic, in particular the emotional voice of the exiled Iraqi doctor: she put the awful situation into words and feelings. The situation is so terrible, and so mis-managed, as one of the studio guests pointed out.
Thanks to everyone who contributed. You can read some of the texts that came in here, and keep the conversation going here on the blog. Here's the original blog entry from Jan 23rd that started it all off:
Continue reading "How do you feel about the news from Iraq?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 22 Jan 07, 03:40 PM
Have you had an e-Mail from Hillary Rodham Clinton? The former First Lady has thrown her hat into the ring for the '08 US elections. In her online video she says she's "in to win" and that she "wants to start a conversation" with you. Here's what dem bloggers at DailyKos think about it all. Mrs Clinton carries a lot of what certain media analysts call 'baggage' and is up against a slick mover in the guise of Mr Obama. Can she do it?
Continue reading "Can Hillary do it?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 19 Jan 07, 10:50 AM
How far would you go to have a child? An Israeli soldier killed in the Gaza strip is to become a father almost five years after he died. He has never met the mother. The parents asked to have his sperm extracted as they say his greatest wish was to have been a father.
Continue reading "Should a dead man become a father?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 16 Jan 07, 02:25 PM
Hi there. Lots of you have been talking about the new film 'Last King of Scotland' (which protrays life in Uganda under Idi Amin) and whether film-makers give accurate portrayals of Africa. Clearly this article in the LA Times doesn't think so.
Is this film a sign that Hollywood can treat Africa and African subjects with the subtleties they offer other subject matter? Or is it only murder and mayhem or colonial nostalgia that gets the big audiences and so the attention of the major studios? Read on for our other talking points...
Continue reading "Is that really Africa on the silver screen?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 15 Jan 07, 01:28 PM
First things first, a warm welcome to all of you in Portland, Oregon. From today WHYS is being broadcast on Oregon Public Radio and we can't wait to hear from you.
If it's not too forward to say on a first date, you're very welcome to sign up to the daily WHYS email. Just email me if you'd like to be added to the list.
So three subjects today... first off the issue of whether your charitable donations are reaching the people you want to help....
Continue reading "Do charities make the most of your money?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 12 Jan 07, 12:55 PM
NYOil is a rapper from New York, he's on the show tonight and in a track downloaded thousands of times on the net, it's 'time you fake-ass gangstas... should all get lynched". We've already talked on WHYS about the use of the 'n-word' by black people - but what about calling for a 'lynching'? He's seriously unhappy with the glorification of violence and prison, and aggressive attitudes towards women. In the track he goes on "Because Martin Luther King died for you to act like this/ This is the best you can come up with?"
So is he right to berate parts of hip-hop culture? Should he use language like this to make his point? Or is this an MC who's seriously out of line? Talk to him later....
Read on for the rest of the show., and if you want to receive the new WHYS daily email, message me now and I'll add you to the list.
Continue reading "NYOil - lynch the gansta rappers" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 8 Jan 07, 11:14 AM
We've had this suggestion from one of our colleagues from Five Live about skin bleaching. A couple from London have been sent to prison and fined for selling illegal skin whitening products. And there's clearly a massive market for these products around the world. We're going to try and find out why, and ask if there's anything wrong with changing your skin colour.
Reading online there's no shortage of people prepared to argue against it and we're definitely going to hear from them, but we also want to hear from you if you're one of the millions of people who whiten their skin. Give us your perspective.
Continue reading "Would you change your skin colour?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 4 Jan 07, 04:15 PM
Hasit here (still getting a blog log-in). Saddam's execution, and the manner in which it was carried out, remains a major talking point among our listeners.
You have been critical of the Iraqis for the security breach which enabled video footage to be posted on the web, the timing of the hanging to coincide with the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, and generally the undignified manner in which the hanging took place. Others say that Saddam got what he deserved.
Continue reading "Should Iraq execute Saddam's half-brother?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 4 Jan 07, 10:57 AM
Good morning. Right off we go for today's meeting. You can call us now on country code 44 20 7557 0635 if you've a story idea. Click here to find out how the meeting works and how to contribute, or read on to see what we're talking about today.
Continue reading "Story ideas please..." »
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- Paul Coletti
- 2 Jan 07, 03:30 PM
Thanks to Arjun for calling into the meeting from Kenya. Here's the stories that are making the cut, and the ones that, for the moment, aren't.
1. THAT CLONING STORY
There's a lot of people online debating the US food authorities' decision to say that cloned animals are safe to eat. I'd like to ask whether you'd take their advice, and eat a cloned animal. And whatever you're answer is, I'd be really interested to hear why, as it's not a subject I feel I know enough about.
Read on for the rest...
Continue reading "Would you eat a cloned animal?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 1 Jan 07, 11:18 AM
There are so many different issues surrounding the death of Saddam Hussein that we're going to devote the whole show to talking about them. Thousands of you have already been in touch with BBC News, and you can leave your reaction here on the blog.
Do you think he should have been executed? What did you make of the manner of the execution? Some reports say people danced around his body as it hung from the noose. Someone was able to film the execution on their mobile phone - are you surprised that was possible? And if you're in Britain and America, do you feel his conviction and execution justify the invasion of Iraq? Many many questions. The ones we focus on will be decided by you.
We're on air at 18GMT and you can listen here. Speak to you later.
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- Ros Atkins
- 29 Dec 06, 10:47 AM
Sadly I don't come too close to qualifying but just about everyone else taking part in tonight's show is a teenager. We're going to be asking them for their hopes and fears for 2007.
If you are under 20 and would like to join tonight's conversation, send us your contact details and we'll get right back to you. And, if like all of us here at WHYS you're over 20 (David's constant moisturising may mean he has the skin of a teenager but that doesn't count), if you have questions you'd like to ask young people around the world, post them here and I'll make sure I'll ask them during the show.
Continue reading "Are you under 20?" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 28 Dec 06, 10:47 AM
Regardless of whether you support the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) in Somalia or not, it's hard not to feel some sympathy for those of you in Mogadishu. War is changing your country again, something you've told us you're so tired of.
Over the past year many of you from Somalia have spoken to us on WHYS and the overwhelming message has been that regardless of whether your leaders are democratic, or undemocratic, Islamic or not, the one thing you want from them is some security and economic stability. The majority of you in Mogadishu who I have talked say that life under the UIC is an improvement on life under the warlords... what I don't know is whether you think the imminent arrival of Ethiopian and Somalian troops is going to make life better still.
Continue reading "Talking to Mogadishu" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 28 Dec 06, 10:18 AM
The Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj has begun and the show comes live from London and Mecca tonight. Rabiya is there for us and we're going to use this opportunity to consider a year when the relationship between Islam and the West has been at the centre of many of our discussions on WHYS.
From the rights and wrongs of Muslim women wearing a veil to those Danish cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, there is no other issue (and I include the war in Iraq) which you have wanted to talk about more.
So here are three questions to consider:
Continue reading "Three questions about Islam" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 27 Dec 06, 11:15 AM
Hi there. How's things?
Exciting times in the office today as the most reliable producer in the business is sitting right next to me - so it could mean a quiet day for the rest of us while he sets the whole show up.
Here's what we're going to be talking about.
Continue reading "All hail Kaloki" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 26 Dec 06, 12:37 PM
Merry Christmas everyone, I hope those celebrating had a nice day. And those not celebrating I hope your Monday was a good one.
Tuesday is pretty much back to normal here, at least now I'm in work. The journey was pretty quiet, and some stations are closed, but nothing to affect me :)
Anyway, what are we talking about today? First up is the worsening situation in Somalia, where the African Union seems to have given Ethiopia a green light for military action if it feels threatened.
Continue reading "Merry Boxing Day" »
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- Paul Coletti
- 25 Dec 06, 12:39 PM
It's a mild Christmas day here in London with those of us working looking around for today's big talking points. There's one big obvious choice for this festive edition of WHYS but what else is out there . . . ? If you can spare us some time then please let us know what you'd like to talk about.
Continue reading "Merry Christmas . . . !" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 22 Dec 06, 12:38 PM
Morning everyone. Peter has asked me to make clear as soon as possible that it is not him writing this blog today. It is infact Madeleine - I'll be presenting the show. Peter's clearly worried that my standard of blogging isn't up to his. We'll see.
Apologies for no morning post, but it's Christmas skeleton staff here. And speaking of Christmas, it's going to be a funny old one this year with all sorts of crazy weather disrupting our normal winter activities. Are things slightly wacky where you are? Get in touch to let us know.
Also on today's programme...
Continue reading "Friday's ideas" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 13 Dec 06, 12:38 PM
Good afternoon..We've just had our morning meeting and here's the stories we'll be looking at today.
