Bonus: Bondi shooting tests Australia’s social cohesion

A deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach - one of Australia’s most iconic public spaces - has raised urgent questions about how such an attack could happen in a country known for strict gun control. With more than a dozen people killed, the attack has shocked the nation and sharpened concerns about security failures, gun ownership and the targeting of Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah.

From Sydney, the BBC’s Phil Mercer reports on the national mood as communities mourn and authorities investigate how the gunmen evaded police and security agencies. Asia Specific’s Bill Birtles explores the wider implications, including rising concerns about antisemitism, social cohesion and the challenges faced by multicultural societies across the Asia-Pacific. This episode was recorded on Monday, December 15.

Asia Specific brings you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the Asia Pacific region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.

Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between China and Donald Trump, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy - we unpack what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt

Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk