Ian Birrell

Ian Birrell argues that Kemi Badenoch’s new support for offender rehabilitation is hypocritical. He contrasts her defence of former neo-Nazi candidate Joshua Bonehill-Paine’s claimed reform with her previous hardline positions on Louise Haigh, Shamima Begum and foreign criminals, as well as her calls for tougher sentencing, more prisons and withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights. The column supports rehabilitation and argues that Britain’s high imprisonment rate and poor reoffending outcomes show the limits of simply locking up more people. It questions whether Badenoch has genuinely changed her views or is using rehabilitation selectively to defend her party.

Britain and much of the West should recognize that the Russia-Ukraine war forms part of a wider global confrontation between democratic and authoritarian powers. China is portrayed as materially and strategically supporting Russia, aiding Iran, learning from the war and preparing for potential conflict over Taiwan, while North Korea contributes troops and weapons. The article criticizes Donald Trump’s accommodating stance toward Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, and argues that Britain is similarly naïve in allowing a major Chinese embassy project near critical infrastructure despite espionage and intimidation risks. It calls for the West to reassess Beijing’s role and remove its strategic blinders.

Ian Birrell argues that Andy Burnham’s promise to act as a political “circuit breaker” must begin with the prison crisis, but criticizes his decision to pause an early-release scheme after pressure from victims’ families. The column describes overcrowded, violent and costly prisons, rising sentence lengths, excessive recalls linked partly to homelessness and the collapse of probation services, and the failure of punitive policies to deter crime or support rehabilitation. It blames Conservative austerity and criminal justice decisions while urging the current government to confront political fears about crime. Drawing on approaches in Norway, the Netherlands and parts of the United States, it advocates fewer imprisonments, stronger community rehabilitation, mental-health support and redemption-focused policies that could reduce both crime and costs.

Starmer is credited with playing a decisive diplomatic role in preventing a pro‑Russia peace deal backed by Trump that would have ceded large areas of Ukraine to Moscow. Working closely with Macron and European allies, he helped build a coalition supporting Kyiv, countering US pressure and maintaining NATO unity. These efforts, largely unseen by the public, enabled Ukraine’s recent military advances and earned Starmer major international honours. Despite domestic political failures, his foreign policy achievements are portrayed as historically significant and a model for his successor amid ongoing threats from Russia and unstable US leadership.

Graham Platner’s collapse as a Democratic Senate candidate exposes failures in vetting, divisions within the party, and the dangers of manufactured populist authenticity. His downfall after multiple allegations and misrepresentations reflects broader challenges facing liberal-left parties in the US and UK as they confront populist movements. The episode highlights deep factionalism, strategic missteps, and voter disillusionment that enable populist figures to gain traction, carrying implications for both US congressional control and the UK’s incoming Labour government.

Crimea’s deteriorating conditions illustrate a major strategic and symbolic setback for Vladimir Putin as Ukraine intensifies long-term efforts to degrade Russian military and logistical capabilities on the peninsula. Ukrainian attacks have weakened Russia’s naval position, disrupted supply routes and strained local infrastructure, prompting civilian flight and undermining Kremlin claims of stability. Kyiv views pressure on Crimea as key leverage in forcing Russia toward a viable peace settlement, though risks remain that Putin could escalate the conflict in response.

Argues that Andy Burnham should overhaul Parliament’s whipping system to strengthen democratic debate and restore public trust, contending that rigid party discipline contributed to major national failures such as the Iraq War and Brexit. Suggests that loosening party control would allow MPs to speak authentically, reduce political tribalism, and enable pragmatic cross-party cooperation on issues such as social care and drugs policy. Warns that without such reforms, any new prime minister risks repeating the decline in public confidence associated with past leaders and missing an opportunity to modernise the political system.

Disabled people face systemic neglect in policing and public policy while political leaders attack equality measures and ignore discrimination. A Supreme Court ruling reduces protections for people with profound needs, worsening risks of abuse. A case involving the mistreatment of a disabled woman highlights police failures to properly investigate or support victims, revealing genuine disparities in how disabled people are treated. Political rhetoric dismissing equality duties overlooks widespread injustices experienced by disabled citizens.

