

This Is Why
Sky News
The world’s a pretty confusing place right now – so how do you make sense of it all? This Is Why takes one story every day, explains how we got here and why it matters to you.
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 6, 2023 • 19min
What is Israel’s next move in its war against Hamas?
A journalist shares firsthand experience of heavy bombardments in Gaza City. The significance of Hamas' tunnel network in Gaza is explored. The journalist witnesses the devastation caused by airstrikes in Gaza. The feasibility of eliminating Hamas is discussed, considering challenges and casualties.

Nov 3, 2023 • 20min
What's Russia doing when the world is not looking?
Defense and security analyst Professor Michael Clarke and Melinda Haring from Atlantic Council's Eurasia Centre discuss Russia's offensives in Ukraine while the world is focused on the Israel-Hamas war. Topics include Putin's opportunistic moves, the fear of aid reduction, ongoing conflict in Avdivka, war of attrition concept, and the impact of the Israel-Gaza war on Ukraine.

6 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 19min
Just how risky is artificial intelligence?
The podcast explores the risks and concerns of artificial intelligence, including the potential for job displacement and existential risks. It highlights the UK's ambition to lead in AI regulation and discusses the first AI safety summit. The lack of representation and AI bias are also addressed, along with the importance of partnerships, regulation, and transparency in shaping the future of AI.

Nov 1, 2023 • 23min
“The end of a chapter”: Stuart Ramsay on Gaza
Host Niall Paterson is joined by chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay and senior foreign producer Dominique van Heerden on the Israel-Gaza border to discuss the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on Palestinian lives. The speakers share their experiences of visiting Gaza, documenting stories of resilience and interviewing locals. They explore the rise of Hamas, the destruction caused by a 22-day military offensive, and the challenges of dismantling Hamas's underground tunnel networks. The speaker reflects on the evolution of Hamas and its relationship with the Palestinian people, highlighting the uncertain future of their alliance.

Oct 31, 2023 • 20min
What did we learn from Dominic Cummings at the COVID inquiry?
Boris Johnson's former chief adviser Dominic Cummings has appeared at the UK COVID-19 Inquiry, where he criticised the way the government worked in the early months of the pandemic. Mr Cummings said it was "crackers" there was no plan for shielding or protecting care homes if the virus was not brought under control. On the Sky News Daily, presenter Belle Donati is joined by our deputy political editor Sam Coates and Emma Norris, deputy director at the Institute for Government, to pick apart Mr Cummings's evidence to the inquiry. Producer: Alex Edden Interviews Producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Editor: Wendy Parker

Oct 30, 2023 • 16min
The one about Friends star Matthew Perry’s legacy
Lindsay Posner, director of Matthew Perry's play The End of Longing, and Vix Leyton, comedian and Friends fan, discuss Matthew Perry's legacy and impact on Friends. They highlight his comedic skills, improv abilities, and his transition to theater acting. They also explore his battle with addiction and the experience of fame.

Oct 27, 2023 • 22min
Down the drain: What caused Britain’s sewage problem?
The podcast discusses Britain's sewage problem, revealing that raw sewage is released into waterways by design. It highlights the lack of data on sewage spillage, the need for a sewage system map, and the alternative sewage treatment techniques used in Copenhagen. The hosts also express concern about the UK's reluctance to invest in innovative solutions and the potential for future crises.

Oct 26, 2023 • 25min
Qatar’s role in hostage negotiations | Grieving fathers call for peace
Israeli and Palestinian peace advocates, Rami Elhanan and Bassam Aramin, share their stories of grief and friendship. Qatar's role in hostage negotiations and the potential for peace if there is a pause in bombing Gaza is discussed.

Oct 25, 2023 • 22min
A year of Rishi Sunak – but what about the next 12 months?
A discussion on Rishi Sunak's first year as Prime Minister, including his record and electability. Insights from Katy Balls, Rachel Cunliffe, and Andrew Lansley. The challenges and successes of his first year, pursuing unpopular but necessary actions, and the future of the next parliament, reshuffles, and red wall seats.

Oct 24, 2023 • 20min
Should pregnant women still be in prison?
The podcast discusses the experiences of pregnant women in prison, exploring their lack of support, isolation, and inhumane treatment. It also highlights the risks and tragic consequences faced by pregnant women, such as the story of Isha Cleary. The chapter emphasizes the need for alternatives to imprisonment and the delay in addressing the needs of women in prison.


