The moment this year I’ll never forget

In this episode of The Guardian podcast, five reporters recount powerful moments from the year that have left lasting impressions on them. The segment opens with the acknowledgement of how rapidly the news cycle can shift, yet some moments remain etched in memory beyond headlines. Michael Safi shares his experience in Syria during a time of perceived freedom following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, where he witnessed open political discussions in a café, a stark contrast to years of oppression. John Reid reflects on the vast and isolated Jabari Valley in Brazil, where uncontacted indigenous groups are endangered by modernity, and the historical exploitation of their lands by missionaries. Hannah Ellis-Peterson reports on the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering in India, where millions seek spiritual renewal, but also discusses a tragic stampede that overshadowed the event. Oliver Lachland visits a newly constructed detention center named Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, symbolizing the harsh immigration policies under the Trump administration. Lastly, Angelique Chrysavis details a court case in France involving Giselle Pellicot, a survivor of a disturbing series of assaults, where the weight of collective voices from women brings a significant moment of justice. Each reporter's story emphasizes the resilience of individuals amidst societal and political upheavals.