This week, we draw an uncomfortable comparison between ICE in the United States and Frontex in Europe. Whether it’s children in cages or children being handed picture books about their own deportation, the language of “in the child’s best interest” rings hollow.

We also challenge the idea that only the US is responsible for enabling Israel. While Washington’s military and political support is undeniable, Europe is also complicit, through inaction and ongoing arms deliveries. The truth is, both the US and Europe share a deeper problem: the erosion of personal responsibility and a neglect of the social contract.

Examples range from protests in Epping to a $16 million settlement and cancelling Stephen Colbert between Paramount and Trump, displaying open corruption, to Colombia paying $200 million and revoking 70 degrees over fear of Trump. We highlight examples of institutions and individuals failing in their duties.

But we end on a rare positive note before the summer break: a parent who actually took personal responsibility. See you back in September!

This podcast is published with the help of RAIA NOW gUG but is an individual project between the Director of RAIA Dario Hasenstab and Balder Hageraats. If you would like to get in touch with us, write us an email at thewesternbubble@gmail.com.

Here are the links we talked about:

Good parenting: https://x.com/AlexRothe92/status/1949103538082054435?s=19

Jubilee Video: https://youtu.be/2S-WJN3L5eo?si=m_O7w3x0riTojY2x&t=1322

"Children's Book": https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/6eea0e99-e464-11ef-be2a-01aa75ed71a1#