Ep 7. October 19, 2017

On October 19, 2017, VICE News Tonight aired its seventh episode of season 2. The half-hour news program covered a range of global topics, from the ongoing crisis in Syria to the fast-fashion industry's exploitation of workers in Bangladesh.

The episode began with a segment on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the U.S.-backed coalition fighting to retake ISIS-controlled territory in Syria. Correspondent Isobel Yeung traveled to the front lines of the battle in Raqqa, where she interviewed SDF fighters and observed their grueling tactics. Yeung also spoke with Kurdish activists who criticized the SDF for relying on American support, and argued that the U.S. has its own strategic interests in the region.

Next, VICE News Tonight examined the #MeToo movement and its impact on the fast-fashion industry. Correspondent Krishna Andavolu traveled to Dhaka, Bangladesh, where he interviewed garment workers who shared stories of sexual harassment and assault on the job. Andavolu also spoke with labor organizers who are working to empower workers and hold companies accountable, despite facing harassment and threats from factory owners.

The episode then turned its attention to the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. Correspondent Seb Walker traveled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where he interviewed Rohingya refugees who have fled persecution in Myanmar. Walker also spoke with Malaysian officials who warned that the crisis could destabilize the entire region if it is not resolved peacefully.

Continuing its coverage of international issues, VICE News Tonight explored the ongoing crisis in Catalonia, where separatist leaders have been pushing for independence from Spain. Correspondent Alzo Slade traveled to Barcelona, where he spoke with activists on both sides of the debate. Slade also interviewed political analysts who weighed in on the complex history and political implications of the Catalan independence movement.

The episode then turned to domestic news, with a segment on the Trump administration's response to the opioid epidemic. Correspondent Arielle Duhaime-Ross investigated the widespread prescribing of opioids by medical professionals, and spoke with addiction experts who argue that the government needs to take a more comprehensive approach to the crisis.

Finally, VICE News Tonight examined the impact of climate change on Alaska's Native communities. Correspondent Roberto Ferdman traveled to Newtok, Alaska, where rising sea levels and melting permafrost have forced residents to relocate their entire village. Ferdman also spoke with community leaders who are working to adapt to these changes and preserve their culture and way of life.

Overall, VICE News Tonight's seventh episode of season 2 provided a comprehensive look at a range of global issues, from war and displacement to workers' rights, political turmoil, and environmental change. Through its in-depth reporting and immersive storytelling, the program offered viewers a nuanced and compelling perspective on these complex topics.