Episodes
| Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20251212 |  The world order is shifting by the day — old alliances are fraying, autocrats are on the rise, and global trade is in turmoil. A lot of this turbulence can be traced back to decisions made in the US, but America isn't just a cause of upheaval abroad—it's also a symptom of the same forces disrupting things across the world. That's where The Global Story comes in. From September 2025, this daily podcast from the BBC tackles the news at this exact intersection: where the world and America meet. With one host (Asma Khalid, former NPR White House correspondent) in DC, one host (Tristan Redman, former Al Jazeera international correspondent) in London, and the backing of the best international newsroom in the world, this podcast tells the intertwined story of America and the world – how each shapes the other, daily. The Global Story. Where the world and America meet. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251212 20251213 (WS) | The world order is shifting by the day — old alliances are fraying, autocrats are on the rise, and global trade is in turmoil. A lot of this turbulence can be traced back to decisions made in the US, but America isn't just a cause of upheaval abroad—it's also a symptom of the same forces disrupting things across the world. That's where The Global Story comes in. From September 2025, this daily podcast from the BBC tackles the news at this exact intersection: where the world and America meet. With one host (Asma Khalid, former NPR White House correspondent) in DC, one host (Tristan Redman, former Al Jazeera international correspondent) in London, and the backing of the best international newsroom in the world, this podcast tells the intertwined story of America and the world – how each shapes the other, daily. The Global Story. Where the world and America meet. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251111 20251112 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America. | ||
| 20251113 20251114 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America. | ||
| 20251117 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251117 20251118 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251121 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251121 20251122 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251125 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251125 20251126 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251127 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251127 20251128 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251202 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251202 20251203 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251204 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251204 20251205 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251208 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251208 20251209 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251216 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20251216 20251217 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260402 |  The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260403 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260406 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260408 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260409 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260410 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260413 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260414 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260415 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260416 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260417 | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260113 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260113 20260114 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260119 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260119 20260120 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260126 | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260126 20260127 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260203 20260204 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260204 20260205 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260205 20260206 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260206 20260207 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260303 20260304 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260304 20260305 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260309 20260310 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260310 20260311 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260311 20260312 (WS) | Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260428 |  The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
| 20260428 20260429 (WS) | The Global Story: Where the world meets America | ||
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| A Gazan Journalist's Diary | 20251016 | 20251017 (WS) | 
One month ago, freelance journalist Ghada Al-Kurd began sharing voice notes with us, talking about her life, her family, and her days reporting in Gaza City. Her job is dangerous – almost 200 journalists have been killed in Gaza in the past two years – and even with a ceasefire in place, safety is far from reach. Ghada has continued to report for us through her displacements, sharing her treasured memories of pre-war Gaza, and her fears and hopes for its future. Producer: Hannah Moore. Executive producer: James Shield. Mix: Travis Evans. Senior news editor: China Collins. Image: Ghada Al Kurd A month in the life of Ghada Al-Kurd, a freelance journalist from Gaza City The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| A Reckoning For Duterte | 20250312 | The former president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested by the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity. Duterte oversaw a bloody war on drugs that left tens of thousands of people dead, but he remains extremely popular with many in the Philippines, who say he cleaned up their country. On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's Southeast Asia correspondent Jonathan Head about Duterte's years in power, and why the current government in Manila has turned him over to the ICC. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Senior news editor: China Collins The ex-Philippines president is arrested by the International Criminal Court. Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas | |
| A Tale Of Two Cities: London's Lesson For New York's First Muslim Mayor | 20251106 | 20251107 (WS) |  Even before Zohran Mamdani was elected as New York's first Muslim mayor, his critics frequently cited London as a sort of cautionary tale, suggesting that New York under Mamdani could go “the way of London. ? That's because London already has a liberal, Muslim mayor - Sadiq Khan. But is that where the similarities end? We talk to Tim Donovan, a former BBC reporter who covered London politics for decades. And we ask Mr Khan himself what it's like to be a local politician with an international profile - especially when your most persistent critic, is a tenacious man called Donald Trump? Producers: Xandra Ellin, Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: New York City mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, waves to his supporters after winning the 2025 New York City Mayoral race. Jeenah Moon / Reuters London mayor Sadiq Khan gives advice to the mayor-elect of New York City Zohran Mamdani The Global Story: Where the world meets America The Global Story. Where the world and America meet. |
| A Week On The Open Atlantic, Hoping To Reach Europe | 20241014 | The BBC's Africa Eye has been following one man's journey as he travels hundreds of miles on the open ocean in the hopes of reaching Europe. Mouhamed is one of a growing number of people attempting to travel from Senegal to Spain's Canary Islands. The journey is ten times longer than the boats crossing the Mediterranean, taking days and sometimes week across parts of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also riskier and more lethal. You can watch the full documentary 'Dark Waters: Africa's Deadliest Migration Route' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajX6NaVks3w Caitriona Perry speaks to Blanca Munoz and Efrem Gebreab who followed Mouhamed's journey for the BBC's Africa Eye. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanaugh Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The BBC follows one migrant's journey from Senegal to the Canary Islands The BBC's Africa Eye follows one man's journey across open ocean from Senegal to the Canary Islands. | |
| Abercrombie Ex-ceo Faces Sex Trafficking Charges | 20241101 | Inside a BBC investigation that exposed the allegations against Michael Jeffries. The former fashion boss has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking and prostitution. Jeffries – who turned Abercrombie and Fitch into one of the world's biggest clothing brands – was arrested along with his life partner and their fixer, and accused of exploiting aspiring male models through force, fraud and coercion. On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to BBC Investigations Correspondent Rianna Croxford, who has spent three years investigating the claims against Jeffries. WARNING: This episode includes details of alleged sexual abuse. Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Ben Andrews and Gareth Jones Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Afghanistan: ''life Was So Beautiful When I Would Go To School'' | 20241230 | The Taliban's decision to ban women from attending midwifery and nursing courses ends their last hope of gaining an education. When the Taliban returned to take control of Afghanistan in 2021 it imposed a hardline vision of Islamic rule – but there was some hope, that perhaps, women and girls' education would be spared. However, girls were soon barred from attending school and university - leaving only the option to attend nursing and midwifery courses. Now, that choice has been taken away, making Afghanistan the only country in the world that explicitly stops women from being educated. On today's episode, Azadeh Moshiri speaks to a 20-year-old woman we are keeping unnamed to protect her safety. She was training to be a midwife and has now lost her last route to education. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Beth Timmins, Annie Brown and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The Taliban have stopped women from attending midwifery and nursing courses | |
| America And (...) Climate Change | 20241001 |  How could Kamala Harris or Donald Trump shape the global response to the climate crisis? As one of the world's largest producers of fossil fuels and carbon emissions, the US plays a pivotal role in addressing climate change. The environmental policies of the next president could reshape American industry and the economy, while influencing the global fight against climate change. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's climate editor Justin Rowlatt and Carl Nasman, who covers US climate issues for the BBC. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Tom Kavanagh and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| America And (...) Migration | 20241022 |  How might Donald Trump or Kamala Harris try to tackle immigration to the US? People crossing the southern border has become a hot button topic in the next month's election. Former president Donald Trump's forceful policies have helped him motivate a base of loyal supporters. Whereas Vice-President Harris has had just weeks to convince Americans that she has a plan. What do we know about their policies, how they differ and what impact they would have? Sumi Somaskanda speaks to our Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, Will Grant. He explains why so many people are leaving the region and how the next president might impact its southern neighbours. And our politics reporter in Washington DC, Bernd Debusmann, helps us separate the facts from the headlines on one of the election's most contentious political issues. You can listen to our other special episodes looking at the impact the US election might have around the world here: America and... the World: https://link.chtbl.com/gqWrGSMT America And... the war in Ukraine: https://link.chtbl.com/9pQYuDqP America and... China: https://link.chtbl.com/CNFrjcPA America and... Climate change: https://link.chtbl.com/zgemOWRX The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Eleanor Sly and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| America And... China | 20241008 |  The United States and China have had a turbulent history. In recent years, diplomatic relations between the world's two largest economies reached what many observers described as a new low, and despite some growing signs of stability, the future remains uncertain. So, how might this precarious situation be impacted by the upcoming US election? For the latest episode in this special series, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by the BBC's China correspondent Laura Bicker, and our business correspondent Michelle Fleury. They tackle big issues from trade and the economy, to defence and national security, and consider what victory for either Kamala Harris or Donald Trump could mean for the ongoing Sino-American relationship. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Laurie Kalus Sound engineers: Stephen Bailey, Hannah Montgomery, and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson If you want to hear more from our 'America and...' series, why not listen to the first episode here: https://link.chtbl.com/gqWrGSMT How the US election could impact relations between the world's two largest economies | |
| America And... The Middle East | 20241029 |  How could Kamala Harris or Donald Trump affect Israel, Gaza and the wider region? The spiral of violence in the Middle East – from the Hamas attacks on October 7, to the catastrophic loss of Palestinian life, to Israel's growing fights with Hezbollah and Iran – has dominated US foreign policy and become a major issue in this year's presidential election campaign. Harris and Trump both say they want to bring peace and security to the region. So how do they plan to do it? On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen in Jerusalem and the BBC's North America Correspondent Nada Tawfik. You can listen to our other special episodes looking at the impact the US election might have around the world here: America and... the World: https://link.chtbl.com/gqWrGSMT America and... the war in Ukraine: https://link.chtbl.com/9pQYuDqP America and... China: https://link.chtbl.com/CNFrjcPA America and... Climate change: https://link.chtbl.com/zgemOWRX America and - Migration https://link.chtbl.com/TGSmigration The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Beth Timmins and Richard Moran Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson How could Harris or Trump affect Israel, Gaza and the wider region? | |
| America And... The War In Ukraine | 20241015 |  Could the US election result threaten support for Kyiv? Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the United States has led the world in providing aid to Kyiv, with contributions totalling more than $175bn. But agreeing additional assistance in Congress has become increasingly difficult, with the attention of the Republican right fixed on domestic priorities. So, as November's presidential election approaches, what could victory for either Kamala Harris or Donald Trump mean for the trajectory of the war? For the latest in a series of episodes about how the impact of the US election will be felt worldwide, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by the BBC's Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, and news correspondent, Will Vernon. They discuss how delays to US aid have directly affected the war on the ground, and what we know about the policy positions of the candidates for the White House. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Alix Pickles, Mariana Hernandez-Carrillo, and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Hannah Montgomery, and Ricardo McCarthy Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson You can find more of this series in our feed - just look for episodes titled 'America and... | |
| America And... The World | 20240924 |  The United States has long been seen as the world's leading superpower. It is home to the globe's biggest military and political force – but has many diplomatic challenges. From the wars raging in Europe and the Middle East, to the growing influence of global rivals like China, to the potential proliferation of nuclear weapons in Iran and North Korea. This year's presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris have very different ideas about how to manage America's complicated relationship with other powerful nations. Our host Sumi Somaskanda speaks with the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet and our diplomatic correspondent James Landale about America's place in the world and how the two different presidential nominees might shape this role. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts. Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phillip Bull. Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. What is the US relationship with the world today and how would Trump and Harris shape it? What is the US's relationship with the world today and how would Donald Trump and Kamala Harris shape it? | |
| American Influence From Monroe To Donroe | 20260112 | 20260113 (WS) | 
All this week, we are teaming up with our sister podcasts to explore how power and influence around the world is shifting. We exploring who is in a sphere of influence and who is being controlled by one. Today, we speak to Anthony Zurcher, co-host of Americast and the BBC's North America correspondent, about what US history tells us about this moment. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: President Donald Trump in front of the US flag. Credit: Shawn Thew/EPA/Shutterstock) What does US history tell us about America's changing role in the world right now? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Angela Merkel On Putin's Dog And Trump's Handshake | 20241125 | 
On this episode, the BBC's Europe Editor, Katya Adler, tells Caitríona Perry what she learned from her interview with Angela Merkel in Berlin, including the ex-chancellor's experiences with Vladimir Putin, and her handling of the 2015 migrant crisis. Producers: Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Gareth Jones Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Moran Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The BBC's Katya Adler sits down with the former German chancellor | |
| Antibiotics: A Casualty Of War? | 20250213 | Antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics have saved countless lives and transformed the health of humanity. Before these drugs were discovered, even something as simple as a papercut could be life-threatening. Some of the greatest advances in the development of these drugs have been forged in wartime. But now those same wars threaten the progress that has been made. Host Jonny Dymond speaks with the BBC's Global Health correspondent Dominic Hughes about the hidden threat that wars around the world pose to modern medicine. And also the BBC's Abdujalil Abdurasulov who has been speaking to soldiers and hospital staff in Ukraine to see how antimicrobial resistance is affecting their ability to treat casualties. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Alice Aylett Roberts and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins How global conflicts are making medicine less effective | |
| Are Conspiracy Theories America's Biggest Export? | 20250930 | 20251001 (WS) |  Mistrust in science has never been higher. Fewer people are getting vaccinated, a known vaccine skeptic is leading the most powerful health agency in America and an outbreak of measels in Texas this year led to the first fatalities in almost a decade. Then, in August, a gunman opened fire on the headquarters of the Centre for Disease Control with many speculating he was fuelled by misinformation about health. Increasingly this misinformation is being exported around the world. Marianna Spring is the BBC's Social Media Investigations Correspondent and tells the story of how suspicion of science in America helped radicalise a British mom with devastating consequences. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Martin Pope / Getty One British family deals with the devastating consequences of health conspiracies The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Are Conspiracy Theories America's Biggest Export? | 20260102 | 20260103 (WS) | 
Mistrust in science has never been higher. Fewer people are getting vaccinated, a known vaccine skeptic is leading the most powerful health agency in America and an outbreak of measels in Texas this year led to the first fatalities in almost a decade. Then, in August, a gunman opened fire on the headquarters of the Centre for Disease Control with many speculating he was fuelled by misinformation about health. Increasingly this misinformation is being exported around the world. Marianna Spring is the BBC's Social Media Investigations Correspondent and tells the story of how suspicion of science in America helped radicalise a British mom with devastating consequences. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Kate Shemirani. Martin Pope / Getty One British family deals with the devastating consequences of health conspiracies The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Are Oil Prices Determining The Course Of The Iran War? | 20260310 | 20260311 (WS) | 
Turmoil in the region had led to the near complete shutdown of shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran has reportedly said it will not allow “one litre of oil ? to be exported from the Gulf if US-Israeli attacks continue. We speak to BBC economics correspondent Andy Verity about the lessons both the US and Iran might be learning from the oil crises of the 1970s, and ask whether oil could determine how and when the war ends. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Studio manager: Mike Regaard Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: 3D-printed oil pump jacks, Iranian flag, and a rising stock graph appear in this illustration. Credit: Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo How the oil crises of the 1970s might help us make sense of the current moment The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Are The Us And Canada Still Friends? | 20250211 | Will Canadians sour on this special relationship amid Trump's tariff threats? Canada and the US share the world's longest undefended border and one of the closest alliances in the world. But President Trump's new tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium, and his comments about making Canada the 51st US state, have strained those longstanding ties. Can the friendship last? On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to Jayme Poisson, host of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation podcast Front Burner, and The Global Story's reporter Peter Goffin. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Jack Graysmark Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Moran Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Are Ultra-processed Foods Impossible To Avoid? | 20240828 | 20250101 (WS) | Research into ultra-processed foods suggests they could be linked to health problems including cancers, heart disease, obesity and depression - but scientists are yet to agree on how they actually affect us. Often mass-produced, and containing multiple additives, UPFs have become the target of nutritionists and clean-living advocates alike. But, given how common they are, can we realistically avoid them? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks with BBC health reporter Philippa Roxby, and Ruth Alexander, presenter of The Food Chain podcast from the BBC World Service. Together, they unpack what we really know about UPFs. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Beth Timmins, Laurie Kalus, and Alice Aylett Roberts. Sound Engineers: Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Research into UPFs suggests they could be harmful |
| Are We Heading For World War Three? | 20260325 | 20260326 (WS) | 
We speak to emeritus professor of International History at the University of Oxford, Margaret MacMillan, and explore how world wars start, how they end and what can be done to avoid them. Producers: Chris Benderev and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: US Military aircraft perform 4th of July flyover past New York City and New Jersey, 4 July 2020. Credit: Mike Segar/Reuters) Will the US-Israel war with Iran spiral out of control and how can it be stopped? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Are We Really Getting Enough Sleep? | 20250320 | We spend around a third of our lives sleeping. But many people struggle with insomnia or have difficulty staying asleep, and research shows that bad sleep can increase the risk of multiple health conditions. How harmful is bad sleep to our health? And what can we do about it? Jonny Dymond speaks with Professor Russell Foster, Director of the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute at the University of Oxford, and author and sleep expert Dr Nerina Ramlakhan about how people can get enough sleep. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Are You Ever Too Old To Have A Baby? | 20241225 | In countries across the world women are deciding to delay motherhood. Increased access to education, more career opportunities and less financial stability means that more and more women are having children later in life. But fewer babies now, could mean more economic pressures on the rest of us in the future. Katya Adler explores this complex topic with the BBC's population correspondent Stephanie Hegarty and Joyce Harper, professor of reproductive science at University College London. At the moment, we're sharing some of our most popular episodes from the past twelve months, including this one. All of these episodes and many more are available to watch on the BBC World Service's YouTube channel. Just search for “The Global Story ? on YouTube to find us. We need you to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email ideas and thoughts to theglobalstory@BBC.com. You can also message or leave a voice note on WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Beth Timmins and Miriam Quayyum Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Jonathan Aspinwall Women are having children later in life and global fertility is in decline. | |
| As Syrians Celebrate, Is Watches Closely | 20241211 | This episode contains descriptions of violence and sexual violence. When Bashar al-Assad's power was challenged in 2014, the Islamic State group filled the vacuum in Syria. Now the Assad regime has fallen, ending 50 years of rule by the family. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the rebel group who toppled the president, are now faced with governing a country occupied by various factions. On today's episode, Azadeh Moshiri speaks to Barry Marston, the head of the BBC's jihadist media team, to ask how much of a threat the Islamic State group is today, and whether this new power vacuum could present them with a new opportunity for their brand of terror? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Phillip Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The last time Assad's power was challenged, the Islamic State group filled the vacuum The last time Bashar al-Assad's power was challenged, the Islamic State group filled the vacuum in Syria. | |
| Australia's Mushroom Killer Trial | 20251009 | 20251010 (WS) | 
These are the latest developments in a story that has launched a flurry of true crime podcasts, books and documentaries. A TV drama is in production, and one of Australia's most eminent writers has announced she's writing a book about it. The BBC's Katy Watson talks us through how this suburban triple-murder story became the focus of the increasingly voracious true-crime industry. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Erin Patterson. AAP/James Ross via REUTERS The trial has captivated true crime fans around the world. And it isn't over yet The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Back From The Brink: The Iran Ceasefire | 20260408 | 20260409 (WS) | 
Donald Trump says the US has “met and exceeded all military objectives ?, while Iran says the ceasefire is a “humiliating retreat ? for Washington. So what has actually been agreed, and is this ceasefire likely to pave the way for an ending to the war? We speak to Jane Corbin from the BBC's Panorama, who has reported from the world's major conflict zones for three decades. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Studio manager: Mike Regaard Senior news editor: China Collins Photo:Iranians wave the country's flag following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock Iran and the US have agreed to a conditional two-week ceasefire. Will it hold? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| BBC Correspondents' Look Ahead To 2025 | 20241221 | 20241222 (WS) 20241225 (WS) 20241226 (WS) | BBC journalists gaze into their crystal balls to predict what 2025 might have in store. |
| Behind Baltimore's Dangerous Bridge Recovery | 20240411 | There's no playbook for when a ship the size of the Eiffel Tower knocks over a bridge spanning more than two kilometres. The BBC's Bernd Debusmann Jr has been on the water with the divers picking through the wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. BBC News chief presenter Sumi Somaskanda has been talking to Maryland's key political players. The two tell Adam Fleming about the jeopardy – for Baltimore and President Biden's leadership. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. Or, message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The practical and political risks of the giant clean-up | |
| Belgium Grants Labour Rights To Sex Workers | 20241202 | Belgium has become the first country in the world to pass a law to give labour rights to sex workers. They will be entitled to health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave. Prostitution involves millions of people worldwide but will this new law protect these people from abuse and exploitation? Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's gender and identity correspondent Sofia Bettiza. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineers: Gareth Jones and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson It's the first country to give sex workers maternity leave, pensions and sick pay It's the first country in the world to give sex workers maternity leave, pensions and sick pay. | |
| Beyond Trudeau: Canada's Political Future | 20250108 | 
On today's episode Sumi Somaskanda is joined by the BBC's Jessica Murphy in Toronto, and The Global Story reporter Peter Goffin. They discuss the Trudeau legacy, and the man poised to become the next long-term Prime Minister, Pierre Poilievre. Plus, the impact of a new Trump administration across the border. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Laurie Kalus Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Photo credit: Reuters After the PM's resignation, polls predict a shift to the right | |
| Biden Passes The Torch At The Democratic Convention | 20240820 | The US president vows to be 'the best volunteer' for Kamala Harris's election campaign. Addressing the party's National Convention in Chicago, an emotional Joe Biden told Democratic supporters that they are in a battle for the 'very soul of America.' The four-day event will confirm Harris as the Democratic presidential candidate to take on Donald Trump. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is in Chicago with Courtney Subramanian and Bernd Debusmann from the BBC's digital team. They discuss what President Biden might do during his remaining time in the White House and the role he could play in the Harris-Walz campaign. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Richard Moran. Sound Engineer: Matt Dean. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. The president vows to be 'the best volunteer' for Kamala Harris's campaign | |
| Bidenomics: How The Economy May Sway The Us Election | 20240429 | The president has fired “a bazooka ? of money into the economy. Will voters reward him? Joe Biden says the economy is doing great thanks to a series of policies he calls Bidenomics. The idea is to jump-start the US following the COVID collapse with massive investments in the industries of the future: EVs, microchips, solar power and so on. Almost six months out from the election, the IMF says the US is growing at twice the rate of other G7 countries. But how do American voters feel about the economy? Katya talks to the BBC's Economics Editor, Faisal Islam, and our Chief Presenter in Washington, Caitriona Perry. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The president has fired a bazooka of money into the economy. Will voters reward him? | |
| Biden's Diplomatic Legacy: Afghanistan, Ukraine And Gaza | 20250117 | As Joe Biden's term as President of the United States draws to a close, he's trying to define his international legacy. From the Ukraine war, to the Gaza ceasefire, to the US pulling out of Afghanistan; Biden's tenure has seen US involvement in multiple world events and conflicts. So how will his impact beyond American shores be remembered? And has he left the US stronger or weaker than it was before he took office? The BBC's diplomatic correspondent, James Landale, speaks with The Global Story's Jonny Dymond to discuss the effect that Joe Biden's presidency has had on different parts of the world. We also hear the stories of some of those who have been directly affected by US foreign policy in Ukraine and Afghanistan. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Eleanor Sly and Peter Goffin Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Joe Biden's successes and failures on the world stage | |
| Blake Lively And Justin Baldoni: The Saga Explained | 20250113 | 
On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to BBC entertainment reporter, Yasmin Rufo who has been following the story and interviewed Blake Lively on the red carpet at the UK premiere for the movie. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Beth Timmins and Peter Goffin Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins (Picture: Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. Credit: Reuters/Caitlin Ochs) The Hollywood stars have filed rival lawsuits in an ongoing rift | |
| Bolsonaro: Is It All Over For The 'trump Of The Tropics'? | 20250221 | 
Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's South America correspondent Ione Wells. They discuss the close relationship between Trump and Bolsonaro and ask whether or not Brazil's former president might ever be able to return to office. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. (Picture: Headshot of Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Credit: Adriano Machado/Reuters) Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The former Brazilian president may struggle to stage a comeback | |
| Braced For War: Life Inside Lebanon | 20240926 | Israel and Hezbollah's intensifying conflict is affecting a country already on edge. Over 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon as cross-border violence, ongoing for nearly a year, has reached new heights. More than 600 people have been reported killed across Lebanon since Monday, when Israel began an intense air campaign to destroy what it said was infrastructure built up by Hezbollah since they last fought a war in 2006. Israeli reservists have been called up and the military has been told to be ready itself for a possible incursion into southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, designated a terrorist organisation by several Western countries, has fired rockets back, targeting Tel Aviv for the first time. The US, the EU, and other allied nations have called for a 21-day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border. On this episode of The Global Story, we explore the escalation in hostilities and look at what people living in Lebanon think of Hezbollah. We also look at the country's unique political system and demographics and consider how the Lebanese economy could be further affected by the conflict. Caitríona Perry is joined by our correspondent in Beirut, Carine Torbey, and by Hesham Shawish, from BBC Monitoring. Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Jeremy Morgan Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Richard Fenton-Smith | |
| Brazil Floods: A Month Underwater After Climate ''catastrophe'' | 20240610 | Record rains in southern Brazil have displaced almost 600,000 people. Some will never get to go home. A vast area, including the wealthy city of Porto Alegre, remains saturated a month after devastating storms. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has declared it a “climate catastrophe. ? Officials triaging overlapping humanitarian and economic crises are writing off whole neighbourhoods – telling residents these places can never be made safe. Caitríona Perry speaks with BBC Brasil reporters Daniel Gallas and Leandro Prazeres, who have been finding out what this means for people in the flood zone, and asks if there are lessons for all of us in a warming world. The Global Story delivers trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Gareth Jones and Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Record rains have displaced almost 600,000 people. Some will never get to go home | |
| Brazil Goes To War With Elon Musk | 20240910 | Brazil's Supreme Court has banned the social media platform X - formerly known as Twitter. It was one of the platform's biggest markets, with millions of Brazilians using it. The boss of X, Elon Musk, has complained that the move is destroying free speech but the country's top judge says it is necessary to stop the spread of disinformation. Katya Adler speaks with Daniel Gallas and Leandro Prazeres from BBC Brazil about the battle between free speech and disinformation in Brazil. And if other countries could follow Brazil's lead in blocking access to X. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts and Tse Yin Lee. Sound Engineer: Philip Bull. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Why the country has banned X formerly known as Twitter | |
| Brazil: The Influencer Convicted Of Modern Slavery | 20240715 | Former Brazilian wellness influencer Kat Torres was an inspiration to women across the world. Her rise from poverty in the favelas to a European modelling career, gave her the credibility to amass more than a million Instagram followers who trusted her to fix their lives. Now, she's been convicted on charges of modern slavery. The BBC has spoken to dozens of women who say they were exploited, in testimonies which reveal the dark details of a secretive sorority used to lure women into a life of forced labour and sexual exploitation. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by two of the journalists behind the new BBC investigation, Hannah Price and João Fellet. And for the first time, we hear from the self-styled ‘guru' herself from inside the walls of a Brazilian prison. Listeners in the UK can watch the full documentary from BBC Eye Investigations and BBC Brasil, ‘Like, Follow, Trafficked: Insta's Fake Guru' here: https://www.BBC.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0021dyj/eye-investigations-like-follow-trafficked-instas-fake-guru Those elsewhere in the world can access it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozF3l2IxwKs The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Kat Torres is facing allegations from multiple women | |
| Brazil's Jan 6: The 'trump Of The Tropics' On Trial | 20250908 | 
