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Pascale Harter introduces analysis and reportage from Australia, Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Greece

Although some Australian politicians have been agitating for a republic for decades, the British monarch is still the head of state in Australia. In the emotional aftermath of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Nick Bryant explores Australia’s relationship with the British crown today – and where it’s headed in future.

Brazil marked 200 years of independence from its former colonial ruler on the 7th of September. But there was another grand ceremony just before the main event – when a bizarre royal relic was flown in from Portugal. Julia Carneiro reflects on what exactly Brazil had to celebrate on its bicentennial.

Covering events in Afghanistan and Pakistan is one of the toughest jobs a foreign correspondent can take on. Reporting from Islamabad or Kabul can be dangerous – and whatever you do, it’s likely to be controversial. As he prepares to leave the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ, Secunder Kermani recounts his experiences on both sides of the border.

A Greek proverb warns 'better the friend you can see, than the money you can’t' – meaning that in tough times, it’s safer to rely on social bonds than assets in the bank or investments on paper. The dramatists and philosophers of Classical times had plenty to say on the role of money in politics. The European Union’s economic red lines, and the EU’s power to dictate terms to Greece, still preoccupy many citizens today. In a very dramatic setting, Antonia Quirke was prompted to think about power, politics and gold.

Producer: Polly Hope
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith