Investigative Reports Expose Crypto Scam and UK AI Policy Links

openDemocracy this week publishes two exclusive investigations: one examining Nigel Farage’s ties to the cryptocurrency sector and another detailing the undisclosed business networks surrounding Andy Burnham’s new artificial-intelligence adviser.

Senior reporter Sian Norris, working with The Times, reveals how a digital currency promoted by John Mappin—a figure connected to Farage’s Reform Party—was accused by investors of defrauding them of thousands of dollars. The token, marketed as “Awoke” or “anti-woke coin,” is the latest focus of openDemocracy’s ongoing scrutiny of crypto-linked actors within the UK’s populist right.

Elsewhere, reporter Ethan Shone discloses leaked documents showing how Hakluyt, a consultancy founded by former MI6 officers, secured privileged, undeclared access to a senior UK official shaping national AI-safety policy. The official in question is understood to be directly advising Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, who recently appointed a new AI adviser. Hakluyt’s clients include major technology firms and senior figures in the current government.

In climate coverage, farmer Martin Lines warns that the current UK heatwave represents the coolest summer most Britons will experience for the remainder of their lives. Citing rising soil temperatures and disrupted growing seasons, Lines argues that agricultural systems are already approaching irreversible strain. Complementing this, openDemocracy revisits a 2023 investigation by Indra Warnes into how wildfires are endangering the immediate and long-term health of firefighters across the UK.

The edition also features reader comments on Islamophobia in Britain and a historical reflection on the construction of the Berlin Wall, drawn from openDemocracy’s archive. A review of Sunjeev Sahota’s novel The Spoiled Heart concludes the issue.

Editor-in-chief Aman Sethi notes that the investigations were made possible by reader support and urges continued donations to sustain independent scrutiny of far-right networks, corporate influence and climate policy ahead of the next general election, now three years away. The outlet is seeking 500 new paid subscribers by the end of 2026 to strengthen its reporting capacity.

Readers are invited to share their experiences of wildfire impacts in local communities. Selected responses will be published in future editions.