Murder investigation
A massive man-hunt is underway in Eastern England after the bodies of five prostitutes have been found in the space of a few weeks. Three of the women have been identified, and police fear the two bodies that were found on Tuesday afternoon, could be the killers fourth and fifth victims.
As Anna said in her earlier post, it's a huge talking point here in the UK. All the newspapers are leading with the story with pages of analysis and comment.
Continue reading "The agenda's set.." »
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- Ros Atkins
- 12 Dec 06, 03:52 PM
We had a meeting with a difference today - the difference for you was clearly that we didn't post about it. The reason (and this isn't bad as excuses go) is that a number of very senior folks from Public Radio in the States came along to take part in our meeting. Our office not being the biggest, we shifted to a much larger room - but one with no computer, hence the lack of blog activity.
So here are the stories that are going to make it, and those that didn't.
Continue reading "Getting a job in Baghdad" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 11 Dec 06, 03:02 PM
Hi I'm Rob Watson. This is the first time I've presented this programme. Help! No seriously it should be fine shouldn't it?
Anyway here's what we thought we'd talk about today..
Pinochet
First off, is the passing of Augusto Pinochet at the weekend at the age of 91.
Continue reading "Talking about...Pinochet, Zidane and living abroad" »
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- David Mazower
- 8 Dec 06, 11:52 AM
Hi there. It's Madeleine masquerading as David again until I get my own login for the blog. Thanks for your great response to yesterday's debates. We had a few gremlins in the blog posting software so haven't yet got your comments up on Iraq, but we're working on that now.
So on to today's debates: today thousands of pro-Hezbollah protestors are still on the street in Beirut, protesting against the government. We'll be going live to the protests to speak with some of them to find out exactly what it is they want.
Continue reading "Hezbollah, forgivness and bribery - a packed agenda!" »
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- David Mazower
- 7 Dec 06, 12:20 PM
Hi there. It's Madeleine here - my first time presenting the programme. Very exciting!! We've just had our morning meeting and even though it's been in the news for a good few hours now, we still feel there is so much to say on the Iraq Study Group's report that we're going to devote the whole hour of tonight's programme to it.
Continue reading "The Iraq Study Group Report - An admission of failure?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 5 Dec 06, 12:03 PM
Quite a religious theme to the programme today. Two stories have made it on to the running order, although if you think there is something else we should be talking about, get in touch.
Lights out for Christmas
As David mentioned in his early post, a new survey of Britain employers has found that 75% are banning Christmas trees, lights and other decorations from the office out of concern of offending employees from other faiths.
Continue reading "The Pastor and the Imam and a very secular Xmas" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 4 Dec 06, 11:56 AM
Good afternoon one and all. A few things have caught our attention today, but as always it's an open agenda, so if there is something you think we should be talking about, get in touch and tell us.
Kofi Annan
The out-going Secretary General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan is preparing to give up his post at the end of the year and has given an interview to the BBCon a wide range of topics.
Continue reading "Kofi's end of term report" »
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- David Mazower
- 30 Nov 06, 02:10 PM
Sorry for the delay. Here's what we're looking into for today:
Allegations that UN peace-keepers have been involved in prostitution and rape in Liberia and Haiti are the latest in a long line of similar claims. (see Ros' earlier post for more details on this story). We'll be asking how widespread these abuses are, and how the UN deals with such allegations. When peacekeepers are found guilty of abusing the trust of people they've been sent to protect, what happens to them? Rosie and Joe are working on that one, together with Mahmoud, a colleague from our Arabic Service who's with us for the day.
Continue reading "On today's show: UN scandal, South Africa and Fiji" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 29 Nov 06, 12:26 PM
I'm sat on the rooftop of the Blue House Hotel in Istanbul, the view is nothing less than amazing with the Blue Mosque just to my right..
But it's the sound of the late afternoon call to prayer that I can hear from the Blue Mosque and the neighbouring three mosques over the loud speaker that make this venue a truely spectacular venue for our next programme from Istanbul...
Continue reading "Spiritual Turkey" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 28 Nov 06, 10:36 AM
Good morning from café 57 here in a chilly Istanbul.
We've just set up the laptops having spent the early part of the morning reading the local papers, and getting a feel for what the mood really is like here in the heart of this city, ahead of the Pope's arrival.
Continue reading "A cool reception in cold Turkey" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 23 Nov 06, 03:33 PM
Hi there. Three subjects today. If you want to join us to talk about any of them let us know. First up, Bennie in Nigeria who wants to talk about witchcraft in African sport. Here's his email...
Continue reading "What's your animal instinct?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 22 Nov 06, 02:34 PM
According to London's Independent Newspaper, "civil war" are the words on the lips of everyone in Lebanon following the assasination of Lebanese Maronite Christian politician, Pierre Gemayel.
Is another civil war now inevitable?
Continue reading "Return to Lebanon" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 21 Nov 06, 02:27 PM
In breaking news, the Christian Lebanese politician Pierre Gemayel has been assassinated in a suburb of Beirut. This will heighten the political tensions in the Lebanon, where pro-Syrian Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah has been demanding more power in the government. Email your views, and let us know if you would be interested to talk about this; and read on to find out the other stories we hope to cover on World Have Your Say at 6pm GMT...
Continue reading "Lebanese politician assassinated..." »
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- Paul Coletti
- 20 Nov 06, 02:02 PM
You may already have read Richard's post and will know we're talking about the proposed Dutch Burqa ban. By now Richard and Ros are in Amsterdam and setting up tonight's broadcast from a cafe called East of Eden. Come and join us . . .
Continue reading "Dutch Courage? Join us in Amsterdam" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 19 Nov 06, 06:52 PM
Howdy bloggers, not often you'll find me at the lovely Bush House on a Sunday but i'm scrambling to get ready for tomorrow. "Why?" I hear you cry. Well Ros and I are off on an impromptu trip to Holland, following the huge response we got on Friday's show to the decision by the Dutch government to support a proposal to ban women from wearing the burqa in public. All I know so far is...
Continue reading "Right then, this time we're coming to you" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 17 Nov 06, 03:36 PM
This has just come through on the AP newswire in the past few moments...
The Dutch government has voted to support a proposal to ban women from appearing in public wearing the burka -- headgear that covers the face apart from the eyes. The proposed ban would apply to streets, public transport, schools and courts in the Netherlands.
we're in little doubt you'll want to talk about so it's making tonight's show.... let us know your views....
Send us your phone number as well, if you'd like to come on air on a couple of hours.
Because of this we're going to have leave the stories about checking up on partners and doctors' responsibility... we're still going to be talking about the Taser incident in California.
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- Ros Atkins
- 17 Nov 06, 02:14 PM
We've did a U-turn after today's meeting. Dan from Detroit had joined us and his main pitch was the gathering debate online about a video on YouTube which shows a student at UCLA in California being struck several times with a Taser. If you haven't seen it, you can here, but be warned it's not comfortable viewing. We're weren't going to run the story but having watched the video and read more online, we realise we have to...
Continue reading "Stun-gunned in the library" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 16 Nov 06, 01:58 PM
It's been a tough day for my fingers. The weight of today's blogging responsibilities is taking their toll. Where's Dicky when I need him? On a special assignment that's where. But he'll tell you more about that when he returns tomorrow I expect. So without any further ado, here's the stories which have made the show...
Continue reading "Today's lesson - loving your country" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 15 Nov 06, 12:29 PM
Hi. Wednesday morning and great to have Mark and David back in the office, so the team is almost back at full strength!
We all sat around eagerly anticipating the launch of Al Jazeerah English this morning, and having a brief look around the blogosphere, we weren't the only ones. Not suprisingly, it's something you want to talk about today.
Continue reading "Al Jazeerah, gay marriage and creationism" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 14 Nov 06, 01:47 PM
As a presenter of World Have Your Say I don't really do set-piece interviews, as we leave you to ask the questions. And today we've two people for you to speak to... namely Alastair Leithead and Reginald D. Hunter.
If you want to find out how we ended up choosing these stories, have a look at the Morning Meeting.
Continue reading "The N-Word and the A-Word" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 7 Nov 06, 12:17 PM
I've just spoken to Mark and David in Cleveland - with voting going on across the United States today, we're going to be asking people in the rest of world if they care who wins the election.
Commentators say the outcome of the midterm elections could determine the course of President Bush's last two years in office. But will it make a difference outside the US?
Continue reading "Election Day" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 6 Nov 06, 01:18 PM
Not for me of course - I'm here at Bush House all week and will be letting you know what we're doing each day as it's just too early for the team Stateside to do anything.