On January 8th 2023, Jair Bolsonaro's supporters broke into government buildings, demanding to overturn the result of the election Bolsonaro had lost. In the aftermath of those events, Bolsonaro was accused of masterminding a plot for a military coup. He denies these claims and says the charges are politically motivated. President Trump has called the trial a “witch hunt ? and gone to extreme measures to try to influence its outcome. But have his attempts to influence the trial backfired? We speak with Ione Wells, the BBC's South America correspondent, who has been reporting from inside the trial. Producers: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in Brasilia on July 17, 2025. Mateus Bonomi / AFP via Getty Images How Trump tried to influence the trial of Jair Bolsonaro, who might go to prison for life The Global Story: Where the world meets America Brazil did what the US did not. And now it might send a former president to prison for the rest of his life for trying to overturn an election From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Britain, Canada And Others Are Recognising A Palestinian State. Why Now? | 20250922 | 20250923 (WS) | 
How did some of Israel and America's staunchest allies decide that the time is right to recognise a Palestinian state? We speak to BBC diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams who has spent years reporting from the Middle East. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Members of the U.N. Security Council vote on a draft resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 18, 2025. Eduardo Munoz/Reuters Some of Israel's staunchest allies have decided to recognise a Palestinian state The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Can Apple Cut Ties With China? | 20250923 | 20250924 (WS) | 
Today we're joined by journalist and author Patrick McGee to discuss whether Apple can navigate the demands of Donald Trump's America First agenda and disentangle itself from a made-in-China business model. Producers: Hannah Moore and Aron Keller Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Nicky Edwards, Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Picture: Apple CEO Tim Cook in Cupertino, California, U.S. September 9, 2025. REUTERS/Manuel Orbegozo How Apple became reliant on China and its struggle to bring manufacturing back to the US. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Apple has pledged $600bn to return manufacturing to the US, but can it really end its made-in-China business model? |
| Can Apple Cut Ties With China? | 20251226 | 20251227 (WS) | 
Apple is promising to make more products in the US, backed by a $600bn investment over the next four years. But after decades of relying on Chinese manufacturing that promise is going to be tough to keep. Today we're joined by journalist and author Patrick McGee to discuss whether Apple can navigate the demands of Donald Trump's America First agenda and disentangle itself from a made-in-China business model. Producers: Hannah Moore and Aron Keller Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Nicky Edwards and Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Apple CEO Tim Cook. Manuel Orbegozo/Reuters Can Apple really end its made-in-China business model? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Can Syria Ever Be United? | 20250311 | When Syria's Bashar al-Assad was toppled in a lightning offensive in December, his successor Ahmed al-Sharaa promised to unite a broken country. Barely three months on, a surge in fighting between pro-Assad gunmen and transitional government security forces has reportedly left hundreds of civilians dead and exposed the enduring divides in Syrian society. As al-Sharaa vows a national dialogue will continue, has his grand vision for Syria already fallen at the first hurdle? Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's Middle East correspondent, Lina Sinjab, and BBC Monitoring's MENA expert, Hesham Shawish. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experience to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Tom Kavanagh and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Recent violence has exposed enduring divisions | |
| Can Tariffs Convince Mexico To Stem The Flow Of Fentanyl? | 20250314 | Over the past decade fentanyl use has spiked, leading to tens of thousands of deaths in the United States. Most of the deadly drug enters the US via its border with Mexico, concealed deep within vehicles and even hidden inside food packages. The Trump administration has previously accused the Mexican government of colluding with the drug cartels. He's now hoping that the threat of import tariffs on Mexico will stem the flow of the deadly drug into the US. The Mexican government has responded to potential import tariffs by deploying national guard troops along its northern border. So can Mexico's new president Claudia Sheinbaum get the fentanyl crisis under control? Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's special correspondent Quentin Sommerville, who has been on the ground at the US-Mexico border and has visited one of the drug cartels' operations. He also speaks to the BBC's Mexico and Central America correspondent Will Grant. Producers: Richard Moran, Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: James Piper Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Over the past decade fentanyl has caused tens of thousands of deaths in the United States | |
| Can Trump Win A Trade War With China? | 20250205 | The long-running economic battle between the world's two biggest economies has escalated. This week US President Donald Trump brought tariffs against China in an effort to strongarm the growing superpower into submission and strengthen American markets. But Beijing hit back, raising its own tariffs, escalating a trade war that could have implications for both countries. Trump is betting that tariffs will make America, and American people, richer. But does anyone win in a trade war? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Asia Pacific editor Micky Bristow, and Ritika Gupta, a North America business correspondent, about why Trump loves tariffs and what impact a trade war between China and America could have on the global economy. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Mhairi MacKenzie and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Stephen Bailey Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The economic battle between the world's two biggest economies has escalated | |
| Can Trump's Gaza Plan Turn A Ceasefire Into Permanent Peace? | 20251125 | 20251126 (WS) |  A ceasefire took effect in Gaza just over six weeks ago, and although both sides have accused the other of multiple violations of the agreement, there has not been the return to full-blown war that many feared. But the ceasefire agreement that was signed in early October was not a complete peace settlement. It left many issues still to be negotiated. That ceasefire was part of the first phase of President Trump's peace plan. Last week, that plan came a step closer to reality when a resolution endorsing it was adopted by the UN Security Council. Within that 20-point plan - which covers everything from how to disarm Hamas, to who should govern Gaza – there are many sticking points that are still unresolved. We speak to Yolande Knell, the BBC's Middle East correspondent in Jerusalem, and ask whether Trump's plan can still bring a permanent peace to Gaza. And what could happen if it fails? Producer: Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield, China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Hamas militant in Gaza city. Reuters/Dawoud Abu Alkas Many sticking points remain unresolved in the US-led peace plan for Gaza. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Canada, India, And Their Diplomatic Death Spiral | 20241024 | Canada and India are locked in a fierce diplomatic row, after Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau doubled down on allegations that senior Indian officials were involved in the murder of a Sikh activist on Canadian soil. Delhi has called the claims 'preposterous', and last week the two nations expelled their top diplomats, as relations sank to a historic low. Such a rapid public escalation between democracies is considered largely unprecedented in modern diplomacy, so how are Canada's western allies reacting? On this episode Caitríona Perry is joined by the BBC's South Asia correspondent Samira Hussain, and diplomatic correspondent James Landale. They examine the fallout, explain why the issue of Sikh separatism is so controversial in India, and consider the strategic dilemma the US and others are facing as they debate their own response. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Mhairi MacKenzie, and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Phil Bull and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The two nations are locked in a fierce row over murder plot allegations | |
| China V The West: Spies, Hacking And A Risk Of Conflict? | 20240520 | For decades, China has been 'on the rise'. In that time, perceptions in the West have shifted from seeing the country as a manufacturing centre, to a potential partner to a possible threat. But how does China see the West? And if Beijing is hoping to bring a change in the global order, is it on a collision course with governments in the West? The BBC's security correspondent Gordon Corera has been taking a deep dive into this relationship for a new podcast series 'Shadow War: China and the West', which is available here: https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/brand/m001z66c The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alix Pickles and Richard Moran. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. China has been rising for decades. Is it on a collision course with the West? | |
| China's Approach To Trump 2.0 | 20250225 | 
On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's China correspondent Laura Bicker. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. (Picture: Headshot of China's President Xi Jinping. Credit: Adriano Machado/Reuters) Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Climate Justice: We Sued Our Government, And Won! | 20240418 | The elderly Swiss women behind a landmark ruling. For nearly a decade, they argued that Switzerland's weak climate policies violated their human rights. Their victory – the first of its kind in the European Court of Human Rights – sets a precedent 46 countries must now follow. Our climate reporter, Georgina Rannard, has been covering the case for years. She shares the women's personal stories, while climate lawyer Sophie Marjanac explains what it could mean for those seeking climate justice everywhere. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email: theglobalstory@BBC.com or message/leave a voice note via WhatsApp: +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. Look for them on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus, Alix Pickles and Neal Razzell. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor was Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor was Sam Bonham. | |
| Cop29: In Donald Trump's Shadow | 20241112 | Can the world fight climate change without the US? Donald Trump's election victory threatens to derail the COP29 climate talks taking place in Azerbaijan this week. The US is one of the world's biggest sources of carbon emissions but the president-elect has called global warming a hoax, championed the oil industry and promised to withdraw from international climate agreements. On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's US climate correspondent Carl Nasman and the host of the BBC podcast The Climate Question, Graihagh Jackson. Producers: Peter Goffin, Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Jonny Baker and Ricardo McCarthy Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Could Conspiracy Theories And Ai Impact The Us Election? | 20241016 | How disinformation and advanced technology might influence the 2024 vote. Why do people fall for online conspiracy theories, and what happens when disinformation shapes real-world events? On this episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's disinformation and social media correspondent, Marianna Spring, to explore how conspiracy theories and the rise of AI could shape the upcoming election in the United States. They discuss the role disinformation played in the 2020 vote, leading to real-world consequences, and how these conspiracies continue to undermine the US election system today. They also examine the growing influence of AI in generating and spreading false narratives, and what this could mean for the upcoming presidential race. You can listen to Marianna Spring's series ‘Why Do You Hate Me? USA' on BBC Sounds, or wherever you get your podcasts. Producers: Pete Ross and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Could Donald Trump Reignite A Peace Deal For The Israel-gaza War? | 20250107 | The conflict in Gaza has continued into 2025 but there is still hope for a ceasefire as talks resume in Doha. Previous attempts at achieving peace have failed, but with the arrival of Donald Trump as the new US President in less than two weeks – could this be the moment that a ceasefire deal finally succeeds? On this episode Sumi Somaskanda speaks with the BBC's Gaza correspondent Rushdi Abualouf and the BBC's diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams about the hopes for a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza this year, and whether the arrival of Donald Trump will change the course of events in the Middle East. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Jonny Baker and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The conflict rages on but ceasefire talks have resumed | |
| Could Iran Be The Next 'forever War'? | 20260305 | 20260306 (WS) | 
We talk to Gordon Correra, security analyst for the BBC, about America's complicated history of intervention in the Middle East and surrounding region, and ask what these past conflicts might tell us about possible outcomes for the war in Iran. Producer: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A US soldier watches as a statue of Iraq's President Saddam Hussein falls in central Baghdad in 2003. Credit: Reuters/Goran Tomasevic We compare this week to previous US interventions in the Middle East. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Could Putin Use North Korean Troops Against Ukraine? | 20241108 | Thousands of North Korean troops have been sent to Russia to support their war in Ukraine. The US government says thousands of troops are now in the Kursk region – right next to the Ukrainian frontline. Can North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia change the dynamics of the war in Ukraine? And how does North Korea benefit from this arrangement? Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and Seoul correspondent Jean Mackenzie about whether North Korea's entry into the Ukraine war will turn it into a truly global conflict. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineers: Phil Bull and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Could The Epstein Scandal Topple The British Prime Minister? | 20260206 | 20260207 (WS) | 
Following the release of the latest tranche of Epstein files, renewed scrutiny has fallen on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's links to powerful figures in the United States. In the UK, attention has shifted to a related controversy that is now sending tremors through Westminster. Newly surfaced email exchanges between Epstein and former UK ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson - also known as Britain's “Prince of Darkness ?, have raised questions about the nature of their relationship and its political ramifications, triggering a police investigation and threatening the position of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. George Parker, the Financial Times Political Editor and BBC Radio Presenter, has known the man in question for over three decades. He talks about the seismic implications the Epstein files are having on British politics. Producers: Samantha Chantarasak, Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Peter Mandelson and Keir Starmer. Credit: Carl Court/PA Wire Epstein revelations fuel UK political storm shaking Westminster The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Crowdstrike: Is Our Tech Too Vulnerable? | 20240731 | What can we learn from the biggest IT outage in history? A glitch at the major cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike brought banks, hospitals, airports, and thousands of businesses to a standstill. It was a reminder that our digital world is reliant on a few big companies to keep it running. So how vulnerable are they to accidents or attacks that could shut down wide sections of society? Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Cyber Correspondent Joe Tidy. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. What we can learn from the biggest IT outage in history | |
| Deepseek: Ai Revolution Or Just Hype? | 20250129 | The speed at which the new Chinese chatbot app DeepSeek has risen to prominence has taken many by surprise. Now the most downloaded free app in the US, DeepSeek seems to require less powerful computer chips than its American tech rivals. The release of this low-cost AI model sent shockwaves through US stock markets, with Nvidia - the company behind the high-tech chips powering many AI investments - being the hardest hit. On Monday, Nvidia's share price dropped by 17%, wiping out around $600bn in market value. So, where has DeepSeek come from, and what's behind its ability to spook investors? What could this mean for the future of chip manufacturing and the US's historic dominance in the world of AI? Jonny Dymond speaks to Chris Miller, historian on semiconductor chips at Tufts University and author of Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology. Jonny is also joined by the BBC's North America business correspondent Ritika Gupta to discus the impact DeepSeek has had on the stock markets. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The Chinese chatbot app, made at a fraction of its rivals' cost, has shaken US markets The new Chinese chatbot app, reportedly made at a fraction of the cost of its rivals, has shaken US markets. | |
| Delhi Smog: 'my Eyes Are Stinging' | 20241121 | Air pollution in parts of India and Pakistan has been likened to witnessing a dystopian movie. India's capital Delhi has been blanketed in a thick layer of smog, with the city's residents complaining of choking and stinging eyes. In neighbouring Pakistan, Lahore has also recorded sky-high air pollution in recent weeks. On today's episode, Sumi Somaskanda hears from Devina Gupta about what it's like to be living in Delhi at the moment. And Dr Gary Fuller (Imperial College London) explains the impact severe air pollution can have on our health, from birth through to our final years. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Richard Moran and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Air pollution in parts of India and Pakistan has been likened to a dystopian movie | |
| Democracy In Crisis In South Korea | 20241205 | President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing impeachment after declaring – and then lifting – martial law. South Korea is often seen in the West as a beacon of democracy, but its history is marked by coups, martial law and brutal crackdowns on public protest. On this episode, Azadeh Moshiri speaks to Jake Kwon from the BBC's Seoul bureau, and the former head of the BBC's Korean service, Su-Min Hwang. They unpack South Korea's dramatic recent political history and look at what these events reveal about the country's democracy today. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Tom Kavanagh, Annie Brown, Eleanor Sly, and Mariana Hernández Carrillo. Sound engineers: Dan Ehrlich and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The president faces impeachment after imposing martial law | |
| Divorce: The Art Of Breaking Up | 20240725 | 20241223 (WS) | Divorce rates have been in decline across the West for decades. Experts put this down to a variety of factors, from fewer marriages to a widening dating pool, but cultural differences mean it is difficult to draw broad conclusions on the trends around splitting up. So how can we judge how attitudes to divorce have changed? On today's episode Lucy Hockings is joined by divorce mediator and former BBC presenter Joanna Gosling, as well as Marina Adshade, a professor at the University of British Columbia who focusses on the economics of sex and relationships. They interrogate some of the stats on divorce, and discuss how the process of dissolving marriage is portrayed in popular culture. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Emilia Jansson Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Editor is Richard Fenton-Smith Rates have been falling across the West for decades This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Emilia Jansson. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. |
