Doha Debates brought their town hall debate format to Bradford for the festival’s 10-year anniversary, with an international panel of journalists, broadcasters, authors and students to discuss how Western media, politics and public rhetoric shape narratives about global justice, and whether they act as a force for good or advance the West’s own interests.
Chaired by journalist and broadcaster Remona Aly, the panel included Pakistani writer and journalist Fatima Bhutto, American journalist and blogger Steve Clemons, and author and comedian Konstantin Kisin. In a TV news-style set, the panellists and guests looked for consensus across a range of topics, including the West’s media coverage of international conflict, definitions of free speech, the future of social media and its impact on journalistic practices, and the media’s influence on creating political divides and partisanship. Chair Ramona Aly ensured time towards the end of the debate for a ‘majlis’, in which panellists were invited to reflect on the discussion, and offer closing remarks to the audience and their fellow guests.
Newley re-elected Member of Parliament for Bradford West, Naz Shah, said: “Bradford Literature Festival has been amazing. I saw as much as I could whilst I was fighting for my general election, but two days after and I’m back here. It’s been absolutely amazing. The Doha Debates’ event was phenomenal, and well done to the festival for celebrating its 10th year.”
Syima Aslam, Founder, CEO and Artistic Director, said: “We are delighted to have partnered with Doha Debates for this town hall event at Bradford Literature Festival’s 10-year anniversary. Hosting this remarkable event has allowed us to bring together an exceptional panel of international speakers, students and as ever, a diverse audience. Bradford Literature Festival continues to be a vibrant space for complex and critical conversations, and this debate has exemplified our commitment to exploring dialogues that challenge perspectives and inspire change. We are proud to provide a platform where diverse voices can engage in meaningful dialogue and look forward to more collaborations with Doha Debates.”
“We are thrilled to have partnered with Bradford Literature Festival for this timely event,” said Amjad Atallah, managing director of Doha Debates. “The dynamic discussions and sincere desire to find truth by the town hall participants underscores the importance of debate and dialogue in making a better future. We look forward to future collaborations that continue to inspire and challenge perspectives.”
For more information on Doha Debates, please visit dohadebtes.com.
Doha Debates formed part of the wider BLF programme, which this year delivered over 500 events across 10 days, cementing Bradford Literature Festival as one of the UK’s top three largest literature festivals. Authors and speakers who took part in the 2024 festival included comedians Ruby Wax, Shaparak Khorsandi and Sara Pascoe; singer Corinne Bailey Rae, author and broadcaster Lemn Sissay, national treasure Miriam Margolyes, historian Mary Beard, vicar and journalist Kate Bottley and poet Joelle Taylor.