The Audio Long Read

When China stopped receiving the world’s waste, Turkey became Europe’s recycling hotspot. The problem is, most plastics can’t be recycled. And what remains are toxic heaps of trash By Alexander Clapp. Read by Philip Arditti. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

We are raiding the Guardian Long Read archives to bring you some classic pieces from years past, with new introductions from the authors. This week, from 2018: The foreign policy establishment has been lamenting its death for half a century. But Atlanticism has long been a convenient myth By Madeleine Schwartz. Read by Kelly Burke. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

The podcast explores the decline of handwriting and its impact on personal expression and communication. It discusses how technology is reshaping our relationship with written words, often at the cost of cognitive skills. The significance of handwriting in fields like medicine is highlighted, showcasing its importance for clarity and safety. The emotional connections we have with handwriting are examined, advocating for a balance between traditional and digital methods to preserve this essential aspect of human expression.

Dive into the life of Jean Ziegler, a Swiss politician challenging the nation's pristine image while revealing its grim financial secrets. Discover his transformative experiences in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and how they reshaped his worldview on social responsibility. Explore Switzerland's surprising role in global capitalism and its banking secrecy laws, which facilitate economic exploitation. Uncover the moral conflicts of Swiss neutrality during WWII and the relentless fight for financial transparency amid lingering issues of wealth and power.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Claire Gerada, a well-respected GP with 30 years of experience, shares her poignant reflections on the erosion of the medical profession. She candidly critiques how the focus on hospitals has compromised community care, leading to detachment from patients. Claire reminisces about her treasured home visits, emphasizing the emotional connections that have dwindled. With an eye on the future, she advocates for innovative care models to restore continuity and quality in general practice, urging a rethinking of healthcare priorities.

A gripping courtroom drama unfolds as Nakosa Pio Sinta Larga faces accusations tied to a brutal massacre linked to illegal mining. A deeper look reveals the Sinta Larga's painful history of colonization and cultural dislocation. The community's struggles with illegal logging and diamond mining expose the challenges of integrating external interests while maintaining their identity. Highlighting the tragic massacre's buildup, the discussion emphasizes the ongoing fight for justice and the heavy burden of representation on Indigenous individuals in a landscape rife with exploitation.

Explore Germany's complex relationship with its wartime past and its ties with Israel. Delve into how guilt and memory culture shape modern German identity, often masking deeper issues of accountability. The rise of far-right ideologies questions the effectiveness of Holocaust memorialization. Discover how these historical echoes influence contemporary nationalism and attitudes toward antisemitism and immigration, ultimately revealing the intricate dance between memory and identity in today's political landscape.

Yudhijit Bhattacharjee, a seasoned magazine writer, dives into the gripping tale of Davon Mayer, a small-time dealer in Baltimore entangled in police corruption. The discussion navigates Mayer's perilous decision to become an FBI informant, driven by a desire to protect his newborn daughter. Bhattacharjee highlights the intricate dance of power and vulnerability between drug dealers and law enforcement, culminating in a risky sting operation. Mayer's journey of redemption showcases his transformation into an entrepreneur committed to uplifting his community.

Aniefiok Ekpoudom, a talented writer, reads a poignant narrative about Nigerian Londoners and their deep connection to football. He discusses the challenges faced by the Nigerian diaspora in the 1980s, bridging identities torn by colonialism and war. Through football legends like John Fashanu and Jay-Jay Okocha, he illustrates how these athletes became symbols of pride and connection for many. The conversation reveals how football has shaped community ties and personal identity among British Nigerians navigating their dual heritage.

Victor Pelevin, a renowned Russian novelist known for his satirical insights into society and politics, discusses his controversial status amidst today's Russia. He reflects on the bizarre assassination of a military blogger, drawing unsettling parallels to his surreal works. Delving into his reclusive nature, Pelevin critiques the moral decay within contemporary Russian culture. He also explores the complex relationship between literature, nationalism, and censorship, emphasizing the importance of independent journalism in these turbulent times.