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Public Inquiry: A Mission Beyond Accountability
In today’s complex political landscape, holding those in power accountable is crucial. But understanding the broader context in which political events unfold is equally essential to anticipate their future consequences. Public Inquiry seeks to address both of these critical needs by bringing together a consortium of award-winning journalists, led by Tim Sebastian, with a clear mission: to rigorously examine the promises, claims, and justifications of those in power, while delving deeper into the circumstances shaping these events. Our work goes beyond asking difficult questions — it seeks to uncover the intricate web of factors influencing decisions and their potential impact on society.
Political decisions do not exist in a vacuum. They are shaped by historical context, economic pressures, societal expectations, and international relationships, among other factors. At Public Inquiry, we recognize that political accountability is not just about scrutinizing the immediate claims made by those in power. It’s about understanding the forces that drive political actions and the potential ripple effects they create. By investigating not only the actions themselves but also the broader landscape in which they occur, we can provide a clearer, more nuanced understanding of political events and their long-term consequences.
Experts give evidence
To achieve this, Public Inquiry will engage with leading scholars and experts in academic institutions and think tanks around the world. Our approach combines both practical and theoretical expertise. Many of the experts we collaborate with possess first-hand experience in the areas we cover — whether it’s governance, international relations, or economics. Others offer critical theoretical insights that help explain why certain decisions are made and how they might play out in the future. Together, this blend of practical and academic knowledge allows us to produce deeply informed content that goes beyond surface-level analysis.
By drawing on this wealth of expertise, Public Inquiry is uniquely positioned to explore not only what is happening in the political realm, but also why it is happening and what the future implications might be. Our goal is to provide the public with the tools they need to engage with these issues in a meaningful way, empowering citizens to hold their leaders accountable with a deeper understanding of the context and potential outcomes.
Reports and documentaries
Public Inquiry will produce documentaries and reports that align with the rigorous journalistic standards Tim Sebastian has long been known for. These in-depth pieces will investigate key political issues, unearthing the hidden dynamics that shape decisions and their outcomes. Our team will also hold conversations with scholars and experts on matters that are critical to public discourse, offering new insights and analyses that are both thought-provoking and grounded in real-world expertise.
By combining investigative journalism with expert-driven content, Public Inquiry aims to inform the public in ways that traditional reporting often cannot. Our goal is to present a comprehensive picture of the political landscape — one that not only highlights accountability but also explains the broader forces at play and the potential consequences of today’s decisions for tomorrow’s world.
Our Podcasts
A key element of Public Inquiry is our podcast “Back Channel”, which focuses on promoting dialogue across lines of conflict. Too often, political discourse is polarized, with little room for meaningful exchange between opposing viewpoints. Through Back Channel, we aim to create a space for constructive conversations between parties in conflict, encouraging them to engage with each other in ways that foster understanding and compromise.
Back Channel will feature discussions among common people caught on either side of different conflicts, who can offer different perspectives on the issues at hand and are willing to engage the other side. By bringing these voices together, we hope to bridge the gap between opposing viewpoints and help facilitate solutions that address the concerns of all parties involved.
Looking Ahead
The work of Public Inquiry is just beginning but our mission is clear. By asking the tough questions, uncovering hidden truths, and engaging with experts who can shed light on the complexities of modern politics, we aim to strengthen political accountability and enhance public understanding. to the extent that political events are interconnected and their consequences far-reaching, this work is more important than ever. The inquiry is open, and we invite you to join us on this journey toward greater transparency, dialogue, and understanding.
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