Adelaide Writers’ Week has been cancelled after the removal of Palestinian author Randa Abdel-Fattah sparked a mass boycott of the event by more than 100 writers who were programmed to attend, as well as the resignation of the festival’s director.

In a statement on Tuesday, Adelaide Festival apologised to Abdel-Fattah, but rather than reinstating her, they announced that Australia’s premier free literary event would not go ahead – and almost all remaining board members would stand down.

The board described the cancellation as a “deeply regrettable outcome”.

Today, InDaily journalist Helen Karakulak on questions of political influence – and what the cancellation means for the future of the arts.

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Guest: InDaily journalist Helen Karakulak

Background reading: https://www.thenewdaily.com.au/life/entertainment/books/2026/01/13/adelaide-writers-week-cancelled

Photo: PR Image

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Ten days out from the American capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, the country faces an uncertain future.

Pro-regime gangs with guns are roaming the streets, citizens are deleting their messages and search histories before going out, for fear of being searched and punished for being critical of the government.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump insists he will control the oil-rich nation.

Today, we speak to a Venezuelan journalist who lives abroad. We aren’t using her full name as her family back home fear retribution. She talks about Maduro’s legacy, the reality on the ground after Trump’s intervention, and what comes next for the people of Venezuela.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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Guest: Venezuelan journalist living abroad

Photo: AP Photo/Cristian Hernandez

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Ruby Jones is taking some time off from 7am to report an episode of the ABC’s premier investigative news program, Four Corners.

While she’s gone, Daniel James will be sharing hosting duties with journalist and foreign correspondent Nicole Johnston.

Originally a country girl from regional NSW, Nicole has spent almost two decades reporting on the biggest events shaping our world. From the Middle East to Africa, Europe, the US and Asia, there aren’t many frontlines she hasn’t been on.

In this bonus episode, she tells Daniel about some of the most impactful moments in her career so far, including living in Gaza for a year and witnessing Egypt’s military coup against the Mohamed Morsi government.

“That was really for me one of those moments where you're sitting on the edge of history and thinking, I can't believe that I'm here.”

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: Foreign correspondent and 7am host Nicole Johnston

Photo: Supplied

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.