The piece condemns Donald Trump’s administration for inflammatory actions by JD Vance and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth during D‑Day commemorations, contrasting their rhetoric with the historical sacrifices of Allied troops, including the author’s father. It argues that Trump’s circle undermines longstanding democratic alliances and disregards lessons from World War II, while praising leaders who honor those commitments such as Barack Obama and Volodymyr Zelensky.

The text highlights allegations of sexual violence by Israeli forces detailed in a UN report and contrasts the responses from political factions in the UK and US, noting widespread tribalism surrounding the Gaza-Israel conflict. It criticizes both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian partisans for dismissing or denying atrocities committed by their preferred side. The commentary underscores failures of leadership in Israel and Palestine, rising polarisation driven by social media, and the reluctance of British political figures to address abuses consistently. It urges a commitment to liberal values, human rights and moderation to prevent further degradation of democratic norms.

Autistic people and those with learning disabilities continue to be held for years in inappropriate, abusive psychiatric units despite repeated government promises to end the practice. Revelations since Winterbourne View show persistent systemic failures, regulatory lapses and lack of community provision, leaving more than 2,000 people detained. Survivors such as Alexis Quinn highlight the trauma caused by chemical restraint, seclusion and long-term confinement, while advocacy groups warn that vested interests block reform. The government’s delayed implementation of mental health legislation leaves vulnerable people at risk as spending continues to support institutions rather than community care.

The Conservative Party’s attempt to present recent local election outcomes as a revival masks severe electoral decline under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership, including major council losses and shrinking support across the UK. Despite Labour’s current instability, Conservatives continue to be outflanked by Reform UK on the right and the Liberal Democrats in traditional strongholds. Badenoch’s rightward shift, refusal to acknowledge past policy failures, and alignment with Nigel Farage alienate centrist voters crucial for rebuilding an electoral coalition. Analysts highlight the unprecedented weakness of the main opposition, underscoring that spin cannot disguise the party’s deepening irrelevance.

Labour is urged to focus on preventing Reform UK and Nigel Farage from gaining power after significant local election losses. The article criticises Keir Starmer’s leadership, Labour’s strategic drift, and the broader failure of mainstream parties to counter hard‑right populism. Despite catastrophic results, Labour retains a large parliamentary majority and is pushed to adopt bold reforms, including electoral change, stronger migration policies, and setting a path to rejoin the EU, while rejecting attempts to emulate Reform’s rhetoric.

Argues that Nigel Farage and Donald Trump exemplify a form of billionaire-backed populism that markets itself as anti-elitist while advancing the interests of wealthy donors. Highlights the substantial financial backing of Reform UK by crypto billionaires Christopher Harborne and Ben Delo, raising concerns about influence, transparency and alignment between wealthy funders and working-class voters. Draws parallels with Trump’s governance, portraying it as chaotic and beneficial to elites, and warns that similar dynamics could take root in the UK if voters embrace this model of plutocrat-driven populism.

False rumours of a rape in Epsom triggered far-right agitation, street protests and assaults after police determined no sexual offence had occurred. Misinformation spread rapidly on social media and was amplified by extremist figures and politicians, despite police assurances that migrants were not involved. Surrey Police were praised for their swift investigation, while critics accused Reform UK and some Conservative politicians of fuelling unrest for political gain. The situation highlighted growing dangers posed by populism, disinformation and declining trust in institutions.

Rapid advances in drone and AI-driven warfare, demonstrated in Ukraine and Iran’s resistance to US pressure, expose weaknesses in Britain’s defence capabilities. Underinvestment, procurement failures and reliance on outdated assets have left the UK ill-prepared amid rising global threats from Russia, China and a weakening NATO environment. While Ukraine’s battlefield innovation shows what responsive systems can achieve, Britain must urgently increase spending, reform procurement and adapt to modern warfare before strategic vulnerabilities deepen.

Argues that Benjamin Netanyahu played a decisive role in pushing Donald Trump toward military escalation with Iran, repeating errors from the Iraq War and worsening instability in the Middle East. Highlights the strategic failures of the current conflict, the weakening of US alliances, Israel’s declining global standing, and Netanyahu’s domestic political motivations. Contrasts Netanyahu’s approach with past Israeli leadership and concludes that his actions have made Israel and the wider world less secure.