Continue reading "A week in America" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 3 Nov 06, 02:33 PM
Hi there. It's not too often I get a full hour for lunch but today, well I didn't get a full hour for lunch but I did get that long to go hunting for a new bag for our trip to the States. It's such a beautiful crisp day here in London that even Oxford Street felt bearable. Anyway, I have returned with a large red bag which Rozita informs me is a bit 'girly'. What can I say?
Continue reading "Allegations denied but the evangelist resigns" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 2 Nov 06, 02:21 PM
Meeting? What meeting? OK, I know we failed to show up on the blog at 1100GMT. Sorry. There were two reasons...
Continue reading "Is there a problem with young black men?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 1 Nov 06, 12:37 PM
We've had our meeting and this is what we think will make it on to the programme today.
Botha
We've just seen that the former South African President P W Botha will not now be having a state funeral as was previously suggested.
Continue reading "Botha, sex survey and Egypt" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 31 Oct 06, 03:13 PM
So this is how we going to to do it today. You can see from the Morning Meeting that a number of stories/issues got considered but three are going to make it.
Continue reading "Tuesday's running order" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 30 Oct 06, 04:00 PM
We've been asking people to send us their 60 second opinion editorial pieces on who they think is responsible for saving the planet for tonights programme.
A few people have sent them in and you can hear them putting their views across in the show later, but here's one that's been sent in by Dr Benny Peiser, Liverpool John Moores University, Faculty of Science..
Continue reading "Programme update" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 30 Oct 06, 12:44 PM
As you'll see from Pete's first post of the day, and from my notes on the Morning Meeting... Today there are two issues that that stand out....
Continue reading "Monday's running order" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 27 Oct 06, 03:33 PM
We're not really getting our timing together today (blame it on the tour we've just had of the 'studio and office of the future' - it's certainly a bit more inspiring than our cosy little room). We talked through a lot of options earlier in the meeting and settled on two stories... Or to be exact one story, and one issue.
Continue reading "Friday's running order" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 26 Oct 06, 03:04 PM
We are going to pick up on stories in Australia, India and Africa today. If you'd like to comment on them or tell us about a story we're missing, please post here or email us. And you can read how we came to choose these stories by following the post on our Morning Meeting.
Continue reading "Thursday's running order" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 25 Oct 06, 12:58 PM
The morning meeting, as ever, was a lively affair and there was certainly plenty to talk about. We had a full house in our offices here at Bush House, and once again Steve in Utah joined us via conference call to give us his take on what he thought should make it in to today's show.
Here's what made it to the table..
Continue reading "Messy divorces and return to Lebanon" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 24 Oct 06, 01:33 PM
Three stories have made today's running order after this morning's meeting. If you'd like to contribute to any of the debates, please post here or email us, and include your phone number if you'd like to come on air later.
Continue reading "Tuesday's agenda" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 23 Oct 06, 01:29 PM
Is Iraq becoming THE hottest issue at the US Mid Term elections?
80 US military personnel lost their lives there in the last month - the worst for two years.It's led to pressure on President Bush to change tactics. He, in turn, has urged the Iraqi government to start sorting out security.
Continue reading "Insurgent elections...." »
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- Paul Coletti
- 20 Oct 06, 02:18 PM
We're trying to find people who live in the world's top ten most polluted cities. Can you help?
Continue reading "Polluted cities..." »
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- David Mazower
- 18 Oct 06, 04:08 PM
We've been making progress towards the topic of tonight's show - is it time for the US to involve Iran and Syria in resolving the Iraq conflict? We'll be asking what negotiations between the three countries might sound like, and - after dozens of phone calls - we've managed to line up a high-powered panel of guests to speak for Washington, Damascus, and Tehran. Syria's Ambassor to Washington, Dr Imad Moustapha, will be joining us from our Washington studio. Alongside him will be Frank Gaffney, President of the Centre for Security Policy and a former defence official under President Reagan. And from Tehran we'll have Sadeq Zibakalam of Tehran University joining us - he's one of Iran's leading political commentators.
Continue reading "Today's guests" »
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- Anu Anand
- 18 Oct 06, 01:10 PM
Last night, Mark said after the programme, we should have given much more time to Iraq. Certainly our Iraqi guests left saying they wished they'd had more time... and it seems you did too. Not just that, but today, the speculation around the policy paper by James Baker and the Iraq Study Group is building. Including the suggestion that the solution lies with involving Iraq's neighbors, Iran & Syria, (yes, the same countries named as part of Bush's 'Axis of Evil.') As David said at our meeting this morning: Nixon talked to Mao, Reagan talked to Gorbachev.... is it time for Bush to talk to Ahmedinejad & al-Assad? Read what Iraq's president has to say...
Continue reading "Iraq- Time to Talk?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 17 Oct 06, 01:31 PM
Last night, we started talking about Madonna, but never quite finished. Today, judging by our email inbox, the BBC online debate, the headlines and blogs, many of you are still talking about her and the future of little David Banda. Some in Malawi say Madonna has bought the child and broken the law. Others say, leave her and the boy alone, he'll have a good life.
Continue reading "Cut the Material Girl some slack....& Iraq, one country or three?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 13 Oct 06, 12:46 PM
This is the most talked about man in Britain at the moment. General Sir Richard Dannatt stunned the government and the country late last night with his comments about British involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, in an interview with the Daily Mail newspaper. For a serving chief of staff to contradict government policy is pretty unprecedented, here in Britain anyway. And it got us wondering...Do you think soldiers should stay out of politics full-stop? Or should they do whatever is necessary to serve the public interest?
Continue reading "Soldiers and Politicians" »
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- Anu Anand
- 12 Oct 06, 12:49 PM
Thanks for all your questions and comments on last night's debate. As he was leaving the studio, Ajmal Masroor wanted me to show him your messages, so I introduced him to the blog and he did say he would log on and answer the questions that didn't get on air. So if you're reading this Ajmal, please do! But I digress.....
Today, France has passed a bill that makes it a crime to deny that Armenians suffered "genocide" at the hands of the Turks during World War I. Turkey says they died, but it wasn't genocide. Can you legislate history? If you're in France or Turkey, do you believe Turkey should be forced to confront its past? Or should France mind its own business? See what others are saying on the BBC online debate here, or post below.
Continue reading "Making (up?) history..... and Iraq body count" »
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- Anu Anand
- 11 Oct 06, 01:12 PM
We discussed lots of our own ideas today, but judging from your responses to the debate about veiled Muslim women... and the counter-argument that the debate has been sparked by misunderstandings..... we decided to devote today's programme to your questions on Islam and Muslims. So if you want to know what the Koran says about veils, or the difference between Shia & Sunni, or the concept of jihad, get in touch to take part in today's show.
Continue reading "Salafi, Wahhabi, Shia or Sunni? Your Questions on Islam & Muslims" »
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- Anu Anand
- 4 Oct 06, 01:47 PM
Hi Everyone, I think even Richard feels better after our meeting, where we discussed some top ideas, including ones you've sent in. Wesley and hopefully Mary will be joining us on air to throw our their suggestions. If you want to join them, get yourself down to the bottom of this page and post your own idea now. Or email us. So many of you called in on the gun debate. It's clearly an issue close to home, no matter where you live. Today, we're wondering how much security exists at your local school. President Bush will be talking about school violence. Can schools ever be totally safe?
Continue reading "School Violence & Calling Koreans" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 2 Oct 06, 12:50 PM
Just finished our meeting where about twelve "possibles" got whittled down to two main ones.
We're going to try to get a supporter of Fatah and a supporter of Hamas to debate with each other under the loose question "Who Should Run Gaza?", following what appears to be escalating violence there.
The idea would be to hear from them, and then get people around the world to give us their views - and pose their questions.
The other issue we'll look at is age discrimination.....
Continue reading "The age of reason" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 22 Sep 06, 10:52 AM
Yesterday's programme was an oddity. Good subject, a good response , and good guests, but it didn't gel on air. There were some technical difficulties (bad phone lines and a long "delay" on a couple of the lines out of Uganda and Nigeria) but nothing insurmountable but for whatever reason we didn't sell the subject well enough on air and as Liliane, a much respected boss here, put it- "it didn't grip me". So i'm sorry, i hope we'll do better today.
Today's Sowetan newspaper has previewed our special programme today, and i sincerely hope you've read Ros's excellent blog posting. which doesn't need anything added from me
Continue reading "Remembering Jabu (and Soweto)" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 21 Sep 06, 11:52 AM
Welcome back to out triumphant EU team. They should all be back in London by now and no doubt full if tales of how well the programme went. We're keen to hear your feedback.
World Peace Day -
It's the 25th, and was set up by the UN. Now, is the world really a more peaceful place..? I'm sure many people would scoff at the mere idea of marking today when you consider all that is going on. Tell us what you think?
World Service Poll on Iran -
Admittedly there's nothing new in this poll' the world opposes aggressive means to stop Irans possible nuclear arms programme. It also says that world opinion rejects Iran's claim that it is simply trying to develop nuclear energy. Will the powers that be really listen to the world?
Continue reading "The morning after the night before.." »
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- Mark Sandell
- 19 Sep 06, 04:38 PM
Within the last few minutes we've been hearing that the army-owned television station in Thailand has suspended its regular programming and is broadcasting images of the royal family and songs which correspondents say have been associated in the past with military coups. The Reuters news agency says tanks have been seen around the government headquarters in Bangkok.
The Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who is attending the UN General Assembly in New York, has declared a state of emergency.
If you're in Bangkok, or you have relatives there,what are you hearing?
We'll get you as many voices as we can from Thailand on the programme in just over an hour's time..
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- Mark Sandell
- 19 Sep 06, 01:12 PM
What's the old gag about how you know when a politician is lying ; you'll see their lips move. Do you need a certain level of dishonesty to get on in the back stabbing world of politics? Ferenc Gyurcsany, the Hungarian PM says he won't resign despite being recorded saying he'd repeatedly misled his own country. So, do you need to be untruthful to get on? Whether to protect state secrets, or other individuals or for what you think is the country's best interests?
Or do you think it's a cynical view and there are plenty of straight, honest politicians out there?
We'll talk with you about it on today's show..
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- Anu Anand
- 18 Sep 06, 01:00 PM
What does the reaction to the Pope's comments say about Islam? You've seen the stories of people burning effigies. Of the nun shot in Somalia. The British columnist, Yasmin Alibhai-Brown writes today, asking why Muslims aren't protesting about Darfur. And tens of thousands of you have written in, expressing your views. In fact, we're still struggling to read and post all your comments.
Continue reading "Every action has an equal & opposite....." »
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- Anu Anand
- 15 Sep 06, 01:14 PM
There's no question what you want to talk about today! Earlier this week, Pope Benedict gave a speech on religion and violence in Germany. He quoted a 14th Century Christian emperor who said the Prophet Muhammad had brought the world only "evil and inhuman" things. Read excerpts of the Pope's speech here.
So should the Pope apologise? Should he and other religious leaders be allowed to speak and debate freely? Or was he being plain offensive? You can join the debate here.
Continue reading "Were Pope Benedict's comments anti-Islamic?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 14 Sep 06, 11:31 AM
Today, we want to hear your reaction, especially if you're in Canada, to the shooting at Dawson College. We'll also be talking about a report that men, no matter what race, age or occupation, are smarter than women. And the comedian who's got Kazakhs and his fellow Jews hopping mad.
Continue reading "Canada, Sex & Intelligence, Borat" »
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- Anu Anand
- 13 Sep 06, 01:25 PM
Beautiful or bad for you? Madrid is pushing to ban too-skinny models from the catwalk. About time? Or too intrusive?
Speaking of intrusive, does your employer have a right to spy on you at work? If they're paying you good money, is it okay for them to monitor how you spend your time, in the office, and sometimes even at home?
Continue reading "Big Boss is Watching & Skinny models...bad?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 13 Sep 06, 10:06 AM
A bit slow today on the news agenda, although there seems to be plenty of news around. Your challenge this morning is to turn the stories in to talking points you think we should be debating.
I have a smallish list, but I'll let you decide.
NATO
NATO says the rest of the world has to pull its weight on Afghanistan. Why is your country so reluctant to help out? Could be because NATO says Afghan suicide bombings kill 173 since January?
Continue reading "What's getting you talking?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 8 Sep 06, 12:49 PM
Ok we've put as many of your ideas into today's programme as possible. You sent in lots of different suggestions, including:
*America's deteriorating relations with the Arab & Muslim world.
*Rendition and secret prisons.
*Not to mention the looming 5-year 9-11 anniversary on Monday.
Yet, Olen says:
It seems as if BBC radio is really looking at everything through a lens of horror and terror. There are a few news items that are good (eg. the resignation of Blair), but it seems that war and terror stories rule the day.
It's impossible to please everyone, but here goes. Today (drum roll please):
Has Pakistan given up fighting the war on terror? Have they effectively signed a peace deal with al Qaeda and the Taliban? We're also asking if you're tired of 9-11 anniversaries?
Also, if you're a Star Trek fan, keep reading.
Continue reading "Pakistan, 9/11 anniversaries & Star Trek" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 8 Sep 06, 10:44 AM
I'm not sure if it's been mentioned before, but the producer on early shift to pull together the days news does it from Television Centre. On most days it doesn't feel like a chore to come right out to the very West of London and sit in a windowless room straing at our computer screens.
Today however, it really is. It is glorious outside! Autumnal sun and a fresh crisp breeze. In stark contrast, the office is dull, air conditioned and ever so slightly depressing. But I've had a great time trying to find some interseting stories to talk about.
First up is this question I came across in The Daily Telegraph. They are asking if marriage really the only way to raise children? A new study commissioned by former Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith has concluded that marriage is the best environment to raise children because it offers the greatest chance of a stable upbringing.
Continue reading "Friday forum" »
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- Anu Anand
- 7 Sep 06, 01:06 PM
I've been away from the programme for a week (and away from the news too). But this morning, two stories really tugged at me: Natascha Kampusch, the Austrian girl, giving a TV interview.... and the story of Iraqis wearing pendants in the shape of their country, even though they can see it breaking up all around them.
Did you see Natascha's interview? What's your reaction to her? Get in touch here.
Also- we'll be opening a rare window into life inside Iraq by talking to an Iraqi journalist who's fled. Get in touch to talk to him live on air. Or post your comments on the debate here.
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 5 Sep 06, 02:25 PM
Isn't it time Africa accepted gay and lesbian rights? That's what we're asking today. Ghana's government has banned a conference for gay men and lesbians due to take place there later today.
The Information Minister Kwamena Bartels said, "Government does not condone any such activity which violently offends the culture, morality and heritage of the entire people of Ghana." Do you agree with him?
Our correspondent there says gays and lesbians in Ghana maintain their relationships underground because of the social stigma associated with their sexual orientation.
And earlier this year, a UK bishop on a visit to Kenya was told by a church leader he is no longer welcome because of his views on homosexuality.
Continue reading "Gay rights in Africa and getting the sack" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 4 Sep 06, 02:23 PM
Hopes, Confusion and Passion
Good afternoon, I'm manisha Tank and I'll be presenting World Have Your Say this evening. Peering out of the window here in London at the last sun rays of the British Summer, it's easy to think that all is at peace with the World. Of course, I'm dreaming but it's dreams and a lot of hope that are holding together the fragile peace in Darfur, Western Sudan.
Just when the UN had decided it could send 20,000 peace keepers in to replace the African Union's 7,000 troops, Khartoum says would rather go it alone.
Is this the beginning, as the UN says, of a new man-made catastrophe for Darfur? How do the Sudanese people feel about this crisis and what do they want?
Continue reading "Sudan, Afghanistan and The Crocodile Hunter" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 1 Sep 06, 02:52 PM
An air of sadness at the meeting this morning, as Ben and Kevin leave the World Have Your Say team for pastures new .
So its bye bye to them but hello to the Reverend Jesse Jackson. He will be talking your calls for an hour tonight.
He is in the Middle East trying to secure the release of the 3 Israeli soldiers being held by Hezbollah and Hamas.
You can talk to him about the situation in the Middle East , the civil rights movement in the USA in fact just about anything you want.
Continue reading "Jesse Jackson takes your question" »
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- Anu Anand
- 30 Aug 06, 12:44 PM
There are so many interesting things to talk about today, we just can't get to all of them. We really like Hamadi in Gambia's suggestion to talk about Africa's oil problems. We might try to do that next week. Warren Jeffs, a Mormon leader who's one of America's most wanted, has been arrested. The British papers are all talking about migration, as Romania & Bulgaria, Europe's poorest countries, prepare to join the EU. In fact, we'll be doing a special programme on September 20th from Romania, Bulgaria and Brussels, so if you want to take part, get in touch now. But I digress....
Today-- we're asking- is it everyone's right to have a baby? Here in Britain, it's being proposed that obese women be denied fertility treatment by the national health service. Meanwhile, the proposal says lesbian woman should be given the same access to fertility treatment as heterosexual women. Is it right to set limits on who should have a baby? Join the debate here, and tune in at 1700 GMT.
Continue reading "Obesity, babies & Dylan's new album" »
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- Anu Anand
- 29 Aug 06, 01:21 PM
It's a gorgeous fall day in London- blue skies, cold air. We've had our meeting and here's what the agenda looks like today... though it's always open to your suggestions.
