Afghans who helped Americans could face “certain death”

This episode of As It Happens explores multiple urgent global stories, beginning with the plight of over 1,000 Afghan nationals who aided U.S. forces in Afghanistan and are now facing potential deportation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo or back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Sean Van Diver, a U.S. military veteran and head of the aid group Afghan Evac, calls the proposed plan a 'grave injustice' and warns it would betray America’s promise to those who risked their lives in service. He emphasizes that these individuals, including interpreters, special forces, and family members of U.S. service members, face certain death if returned. The episode also covers flood preparedness in Pegwus First Nation, where residents are bracing for spring flooding with sandbags and external support, despite decades of broken promises for permanent flood protection. In a lighter segment, the mystery of the 'Steak Canadian Sandwich'—a beloved British breakfast item with no Canadian origin—is explored through the eyes of a Yorkshire chef who revels in the confusion it causes among Canadians. Other stories include a South Korean fighter jet collision caused by pilots taking photos mid-flight, youth-led protests in Madagascar facing crackdowns under a new regime, and a Nunavut man surviving three days in a blizzard to win a volleyball tournament. Finally, Virginia’s controversial new electoral map, designed to boost Democratic representation, sparks debate over partisan gerrymandering and its long-term implications for U.S. democracy.