| Do Trump And Netanyahu Have Conflicting End Goals On Iran? | 20260306 | 20260307 (WS) | 
But it's a lot more complicated for Donald Trump. He was elected on a promise to end foreign wars, and current polling suggests the war is not supported by most Americans. We talk to the BBC's international editor Jeremy Bowen about whether this war, which Netanyahu says is an opportunity, complements or collides with Donald Trump's own interests. And ask if Benjamin Netanyahu has everything to gain from this war, and Donald Trump a lot more to lose? Producers: Lucy Pawle and Sam Chantarasak Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters. U.S. President Donald Trump points his finger towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as they shake hands during a press conference after meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., December 29, 2025. Israel and the United States are currently aligned. Will it last? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Does Australia Want The British Monarchy? | 20241023 | King Charles's first visit to Australia since becoming the head of state has reignited the debate over cutting ties with the royals. His tour has been met with fanfare and protest; cheers and heckles — including by Senator Lidia Thorpe in Parliament. So what do Australians think of the monarchy's role in their country? What would it take to become a republic? Is there still a place for the monarchy in Britain's former colonies? On this episode Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Australia correspondent Katy Watson and Royal correspondent Sean Coughlan. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Jack Graysmark and Philip Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson A visit by King Charles has reignited the debate over cutting ties with the royals | |
| Does Singapore's Death Penalty Deter Drug Crime? | 20241115 | Singapore has some of the harshest drug laws in the world. The penalties for trafficking illegal narcotics include decades in prison and even a death sentence. Citizens of Singapore face consequences even if they take drugs while abroad. The government argues its zero-tolerance policy towards drugs – including cannabis - is an effective deterrent. Katya Adler speaks to journalist and documentary maker Linda Pressly about whether Singapore's harsh drugs laws really deter drug crimes. You can listen to Linda's full documentary 'Assignment: Singapore – drugs, rehab, execution' by searching for The Documentary wherever you get your podcasts. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Peter Goffin Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The country has some of the harshest drug laws in the world | |
| Does Trump's Return Threaten The Future Of Nato? | 20241216 | Donald Trump's return to the White House is seen as a potential threat to European security. Some believe he could abandon the transatlantic military alliance Nato - but the organisation's new secretary general Mark Rutte seems convinced he will be persuaded to stay. On this episode of The Global Story, Katya Adler speaks with the BBC's defence correspondent Jonathan Beale about what impact losing the alliance's biggest financial backer would have on the war in Ukraine - and the reasons why the incoming US President might be convinced to remain in Nato. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Philip Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Donald Trump's return as President is seen as a potential threat to European security | |
| Domestic Violence: How Does Australia Fix Its 'national Crisis'? | 20240513 | Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the rise in domestic violence and violence towards women has become a 'national crisis'. Katya Adler speaks with our Sydney correspondent Katy Watson and BBC journalist Tiffanie Turnbull about how Australia has responded to this growing violence and what can be done to stop it. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts. The technical producers were Emma Crowe and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. One woman is killed every four days in Australia | |
| Drake V Kendrick: The Biggest Rap Feud Of All Time? | 20240517 | Over recent months rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar have been exchanging diss tracks in a bitter lyrical battle which has caught the attention of fans and media alike. Characterised by scathing personal attacks and incredibly serious allegations, their beef has divided the industry, with some members of hip-hop royalty suggesting they took things too far. Now the furious jibes have stopped, how will this chapter in music history be remembered? To discuss the fallout, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by BBC Radio 1 & Radio 1Xtra's Kenny Allstar, and Billboard's Carl Lamarre, who consider whether this will go down as the greatest rap feud of all time. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. (Photo: Musicians Drake (L) and Kendrick Lamar (R). Credit: Prince Williams, Joseph Okpako / Getty) Vicious beef between hip-hop stars has divided fans | |
| Ebola Virus: Are Mass Outbreaks History? | 20240424 | A decade ago, the world's eyes were focused nervously on West Africa when Ebola ravaged the region. It left 11,000 people dead in its wake. Now the epidemic is over, does the threat of its return loom and what lessons did the world learn? Arrival of vaccines are a game changer – but new strains can still pose a challenge. The BBC's Africa Correspondent Anne Soy tells Mark Lowen what horrors she saw on the ground when the region was struck. And Naomi Grimley, from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and former Global Health Correspondent at the BBC, shares what the world learnt from the largest Ebola epidemic in history. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Rachel Hagan. The technical producers were Frank McWeeny and Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Additional reporting by Caroline Loyer. Progress in the fight against a terrifying and deadly disease | |
| El Salvador: Defeating The Drug Gangs, But At What Cost? | 20250212 | President Bukele has offered to house US criminals in El Salvador's mega-jail, built as part of his crackdown on drug gangs. Since taking office he has arrested thousands of people, but many remain in jail without facing trial. Host Jonny Dymond speaks to BBC Mundo's Leire Ventas who is one of the few journalists to have been inside the mega prison. Our correspondent in Central America, Will Grant, tells us the story of two mothers - one who welcomes President Bukele's approach and another who says it has torn her family apart. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Election Day: Everything You Need To Know | 20241105 | 
Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's senior North America correspondent Gary O'Donoghue and digital reporter Ana Faguy, who tell us which of the early results might give an indication of who's in the lead. Listen to our previous episode on the Senate, House and Governors races that could shape the United States here: https://link.chtbl.com/OtherRaces The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Laurie Kalus, Mariana Hernández Carrillo, and Mhairi Mackenzie Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Swing states, undecided voters, and the races to watch as results come in across the US | |
| Election Workers On The Front Line Of American Democracy | 20241104 | Harassment, threats and intimidation against local officials are increasing ahead of the election. When the majority of Americans vote tomorrow, it is these election workers that will come face to face with democracy - and the growing mistrust some feel towards the process. The BBC's Mike Wendling travelled to the battleground state of Wisconsin to hear about the fears of election workers there as the election drew closer. He tells Azadeh Moshiri about the climate of conspiracy and election denialism that has led to them being targeted. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Harassment, threats & intimidation of local officials is increasing ahead of the election | |
| Elon Musk: Is He Worth History's Biggest Pay Deal? | 20240624 | Tesla's shareholders want to give him $56 billion. Now, it's up to a judge if he gets it. The sum is astounding: more than the 2023 federal budget of Nigeria or Pakistan; more than twice Israel's annual military budget; more than the individual GDPs of 100 countries. We look at Elon's record at Tesla and examine why some investors say he needs the money to stay engaged. Sumi Somaskanda talks to BBC Business reporter Natalie Sherman and Tim Higgins, author of “Power Play: Tesla, Elon Musk, and the Bet of the Century. ? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Neal Razzell. The technical producer was Antonio Fernandes. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Encrochat: The Crime Family Brought Down, By Their Violent Messages | 20240510 | Ever since a French police operation in 2020 which compromised the highly encrypted telecommunications network, EncroChat, organised crime bosses across Europe have been looking over their shoulders. Law enforcement agencies were granted access to a treasure trove of evidence – hundreds of millions of messages – and it has led to arrests and convictions on an unprecedented scale. Now, the BBC has gained access to 10,000 messages which contributed to the downfall of one of the UK's most feared families. On today's episode, Katya speaks to investigative reporter Bronagh Munro, who reveals how this secretive organised crime group were stopped, as they sought revenge for a daring challenge to their authority. Listeners in the UK can watch the full BBC Panorama episode ‘The Crime Bosses who Terrorised a City' here: https://www.BBC.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001ysrj/panorama-the-crime-bosses-who-terrorised-a-city Or for more on EncroChat, search for the six-part BBC series ‘Gangster Presents... Catching the Kingpins' wherever you get your podcasts. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. BBC investigation into 10,000 messages from UK drug bosses | |
| Eng25 The Global Story (tuesday) 24 | 20250909 | From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Eng25 The Global Story (tuesday) 25 | 20250916 | 20250917 (WS) | From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Eng25 The Global Story (tuesday) 27 | 20250930 | 20251001 (WS) | The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Epstein's Global Network:\u00a0what The Files Reveal | 20260213 | 20260214 (WS) |
The Global Story: Where the world meets America Two weeks after the latest release of the Epstein files, the headlines keep pouring in. In just the past few days, revelations in the documents have nearly brought down a British prime minister, and implicated politicians and royals from around the world. The files are even fueling speculation about whether the late sex offender could have been a spy. We speak to Nomia Iqbal, BBC World Affairs Correspondent, about what we've learned this week about the international fallout of the Epstein scandal. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Epstein files. Credit: Cristobal Herrera-Ulashkevich/EPA/Shutterstock The latest tranche of Epstein files shed new light on the scandal's global implications |
| Estados Unidos: Could Latinos Sway The Us Election? | 20240925 | November's presidential election could highlight the political power of the largest minority group in the United States. Roughly one in five people in the US identifies as Latino, and in a close race, which way they vote could prove crucial, particularly in several swing states being keenly targeted by both major parties. On this episode of The Global Story, we explore the main political issues of importance to Latinos and examine some of the Spanish-language misinformation being disseminated in order to influence voters. With just weeks to go until the next occupant of the White House is decided, we look at how the Democrats and Republicans are targeting their messaging in order to win around crucial votes from the community. Caitríona Perry is joined by US Digital reporter Bernd Debusmann Jr. and the BBC's South America correspondent Ione Wells. Producer: Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: Philip Bull and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Richard Fenton-Smith The vote could highlight the political power of the country's largest minority group November's vote could highlight the political power of the country's largest minority group. | |
| Fascism In Italy: Has The Country Moved On From Its Past? | 20240603 | Nearly 80 years after the death of Benito Mussolini, you can still find some Italians who openly proclaim their loyalty to the dictator and give the fascist salute at rallies. That behaviour would be punished with jail time in Germany. But in Italy it's mostly met with indifference. So why do Italians seem so casual about the country's links to fascism, past and present? And what does it mean at a time when right-wing forces are on the rise across Europe? Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's Rome correspondent Mark Lowen, who's just made a documentary about neo-fascism, and the Italy correspondent for The Economist, John Hooper. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producer Mike Regaard and Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Why Mussolini's legacy still resonates with the neo-fascist minority | |
| Feeding Gaza: Why Isn't More Aid Getting In? | 20240419 | Gaza is on the brink of famine. The UN says more than half the population – over a million people – could face catastrophic hunger. But the process of delivering aid is slow and dangerous. The BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale tells Mark Lowen about taking part in an air drop of food and other supplies to Gazans. And the Palestinian journalist Ghada Ouda shares what it's like to live on humanitarian aid in the city of Rafah. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The danger and difficulty of trying to prevent a famine | |
| France's Snap Election: Will President Macron's Gamble Pay Off? | 20240611 | In the past week, 180 million people voted in elections for the European Union parliament. While the centre-right remains the biggest grouping – and made gains – it was the seats picked up by hard-right parties that captured the headlines. In France, the far-right National Rally won an unprecedented share of the vote. And President Emmanuel Macron shocked Europe by calling a snap general election. For today's episode, Katya Adler is wearing her other hat, as the BBC's Europe Editor. As the story unfolds, she takes us from results night in Brussels to a train to Paris to cover the snap election. You can listen to our previous episode 'Fascism in Italy: Has the country moved on from its past? ? here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fascism-in-italy-has-the-country-moved-on-from-its-past/id1715473158?i=1000657436379 The Global Story delivers trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Jonny Baker. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The French president dropped a bombshell after his party was beaten in EU elections The French president dropped a bombshell after his party was beaten by the far-right in EU elections. | |
| French Election: Le Pen's Far Right At The Gates Of Power | 20240703 | The far right in France are hoping to enter government for the first time since World War Two. Marine Le Pen's National Rally party won the first round of this surprise election – which has thrust French society into its biggest political turmoil in decades. Now, politicians and parties opposed to a far-right government are working together – tactically withdrawing from races to block the National Rally's path to victory. Caitríona Perry chats with the BBC's Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield about whether the opposition plans are likely to work or if there will be a radical new government in France. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The National Rally party is now a dominant force in France The National Rally party is now a dominant force in French politics. | |
| French Election: Le Pen's Far-right At The Gates Of Power | 20240703 | The far-right in France are hoping to enter government for the first time since World War Two. Marine Le Pen's National Rally party won the first round of this surprise election – which has thrust French society into its biggest political turmoil in decades. Now, politicians and parties opposed to a far-right government are working together – tactically withdrawing from races to block the National Rally's path to victory. Caitríona Perry chats with the BBC's Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield about whether the opposition plans are likely to work or if there will be a radical new government in France. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The National Rally party is now a dominant force in France The National Rally party is now a dominant force in French politics. | |
| French Election: Political Deadlock As The Left Beats Far Right | 20240709 | Many expected the far right to win France's snap election, but not only did they lose, they came in third. Instead, it was a left-wing coalition that won the most seats in the French Parliament. But, with no party securing an outright majority, the country's political future is still uncertain. Host Caitríona Perry speaks with the BBC's Europe digital editor Paul Kirby and Sophie Pedder Paris Bureau Chief for The Economist about where France goes next. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Macron faces uncertainty after surprise victory for the left alliance | |
| From Welcome To Wary: Europe's Divide On Migration | 20250220 | A decade of migration through the eyes of a German city. Ten years ago Germany opened its borders to more than a million people at the height of Europe's so-called migrant crisis. A decade later, that warm welcome has cooled as issues of culture, integration and national identity spark fierce debate across the continent. With German elections just days away, the BBC has revisited one migrant family and the city they landed in, to see how life has changed since 2015 – and what their experience says about the way Europeans now view migration. On this episode, Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's Berlin correspondent Jess Parker, and Mark Lowen, the BBC's former southern Europe correspondent who covered the refugee crisis for years. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins A decade of migration through the eyes of one German city | |
| Gaza Ceasefire: How Does It Feel To Return Home? | 20250130 | Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are heading north to find out what is left of their homes after 15 months of war. On this episode, our host Jonny Dymond speaks to Farida Alghol, who has made the journey back to Gaza City and her parents. We also ask our correspondent Nick Beake what the future holds for the people and territory of Gaza. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians go back to north Gaza | |
| Georgia Protests: Is 'russia Law' A Threat To Democracy? | 20240514 | For weeks, tens of thousands of Georgians have been protesting against a new law that they say threatens democracy and freedom of speech. It targets civil society organisations and independent media that receive foreign funding. But its opponents say it is an attempt by the Georgian government to mimic Russian policy. Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's Nina Akhmeteli who is in Tbilisi and Politico's reporter in the region Gabriel Gavin. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin and Emilia Jansson. The technical producers were Emma Crowe and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Moscow and the EU compete for influence in Tbilisi | |
| Germany's Deepening Political Crisis | 20241113 | Chancellor Scholz's three-party coalition government has fallen apart, leaving Germany mired in a period of political instability. Disagreements between the chancellor and his finance minister Christian Lindner had bubbled for months, ultimately leading to the latter's dismissal. That prompted two of Lindner's party colleagues to resign, effectively dismantling the coalition and leaving the chancellor at the head of a minority government. The political turmoil in Berlin comes as Donald Trump's second election victory leaves the world wondering whether American support will be pulled from Ukraine. Germany is the European Union's largest economy, but its manufacturing sector has been struggling, while consumers have been affected by high inflation. The BBC's Berlin correspondent Damien McGuinness and The Guardian's Berlin correspondent Kate Connolly tell host Katya Adler about the roots of this crisis, and discuss how it may have ramifications around Europe and beyond. Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Ghislaine Maxwell, The Epstein Files, And The Scandal That Won't Go Away | 20251114 | 20251115 (WS) | 
Calls to release all the Epstein files are growing, after Wednesday's bombshell release of over 20,000 pages of documents related to the sex trafficking scandal. The private messages released by the estate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have increased scrutiny on what President Trump may have known about Epstein's behaviour. The White House has told the BBC the documents ‘prove literally nothing'. The furore continues to intensify, but there is one woman who has all the answers: Epstein's long-time associate Ghislaine Maxwell. So who is the disgraced British socialite and what is her role in the scandal? Today we talk to the BBC's New York correspondent Nada Tawfik, who has covered the case for over a decade. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer and senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: Ghislaine Maxwell with Jeffrey Epstein. US Department of Justice/PA Wire Does Epstein's long-time associate have the answers the public wants? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Gisele Pelicot And The 51 Men She Faced In Court | 20241218 | 
On today's episode Caitríona Perry speaks to the BBC's Paris correspondent Andrew Harding about Gisèle Pelicot and how she refused to carry the shame of the 51 men she faced in court. If you need support with the issues we've been talking about, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org. In the UK, you can find a list of organisations that can help at BBC.co.uk/actionline The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Alix Pickles, Mhairi MacKenzie, Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Rohan Madison and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Picture credit: EPA The mass rape trial has shaken French attitudes towards sexual violence and consent | |
| Gisele Pelicot On Confronting Shame And Finding Hope | 20260217 | 20260218 (WS) | 
Gisèle Pelicot earned international recognition after waiving her anonymity at her mass-rape trial in 2024, in which her former husband, Dominique, was sentenced to 20 years in jail for drugging her and inviting dozens of other men to their home in the south of France to rape her while she was unconscious. In court, Gisèle Pelicot bravely faced her abusers, and in public, she stood stoically in defence of sexual assault survivors, saying that, “shame must change sides ?. The BBC's Victoria Derbyshire talks through her recent interview with Gisèle Pelicot, as her memoir, A Hymn to Life, is published. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at befrienders.org. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support, go to BBC.co.uk/actionline. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Gisèle Pelicot in Paris, France. Credit: Dmitry Kostyukov/BBC Newsnight) Gis\u00e8le Pelicot's bravery during the rape trial of her husband and 50 men made her an icon The Global Story: Where the world meets America Gisèle Pelicot's bravery during the rape trial of her husband and 50 men made her an icon. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Greenland: Could The Us Regret Alienating Its Nato Allies? | 20260120 | 20260121 20260121 (WS) 20260122 (WS) | 
Even if Trump's attempt to control Greenland goes no further, has trust between the United States and its Nato allies been damaged beyond repair? We speak to the BBC's world news correspondent, Joe Inwood. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Mix: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Credits: Love Actually (2003) / Dir: Richard Curtis / Universal Pictures Photo: A town in Greenland. BBC. Trump responded, no comment when asked if he'd use force to seize Greenland. The Global Story: Where the world meets America President Trump is threatening to impose tariffs on European countries if a deal over Greenland is not reached. How will his demands damage the US' relationship to Nato? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Hajj: Why Over 1,000 Muslim Pilgrims Have Died | 20240625 | Can Saudi Arabia balance tradition with safety as the climate crisis deepens? Nearly 2 million people braved temperatures exceeding 50C to visit the holiest city in Islam this month. At least 1,300 of them died. So what went wrong? And what does the future hold for Hajj, as attendance numbers, and temperatures, continue to soar? Caitríona Perry speaks to BBC Religion Editor Aleem Maqbool and our Egypt correspondent Sally Nabil. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Tom Kavanagh and Peter Goffin. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Julian Farmer. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Harris And Trump Clash In Fiery First Debate | 20240911 | The Republican and Democratic presidential candidates traded claims over key election issues including the economy, immigration and abortion. They discussed policy but personal attacks also dominated their first debate. So, who had a good night, and to what extent will this debate sway voters, with less than two months to go before polling day? Sumi Somaskanda hosts this episode from Philadelphia, where the debate took place. She's joined by Courtney Subramanian and Bernd Debusmann, from the BBC's North America digital team. Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineer: Hannah Montgomery. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. The presidential candidates traded claims on the economy, abortion and immigration | |
| Has Canada Soured On Immigration? | 20250102 | A majority of Canadians say too many people are being allowed in the country, for the first time this century. Multiculturalism and the acceptance of newcomers are central to Canada's national identity. But amidst record-breaking population growth, a cost of living crisis and a shortage of affordable housing, many Canadians have begun to question whether the country has the capacity to keep accepting hundreds of thousands of migrants each year. On this episode Azadeh Moshiri is joined by the BBC's Celia Hatton, who has travelled across Canada speaking to politicians, activists and asylum centre workers about the Canadian immigration debate. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Frank McWeeny Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson For the first time in decades most Canadians say too many people are being let in | |
| Has One Phone Call Sealed Ukraine's Fate? | 20250214 | In a surprise move this week, US President Donald Trump announced that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had agreed to begin negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. The pair held what Washington described as a 'lengthy and highly productive' phone call, ending an effective boycott of high-level diplomatic dialogue with the Kremlin by western leaders. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, who spoke separately with President Trump, has emphasised his scepticism about Russia's readiness for peace. So, does this moment mark the first step towards formal talks? On this episode, Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet. She dialled in from the Munich Security Conference, where Ukraine looks to be high on the agenda. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins US President Donald Trump says Russia has agreed to negotiate peace talks | |
| Has Trump Pushed Cuba To The Brink Of Collapse? | 20260331 | 20260401 (WS) | 
The Trump administration has tightened a longstanding US economic embargo on the Caribbean island, and created a near-total fuel blockade. Cuba was already in the grip of a severe economic crisis, and while a Russian oil tanker has recently reached the island, the blockade has pushed the country to the brink of collapse. We speak to the BBC's Will Grant, who has recently returned from the island, to discuss what Trump wants in Cuba, and whether the Cuban Revolution can survive its biggest test in decades. Producers: Aron Keller and Viv Jones Executive producer: Penny Murphy Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Havana street during a blackout. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock Could the US\u2011imposed near\u2011total oil blockade topple Cuba's government? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Could the US‑imposed near‑total oil blockade topple Cuba's government? |
| Has Xi Jinping Outsmarted His Rivals? | 20260113 | 20260114 (WS) |  How will China respond to a new era of US assertiveness? Could the spectacular events of Trump's second term change President Xi Jinping's calculations about whether to flex China's muscles in Taiwan? All this week, we are teaming up with our sister podcasts to explore how power and influence around the world is shifting. We're exploring who has a sphere of influence and who finds themselves in one. Today we're joined by Mariko Oi, host of Asia Specific from the BBC World Service, and the BBC's China correspondent, Laura Bicker. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: China's President Xi Jinping. Maxim Shemetov/Pool/Reuters The story of how China became a superpower. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Have Rfk Jr.'s Vaccine Views Gone Mainstream? | 20250305 | Vaccine mistrust is on the rise. And when US President Donald Trump's new cabinet met for the first time last week, all eyes were on the new Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr who has long been known as a vaccine sceptic. With doubts about vaccines increasing in many parts of the world, will his appointment have an effect on the way vaccinations are viewed globally? Presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to Jim Reed, a BBC health reporter and Dorcas Wangira, the BBC's Africa Health Correspondent, in Nairobi. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Eleanor Sly and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: James Piper Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Robert Kennedy now heads the US health ministry and doubts about vaccines are rising Robert F Kennedy is in charge of the world's most influential health ministry and doubts about vaccines are rising in many places around the world. | |
| Have The Protests In Iran Failed? | 20260121 | 20260122 (WS) |  After weeks of mass demonstrations, Iran is reeling from one of the deadliest government crackdowns in its history. In a rare speech on Saturday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei admitted that thousands of protesters have been killed, 'some in an inhuman, savage manner', but he also blamed the US for their deaths. President Trump urged Iranian demonstrators to “keep protesting ?, promising that “help is on its way ?. Yet the window for US military intervention appears to have narrowed while the Iranian government has largely quelled the unrest. Amid a near-total internet shutdown however, the situation on the ground remains unclear. In today's episode, we speak with journalists in the BBC's Persian Service in London, to unpack how anger over the economy escalated into a nationwide uprising that seemed to genuinely challenge the government's grip on power. They walk us through the difficulties of covering these protests from outside the country, explain why the movement failed to topple the Iranian leadership, and explain what this means for the stability of the Iranian government going forward. Featuring Parham Ghobadi, Sarah Namjoo, Ghoncheh Habibiazad and Maryam Zohdi. Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Lucy Pawle Executive producers: James Shield and Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A handout photo made available by the Iranian supreme leader's office shows Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaking during a ceremony in Tehran, Iran. Credit: Leader's office handout/EPA/Shutterstock. How a brutal crackdown appears to have quelled the unrest. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Have We Already Found The Fountain Of Youth? | 20250123 | For centuries, people have pursued the dream of eternal youth. It might seem like the stuff of myth or science fiction, but researchers have been making fascinating progress in understanding what happens in our bodies as we age. There's optimism that we might soon be able to use drugs to slow down or even reverse how we age, extending the number of years we live healthy, productive lives. What's more, some of us might be taking these drugs already. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to Dr Andrew Steele, author of ‘Ageless: The new science of getting older without getting old' to find out whether we might drink from the fountain of youth in our lifetime. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: Annie Smith Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Scientists are optimistic that existing drugs could one day slow or reverse our ageing | |
| Hezbollah: Tensions On The Israel-lebanon Border | 20240613 | Ever since Israel launched its Gaza offensive in October, it has also been exchanging fire over its northern border with the Shia militia group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The Iran-backed Hezbollah are ideologically aligned with Hamas, and say they won't back down until Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza. Now, some in the region are concerned increasing tensions could lead to a full-blown ground war. On Wednesday, Hezbollah confirmed an Israeli airstrike had killed one of its senior field commanders, before responding with its own barrage of rockets. In Israel domestic pressure to act is increasing, and arguments for the IDF to engage Hezbollah further have been bolstered in recent weeks by bushfires in the north of the country sparked by rocket-fire. As rhetoric ramps up, Lucy Hockings is joined by BBC correspondents Lina Sinjab and Hugo Bachega to discuss whether Israel can really afford a new ground operation, and those calling for de-escalation. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Rhetoric is ramping up, as the IDF exchange fire with the Shia militia group | |
| Hollywood: Has The Summer Blockbuster Lost Its Sparkle? | 20240705 | It's a year since we flocked to cinemas to experience the Barbenheimer phenomena. But some industry insiders are worried that was an anomaly and disguised the trouble facing Hollywood. So, what can we look forward to from this summers blockbusters? Why aren't they living up to the hype of years gone by? And can the industry get back to the golden summers of Jaws, Top Gun and Jurassic Park? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Gareth Jones and Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Some industry insiders worry Barbenheimer was an anomaly disguising the industry's woes | |
| Hope And Loss After 15 Months Of Israel-gaza Conflict | 20250115 | After 15 months of conflict, a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is in sight. But the war has left so many dead, so much destroyed, and a region shaken and redrawn. As so many are hoping for a deal that will quiet the guns, we're using this moment to take stock. Jonny Dymond speaks to BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega about what has been lost, and whether anything has been gained, after 466 days of war. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Beth Timmins and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Gareth Jones Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| How A Festival In Saudi Arabia Rocked The American Comedy World | 20251003 | 20251004 (WS) | 
We speak to the comedian Gianmarco Soresi, who has been highly critical of peers who chose to play the festival, and from BBC security correspondent and resident Saudi Arabia expert, Frank Gardner. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Can Saudi Arabia transform its reputation - by hosting superstar comedians? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Comedians including Aziz Ansari, Kevin Hart and Louis CK are in Riyadh this week for a comedy festival organized by the Saudi Arabian government. Is this 'comedy washing'? |
| How A Venezuelan Prison Gang Became The Face Of Trump's Immigration Crackdown | 20251030 | 20251031 (WS) | 
When President Trump designated the gang a Foreign Terror Organisation, and invoked a 1798 law that allows presidents to swiftly deport citizens of enemy countries, civil rights groups accused his government of using these measures as a way to deport Venezuelans without due process. Trump has argued he's acting to 'eliminate the presence of all foreign gangs and criminal networks bringing devastating crime to US soil'. We speak to Jonathan Blitzer, staff writer at the New Yorker, who has been reporting on how Tren de Aragua became a major focus of Trump's domestic and foreign policy. Producers: Viv Jones and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: An alleged member of the Tren de Aragua in detention. Reuters. Trump calls Tren de Aragua narco-terrorists. His critics say he's created a bogeyman. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Trump calls Tren de Aragua “narco-terrorists ?. His critics say he's created a bogeyman. |
| How Can Europe Defend Itself Without The United States? | 20250218 | With the Trump administration threatening to redirect America's foreign defence spending from Ukraine and Europe to other parts of the world, European leaders are grappling with what the future of their security could be without US support. Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale. They discuss the threat of Russia and how Europe could defend its borders if the United States were to withdraw its money and manpower from the continent. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Eleanor Sly and Laurie Kalus Sound engineer: Gareth Jones Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins President Trump's\u00a0threat to stop funding European defence could have lasting consequences President Trump's threat to stop funding European defence could have lasting consequences. | |
| How Charlie Kirk Inspired A New Korean Right-wing Youth Movement | 20260119 | 20260120 (WS) |  A right-wing movement in South Korea is attracting disenchanted young people who are concerned about mass immigration, lawfare and cancel culture. They sport red baseball caps, idolise Charlie Kirk and chant that “Korea is for Koreans ?. The movement has rallied around the impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was sentenced last week to five years in jail for abuse of power, obstructing justice and falsifying documents in relation to his failed martial law bid in 2024. Yoon could also face the death penalty over insurrection charges, which he denies. The BBC's Seoul correspondent, Jake Kwon, explains how South Korea found itself at the heart of a globalised culture war. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Mix: Travis Evans Executive Producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Jintak Han/The Washington Post via Getty Images) The 'make Korea great again' movement wants to free its jailed ex-president. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| How China Beat The Us On Green Energy | 20260203 | 20260204 (WS) | 