Legalisation of medical cannabis in the UK has resulted in a poorly regulated system that grants NHS access to only a few patients while a rapidly expanding private market prescribes potent cannabis products with minimal oversight. The death of Oliver Robinson highlighted risks linked to prescribing high‑strength cannabis for psychiatric conditions, despite weak evidence of effectiveness. Studies show most patients with prescriptions still buy from street dealers and often use high‑potency products. Regulatory bodies report soaring prescriptions for conditions lacking supporting evidence, while firms avoid data collection and standard clinical procedures. Advocates, including Charlotte Caldwell, call for separating medical and recreational cannabis markets and adopting a stricter framework similar to Canada’s. The article urges Westminster to undertake serious drug policy reform to prevent further harm.

Nigel Farage’s shifting stance on the war involving Iran is presented as evidence of his lack of credibility on foreign affairs, highlighting earlier calls for Britain to support US and Israeli military actions followed by a reversal as the conflict hurt voters economically and his party’s support declined. His alignment with Donald Trump, past praise of Vladimir Putin, and positions on Israel and Gaza are used to argue he is unsuited to national leadership. The piece frames Farage’s record—from Brexit to his foreign‑policy pronouncements—as inconsistent, opportunistic and harmful to British interests.

A young autistic man’s long decline and inability to access proper support highlights deep structural failures in the UK’s social care and special educational needs systems. Despite legal intervention, inadequate placements and poor-quality provisions leave him isolated and vulnerable, echoing similar tragedies such as the murder of Christopher Laskaris. Families describe persistent resistance from public bodies and a lack of appropriate housing, specialist care and safeguarding. Campaigns for improved capacity assessments and systemic reform continue amid governmental delays, with the burden falling heavily on parents and resulting in wasted lives and rising social costs.

Argues that liberal-minded travellers should avoid visiting the United States as a response to Donald Trump’s leadership, citing declining international tourism, stricter border controls, global disapproval of US policies and concerns over threats to democracy and international stability. Emphasizes that responsibility for economic harm to US tourism lies with the President and contends that avoiding travel is a symbolic stand for democratic values and decency.

Trump’s strikes on Iran are portrayed as reckless, poorly planned, and driven by ego, with the US failing to account for how cheap drones have reshaped modern warfare. Iran’s regime continues to retaliate with widespread drone and missile attacks despite heavy losses. The article highlights Ukraine’s advanced expertise in drone warfare and suggests Washington should have sought Kyiv’s guidance. It emphasises the irony of the US turning to Ukraine after Trump’s past hostility toward Zelensky and dismissive stance on the country.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s killing in US–Israeli airstrikes is described as the violent end of a repressive ruler responsible for decades of brutality in Iran. The strikes signal an escalation of long‑standing tensions and aim at regime change, though the piece warns that historical failures in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya show such efforts rarely work as intended. The article highlights risks of mission creep, regional destabilization, and intensified nationalism, noting Iran’s leadership remains prepared and resilient. Despite hopes for greater freedom for Iranians, the piece stresses that foreign military intervention often leads to chaos rather than stable democracy.

Russia’s partial readmission to the Paralympics is condemned as a grotesque effort to rehabilitate Moscow despite its ongoing war crimes in Ukraine. The move is portrayed as driven by compromised international sports officials and enabled by a US administration accused of abandoning Ukraine and appeasing Vladimir Putin. European nations, Ukraine, and other allies express strong opposition, with some preparing boycotts. The situation is framed as part of a broader struggle between autocracy and democracy, underscoring the need for Europe to maintain steadfast support for Ukraine.

Public trust in the monarchy is shaken by the fallout from the Epstein scandal and Prince Andrew’s alleged misconduct, raising questions about the Royal Family’s transparency and suitability. Although King Charles has supported investigations, further scrutiny risks exposing the institution’s fragility in a modern democracy. The debate over potential alternatives highlights widespread distrust of politicians and the polarising nature of prominent public figures, leaving few viable candidates to serve as a unifying head of state. Only Prince William and David Attenborough approach the popularity needed, underscoring the challenge Britain would face if forced to replace the monarchy.

Hungary’s upcoming election is depicted as a pivotal test for resisting hard-right populism, with opposition leader Peter Magyar challenging Viktor Orban’s long-standing illiberal rule amid corruption scandals and economic decline. The article criticises Donald Trump and US conservatives for backing Orban, highlighting Hungary’s democratic backsliding and its broader influence on global populist movements. It emphasises the potential for Hungary to reverse the trend of rising authoritarian nationalism if Magyar prevails.

