House of Dissent

This episode reads chapter 10—"Burmese Guerrilla Warfare, Technology and Identity"—exploring how Burma’s deep ethnic divisions shape resistance and how the internet and new technologies are transforming guerrilla tactics, communication, and propaganda.It examines alliances like the NUG, PDF and 3BHA, the junta’s paramilitaries and online repression, and argues for a renewed federal vision (Panglong 2.0) to unite diverse groups after the dictatorship falls.

Episode 21: David reads chapter 8, "Colombian Resistance in Civil Society," written by Valentina Murillo, exploring the struggles of indigenous, Afro‑Colombian and campesino communities defending land, culture and the environment.
The episode traces colonial legacies like biopiracy, the rise of social movements such as the Minga, the use of social media as a tool of resistance, and profiles groups like the Nasa, PCN and CNA as well as leaders like Francia Marquez.
It highlights collective efforts to protect Pachamama (Mother Earth), demand social and environmental justice, and shows how grassroots dissent offers hope against extractive capitalism and violence.

Episode 20 features chapter 6, "New Weapons of Resistance," from The Internet and Radical Voices of Dissent by Sue Branford. The episode explores how Indigenous groups in the Brazilian Amazon use technology—from tape recorders and radios to mobile phones, drones and LiDAR—to document invasions, defend territory and reclaim their cultural heritage in the face of land grabbing and ecological crisis.It also covers the historical resilience of Amazonian peoples, the archaeological revelations from LiDAR that challenge the marco-temporal claim, and the growing alliance between scientists and forest communities to protect land, language and biodiversity.

Episode 19 of the House of Dissent podcast features chapter 5 from the Internet and Radical Voices of Dissent and an in-depth interview with the Iranian born artist Roshi Rouzbehani. The episode explores her journey from Tehran to the UK, and discusses her artwork as a form of resistance to the current Iranian authority. 
The conversation covers the history and impact of anti‑hijab protests, the Woman‑Life‑Freedom movement, migrant and climate justice, and the role of art as a tool for solidarity and social change.

Episode 18 features a reading of Chapter 4 from The Internet and Radical Voices of Dissent titled "Kurdish Woman's Revolution: an interview with Ilham Ahmed'. The episode explores the Kurdish struggle for a homeland, the rise of the women's movement in Rojava, and the influence of Abdullah Öcalan's ideas on gender equality and libertarian socialism.
Topics include the YPJ and female guerrilla fighters, media marginalization of the Kurdish cause, the role of social media, Afrin's resistance, and the vision for a polyethnic, democratic society in northern Syria.

Episode 17 features a reading from chapter 3, “Campfires of Resistance in Cheran,” recounting the April 15, 2011 insurrection led by indigenous women who defended their forests and community against illegal loggers, corrupt officials and organised crime. The episode describes the spontaneous campfire gatherings, barricades, and grassroots strategies that rebuilt social life and security in Cheran.
It also covers the legal and political aftermath: the community’s shift to self-government under indigenous customs, judicial recognition of their autonomy, and how visibility—eventually aided by the internet—helped spread solidarity and inspire other indigenous movements.

In this episode of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into the socio-political landscape that gave rise to a new left-wing political party in the UK in 2025. We explore the historical and media-driven adversities faced by prominent political figures Jeremy Corbyn and Ed Miliband, tracing the narrative from the Labour Party's defeat in 2015 through the relentless media critique that both have endured over the years.
The episode sheds light on the immense challenges posed by the right-wing press while highlighting Corbyn's political philosophy and potential impact of his newly formed party, temporarily called 'Your Party.' We discuss the dynamics within the Labour Party, media influence, and the significant public response leading to one of Britain's largest political memberships.

In episode 15 of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into the controversial decision by the British government to classify the activist group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization. The episode explores the roles played by three key entities - 'We Believe in Israel,' the right-wing British press, and the Home Office - in this unprecedented move against a group whose most dangerous weapon has been red paint.
The discussion is set against the backdrop of escalating violence in Gaza, reflecting on the apparent contradictions in government actions that proscribe non-violent activists while remaining silent on accusations of Israeli state terrorism. As we examine this case, we also question the broader implications of labeling dissent as terrorism and the potential erosion of civil liberties in democratic societies.
Join us as we navigate these complex issues, highlighting the struggle of civic activism against authoritative measures, and pushing for a deeper understanding of what should truly be considered an act of terror.

Welcome to episode 14 of the House of Dissent podcast. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the controversial subject of Israel's actions towards Palestinians through the lens of Hannah Arendt's concept of the "banality of evil." By examining historical and contemporary events, the episode seeks to illuminate the ongoing conflict that has persisted since 1948 and addresses how mainstream media often fails to contextualize these issues within a broader historical framework.
We honour the bravery of Francesca Albanese and organizations such as the Hind Rajab Foundation, while discussing the implications of extremist ideologies on current Israeli politics. The episode further explores the roles of prominent figures like Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir, and Smotrich in perpetuating narratives of supremacy and exclusion, drawing parallels to past atrocities.
Join us as we scrutinize the deep-seated ideologies that underpin the conflict and strive to raise awareness about the plight of Palestinians, urging listeners to engage with a more empathetic and informed perspective on this ongoing crisis.

Welcome to episode 13 of the House of Dissent podcast, where we delve into the profound thoughts of American musician and composer Frank Zappa. In this episode, we explore Zappa's critiques of media manipulation, censorship, and democracy. Known for his unique position as both a cultural critic and musician, Zappa fiercely opposed societal norms, challenging the powers that sought to limit artistic freedom and individual rights.
From his disdain for US television's role in media manipulation to his controversial takes on taxation and corporate influence, Zappa's libertarian leaning beliefs coupled with his critiques create a rich tapestry of thought. Join us as we investigate his influences, including the classical composer Edgar Varèse, and how these shaped his groundbreaking music and philosophy.
Through analysis of tracks like 'Slime' and 'Who Are The Brain Police?', we uncover Zappa's call for critical thinking and independence from media control. Discover how Zappa's stance resonated globally, inspiring movements and dissent, notably in Eastern Europe during and after the Cold War. Tune in to explore Zappa's legacy as a humorist, satirist, and tireless advocate for free speech and independent thought.