We're going back to Katrina, as President Bush visits New Orleans today. How do you feel about his visit?
Also-- what's more important-- peace or justice? We were struck by the debate in Uganda on what to do with rebel leader Joseph Kony, who's accused of recruiting child soldiers and hacking off people's limbs. The government's worked out a peace and amnesty deal, but the international community wants to try Kony. Should he be left in peace? Or tried, even if that wrecks the ceasefire? Read more about efforts to keep the peace in Uganda here.
Continue reading "Tuesday's Programme" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 29 Aug 06, 10:52 AM
Pretty much every news site and publication I've read today makes some reference to hurricane Katrina.
It was a year ago today nearly 1,700 people died when Katrina struck Mississippi and Louisiana, thousands more were left homeless.
On Mondays programme we talked to some of those who had survived the hurricane and have spent the last year trying to put the pieces of their life together again. We really want to go back to new Orleans today, but what do you want to hear?
Continue reading "The calm after the storm?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 28 Aug 06, 01:57 PM
Katrina, One Year On
As Pete mentioned, it's a holiday here, but in New Orleans and the rest of America's Gulf Coast, they're preparing to mark the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. President Bush is visiting the region today. In his weekly radio address he said the disaster has exposed deep-seated poverty and a lack of readiness to deal with the crisis.
The papers are full of stories about lessons learned, or not. Read what blogger 'bark bark woof woof' in south Florida has to say. And join our debate here.
Nasrallah
"Had we known that the kidnapping of the soldiers would have led to this, we would definitely not have done it."
Is Hezbollah's leader admitting he was wrong? With Kofi Annan visiting Beirut today, and preparations nearly complete for an international peacekeeping force, what lessons has Lebanon and learned vis Hezbollah, Israel and war? Read what Firas is writing at thermo-police.net:
"I wish someone can tell me what the (clear verifiable) objectives of Hizbollah are in the context of an all-out military confrontation with Israel like the one we just witnessed this past month. Not dying? Having one building left standing? Two buildings? A thousand? Repelling an unprovoked attack? Repelling a provoked attack? Provoking an attack and holding your breath for a month? What??"
That's what we've decided to go with on today's programme. Let us know if you agree or disagree. Suggest a topic or contribute to the ones above. It's always your agenda here on World Have Your Say.
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- Anu Anand
- 25 Aug 06, 01:45 PM
Today-- we'll hear from Austria about the extraordinary case of Natascha Kampusch. We want to know if you think President Musharraf of Pakistan is right to challenge controversial rape laws? And you can share your feelings on Pluto's demotion from planet to, well, just a rock. Post your comments below and join us at 1700 GMT later today.
Continue reading "Abduction, rape and Pluto" »
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- Anu Anand
- 24 Aug 06, 12:39 PM
Today in Nigeria, India, Mexico, Iraq, New Zealand, the US, Gaza, Bangladesh, Colombia and Italy -- to name just a few countries!- kidnappings are in the headlines. While the western media is reporting the kidnapping of two Fox News journalists; in Iraq, a recent report put the number of kidnappings this year alone at twenty thousand.
Continue reading "How do you deal with a kidnapping?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 24 Aug 06, 10:57 AM
I'm a bit late with the morning round up, it's been pouring down with rain all night and it kept me awake well in to the wee hours of this morning.
But there's plenty around to talk about. Kev put this suggestion up at the end of yesterday's show. A video was released on Wednesday of two Fox News journalists captured in Gaza. There are suggestions that the news hasn't been making the headlines because of the organisation the pair work for. What are the risks journalists take to bring us the latest news from hostile environments?
The British Communities Secretary Ruth Kelly has given a major speech to launch a Commission on Integration and Cohesion, calling for a "new and honest" debate on diversity. The body, which will start work next month, will look at how communities in England tackle tensions and extremism. Should the state be responsible for encouraging integration?
Continue reading "From a rainy Thursday in London" »
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- Anu Anand
- 23 Aug 06, 12:46 PM
Four hours before air time. Today's topics: Congo, Iran and Tom Cruise.
What's life like in Kinshasha?
Congo's problems are summed up in the story of Jason Sendwe Hospital. The hospital, stripped of even its metal bed frames, was blackmailing patients for money in a country where everything's been destroyed.
So there's a lot for Congo's new leader to fix. But the election didn't produce a winner, and for the past three days, the capital, Kinshasha, has been teetering on the edge of violence.
Meanhwile, it looks like the UN Security Council is set for a showdown with Iran over its nuclear programme. Why shouldn't there be sanctions against Iran? Lots of opinion about Iran's nuclear programme here.
And Risky Business? Viacom says it's dropping actor Tom Cruise for his strange behaviour. You fans will remember the South Park 'Closetgate' episode and 'couch incident' on the popular talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show of May 23, 2005. Cruise — in the words of The New York Times — "jumped around the set, hopped onto a couch, fell rapturously to one knee and repeatedly professed his love for his new girlfriend."
Nikki Finke asks 'Who's crazier, Viacom or Tom Cruise?'
"C'mon, fire the grinning actor idiot because he's lost his box office appeal, or because his first dollar gross is so exorbitant that no studio has a prayer any more of making money on his motion pictures, or because of any other business reason. And fire him in the usual Hollywood way: with a bland-but-dignified press release about how much these 14 years have meant to both parties, ad nauseum. But, jeez, don't fire him with this lame stuff that Sumner didn't like the way Tiny Tom behaved. If that's true, then no Hollywood studio can ever hire anyone. Drugs, sex, harrassment, mendacity, fraud: Paramount like most major studios has a rich history of horrible behavior by its work-for-hires. I could reel off for you 10 people now with rich studio deals, some at Paramount, who should be in jail or rehab or the Funny Farm but instead are well-paid miscreants."
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 22 Aug 06, 01:45 PM
I'm Rahul Tandon and I'll be presenting tonights show. We had an extensive meeting (20 mins, not bad by our standards) and decided to settle on three subjects tonight.
Is the world letting down Lebanon?
Much discussion about Lebanon in our lively meeting . It is still unclear about which countries are going to commit to a peacekeeping force.
So as the diplomatic manoeuvring continues has the World let Lebanon down? Should your country be sending troops to the region?
Is immigration changing your culture?
Immigration is rarely out of the news here in the UK. There is a daily debate about its impact on British life . Everyone in the meeting wanted to expand on that theme . So what impact has it had on your culture ? Has it been good or bad ?
Continue reading "Immigration, Lebanon and yes, Snakes" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 21 Aug 06, 12:45 PM
We've just had our meeting and although there is little doubt about what the big talking point in the UK is today we struggled to find a way to open it up as a global debate.
As Kev mentioned in his earlier post, there is much talk amongst cricketing circles following Pakistans refusal to take to the field for the final session of their match against England, in protest at being penalised for ball-tampering.
Listening to the debate on BBC Radio 5 Live this morning and the BBC's Asian Network, the views ranged from fans being outraged that the Pakistani's let them down to applauding them for their stand. So where do you stand on this debate?
Continue reading "Do you have faith in professional sport?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 18 Aug 06, 01:24 PM
The foiled terror plot over the Atlantic continues to make news everyday in the US and UK. Craig Murray, former British ambassador to Uzbekistan, argues there was no terror plot. It's all a political ploy to divert attention from Tony Blair and George Bush's perennial troubles. He'll be on the programme tonight, so email us now to take part. Or post a comment below.
And we want to know why the recent the conflict in the Middle East is perceived by so many as a victory for Hizbullah? Despite the damage done and lives lost, how has Hizbullah managed to win hearts and minds? The leader in the Economist this week -- Nasrallah wins the war. And Prince Hassan of Jordan told the BBC this week, the west and its allies have to beat Hezbollah at its own game.
Click here to listen to his comments.
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- Anu Anand
- 17 Aug 06, 01:13 PM
During the past few weeks, we've had lots of emails and text messages like this one:
"My daughter phoned me yesterday to tell me not to worry about what hapened in Afghanistan on Tuesday night as she was alright but she was very shaken (she's in Kabul at camp souter in the army). I didn't know what she was talking about and it's got us all worried as there's nothing in the news and she's been told not to talk about it. Why is this?" -Dougie, London
The roll call of conflicts overlooked by the world's media is a long one: Darfur, Afghanistan, Nepal, Iraq, Sri Lanka, Gaza... to name just a few. The stories of suicide bombs, fighting and kidnappings in Afghanistan surprised me, I haven't heard much from there for months. In Darfur, half a million people could soon starve because food trucks can't get to them. And Gaza too, has seen no relief, despite the UN resolution in Lebanon. You're the editor-- who do you want to hear from? What stories is the media missing? Tell us below.
Continue reading "How does it feel to be forgotten?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 16 Aug 06, 01:53 PM
At what point do you draw a line under the past? Today, we're mulling the pardons of several hundred British soldiers executed for cowardice during World War I. And whether a peace-loving German intellectual should be stripped of his Nobel prize for being a member of Hitler's elite SS force.
First-- the World War One pardons. 93-year-old Gertie Harris has just won a long campaign to clear her father's name. Private Harry Farr was executed by firing squad for refusing to go back to the front line. He'd witnessed some of the worst carnage of the war. There are many such stories.
It would make me very, very proud to have lifted the stigma that I have carried all my life
Gertie Harris
The families argue pardons are long overdue. Historians say this is like airbrushing history. What do you think? Join our debate here:
Continue reading "Cowards or Patriots?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 15 Aug 06, 02:07 PM
Despite a very extensive list of ideas from Peter this morning, we've decided to talk about multiculturalism today.
In an opinion editorial piece in today's Telegraph Newspaper, the Bishop of Rochester Michael Nazir-Ali talks about the link between multiculturalism and the rise of Islamic extremism amongst young British Muslims.
It got us thinking about the term multiculturalism, and what it means to people around the world. I would say here in the UK, it means people of different races living side by side with each other. Communities integrating and learning from each other.
Continue reading "Is multiculturalism to blame for extremism?" »
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- Peter van Dyk
- 14 Aug 06, 04:06 PM
The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah seems to be holding, and people on both sides are returning to their homes in the border region. But will the ceasefire hold?
And, with both the Israeli government and Hezbollah claiming victory in the month-long conflict, we want to know who you think won the war.
Lebanese and Israelis will be on the programme to discuss these points, and you can join them.
Continue reading "Everyone's a winner" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 11 Aug 06, 01:41 PM
We're going to talk to Muslims around the world.
Do they feel that they are paying the price in increased surveillance and suspicion for a radical few in their midst? How do they respond to calls that they should do more to root out radicalism in their ranks? This is the conversation that we will have tonight on the programme.
What questions do you have? The debate starts here.
Continue reading "Who is under attack?" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 10 Aug 06, 12:56 PM
Not much doubt about what we will be talking about tonight on the programme.
Television and radio stations have blanket coverage of a plot foiled by British authorities to blow up several planes travelling between Britain and the United States.
As I write the United States homeland security secretary Michael Chertoff, has just said the plot in Britain was international in scope, and was in some respects suggestive of an Al Qaeda plot.
Raids took place in three sperate locations in the UK early this morning in London, High Wycombe and Birmingham, and so far 21 people have been arrested.
Continue reading "Travel misery" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 9 Aug 06, 12:37 PM
Thanks to all of you who posted/texted/e-mailed us to tell us that you feel we've been ignoring the plight of children caught up in the conflict in the Middle East. Today, we'll try to hear the voices of young people caught up in the war and to get them to tell you how their lives are changing. Here's how our colleagues at "Newsround" did it...
Thousands of women are marching through Pretoria today to protest against domestic violence in South Africa. The rate of abuse is among the highest in the world. We'll be trying to hear from some women who took part in the march and again, they'll be telling you what life is like there...
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- Anu Anand
- 7 Aug 06, 12:45 PM
Do the rules of war matter anymore? Is it right to hit a building when you know civilians will die if there are fighters inside? Does it help if you use a smaller bomb to be more proportionate? That's what we're talking about today and you can join us by posting a comment below or contacting us. Here's an article written by Moshe Yaalon, former chief of staff for the Israeli Defence Forces. He says Israel is doing its best to observe the rules of war against Hezbollah in Lebanon. And by criticizing Israel, the world is empowering a group that disregards international rules. Keep reading to find out what ideas we're kicking around. And most important-- it's your forum, so join the debate.
Continue reading "Rules of War" »
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- David Mazower
- 2 Aug 06, 01:34 PM
We hope to hear your views on three issues in today's show - the debate in Israel as Israeli troops push deeper into Lebanon....Mel Gibson's drunken outburst and apology.....and why pregnant women have such a hard time getting seats on the metro.
Continue reading "Today's talking points" »
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- Ros Atkins
- 31 Jul 06, 07:38 PM
This isn't actually Ros, but Puja (my log-in is playing up). I've been reading out your texts and emails as we've discussed the US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's plans for the Middle East. She says the US would seek a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire and will also call for the UN Security Council to support a comprehensive settlement and an international stabilisation force in Lebanon.
So can such a solution work? This is what some of you had to say:
Continue reading "Your solutions to the Middle East crisis" »
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- Priya Shah
- 28 Jul 06, 02:10 PM
What do you think Hezbollah's long-term objective is? Do they think they have the support of the Lebanese? What would it take for them to disarm?
On todays programme, Nawar Al Sahili, an MP for Hezbollah in Lebanon will be taking your questions. Contact us on the form below, and don't forget to leave number for us to call you on.
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- Anu Anand
- 27 Jul 06, 01:10 PM
Well, as Priya promised, today, you can put your questions direct to a representative of the Israeli government. Dan Shaham is director of public affairs at the Embassy of Israel in London. Many of you have written in already with your views about the conflict and I'm collating those comments now. If you have a specific question that you want to ask Mr. Shaham, post a comment below or email us. Include a phone number if you want to come on air and speak to him. Priya's also working on lining up a representative of Hezbollah in Lebanon to take your questions tomorrow. So far, one Hezbollah member says he'll participate, but we're currently trying to work out the logistics of getting him on air. I'll keep you posted!
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- Priya Shah
- 26 Jul 06, 07:50 PM
Today we talked about whether YOU agree with the way your government has responded to the current crisis in the Middle East. Another lively discussion with guests Rami Khouri of the Daily Star in Beirut and Jonathan Freedland of the Guardian newspaper in the UK giving their perspectives.
Here are some of the comments that were recieved during the programme:
Continue reading "Your Comments: Do you agree with your government's stance?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 26 Jul 06, 03:03 PM
I've been away from the programme for a few days, but it was clear to me when I woke up this morning and heard the news about a UN post being bombed that the crisis in Lebanon is still what everyone's talking about - with analysis and opinion coming from as far afield as India and Indiana. Do you agree with your country's response to the crisis? What has your government done? What would you like it to do? Let us know by posting a comment below or joining the online debate.
Continue reading "Your country's policy on Israel/Lebanon" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 21 Jul 06, 01:44 PM
In a bit of journalistic serendipity, major newspapers in the UK are covering the topic that we will be discussing today: The Polish migration to the UK. As this article in the Guardian states, some 5000 doctors have left the country since 2004.
We'll talk to one of them tonight who is leaving Poland tomorrow. Wojtek Kluzek is coming to the UK to work at a hospital in South Tyne. We'll ask him why he's leaving, and speak to Dr Pawel Kaczmarczyk, the chair of demography at the Centre of Migration Research at Warsaw University. The flight of Poles from Poland has been described as the largest migration in Europe since World War II.
Have you left Poland? Are you still there and wonder why so many have left? Here's a chance to have your say.
Continue reading "Your questions: The Polish community in London" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 20 Jul 06, 10:53 AM
We've got two days left in our conversations with immigrant communities in the UK. Today, we'll speak to Somalis in Cardiff. But as violence continues in the Middle East, we'll continue speaking to people caught in the crossfire.
But we'll also talk to our Somali guests about news that the Ethiopian government is prepared to invade their country. I just confirmed that the Ethiopian ambassador to the UK, Berhanu Kebede, will join us to answer questions. The press office says he is keen to 'set the record straight'.
Continue reading "Your questions: Somalis in Cardiff and more" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 19 Jul 06, 02:14 PM
Day three of our tour of the UK, and tonight we will be broadcasting live from Glasgow.
The owners of the Shallal Lebanese restaurant in Glasgow have kindly allowed us to set up shop there as we ask Glasgows Arab community what they want to talk about.
David, Richard, Fiona and Anu are all out there currently on this whistle stop tour and last I heard they were tucking in to a hearty lunch!
As we've been doing throughout the week, we've been asking you to send us questions you want to ask our invited audience.
Continue reading "Arab voices in Glasgow" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 18 Jul 06, 03:44 PM
Fiona , Anu and I are in Belfast for the second day of our WHYS trip across Britain. As you will have heard yesterday (hopefully) in Bradford, we are visiting just a handful of the hundreds of different communities in this country that make up the overall "community" of modern Britain.
Continue reading "China in your hands" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 18 Jul 06, 11:34 AM
Messages are pouring into the BBC News website from across the Middle East as the violence continues with more air strikes in Lebanon and Haifa braced for more rocket attacks. The evacuation of foreigners is picking up pace.