China, meanwhile, has spent the past decade consolidating its expansion into clean energy technologies, even as it remains the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gasses. In today's episode, BBC climate editor Justin Rowlatt explains how the growing energy rivalry between the world's biggest superpowers will shape the future of geopolitics and have profound consequences for the planet's ability to cut carbon emissions. Producers: Aron Keller and Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Executive producers: James Shield and Bridget Harney Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A wind turbine and solar panels in Yancheng, China. Credit: Alex Plavesvski/ EPA) As Donald Trump champions oil and gas, China is racing ahead on renewable energy. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| How Damaged Is Hezbollah? | 20241017 | Israel's assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the long-standing leader of Hezbollah, represented a major escalation in its war with the Lebanese militant group. With the region on the brink of a widening conflict, we look at how Israel's attacks on Hezbollah's leadership have potentially weakened the organisation, and what that could mean for the course of the war. Host Katya Adler asks the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner how the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel escalated and what each actor might do next. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Jonny Hall and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Israel has inflicted a string of blows on the Lebanon-based armed group | |
| How Did A Chinese Spiritual Movement Build A Us Media Empire? | 20251204 | 20251205 (WS) |  When China began cracking down on the spiritual movement Falun Gong in the 1990s, its leader and some followers moved to the United States. From there, they started the Epoch Times, a free newsletter. But in the past decade, the organisation has grown to become a conservative media empire – with a Pentagon press pass, a slick TV arm, and many millions of dollars in revenue. How did they do it? The story involves a mysterious spiritual leader, a dance troupe, and even a federal indictment. What does the meteoric rise of the Epoch Times say about how media and politics in the United States have changed in the last decade? We speak to Brandy Zadrozny, who has investigated the Epoch Times for NBC News. Producer: Lucy Pawle and Cat Farnsworth Sound engineer: Martin Peralta and Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Members of the Falun Gong protesting in New York. Credit: Alex Segre/BBC Images) In the 1990s, followers of Falun Gong moved to the US and created the Epoch Times The Global Story: Where the world meets America In the 1990s, followers of the Falun Gong spiritual movement escaped to the US. They started the newsletter Epoch Times, which has evolved to become a million dollar media empire. |
| How Did One Fire Paralyse Europe's Busiest Airport? | 20250325 | London Heathrow saw all its flights cancelled on Friday after a fire at a local power supply station. The news led to rampant speculation online – rumours of foreign interference, accusations against executives, and angry questions about who was to blame. So why wasn't there a contingency plan to keep such an essential transport hub running? Caitríona Perry is joined by Theo Leggett, the BBC's international business correspondent, to discuss Heathrow's temporary closure and what it says about the vulnerabilities of our major infrastructure. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineer: Stephen Bailey Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins London Heathrow cancelled all flights after a local power outage | |
| How Does War Affect A Child's Brain? | 20260317 | 20260318 (WS) | 
As he came to understand the impacts of trauma on young minds, Keane began too to experience his own mental breakdowns – the result of a troubled childhood and a career spent running towards danger – and was eventually diagnosed with PTSD. In today's episode, he reflects on what he has learned from his own experiences and reporting about how childhood traumas can be treated, and the hope for those living through today's wars. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Displaced children play in Gaza, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Haitham Imad/ EPA/ Shutterstock. Veteran war reporter Fergal Keane on PTSD among children in conflicts worldwide. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| How Giorgia Meloni Became Trump's Best Friend In Europe | 20251024 | 20251025 (WS) | 
A populist whose party has roots in Italian fascism, and who takes a hard right stance on migration and family values, she has formed a kinship with Donald Trump, who this month alone has promoted her autobiography and her speeches online, and called her “beautiful ? on stage. In today's episode, journalist Barbara Serra joins us to discuss Meloni's increasingly crucial role in US-European relations. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: YOAN VALAT/POOL/EPA/Shutterstock A populist whose party has roots in Italian fascism, Italy's leader is trusted by Trump. The Global Story: Where the world meets America How Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni rose from working class, hard-right roots to become Donald Trump's most trusted ally in Europe. |
| How North Korean Hackers Launched History's Biggest Heist | 20250307 | In February, hackers launched what is being considered the biggest heist of all time, when they stole almost $1.5bn from the cryptocurrency trading platform, Bybit. The record theft reportedly went down in just two minutes, and it set in motion a race against time to freeze some of the funds before the culprits could cash out. Soon, evidence began to point to Lazarus, an elite hacking group widely linked to the North Korean intelligence agency. So with analysis suggesting the country's malicious activity is on the rise, how are international governments fighting back, and are we more vulnerable to sophisticated cyber threats than ever before? Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's cyber correspondent, Joe Tidy. They examine how the hack was carried out, and consider what it means for the wider crypto landscape, as Donald Trump announces his plans for a US cryptocurrency reserve. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Dafydd Evans and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Almost $1.5bn was stolen from crypto trading platform Bybit | |
| How Palantir Became Indispensable | 20260130 | 20260131 (WS) |  Palantir isn't just another tech firm - it's reach cuts across almost every aspect of modern life, from AI to healthcare to Formula 1 racing. Founded in 2003 to support US counter-terrorism efforts, the company has since grown into a global powerhouse and is central to the Trump administration's policies, from its military to immigration enforcement. At the centre of it all is billionaire co-founder Alex Karp – the philosopher turned tech-CEO who built the company from the ground up. So how did this software company built for bad times become indispensable to governments across the globe, and what does its rise reveal about the future of politics? We speak to journalist Michael Steinberger whose book The Philosopher in the Valley charts Karp's life and Palantir's rise. Producer: Aron Keller Mix: Travis Evans Executive producer: China Collins Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Palantir co-founder & CEO Alex Karp. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters. The software firm has become the go-to-tool for governments worldwide The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| How Social Media Shapes The Way We Speak | 20241118 | Language is constantly changing. But exposure to social media has seen younger generations, from millennials to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, adopting new terms at a pace never seen before. On this episode, we consider how internet culture is influencing the way many of us speak, as traditional media loses its grip on standard discourse. From vocabulary to grammar, is it possible for politicians to control or protect language, and what is the future of the spoken word in the age of artificial intelligence? Lucy Hockings is joined by journalist and author Sophia Smith Galer and Neil Edgeller from BBC Learning English. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Eleanor Sly and Laurie Kalus Sound engineers: Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Internet culture is speeding up language change | |
| How Syria Is Rebuilding After The Fall Of A Dictator | 20251210 | 20251211 (WS) |  This week, Syrians have been celebrating the first anniversary of the fall of the Assad regime and the end of almost 14 years of civil war. In the year since, the former jihadist turned leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has been on an international charm offensive. But has life improved for ordinary Syrians back home? And has Sharaa proven himself to be the reformer the west wants him to be? Today we're joined from Damascus by the BBC's international editor, Jeremy Bowen. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: A young girl sits on her father's shoulders during a parade marking the first anniversary of the ousting of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Idlib, Syria. Bilal al-Hammoud/EPA/Shutterstock Since the Assad regime fell one year ago, how has life changed for Syrians? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| How The BBC Covers The Israel-gaza War | 20240405 | Jo Floto – who's covered conflict for more than two decades - takes us back to the first text he received from Gaza on Oct 7th. It simply said: “They've started a war. ? In the six months since, he and his team have been working flat out in what he calls the toughest assignment of his life. He tells his old friend, Katya, where he thinks the war could go next. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. Or, leave a voice note or message via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. We make several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts, too. Find them on your favourite podcast app. This episode was produced by Neal Razzell, Peter Goffin, Alix Pickles and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The assistant editor was Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor was Jonathan Aspinwall. Exclusive insights from our Middle East bureau chief | |
| How The Minnesota Shooting Set Off A Tiktok Censorship Debate | 20260129 | 20260130 20260130 (WS) 20260131 (WS) | 
The criticism has come to a head after federal agents shot and killed intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, a US citizen in Minnesota. The Department of Homeland Security says the agents fired in self-defence. Though the facts remain muddy, the controversy has exposed how a divided America is reacting to the shooting. For the latest, we speak to BBC Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent Marianna Spring. Producers: Xandra Ellin, Samantha Chantarasak, and Viv Jones Executive producer: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Teenagers holding smartphones in front of a TikTok logo. September 11, 2025. Credit:Dado Ruvic/Reuters Why some TikTok users think the app is censoring Trump-critical content The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| How The National Guard Shooting Accelerated Trump's Immigration Crackdown | 20251208 | 20251209 (WS) |  After an Afghan national was charged with shooting two National Guard members in Washington DC, President Donald Trump called for sweeping changes in immigration policy and pledged to 'permanently pause migration' from all 'third world countries'. Afghan nationals, especially those who worked with the US mission in Afghanistan, may now find themselves in a particularly precarious position. Asma and Tristan discuss these rapid recent policy changes, and the BBC's Mahfouz Zubaide shares recent reporting on how Afghans in America are getting caught up in the crackdown. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Bridget Harney Senior News Editor: China Collins Mix: Marty Peralta Photo: People leave flowers at the scene where two National Guard members were shot in Washington DC. Credit: Will Oliver/EPA/Shutterstock Trump has pledged to 'permanently pause migration' from all 'third world countries'. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| How The Oscars Went International | 20260313 | 20260314 (WS) | 
Looming over the celebrations are some major upheavals in Hollywood: big corporate mergers, the incursion of AI, and mass layoffs. And it's against that backdrop that the Oscars are increasingly nominating films, filmmakers, and actors from elsewhere in the world. BBC film reporter and critic Tom Brook explains how the Oscars went global, and what it can tell us about the status of American soft power. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Workers make preparations for the 98th annual Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles Credit: Reuters / Caroline Brehman The Academy Awards are increasingly nominating films made outside of America. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| How The Us, China And Russia Are Vying For Influence In Africa | 20260115 | 20260116 (WS) | 
All this week, we're teaming up with our BBC sister podcasts to explore how power and influence around the world is shifting. We're talking about which countries have a sphere of influence, and which countries are in someone else's. In today's episode, we speak to Charles Gitonga from the BBC's Focus on Africa podcast about three countries in Central Africa which have found themselves at the at the centre of a geopolitical tug of war. Producers: Hannah Moore, Aron Keller and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A soldier with the M23 armed group stands guard in Bukavu, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Credit: Marie Jeanne Munyerenkana/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock. The US, China and Russia all have interests in Central Africa The Global Story: Where the world meets America The US, China and Russia all have interests in Central Africa – what are the pros and cons of letting them in? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| How Trump 2.0 Could Reshape The Middle East | 20250122 | It's a moment of change in the Middle East. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and Hezbollah in retreat in Lebanon. Iran and its proxies are weakened and Syria has slipped from its grasp. Now, with President Trump officially installed in the White House, what impact might his presidency have on the region? Will he forge new ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia? And what about his rocky relationship with Iran? To discuss, Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Hannah Montgomery and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins What are the new US president's priorities in the region? | |
| How Vulnerable Are The Undersea Cables Connecting Us All? | 20241009 | In our age of wireless technology, it might be hard to believe that we're all connected by a few hundred cables running along the sea bed. From the memes we send to friends, to the intelligence used by the military, virtually all internet data between the continents travels along wires thinner than a human hair. If they sound vulnerable, it's because they are. On average a hundred are accidentally severed each year. And security experts are warning they could be a target for military or terrorist sabotage. Caitríona Perry speaks to Nicole Starosielski, professor at the University of California, Berkeley and author of The Undersea Network, who guides us through these secretive networks. And our security correspondent Frank Gardener helps us understand how vulnerable they are. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Virtually all internet traffic between continents travels wires thinner than a human hair Virtually all internet traffic between continents travels along wires thinner than a human hair. | |
| Hunter Biden Guilty: What Could It Mean For The President? | 20240612 | President Biden's son, Hunter, has been found guilty of lying about his drug use when buying a gun in 2018. Hunter Biden now faces a possible prison term of up to 25 years, although a sentence of that length for a first-time offender is highly unlikely. The high-profile trial comes as his father runs for re-election. It is the first time a sitting president's child has been found guilty of a crime. But what does Hunter's conviction mean for President Biden? In this episode, our host Caitríona Perry is joined by our North America correspondent, Nomia Iqbal and our US reporter who has been covering the trail in Delaware - Bernd Debusmann Jr. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Beth Timmins and Pete Ross. The technical producer was Ben Martin. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. President Biden's son, Hunter, found guilty of lying about his drug use when buying a gun President Biden's son, Hunter, found guilty of lying about his drug use when buying a gun in 2018. | |
| Hurricane Milton: Destruction, Politics, And Misinformation | 20241011 | Hurricane Milton has left millions of homes across Florida without power, less than a fortnight after hurricane Helene ravaged states across the south-eastern US. Misinformation surrounding both storms has become rife online, including the false narrative that the government is manipulating the weather ahead of November's election. Further debunked allegations that recovery funds were redirected towards illegal migrants have been adopted by mainstream Republicans, causing widespread political fallout, even as a bipartisan recovery effort continues. On this episode, Azadeh Moshiri is joined by our correspondent in the US, Tom Bateman, and BBC Verify reporter, Marco Silva. They discuss what's happening both on the ground and online, and consider how these events could influence the presidential election. Additional reporting comes from Elizabeth Rizzini. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Alix Pickles, and Mariana Hernandez-Carillo Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Devastating storms in the south-eastern US are hijacking the election narrative | |
| I Wargamed Iran For The Pentagon - Here Is How It Could End | 20260402 | 20260403 (WS) | 
For years, the Pentagon has run war games to try and plan for what might happen if the US went to war with Iran. Our guest, Ilan Goldenberg, was in the room during the Obama years, taking part. Ilan Goldenberg is Senior Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at J Street. Previously, he was an adviser on Iran for President Barack Obama, and for Vice President Kamala Harris. Producers: Lucy Pawle and Viv Jones Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: President Donald Trump. Credit: Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) What are the risks and rewards of the different military options? The Global Story: Where the world meets America For years, the Pentagon has run war games to try and plan for what might happen if the US went to war with Iran. What are the risks and rewards of the different military options? |
| If China Attacked Taiwan, What Would Trump Do? | 20251027 | 20251028 (WS) | 
