Afghanistan, five years on: our correspondent visits

This section discusses the situation in Afghanistan five years after the Taliban regained power following the US and allied troop withdrawal. The correspondent Tom Sasse reports that while Kabul has seen some normalcy with active markets and bustling traffic, the country is under harsh Taliban rule with restrictions on women’s freedoms, such as bans on girls' secondary education and work. The economic situation is dire, with widespread poverty and unemployment, compounded by cuts in humanitarian aid, and a large number of refugees returning from neighboring Iran and Pakistan. The Taliban’s consolidation of power is led by hardliners, especially the faction around Amir Habitullah Akhansada in Kandahar, focusing control over economic resources and building a loyal force. Western engagement seems to have little impact; most countries maintain relations primarily for trade or security cooperation, while the Taliban prefers isolation. The future looks bleak for the Afghan people, with some moderate groups and individuals holding onto faint hopes for gradual change through international engagement.

This segment covers the recent devastating earthquake in Colombia, which struck just three days after President Abelardo de la Espilla's inauguration. The initial response has been relatively swift compared to other regional crises but has faced criticism for logistical challenges and poor coordination, especially in remote areas like Choco. The Colombian government, overwhelmed by the devastation and difficult terrain, is relying on local efforts, but resources are strained, and some areas feel abandoned. The public’s frustrations are evident, and there is concern about the resilience of Colombia’s new government in handling ongoing aftershocks and recovery efforts. The natural disaster has also exposed underlying social and infrastructural divides—wealthier regions recover faster, while poorer, armed-controlled regions like Choco feel neglected.

This section pays tribute to Nirmal Purja, a legendary Gurkha mountaineer who set records by climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks over 8,000 meters in just over six months, shattering previous multi-year records. Purja was known for his extraordinary physical condition, military discipline, and strategic use of oxygen and technology, which drew criticism from traditional climbers but served his rescue missions and inspiring goals. His approach combined military ethos with a deep respect for Sherpa guides, although he often bypassed cultural rituals. Tragically, he died at age 43 during an attempt to climb Broad Peak, after asking the mountain for permission—a poetic but fatal 'dialogue' with nature that underlined his respect and defiance in climbing. His death marked the end of an era of superhuman mountaineering ambition and inspiration for many.

In the closing segment, the podcast previews next week’s focus on the emerging trend of direct crowdfunding aid, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, where individuals post videos asking for help. This new form of aid, shaped more by algorithms and personal appeals than traditional charities, raises questions about its effectiveness, accountability, and impact on humanitarian efforts. The segment hints at the complexities of modern digital aid systems, particularly in crises like Gaza, emphasizing the evolving landscape of humanitarian aid in a connected, social media-driven world.