We'll speak to those trying to leave, those caught in the conflict. And it is our second day in our Linking Communities series as we speak to the Chinese community in Belfast.
Continue reading "Evacuating Lebanon and Day 2 of our UK tour" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 17 Jul 06, 01:57 PM
To quote the Scottish poet Robert Burns, the best laid plans of mice and men oft go awry. Today, we launch a week of programmes, we call Linking Communities, as Fiona explained.
But we just can't ignore the deepening crisis in the Middle East. We're still going to hear the concerns of and put your questions to the Pakistani community in Bradford. But we're also going to ask you: How would you stop the escalating violence in the Middle East?
Continue reading "On the road in Bradford, and the Middle East crisis" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 11 Jul 06, 03:44 PM
The Indian city of Mumbai has been rocked by a series of explosions on the city's transport network, killing at least 40 people.
Early reports say there have been six blasts on Mumbai's crowded rail network, in the heart of it's financial district.
Hundreds have been injured by the blasts and it is excepected that the death toll will rise.
Continue reading "Mumbai bomb blasts" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 10 Jul 06, 02:54 PM
I know everyone wants to talk about what could have possibly provoked Zinedine Zidane to launch that headbutt against Italian defender Marco Materazzi. As a player, I know that 'trash talking', as we call it in the US, is part of the game. It can knock you off your game.
But today, we've got a World Have Your Say special. Vladimir Putin answers questions from around the world.
Continue reading "Putin, 'beasting' the military and the G8" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 7 Jul 06, 12:58 PM
Today we'll be hearing the voices of London a year on from the transport bombings. No pundits, no terrorism experts, no community leaders, no politicians, no geopolitical debating, just the sound of the people of a city going about their business. We'll hear how they feel , what they are talking about and what they've been listening to.
Two of our team - Richard and Puja - travelled into work today and asked people to tell us their thoughts.
Kevin has been listening to what the radio stations have been hearing and Uwa is preparing the voices of those who survived......and the relatives of those who didn't.
I hope you'll listen and as always, tell us whatyou think...
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- Kevin Anderson
- 7 Jul 06, 12:14 PM
London has just gone silent for two minutes as Londoners remember the bomb attacks a year ago today. The bombings left 52 people dead and scores injured. We have been speaking to Londoners this morning as they remember where they were.
My memories are uneventful. At the time, I lived in walking distance from our offices in West London. But shortly after I got into work, there were reports of a 'power surge' on the Tube. Anyone has been to London knows how often the Tube breaks down due to signaling failures, disabled trains or the ever ominous 'customer incident' so most people didn't take notice. But then it became clear, this wasn't going to be a normal day.
What are your memories? Where were you?
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- Kevin Anderson
- 6 Jul 06, 02:32 PM
People in the US are talking about a government public health campaign to encourage breastfeeding. Most of it seems pretty reasonable. Breastfeeding, best for baby, best for mom. But then, it grows slightly darker. Should women be made guilty for not breastfeeding?
Also, we'll talk about a film in Egypt that some MPs think should be censored for homosexual scenes.
Continue reading "Breastfeeding, gay film in Egypt and your voice messages" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 5 Jul 06, 12:51 PM
As everyone now knows, the North Koreans have been test firing missiles causing concerns around the world's diplomatic communities, particularly in Japan and South Korea for fairly obvious reasons.
We did a special edition of WHYS last week on North Korea more or less asking whether the world is taking Kim Jong - il too seriously or not seriously enough. Today, the story's moved on a bit and we'll be hearing voices from the region, as well as the wider international community.
Also today...
Continue reading "Near Missile" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 4 Jul 06, 03:59 PM
Mexico is having a cliffhanger election. Preliminary results show only 1% stands between conservative candidate Felipe Calderon and leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. We'll talk to Mexican voters and Mexicans abroad.
Also, both Muslims and non-Muslims say that the government in the UK must do more to attack extremism, according to a new poll. Also, education officials in the Philippines pull sex ed courses after resistance from the Catholic church.
Continue reading "Mexico, integration and sex ed in the Philippines" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 3 Jul 06, 03:32 PM
As an American working for the BBC, I often joke with my colleagues that we're separated by a common language. Different slang, different idioms, different cultural reference points that complicate everything, especially humour. Even though the US and the UK speak English, there is still plenty of room for confusion.
The US doesn't have an official language, but in this election year with immigration high on the agenda, the role of the English language in American society is a talking point. The owner of an iconic restaurant in Philadelphia has placed a sign in the window: "This is America, please order In English."
What do you think? Is a common language a common good?
Continue reading "English, the only language on the menu" »
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- David Mazower
- 3 Jul 06, 12:55 PM
In today's programme: who are the Muslim role models? should witchcraft be legalised? and the American restaurant owner who's insisting his customers speak English - is he right?
Continue reading "Monday's menu" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 30 Jun 06, 02:56 PM
President Bush is taking Japanese Prime Minister and huge Elvis fan Junichiro Koizumi to Graceland. It makes sense. The Japanese PM has sung Elvis' songs to world leaders, sung duets with celebrities and even released a CD of his favourite classics.
It's Friday, and let's all pretend that we're the head of state for a day taking a visiting dignitary around. PM Koizumi obviously had a place he wanted to go, but where would you take a visiting VIP to show them the best of your country or possibly something off the beaten path that you think represents your nation, your people. I'm getting a round up of the World Have Your Say team to get their suggestions. Leave a comment and tell us where you would take an important visitor.
Continue reading "Where would you take a visiting head of state?" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 30 Jun 06, 01:35 PM
We've got a full programme tonight. We've discussed it before, but we're going to return to Italy today as four top clubs in Serie A all answer questions about match fixing. The inquiry has abruptly adjourned until after the World Cup. We're also going to be talking about France, football and race; the government in turmoil in the Netherlands; and the discovery of the bodies of two Belgian girls.
Continue reading "Football controversies, Dutch politics and child killings" »
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- Richard Bowen
- 30 Jun 06, 11:30 AM
Morning blog fans, I've been away for a while and I'm sure you've really missed my morning posts, but I'm back. This is what I've seen for you to chew over on this fine day, here goes.
First up, it seems that Live 8 has failed to achieve most of it's targets for the reduction of poverty in Africa. Nevertheless, Bob Geldof is still saying that the event was a success. What do you think? Has Live 8 made a difference? Did you give money? Whatever you want to say about this leave your comments.
"Dutch", they've done it again. For the third time in four years the Dutch government has collapsed. It all came about after the D66 party pulled out of the coalition in a row over immigration. We want to find out what's going on in Holland.
Next is Gaza...
Continue reading "A new dawn brings a new day" »
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- Priya Shah
- 29 Jun 06, 07:05 PM
On Fridays programme we hope to be talking to Belgians about their reaction to the shocking discovery of two young stepsisters from Liege in eastern Belgium. They had been missing for 3 weeks.
The case has brought back memories of paedophile murderer Mark Dutroux. His two youngest victims were both from Liege, and the 1996 case sparked national outrage directed at police handling of the investigation.
If you are living in Belgium, tell us what you think. Email us you contact details and comments on the post form below.
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- Kevin Anderson
- 29 Jun 06, 04:41 PM
The US Supreme Court has ruled today that President Bush has overstepped his authority in how it set up military commissions to try detainees held at the US military base at Guantanamo Bay. We're going to discuss the ruling and some of the issues surrounding the detention centre there.
The Bush administration wants to shut the centre, but an official said that it is easier said than done. What does the ruling mean? What next? We'll speak to one of our Washington correspondents, a Republican legal adviser and many of you who have left comments on the BBC News website.
Continue reading "US Supreme Court rules on Guantanamo" »
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- David Mazower
- 29 Jun 06, 12:59 PM
We've had our editorial chat and have decided to focus on just the two stories for today: Israel's offensive in Gaza and the deepening crisis sparked by the captured soldier, and the Supreme Court ruling on the legality of military tribunals at Guantanamo Bay.
Continue reading "Your views on Gaza and Guantanamo" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 28 Jun 06, 01:20 PM
Ronaldo has achieved what no other footballer in history has managed. He's scored more goals than any other player in the finals of the World Cup, breaking Gerd Muller's record during the 3-0 win over Ghana.
But he still suffers from jibes about his weight. Even his own President had a pop at him before the tournament started.
And the issue is a talking point in the U.S too...see this article from USA TODAY talking about fat people's portrayal in films like "Shallow Hal" and "The Nutty Professor" .
So is it ok to make jokes about fat people? is it considered acceptable in a way that making jokes about someone's sexuality or skin colour isn't?
Let us know...
