Roy Suryo
New York state prosecutors have announced the reopening of a criminal inquiry into an alleged rape that occurred at Cornell University in 2024, a case that has ignited widespread debate and outrage, particularly online. The woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, has filed a lawsuit alleging that seven male members of the university’s Chi Phi fraternity chapter sexually assaulted her in an incident involving alcohol and the incapacitating drug ketamine. While the university police previously investigated the matter, the case will now be presented to a grand jury, signaling a significant escalation in the legal proceedings. The alleged lack of stringent disciplinary action by the university has drawn sharp criticism, with notable figures such as actress Florence Pugh expressing fury over the reported response. To provide in-depth analysis, Nada Tawfik, BBC North American correspondent, and Tracey Vitchers, Executive Director of It’s On Us, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preventing college sexual assault, joined host Anita Rani on Woman’s Hour to discuss the complexities of the case, the role of universities in addressing such allegations, and the broader implications for campus safety.
The programme also paid heartfelt tribute to Dame Esther Rantzen, the esteemed broadcaster, campaigner, and founder of influential charities, who passed away at the age of 86. Dame Esther was most famously known for her long-running BBC television programme, That’s Life, which she presented with warmth and insight. Beyond her television career, her pioneering work extended to establishing Childline, a vital telephone helpline providing support to children experiencing abuse or neglect. She was also a passionate advocate for older people and a vocal proponent for the right to assisted dying. Guardian journalist Zoe Williams joined the discussion to reflect on Dame Esther’s remarkable life, her profound impact on women’s lives, and her enduring legacy as a champion for the vulnerable and a voice for social change.
In a significant development for women’s health, Australia has launched its comprehensive Endometriosis Management Plan. This initiative aims to empower General Practitioners (GPs) and patients by placing them at the forefront of managing endometriosis, a chronic and often debilitating condition affecting millions of women. Professor Danielle Mazza from Monash University in Melbourne, who played a pivotal role in the design and implementation of this plan, shared her insights on how the UK could potentially benefit from a similar, integrated approach. The discussion also featured Dr. Sylvia Kama-Kieghe, a GP in Sheffield and Vice President of Membership and Workforce at the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, who provided a UK perspective on the challenges and opportunities in endometriosis management.
Furthermore, Woman’s Hour addressed a concerning trend: the resurgence in the popularity of sunbeds, fueled by social media, which experts believe is contributing to a rise in skin cancer cases, particularly among young people. Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, is now among the most prevalent cancers diagnosed in individuals aged 15 to 34, according to Cancer Research UK. Alarming research conducted by the Teenage Cancer Trust revealed that approximately 48% of young adults in the UK, aged 18 to 34, utilize sunbeds, representing the highest proportion of any age demographic. Observer journalist Marine Saint, alongside Rosie Vare from the Teenage Cancer Trust, provided an in-depth investigation into this growing public health concern, exploring the contributing factors and potential consequences.
The episode was produced by Melanie Abbott and presented by Anita Rani, bringing together a diverse range of critical issues impacting women and society. The programme’s website offers further details and access to related content.
George Anjay
Nakalama John
atisusanti
Ramos Leo
