In this episode of Around the World Today, Terry Davies explores how anti-immigration narratives and right-wing political rhetoric have reshaped modern patriotism. From the media amplification of fear to the mainstreaming of fringe ideas, we examine the human impact of these narratives and ask what genuine patriotism really looks like — compassionate, inclusive, and responsible. Join us for an in-depth look at politics, identity, and the stories that shape society.

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Until next time, keep exploring the world… one story at a time.

In this episode of Around the World Today, we tackle a story that’s sparked fierce debate across social media and the press: the use (and misuse) of national flags, especially the Union Jack, in fashion and political culture.

In this first episode of Series 8, Around the World Today explores The Changing Face of Global Leadership. As we step into 2025, a new wave of political leaders is reshaping the global landscape. What do these changes mean for democracy, diplomacy, and the everyday lives of people around the world?Join host Terry Davies as he examines key political shifts, the rise of non-traditional political movements, and the evolving dynamics of international relations. From the UK and the United States to Asia, Africa, and South America, we analyze how leadership transitions are impacting global stability.We also reflect on the lessons of history, the humility of St. David, and the wisdom of Psalm 103—reminding us that, while human leadership changes, divine sovereignty remains constant.Tune in for insightful analysis, thought-provoking discussion, and a look ahead at what the future might hold for world politics. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

Christmas is a time of wonder and joy, a season that brings families together and fills hearts with warmth and goodwill. This blog will explore two cherished aspects of the holiday: the magical tale of Father Christmas and the profound Nativity Story, offering a blend of tradition and faith that defines the essence of Christmas. At the heart of this beloved holiday are two deeply cherished stories: the tale of Father Christmas, or Santa Claus, and the Nativity Story, recounting the birth of Christ. Together, these narratives intertwine tradition and faith, creating the magical essence of Christmas.

Welcome back to Around the World Today, where we’ve been exploring the fascinating topic of devolution across the United Kingdom in this special mini-series. As we conclude our deep dive, Episode 23 takes us to Scotland—a nation whose journey of self-governance and identity has been pivotal in shaping the wider UK devolution landscape.In this blog post, we’ll summarize Scotland’s devolution journey, its achievements and challenges, and reflect on the broader themes of devolution across the UK that we’ve explored in this series.

Welcome to our latest blog accompanying Episode 22 of Around the World Today! In this episode, we dive into one of the most intricate and compelling stories of governance in the UK: Northern Ireland’s journey through devolution. From the historical milestones of the Good Friday Agreement to the modern-day challenges of power-sharing, this blog unpacks the complexities of Northern Ireland’s political landscape.Discover how devolution has shaped the region, the achievements it has delivered, and the hurdles it continues to face. Whether you’re curious about the impact of Brexit, the socio-political shifts within local communities, or the future of governance in Northern Ireland, this blog offers a detailed exploration to complement the podcast discussion.Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating story of resilience, innovation, and the quest for unity. Listen to the episode, read the blog, and join the conversation about Northern Ireland’s evolving place in the UK!

In this episode of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies delves into the evolving landscape of devolution in England, exploring its centralized governance history, the rise of regional authorities debates over an English Parliament, and the tangible impacts on communities.

In this episode of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies takes a deep dive into the story of Welsh devolution. From its historical foundations rooted in cultural identity and nationalism to the transformative creation of the Senedd Cymru, we explore how devolution has shaped Wales into a modern, innovative nation.Discover the groundbreaking achievements of Welsh governance, including the Well-being of Future Generations Act, free prescriptions, and the revival of the Welsh language. But it's not all smooth sailing—Wales continues to face economic inequalities, funding limitations, and challenges in health and education.Join us as we unpack the cultural renaissance sparked by devolution and look ahead to the future of Wales within the UK. Whether you're passionate about politics, culture, or sustainability, this episode has something for everyone.Stay curious, and tune in to learn how devolution continues to redefine Wales and its place in the world.

Join us on Episode 19 of Around the World Today as we dive into one of the most transformative and debated topics in UK governance: Devolution.🔍 From its historical roots to its impact on modern politics, we’ll explore how devolution has empowered Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and regions of England to shape their own futures.✨ Highlights include:
✅ The successes of devolved policies across the UK.
✅ Challenges of balancing autonomy with national unity.
✅ What the future holds for devolution in an evolving political landscape.This is the first in a series of episodes delving into devolution. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes on Wales, England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland!

In this episode of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies takes you on a fascinating journey through the British Overseas Territories, uncovering their rich cultural diversity, unique histories, and vital roles in the modern world. From the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean to the windswept South Atlantic islands, these territories offer more than just breathtaking landscapes. Explore their contributions to global defence, diplomacy, and environmental conservation.

Discover how their economies thrive through tourism, financial services, and sustainable industries while also facing challenges like climate change, economic diversification, and self-governance. 

Join us as we delve into their pasts, examine their present challenges, and envision their futures. What does it mean to be a British Overseas Territory in the 21st century? How are these regions preparing for a changing world, and what role does the UK play in supporting their growth and resilience?

Stay tuned as we explore the ties that bind these territories to the UK while celebrating their unique identities. Whether you're a history enthusiast, geopolitics buff, or simply curious about these remote corners of the world, this episode has something for you!

In our latest episode of Around the World Today, we took a deep dive into the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory renowned for its breathtaking beaches, luxury resorts, and turquoise waters. But there’s more to these islands than just their stunning beauty.

In Episode 16 of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies takes listeners to one of the most remote and inhospitable places on Earth—the British Antarctic Territory (BAT). While this frozen expanse of land has no permanent residents, it plays an essential role in scientific research, climate monitoring, and geopolitics. This episode delves into the fascinating work being done in this icy frontier, highlighting the crucial contributions of BAT to our understanding of climate change, polar ecosystems, and the geopolitics of Antarctica.

In Episode 15 of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies transports listeners to one of the most remote places on the planet—Tristan da Cunha, an isolated volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean. With a population of fewer than 300 residents, Tristan da Cunha holds the title of the world’s most remote inhabited island. Its unique geographic isolation has shaped the lifestyle of the people who call it home, leading to a self-sufficient community that has remained resilient in the face of modern challenges. In this episode, we explore the day-to-day life on this distant island, the economic and environmental realities, and the rich traditions that its people have preserved.

In Episode 14 of Around the World Today, host Terry Davies takes us on an insightful journey to the British Virgin Islands (BVI), one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking destinations. While known for its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere, the BVI also plays a crucial role in global finance. This episode explores how this tiny island group has grown into a financial powerhouse, the challenges it faces due to environmental threats, and the delicate balance between economic success and sustainability.

Bermuda is far more than a vacation paradise or a financial haven. It’s an island that has successfully navigated the complexities of modern finance, global tourism, and environmental sustainability. If you’re curious about how a small island territory has become a global economic powerhouse while preserving its natural beauty and heritage, this episode offers an insightful exploration of Bermuda’s many dimensions. From its booming insurance industry to its pink sand beaches and climate action, Bermuda continues to punch above its weight on the world stage.Listen Now to Around the World Today Episode 13 and discover how Bermuda has transformed itself into one of the world’s most successful financial hubs while maintaining its status as a premier tourist destination and a leader in environmental sustainability.

The Falkland Islands are more than just a relic of British imperial history or the site of a past conflict. They are a living, breathing community with a dynamic economy, a rich cultural identity, and a commitment to preserving their unique environment. Episode 12 offers a detailed look at how the islanders have managed to overcome adversity, develop a robust economy, and protect their natural surroundings, all while maintaining strong ties to the UK.If you are fascinated by how remote communities thrive or want to learn more about the Falklands’ rich history and vibrant present, this episode is not to be missed.Listen Now to Around the World Today Episode 12 and explore how the Falkland Islands have become a symbol of resilience and strength in the South Atlantic.

Gibraltar: A Strategic Fortress at the Crossroads of HistoryIntroduction:
In this episode, we focus on Gibraltar—a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. With a rich history stretching back centuries, Gibraltar has long been a key military outpost and trading hub. Today, it remains strategically important for the UK, controlling access to one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.Main Takeaways:

• Strategic Location: Gibraltar’s position at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea makes it a vital point for naval and commercial traffic. The territory has served as a naval fortress for centuries, and its strategic importance remains undiminished.
• Political Tensions: Gibraltar’s sovereignty has long been a contentious issue between the UK and Spain. While Gibraltarians have repeatedly affirmed their desire to remain British, Spain continues to claim the territory.
• Economy and Development: Despite its small size, Gibraltar has developed a diverse economy, focusing on finance, e-commerce, and tourism. It has become a thriving community with a vibrant culture, blending British and Mediterranean influences.

Why Listen:
If you’re curious about how this tiny territory plays such a crucial role in international geopolitics, this episode offers a comprehensive look at Gibraltar’s past, present, and future. Learn how this "Rock" continues to punch above its weight on the global stage.

In Around the World Today’s Episode 10, we shift gears from our previous focus on global transport to the fascinating and often overlooked topic of the British Overseas Territories (BOTs). These territories, remnants of the British Empire, are scattered across the world and continue to play a vital role in the UK’s global presence. In this blog, we’ll expand on the episode's insights and explore their history, current status, and why they’re still relevant in today's geopolitical landscape.

 "20 Years of Missed Opportunities: How Government Policy Has Failed UK Transport"In our latest episode of Around the World Today, we hit the open road to explore the world of long-distance coach travel, a crucial yet often overlooked mode of transportation. While planes and trains tend to grab the headlines, coaches play a vital role in connecting cities, towns, and even countries across vast distances. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or seeking a convenient alternative to flying, understanding the dynamics of the coach industry can help you make informed travel choices.

"On the Road: Exploring Long-Distance Coach Travel in the UK, USA, and Europe"In our latest episode of Around the World Today, we hit the open road to explore the world of long-distance coach travel, a crucial yet often overlooked mode of transportation. While planes and trains tend to grab the headlines, coaches play a vital role in connecting cities, towns, and even countries across vast distances. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or seeking a convenient alternative to flying, understanding the dynamics of the coach industry can help you make informed travel choices.