One of the big questions overshadowing the trip is Taiwan's future. China has long vowed to 'reunify' with self-governing Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force. On Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US wouldn't abandon the island in exchange for a favourable deal with China. But a tug of war has been playing out inside the Trump administration over whether a military battle for Taiwan – if China did try to seize it – would be in America's best interests. We speak to writer and analyst James Crabtree about what to expect from Trump's visit to Asia and where Taiwan goes from here. Producers: Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Taiwanese people observe the changing of honor guards in Liberty Square in Taipei. Ritchie B Tongo/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock. Trump is in Asia this week to strike deals, but one question overshadows the trip. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| India Election: How To Organise The Biggest Vote In History | 20240416 | India will host the world's biggest election this year when nearly one billion people will vote. Organisers have vowed to set up polling stations within 2km of every citizen, but India's vast size means this will be a challenge. The country's 15 million election officials must travel to coastal towns, mountain villages, remote islands and dense jungles to reach every voter. Katya speaks with BBC journalist and presenter Devina Gupta and India correspondent Soutik Biswas to break down the big numbers and discuss how it is possible to organise an election on this scale. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. Or, message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Devina Gupta. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Nearly one billion people will go to the polls | |
| India Election: Modi's Massive Social Media Machine | 20240522 | India is in the middle of the biggest election the world has ever seen, and social media has become a vital political tool for candidates trying to reach around a billion voters across the country. Katya Adler is joined by Devina Gupta and Shruti Menon in the BBC's Delhi bureau for a look inside the digital campaigns of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his main opponent, Rahul Gandhi. And they ask, how can Indian avoid the threat of online disinformation and deepfakes? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producers were Mike Regaard, Hannah Montgomery and Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. How holograms, AI and group chats and have transformed Indian politics | |
| India Election: What Went Wrong For Modi? | 20240606 | The results of the Indian general election were met with surprise the world over. Despite doing enough to secure an historic third term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will now rely on coalition partners in order to govern, after his BJP party failed to retain an outright majority. So what went wrong in a campaign widely expected to be a coronation, and why did analysts fail to predict a resurgence among opposition parties? Caitríona Perry is joined by our South Asia regional editor Anbarasan Ethirajan, and BBC presenter Devina Gupta to discuss how this result could alter India's political landscape. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. BJP to govern in coalition after losing outright majority | |
| India's Mega-wedding: Party Like A Billionaire | 20240718 | Asia's richest man, Mukesh Ambani, celebrated his son's marriage with a series of star-studded bashes. The guest-list included Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg and Kim Kardashian. Katy Perry, Rihanna and Justin Bieber gave private performances. Lucy Hockings speaks to BBC Business presenter Rahul Tandon and BBC India Business correspondent Nikhil Inamdar about the celebration of the century, and what this lavish party says about India's ultra-rich. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin, Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. How Asia's richest man celebrated his son's marriage | |
| Inside Iran After The Crackdown | 20260224 | 20260225 (WS) | 
The Iran nuclear talks come as the Iranian government faces the biggest challenge to its survival since 1979. Last month, a protest about the rising costs of living exploded into a nationwide uprising. The response was a brutal crackdown which killed thousands of people. Having returned from a reporting trip to the capital Tehran, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, gives us a rare insight into how Iranians are dealing with the aftermath of last month's protests, continuing economic hardship, and the prospect of a US attack. Producers: Aron Keller, Viv Jones and Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Iranians walking in Tehran. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock A rare look inside the country reckoning with a brutal crackdown and the prospect of war. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Inside Iran's Secret Rave Scene | 20240403 | Mixed-sex raves are illegal in Iran. Partygoers risk fines, prison or lashes from the morality police. But that doesn't stop invite-only, clandestine clubs from thriving. Now more and more Iranian female DJs are joining the illegal dance floors of Iran and some are even touring the world. The BBC's Faranak Amidi tells Katya about a new generation of culture warriors. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. Or, leave a voice note or message via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was produced by Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Sam Dickinson. The assistant editor was Sergi Forcada Freixas and the editor was Jonathan Aspinwall. Female DJs spin the soundtrack of resistance | |
| Inside Russia: Putin's War, Three Years On | 20250224 | What have Russians won and lost during the conflict in Ukraine? Three years after the start of its full-scale invasion, Russia has entered talks with Donald Trump – and not Kyiv – about ending the war. For Vladimir Putin, this could be a chance to end the conflict on his terms, and forge a new international order with Russia and the US at its centre. But what about the people who live under Putin's rule? What do Russians stand to gain from these talks? On this episode, presenter Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's Russia editor Steve Rosenberg. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Inside Sudan's Devastating War | 20240923 | The BBC sees first-hand the desperate conditions civilians in Sudan are living through. With the world's attention trained on the war in Ukraine and the devastation in Gaza, another conflict which has been raging since April 2023 has received comparably little coverage. The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group has taken a horrific toll on the country. Just this month, the head of the UN's World Health Organization warned that around 25 million people – half of the population – is in need of some form of support, with famine and disease rampant. 12 million people have already been forced from their homes by the war – the highest figure for any conflict in the world. Host Katya Adler discusses the country's current plight with the BBC's former Sudan correspondent James Copnall, and International Correspondent Nawal Al-Maghafi, who was recently granted rare access to visit camps for internally displaced people in Port Sudan and at the Adre border the country shares with Chad. Producers: Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh and Alice Aylett Roberts. Sound Engineers: Pete Wise and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Inside The Gangs Smuggling People From Vietnam To Europe | 20241031 | A BBC team has spent months getting under the bonnet of a rapidly growing migrant route. Almost overnight Vietnam has become the largest single source of migrants making the dangerous channel crossing to reach the UK. Speaking to one man who has been involved in the criminal network for decades, we uncover a world of forged documents, premium services and shattered dreams. Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Paris Correspondent, Andrew Harding and our reporter in Bangkok, Thu Bui. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineer: Michael Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Inside The White House On Inauguration Day | 20250120 | 
Jonny Dymond speaks with Katie Johnson, President Barack Obama's former personal assistant, about what it was like to enter the White House on inauguration day in 2009. Jonny also speaks with Courtney Subramanian about how Donald Trump's second presidential term might differ to his first. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Tom Kavanagh and Kate Eagleton-Etheridge Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins (Picture: White House. Credit: BBC) A staffer's personal story of entering the West Wing | |
| Inside Ukraine As Trump Targets Minerals | 20250227 | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to travel to Washington on Friday, after a preliminary deal was agreed to share his country's mineral resources. Kyiv insists it is still seeking additional security guarantees from the US, before anything is signed. Meanwhile, Ukraine's long defence against Russia's invasion continues, and three years into the war some frontline troops have told the BBC they feel revitalised after the Trump administration excluded them from controversial negotiations with Vladimir Putin. But can they really fight on? On today's episode Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's international editor, Jeremy Bowen. We hear his take on the current attitudes of those inside Ukraine, after reuniting with some of the people he met there during the first weeks of war. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Laurie Kalus, and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Three years into war, where do Ukrainians stand? | |
| Investigating Illegal Settlements In The West Bank | 20240905 | BBC analysis has identified almost 200 settler outposts in the West Bank, which are illegal under both international and Israeli law. Experts say these outposts are able to seize large swathes of land more rapidly than settlements, and are increasingly linked to violence and harassment towards Palestinian communities. And the BBC World Service has seen documents showing that organisations with close ties to the Israeli government have provided money and land used to establish them. On today's episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by Matthew Cassel, who shot and directed the new film 'Settlements Above the Law' from BBC Eye Investigations. He talks about the Palestinians he met who have been forced from their homes, and the settlers they say are responsible. He also discusses calls for the international community to target powerful organisations inside Israel, as critics question the impact of sanctions against individual settlers. You can see the full investigation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxLDYkX7l9A The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineers: Hannah Montgomery, Mike Regaard, and Phil Bull. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. BBC analysis identified almost 200 Israeli outposts | |
| Investigating The J-pop Sexual Abuse Scandal | 20240404 | For decades the Japanese entertainment industry ignored allegations that Johnny Kitagawa – a powerful music mogul who died in 2019 – had sexually abused young men and boys who he'd promised to turn into stars. Last year, the BBC aired a documentary by journalist Mobeen Azhar which shed new light on the accusations, and led to a reckoning across Japanese pop music. Azhar has been following up on the scandal and its aftermath in a new documentary. He joins Katya Adler and BBC presenter Mariko Oi, who grew up in Japan idolising J-pop stars. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com or leave a voice note or message via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor was Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor was Jonathan Aspinwall. How a BBC documentary rocked Japan's music industry | |
| Iran Under Attack: The View From Inside | 20260304 | 20260305 (WS) | 
Parham Ghobadi, senior reporter and presenter at BBC Persian, has been speaking to people inside Iran to guage their fears, their expectations, and how they are navigating a moment that could reshape their country's future. Producer: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A woman reacts on the street following an Israeli and US strike on a police station, amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/West Asia News Agency/Reuters) As the bombing continues, Iranians contemplate an uncertain future The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Iran War: Chaos Engulfs The Gulf | 20260303 | 20260304 (WS) | 
The BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner joins us to discuss whether this is a moment that could change the entire region and affect all of us. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Smoke billows from Jebel Ali port in Dubai after an Iranian attack. Credit: Raghed Waked/Reuters. How the US-Israel war with Iran is disrupting the region The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Iran: Is Diplomacy Dead? | 20260311 | 20260312 (WS) | 
President Trump has described Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's choice for new supreme leader, as 'unacceptable'. He has also said he believes the war will be over “pretty quickly ?, but it's not clear how - or when. Nate Swanson, a former State Department official who spent nearly two decades in the US government working on American policy towards Iran, answers our questions on how the next stage of the conflict is likely to unfold - and whether a negotiated peace with Iran is still an option. Producers: Chris Benderev, Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Bridget Harney Studio managers: James Piper and Mike Regaard. Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: People walk past a banner depicting the Iran's supreme leaders since 1979. The late supreme leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini; the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei; and his son, the new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters. A former State Department official on the chances of a negotiated peace with Iran The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Iran: What's Next After The President's Death? | 20240521 | Iran is reeling after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash. The country is already trying to balance deepening conflicts in the Middle East and political pressure from its own. Could this be a moment for change in Tehran? Or will the regime only tighten its grip on power? Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet about Iran's next move. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. What is Tehran's next move without Ebrahim Raisi? | |
| Iran: Will The New 'reformist' President Change Anything? | 20240711 | Critics of President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian say he is just a figurehead, and that control ultimately rests with Ayatollah Khamenei. Pezeshkian has vowed to heal the divisions caused by the Mahsa Amini protests and open up “constructive ? talks with the West. But does he have the power and the will to do it?Sumi Somaskanda speaks to BBC Persian's senior reporter Parham Ghobadi, and women's affairs reporter Faranak Amidi. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Why Masoud Pezeshkian's critics say he is just a figurehead | |
| Iran-israel Attack: A Turning Point For The Middle East? | 20240415 | Israel says 99% of the missiles and drones fired by Iran on Saturday night were intercepted without hitting their targets. Iran said the assault was in response to a deadly attack on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria two weeks ago. Now all eyes are on how Israel will respond to Iran's unprecedented move. James Reynolds talks to the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, who says the attack marks “a whole new chapter ? in the relations between Iran and Israel. James is also joined by the BBC's security correspondent Gordon Corera, and Siavash Ardalan from BBC Persian, to discuss how the players at the centre of this confrontation might decide their next move. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran. The technical producer was Annie Smith. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. All eyes on Israel's response to Iran drone and missile attacks | |
| Iran's Strikes On Israel: Why Now And What's Next? | 20241003 | Following Iran's missile attack on Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed retaliation. President Biden is telling the Israeli leadership that any attack on Iran's nuclear facilities is off limits. So, how will Israel respond to the 180 missiles that Iran fired across its border? And what has the reaction been in Iran? On this episode of the The Global Story, Azadeh Moshiri is joined by our Diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams and BBC Persian reporter Parham Ghobadi. They explore why Iran has chosen this moment to attack Israel and what Benjamin Netanyahu might do in response. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Netanyahu says Iran made a 'big mistake' and 'will pay for it | |
| Ireland's Growing Far Right | 20240916 | Violent unrest is forcing Ireland to reckon with increasing hostility to high levels of immigration, which has not traditionally been a major point of political debate. That is changing, however, with roughly one in five Irish residents today born overseas. The country is grappling with a burgeoning far right movement, with much of the conversation happening on social media. In recent years, hostility towards foreigners which has been nurtured online has spilled over into the real world, the most stark example being a widely-covered riot in Dublin in November 2023. So how is a country which has historically been shaped by the emigration of its own people dealing with the issue of immigration in the 21st century, and is Ireland's political establishment ready to meet the challenge? On this episode of The Global Story, Washington DC-based host Caitríona Perry is joined by the BBC's Dublin reporter Aoife Moore, and by Shane Harrison, who worked as the BBC's Ireland correspondent for three decades. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts and Laurie Kalus Sound Engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Violent unrest is forcing the country to reckon with high levels of immigration | |
| Is A Peace Deal With Putin Possible? | 20260226 | 20260227 (WS) | 
Fiona Hill is one of the foremost authorities on Vladimir Putin and a former White House advisor on Russia during Trump's first term. Over the course of her career, she has sat across the table from the Russian president and helped shape US policy at the highest level. She tells us what it is really like to be in the room Putin and Trump, and whether a durable peace in Ukraine is still within reach. Producers: Chris Benderev and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin together. Credit: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters) Top Putin expert Fiona Hill on the chances of a Ukraine peace deal The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is Canada Leading The Global Resistance Against Trump? | 20260122 | 20260123 (WS) | 
In response, Trump said Canada gets “a lot of freebies ? from the United States and “they should be grateful ?. After striking a major trade and tariff deal with China – the US's rival superpower – is Carney emerging as the leader of a global resistance to Trump? And does he have an alternative vision for the world? We speak to Lyse Doucet, the BBC's chief international correspondent. Producers: Aron Keller, Hannah Moore, Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Credit: Jessica Lee/EPA/Shutterstock) Canada's PM Mark Carney says the old world order is not coming back. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Canada's PM Mark Carney says “the old world order is not coming back ?. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is China's Biggest Threat Its Own Ageing Population? | 20240402 | China has the largest elderly population in the world. Pension and health care systems are struggling to cope at a time when women are having fewer babies. Can the country afford to grow old as its economy slows? Katya speaks with the BBC's China correspondent Laura Bicker about how Beijing plans to tackle this ticking demographic time bomb. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Richard Moran. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. How Beijing could avoid its ticking demographic time bomb | |
