Ep 7. Palestine Now and Viva Cuba Libre

In the seventh episode of season four of Vice, entitled Palestine Now and Viva Cuba Libre, the reporters and correspondents of Vice turn their attention to two distinct but compelling parts of the world: Palestine and Cuba.

The first half of the episode, entitled Palestine Now, takes Vice's audience to the West Bank where correspondent Simone Wilson explores what life is like for Palestinians living under Israeli control. Wilson interviews numerous Palestinians, discussing issues such as the checkpoints, land disputes, and the Israeli military occupation. She also speaks with Israelis who advocate the expansion of settlements on Palestinian land and serves as an eye-opener to the ongoing conflict in the region.

Next, Vice turns its focus towards Cuba in the second half of the episode, entitled Viva Cuba Libre. Correspondent Gianna Toboni takes a look at the political and social changes underway in Cuba, following the historic re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States. Toboni speaks with Cuban citizens in Havana about what changes they have seen and what they hope for the future of their country. She also discusses the embargo with United States citizens who are fighting to lift it, to promote better relations between the two countries.

The episode provides a unique perspective into two distinct parts of the world in which people are facing challenges and struggling for freedom. Each corresponding segment adds a unique element to the overall episode and both are educational and informative. The West Bank's conflict and occupation and the revolution taking place in Cuba give us an insight into the complex and ongoing global political and social issues that exist.

The report from West Bank shows the reader how the great wall that separates the territories has imposed a state of near-permanent lockdown since 1967 and the troubles Palestinians face when they go to basic facilities like shops, schools and hospitals, that's a situation affecting the life of many in the area, and it gives an insight into the daily life of Palestinians where they're forced to live with Israeli rules.

On the other end is the report from Cuba showing a country grappling with change while trying to maintain its culture and identity. The report features conversations with Cuban citizens, learning more about their lives and where they see their country is headed in the future. Toboni speaks with young artists and entrepreneurs determined to thrive in their own country while the government is in the process of opening up the economy a bit more.

Overall, this episode of Vice provides a thoughtful and informative look into issues facing two distinct parts of the world. The show gives viewers an opportunity to become more informed about what is happening in Palestine and Cuba, both directly from the people who live there as well as from expert opinions. This offers a valuable perspective that can help to bring about a greater understanding of the global political and social realities while also shedding light on the human experience in these regions.