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- Mark Sandell
- 27 Jun 06, 01:33 PM
Will be linked on today's programme. Thankfully, we've (well Puja from the team has anyway) managed to get some WHYS listeners in Gaza and Jerusalem to go into studios there to talk to you- and each other- about the growing crisis caused by the abduction of Corporal Gilad Shalit . Yesterday, we heard differing opinions from within Israel about what people felt the government should do... today we're going to hear from both sides.
Rozita is working with Ros on the story about President Bush saying it was ''disgraceful'' that the news media had disclosed a secret programme to track millions of bank records in search of terrorist suspects. The New York Times has defended itself in a letter from Executive Editor Bill Keller claiming what they did was in the public interest.
We'll be hearing from people who think they were wrong to publish, and those who champion press freedom . We'll also be finding out - as ever- what you think.
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- Kevin Anderson
- 27 Jun 06, 01:32 PM
One of the things that we'll be discussing today is press freedom and responsibility in the wake of President Bush's condemnation of the decision for US media, in particular the New York Times, to report details of financial surveillance that led to the arrests of several men in Miami who allegedly were plotting attacks on several US targets including the Sears Tower in Chicago.
There is a debate on the BBC News website about President Bush's criticism. What do you think? Was the press right to disclose details of the surveillance? Or do you think the press should have considered how the information might be used by potential plotters?
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- Fiona Crack
- 26 Jun 06, 03:58 PM
Is the only way to guarantee sexual equality to enshrine it in law? That's what Spain are doing with their new draft "Equality Law" . Is it necessary? Would it make a difference in your country? Have your say using our on-line debate or send us your thoughts using the form. Include your number if you want to take part in the programme.
Continue reading "Do women need laws to get equal rights?" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 26 Jun 06, 12:57 PM
Gaza is on the brink after militants launch a surprise attack kills two Israeli soldiers. Another is feared to have been abducted, and Israeli forces are massed for a major operation. We'll speak to ordinary people there.
Also, are quotas the right way to achieve equality between women and men? Spain thinks so. And should everyone be tested for HIV?
Continue reading "Israeli kidnapping, gender equality and HIV testing" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 23 Jun 06, 03:58 PM
If you're like me, you get way too many spam e-mails every day. This spam, not that Spam. Most of it is just the electronic equivalent of junk mail, but some of it offers you wealth beyond your wildest dreams if you are so foolish to pass along bank details or wire thousands of dollars, pounds, euros to someone you've never heard of or met.
Have you been scammed? I have. Through a mix of technology, the gullibility of the new housemate of a former housemate and arcane US phone billing, I was a victim of the great Moldovan porn scam.
Continue reading "Have you been scammed?" »
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- Anu Anand
- 23 Jun 06, 12:26 PM
Two questions today-- how do you protect children from paedophiles? And -- What's the con capital of the world? More about cons in a moment. First- Britain is sending a minister to America to look at Megan's Law, a controversial measure that allows parents to know if child sex offenders are living in their neighborhoods. On one side are parents of children who've been victims of sex offenders. On the other side are experts who argue this law offers a false sense of security and Britain should be looking elsewhere for solutions. What's the best way to protect children from paedophiles? What actually works?
Continue reading "Megan's Law & Con Capital" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 21 Jun 06, 03:57 PM
Before I get into this post, I wanted to pass along the news that the Egyptian blogger Alaa has been released after a 45-day detention. We have spoken to Alaa before on the programme, and he was detained with some 47 other activists after protesting in support of reformist judges. Alaa continued to blog from jail, smuggling out posts.
But we're going to take a look at blogging in another country in the Middle East: Saudi Arabia. The numbers may be small, but the growth in blogging has been phenomenal in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf States.
Continue reading "Blogging in Egypt and Saudi Arabia" »
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- David Mazower
- 21 Jun 06, 01:15 PM
On the agenda today - Crime and the City, Saudi women bloggers, and those North Korea missiles. Read on.....
Continue reading "Wednesday's show" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 20 Jun 06, 03:25 PM
One thing that I've got to do for the programme is to try to use the internet to peer into the secretive world of North Korea. Of course, there is the official site of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Anu and I looked around the site a few months ago, when I was trying to get in contact with people in countries with little press freedom. One thing that caught our eye was the 160-page biography of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il (PDF file).
But that's just a start. Tourists have written their accounts and there are several blogs as Mark pointed out that help lift the curtain of secrecy that surrounds North Korea.
Continue reading "The internet opens a view on North Korea" »
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- Mark Sandell
- 20 Jun 06, 12:51 PM
Which is the name of a very good blog site about North Korea which is the main topic-in fact the only topic- we're looking at for today's programme. The news "peg" as we journalists call it , is the story about whether North Korea is planning to test an intercontinental ballistic missile which would have the potential to hit the U.S.
We're asking whether the world is taking North Korea too seriously, or not seriously enough? Let us know what you think.
We'll be hearing from North Korea's neighbours and we'd like to hear from you if you've been there.
Tags: North Korea, South Korea, Japan, missile test
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- Richard Bowen
- 19 Jun 06, 02:47 PM
Another Wimbledon, another debate about equal prize money between men and women, but now a British Mp's getting involved. The culture secretary, Tessa Jowell, says pay differences between men and women players at the Wimbledon championship should be abolished. But the Wimbledon organisers are sticking to their guns, arguing that because of the physical demands of best-of-five matches, the top men rarely play in Grand Slam doubles events and they earn less overall than women, who often compete in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
But what do you think should women get the same prize money as men? Or is the Wimbledon system fairest one?
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- Mark Sandell
- 19 Jun 06, 11:36 AM
The BBC's Environment Correspondent , Richard Black, has written a thought-provoking article on the BBC website in which he poses the question "
if the rich West cares so much, how did it allow the International Whaling Commission (IWC) to reach a position where, for the first time in 20 years, it has endorsed the idea of commercial whaling?"
and we want your views on that today.
The case of two missing girls has re-awoken some of Belgium's darkest fears , so we'll be hearing voices from there...
Tessa Jowell is Britain's Culture Secretary and she wants equal prize money for men and women at this year's Wimbledon Tennis Championships...is she right?
and we'll be looking at a case which is the talk of India... and could lead to one of the country's best known pop stars facing a criminal investigation. Mika Singh allegedly assaulted a Bollywood dancer called Rakhi Sawant by kissing her against her will. Some people say that Ms Sawant brought it upon herself by kissing Mr Singh on the cheek in the first place, others say it's a clear violation of the dancer's rights.
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- Kevin Anderson
- 16 Jun 06, 05:10 PM
Bill Gates' decision to transition out of his day-to-day role at Microsoft certainly is discussion topic number today online. He will still stay on as chairman of the board of Microsoft. Lots of talk whether Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer should step down.
But it's a huge talking point online. Read on for a little bit of a blog round up.
Continue reading "Bill Gates: The talk of the web" »
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- Rabiya Parekh
- 16 Jun 06, 11:39 AM
I feel obliged to do my public duty this morning and alert anyone reading this posting just before they venture on to the Central line on the London Underground. Avoid it.
The reason this message is late is because it's taken me so long to get in to work this morning, a forty minute journey has taken almost two hours. We are told it has something to do the a power failure along the line. Whatever it is and continues to be, it's made me and thousands of other Londoners very late for work this morning trying to find alternative ways in to work.
Anyway, it did give me a chance to have a decent flick around digital radio stations to find out what the world is talking about, and lo and behold it still seems to football.
Continue reading "A late start to Friday" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 14 Jun 06, 10:46 PM
The Mail on Sunday in the UK ran an article claiming that the Chinese workers who make Apple's iPods work in "slave" conditions. The article alleged that workers received as little as £27 a month, doing 15-hour shifts making the iconic mp3 player.
Even if the claims are true, Apple surely isn't the only company in the world using low-cost labour. Our question: Would you pay more if you knew that the goods you bought were being made by workers treated well and paid a fair wage for their country? Or do you feel so stretched financially that you look for the lowest cost goods? We've already put up a debate on our sister site, BBCNews.com. Click over there to read some of the comments.
But we've had a suggestion already for Thursday from one of our avid bloggers, Tom Ellis. Read on.
Continue reading "Are cheap goods worth the price of cheap labour?" »
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- Kevin Anderson
- 14 Jun 06, 12:04 PM
Sorry for the delay in posting, I've been having a little trouble with our software. It's probably all of the footie fans going to the World Cup blog and our sister blog World Cup Have Your Say.
But you don't need to go there to talk about the World Cup. Today, we're going to be talking about the dark side of the World Cup. Here in the UK last weekend there were what some police called 'mini-riots' at large public screens. There was also some unrest last night in Mostar. But that's just the start.
Continue reading "Technical difficulties and today's debates" »
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