Israel Divided on Judicial Reform

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Kate Adie presents stories from Israel, the US, Nigeria, Ukraine and Austria. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a pause on his planned overhaul of Israel's justice system this week, following mass street protests. Mr Netanyahu says the changes will stop courts from over-reaching their powers, but critics say the reforms will end the independence of courts and threaten democracy. Tom Bateman reports from Tel Aviv. In Florida, several laws have come into force that restrict what can be taught in classrooms. Led by Governor Ron DeSantis, state Republicans say the laws are necessary to shield children from liberal indoctrination around issues of race and sexual orientation. Chelsea Bailey visited one high school, where teachers say they are being scared into silence. In northwest Nigeria, gangs of bandits have been raiding villages and kidnapping men, women and children for ransom. Villagers have become reliant on local vigilantes to help protect them, but they are ill-equipped to take them on. Alex Last was in Katsina. On a recent visit to Ukraine, James Landale met a bartender who decided to start a new business during the middle of a war. Originally from Kharkiv, he teamed up with other bartenders to open a new bar, which shares its profits with the families of troops on the frontline. Bethany Bell reflects on the elevated status afforded to regulars of bars and restaurants in Austria. Being recognised as 'stammgast' comes with extra privileges - but it can take years to be invited into this select circle. Series Producer: Serena Tarling Researcher: Bethan Ashmead Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Production Coordinator: Sabine Schreck