A broad network of political, financial, and social elites is depicted as complicit in or adjacent to Jeffrey Epstein’s abuses, revealing a corrosive relationship between money, influence, and democratic institutions. Revelations from newly released documents intensify concerns about hypocrisy among politicians, academics, and philanthropists, while raising further questions about the Royal Family and foreign influence. The scandal is framed as another blow to public trust, reinforcing fears that unaccountable elites operate by separate rules as institutions decline and authoritarian rivals stand to benefit.

Warns that upcoming Labour government reforms to England’s SEND system could restrict parents’ rights to challenge local authority decisions, reduce access to education, health and care plans, and force more children into mainstream schools without adequate support. Highlights the political narrative blaming parents and rising costs while overlooking systemic failures in health, care and education services. Emphasizes that mishandled reform risks worsening outcomes for disabled children and urges policymakers to listen to families and avoid undermining essential protections.

Describes the intensifying authoritarianism and division in the United States under Donald Trump, focusing on the lethal actions of ICE in Minneapolis and the political exploitation of fear and nationalism. Highlights the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, disputes over accountability, and the erosion of institutional impartiality. Warns that the militarisation of immigration enforcement and the deepening cultural conflict in the US serve as a cautionary lesson for Europe amid the rise of far‑right movements.

Political infighting surrounding Robert Jenrick’s defection is contrasted with the neglect of major social issues, including the failures of England’s children’s residential care system and the tragic death of Martina Karos and her daughter. Reports highlight widespread use of illegal care homes, high costs, and inadequate oversight, underscoring systemic state failure. The piece argues that political focus on personalities overshadows urgent societal problems affecting vulnerable families.

Donald Trump’s renewed push to annex Greenland has escalated tensions with Denmark, drawing condemnation from Danish officials and veterans who see the aggression as a betrayal after years of military cooperation in Afghanistan. Trump’s approach mirrors authoritarian tactics attributed to Vladimir Putin, with reports of covert US efforts to influence Greenlandic independence. Despite historical US interest in the island, Greenlanders largely reject the idea, while lingering resentment over past Danish policies complicates the situation. The conflict heightens European concern about Trump’s disregard for alliances and his desire for a legacy-defining acquisition.

Protests across Iran signal growing resistance to a long‑standing authoritarian regime weakened by economic collapse, internal repression and regional setbacks. Past cycles of dissent, marked by severe state violence, underscore the population’s enduring desire for dignity and democratic freedoms. Activists and victims of state brutality highlight ongoing human rights abuses, while geopolitical pressures, including U.S. warnings, add uncertainty to the regime’s future. The opposition’s growing unity and public frustration provide rare signs that Iran’s ruling theocracy may face a decisive turning point.

The United States’ abduction of Nicolás Maduro is condemned as an illegal act of imperialism driven by Donald Trump’s populist agenda, hypocrisy on drug policy and interest in Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. The intervention is portrayed as destabilizing for Venezuela and the wider region, echoing historic US interference in Latin America and resembling the rationales used by Vladimir Putin to justify the invasion of Ukraine. The move risks further repression within Venezuela, emboldens authoritarian regimes elsewhere and exacerbates global geopolitical tensions.

A lawsuit by the families of two boys who died after being targeted by online sextortion highlights failures to regulate major social media platforms, particularly Meta. The article argues that tech giants use opaque design to manipulate behaviour, fuel extremism and spread harmful content while operating with little accountability. Emerging government responses include online safety laws, youth restrictions, critical thinking education reforms and EU enforcement actions, though progress remains limited. The author contends that democracies must regain control of digital spaces to curb harms, counter polarisation, and protect public welfare as AI accelerates technological disruption.

Zelensky is caught between a pro-Kremlin US peace plan and a Ukrainian public determined not to surrender territory, as Russia continues destructive assaults such as around Kupiansk. Despite exhaustion and heavy losses, Ukrainians reject concessions, while Zelensky works with European allies to counter Trump’s proposal without alienating the US. Accounts from civilians highlight the suffering under Russian occupation, and officials stress Ukraine’s limited options as Russia struggles despite significant casualties.