| Is Cuba Next? | 20260126 | 20260127 (WS) |  The US and Cuba have for decades had a troubled relationship, with the former imposing sanctions and travel restrictions on its close Caribbean neighbour. Now, in its attack on Venezuela, and the capture of president Nicolas Maduro, the US has dealt Cuba a blow so significant that President Trump has warned the socialist state is, “ready to fall ?. Today, BBC Central America and Cuba correspondent Will Grant explains the deeply intertwined relationship between Venezuela and Cuba, and how Havana's government plans to stand up to Trump. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel speaks during an event in support of Venezuela in Havana. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock. Why the US capture of Nicolas Maduro spells trouble for Cuba. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Donald Trump has threatened to cut off oil from Venezuela to Cuba, unless its government makes “a deal ?. |
| Is Isis Having A Resurgence In Syria? | 20260202 | 20260203 (WS) | 
The move comes after clashes between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which last week ended in a deal that would see the gradual integration of Kurdish forces and institutions into the state, and transfer control of the prisons to Damascus. Today we talk to Josh Baker, investigative journalist and host of the BBC podcast I Am Not A Monster, about the state of the IS group, and whether the country's instability could lead to a resurgence in Syria Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: A member of the Syrian security forces stands in front of the gate of the Al-Hol camp, which houses families of suspected Islamic State (IS) group fighters. Credit: Mohammed al-Rifai/EPA/Shutterstock The US has carried out strikes on ISIS targets, amid prison breaks and in-fighting The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is Rwanda Backing Rebels In The Drc? | 20250219 | The mineral-rich east of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been dogged by conflict for more than 30 years, since the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Violence has once again seen an uptick in recent months as the M23 rebel group has captured a number of key cities and towns. Led by ethnic Tutsis, the militia has long been associated with the Rwandan government by the UN and others, but President Paul Kagame has consistently dismissed the links. But, as international attention on the humanitarian situation in the eastern DRC grows, is this a line he can sustain? On this episode, Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's Deputy Africa Editor, Anne Soy. They track the origins of the conflict, and consider the incentive behind Rwanda's alleged involvement. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins M23 fighters have made rapid advances in recent months | |
| Is Social Media Dead? | 20251111 | 20251112 (WS) | 
So, is social media dead? Or is it just becoming something else? We speak with New Yorker staff writer Kyle Chayka about what happened to social networks, and what their transformation suggests about the future of media. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Aron Keller Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: Social media apps on a phone.Yui Mok/PA The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is Social Media Dead? | 20251225 | 20251226 (WS) | 
For much of the 21st century, our social lives have been shaped, at least in part, on the internet. But in an age of influencers, generative AI, complex algorithms, and politically entangled technocrats, some users say social media is growing less, well, social. So, is social media dead? Or is it just becoming something else? We speak with New Yorker staff writer Kyle Chayka about what happened to social networks, and what their transformation suggests about the future of media. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Aron Keller Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: Social media apps on a phone. Yui Mok/PA The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is Social Media Having Its Big Tobacco Moment? | 20260216 | 20260217 (WS) | 
A landmark trial is underway in Los Angeles where tech giants Instagram and YouTube will face a jury for the first time over claims that their platforms are deliberately designed to be addictive for children. Lawyers for the plaintiff – a 20 year-old woman – say she developed mental health issues after becoming addicted to the social media at an early age. They argue these companies built “addiction machines ? with algorithms that learn what users want and keep feeding it to them. Instagram and YouTube deny the allegations, saying that they have no incentive to turn children into addicts and have introduced various safety measures. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to testify later this week. We speak to the BBC's North America Technology Correspondent Lily Jamali, who has been following the case, to ask whether social media is having a generational reckoning – its Big Tobacco moment. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Vigil outside the courthouse ahead of a social media addiction trial in Los Angeles. Credit: Reuters/ Jill Connelly. A landmark trial on social media addiction is putting tech giants in the dock. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is The Ai Boom Actually A Bubble? | 20251020 | 20251021 (WS) | 
Could AI be the biggest market bubble since the dot-com crash? Or is it a genuinely transformative technology that's simply taking time to deliver? We speak to the BBC's Evan Davis. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Is AI a bubble or a transformative technology that's simply taking time to deliver? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Is The Ai Boom Actually A Bubble? | 20251230 | 20251231 (WS) | 
AI companies are seeing a monumental surge in investment – but some experts are now warning of the risks of an economic bubble. Could AI be the biggest market bubble since the dot-com crash? Or is it a genuinely transformative technology that's simply taking time to deliver? We speak to the BBC's Evan Davis. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Artificial Intelligence mobile apps. Hannibal Hanschke/EPA/Shutterstock The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is The Iran War Helping Putin? | 20260330 | 20260331 (WS) |  With the world's attention on the war in Iran, Vladimir Putin appears to be stepping up Russia's war in Ukraine. Last week saw the biggest Russian drone attack since the beginning of the war. Some Ukrainians believe Putin is doing this precisely because the world is looking the other way. Russia also appears to be benefiting from the Iran war in other ways – oil prices have skyrocketed at the same time as Trump has loosened sanctions on Russian oil. On the other hand, it's been a difficult few months for Russian allies in Tehran, Caracas and Havana. The author, academic and Russia analyst Mark Galeotti joins us to examine the ways in which the war in Iran could help or hinder Putin. Apply for Castfest tickets: https://www.BBC.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026 Email us: theglobalstory@BBC.com Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin, in Russia, 27 March. Credit: Gavriil Grigorov/EPA/Shutterstock) While the US\u00a0and the world look away, is the Russian\u00a0president getting what he wants? The Global Story: Where the world meets America While the US and the world look away, is the Russian president getting what he wants? |
| Is The Us-china Trade War Back On? | 20251015 | 20251016 (WS) |  “If there's a fight, we'll fight to the end ?, a Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday, of the increasingly fierce trade war playing out between the US and China. As President Donald Trump threatens imposing 100% tariffs on goods coming from China, his counterpart, President Xi Jinping, has restricted US access to its rare earth minerals – which are vital to producing everything from smartphones to fighter jets. With the two leaders due to meet in South Korea later this month, can they break the stalemate, or will they plunge the world's two biggest economies into a global trade war? BBC China correspondent Stephen McDonnell joins us to discuss how the world's two largest economies got locked in stalemate – and what it could mean for the cost of the goods we all buy. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Russian Matryoshka wooden dolls, depicting US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Yuri Kochetkov/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock How the US and China got locked in a trade war and what it means for the things you buy The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Is The Working From Home Era Over? | 20250207 | Many companies are calling staff back to the office for more or all of the working week. When the Covid-19 pandemic upended the usual way of doing business around the world, most firms were forced to change their typical operating practices, allowing employees to work remotely where possible. But what may have looked like a permanent revolution at one stage is becoming a distant memory for some workers. Host Caitríona Perry talks to the BBC's employment correspondent Zoe Conway and Stanford University economics professor Nicholas Bloom about whether working remotely for all or part of the week is better for business efficiency, and why some employers are calling time on the practice. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Peter Goffin and Laurie Kalus Sound engineers: Mike Regaard, Stephen Bailey and Annie Smith Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| Is The World Entering A New Age Of Nuclear Testing? | 20251117 | 20251118 (WS) |  In the last 72 hours, comments from President Trump and his administration have sparked fresh debate about whether the US could – or should – resume the kind of nuclear weapons tests that were halted over 30 years ago. The current debate centres on whether Trump plans to test nuclear delivery systems, such as missiles, or nuclear warheads. The latter would be a major reversal of a long-standing policy, as the US has not tested a nuclear warhead since 1992, but it's unclear what the plans involve. Today, Tristan speaks to Serhii Plokhy, a history professor at Harvard and author of The Nuclear Age, about what it would mean to return to an era of nuclear testing. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin, Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Mushroom cloud rises during Operation Crossroads nuclear weapons test. Reuters President Trump says US nuclear tests will take place 'pretty soon The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Is There A Genocide Of White South Africans As Trump Claims? | 20251121 | 20251122 (WS) |  The US is essentially boycotting this weekend's G20 summit in South Africa over accusations that the white Afrikaners are ‘being killed and slaughtered' and that white farmers are having their land ‘illegally confiscated. The South African government say the claims are 'widely discredited and unsupported by reliable evidence'. Today we speak to BBC correspondent Andrew Harding, who lived and worked in South Africa for over a decade, to find out where these claims came from. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: China Collins Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: Afrikaner farmers rally to show support for President Trump in Pretoria, South Africa. Credit: Kim Ludbrook/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock The US is skipping the G20 summit in South Africa over claims of 'white genocide The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Is Trump Looking For War With Venezuela? | 20251222 | 20251223 (WS) | 
In today's episode, we speak to BBC Mundo journalist, Jorge Perez Valeri to ask whether the escalating military rhetoric from Washington could be paving the way for war, and how Venezuelans, already grappling with deep economic hardship, are feeling about the prospect. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Lucy Pawle and Aron Keller. Editor: Bridget Harney Mix: Marty Peralta Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro attends an event at the Mariche Metrocable station. Credit: Reuters. As US-Venezuela tensions rise, we ask if President Trump is building a case for war. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Is Trump On The Brink Of Achieving Peace In Gaza? | 20251006 | 20251007 (WS) | 
It's a stunning diplomatic breakthrough for Donald Trump, whose plan proposes an immediate end to fighting and the release within 72 hours of 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Today we discuss with the BBC's State Department correspondent, Tom Bateman, how President Trump reached such a significant breakthrough with Israel and Hamas, and whether his approach to deal making could actually pay off. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Gaza City on Sunday 5th October, 2025. Mahmoud Issa/Reuters Hamas accepts a deal in a diplomatic breakthrough that could end the war in Gaza. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Mediators for Hamas and Israel are set to meet in Egypt on Monday for indirect talks, after Hamas agreed to a US peace plan. Could this signal the end to the war? |
| Is Trump Taking Putin's Side? | 20250304 | 
Sumi Somaskanda discusses the Trump-Putin dynamic with the BBC's State Department correspondent Tom Bateman, and Vitaly Shevchenko from BBC Monitoring. (Photo: Composite image of Donald Trump, Credit: Nathan Howard/Reuters, and Vladimir Putin, Credit: Sergey Bobylev/Reuters) Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins As ties with Europe continue to strain, President Trump's approach to Moscow is warming | |
| Is Twitch Too Big To Fail? | 20240815 | The world's largest live-streaming platform, Twitch, faces an uncertain future. Media reports suggest that parent company Amazon has become frustrated by its failure to make profit, and rumours are swirling of a third round of layoffs within a year. But does its loyal audience of 240 million active monthly users make it too big to fail? On this episode, Caitríona Perry is joined by BBC tech reporter Tom Gerken, and the BBC's former gaming correspondent Steffan Powell. They examine what makes Twitch unique, and discuss whether the platform is under threat from its rivals. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Jonny Baker. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Amazon's live-streaming giant is struggling to make profit | |
| Is Ukraine Ready To Compromise For Peace? | 20241122 | Why President Volodymyr Zelensky's vision for the end of the war may be changing. After a week of escalation between Ukraine and Russia, we look at the prospect of a peace agreement being reached in 2025. With Moscow making gains on the ground and Donald Trump's election victory casting uncertainty on the future of US military aid, Zelensky has said Ukraine must do everything it can to end the war through diplomacy next year. But what would Vladimir Putin want from a peace deal? And what is Zelensky willing to give up? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams, who is in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. Producers: Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Moran Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Why Zelensky's vision for ending the war may be changing | |
| Israel Accused Of Genocide As Gaza City Offensive Begins | 20250917 | 20250918 (WS) | 
The report is a major moment in the ongoing debate over whether the situation in Gaza meets the legal definition of a genocide. We speak with BBC Geneva correspondent Imogen Foulkes about the evidence. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Displaced Palestinians evacuate Gaza City. Mahmoud Issa/ Reuters What's the evidence in the UN commission's genocide report, and could it change anything? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Israel And Hamas Agree To A Ceasefire In Gaza | 20250116 | Following intense negotiations, Israel and Hamas have arrived at a ceasefire deal to end more than 15 months of war in Gaza. All Israeli hostages being held by Hamas will be released, while Israel's soldiers will withdraw fully from Gaza, and allow 600 aid trucks per day to enter the devastated territory. Despite outgoing US president Joe Biden's insistence that the terms of the deal are similar to what his administration had put before both parties back in May, the man waiting to take his place in the White House, Donald Trump, is already taking credit for getting Hamas and the Israeli government to the agreement. The BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet joins The Global Story's Jonny Dymond to break down the terms of this landmark agreement, and tells us how the warring parties ultimately arrived at an accord. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins After 15 months of conflict, a glimmer of hope in the Middle East | |
| Israel, Iran And Fears Of A Wider War In The Middle East | 20240801 | Iran vows to avenge the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh on its soil. A week of deadly air strikes – in the Israeli occupied Golan Heights, in Lebanon and Iran – have once again brought Israel to the cusp of a multi-front war. Sumi Somaskanda speaks to BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen and BBC Middle East Correspondent Hugo Bachega about the threat of a wider conflict with Iran and its proxies Hamas and Hezbollah. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Iran vows to avenge the killing of top Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh | |
| Israel-gaza Q&a: One Year Since October 7 | 20241004 | It's almost a year since Hamas launched an attack inside Israel, triggering the start of the current war in Gaza. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have died in Israel's bombing campaigns since Hamas's October 7 attack, and Israel's recent ground invasion of Lebanon has widened the conflict even further. The Middle East is once again on the brink of a deep and damaging, widespread conflict that will have an impact well beyond the region. To mark one year on from the start of the current war, The Global Story host Katya Adler is joined by Jackie Leonard from the Global News Podcast. The BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner and Middle East correspondent Yolande Knell answer some of the most-asked questions about what's really going on in the region and what might happen next. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Pete Ross, and Judy Frankl Sound engineer: Jack Graysmark Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson We answer listener questions about what is happening in the Middle East | |
| Israel-hezbollah: Averting War? Or Closer To It? | 20240827 | Israel and Hezbollah say they don't want war - but they are both ready for it. In the early hours of Sunday morning, they exchanged heavy fire across the border with Lebanon. It's an escalation that had been brewing for weeks, and some feared it could spark a wider, all-out conflict in the region. So, have we managed to avoid that? Or does the threat of war still loom? Sumi Somaskanda speaks to our correspondent in Jerusalem, Jon Donnison about how the violence unfolded and where it might lead next. Our previous episode with all the background on Hezbollah: https://link.chtbl.com/-cXmyJAg The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Alix Pickles and Tse Yin Lee. Sound Engineer: Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Israel-iran: A Sigh Of Relief In The Middle East? | 20240422 | After weeks of tit for tat strikes between Iran and Israel, the dust appears to be settling on a confrontation that the whole world has nervously observed. But both sides have crossed what was previously seen as a red line. The BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, sits down with BBC Persian Journalist Parham Ghobadi to discuss whether the Middle East can breathe a sigh of relief. And the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale joins from Jerusalem to consider what might happen next. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. This round of the regions most dangerous rivalry appears to be over, for now | |
| Jakarta Is Sinking. Will Building A New Capital Save It? | 20240812 | Indonesia is building a brand-new capital city - twice the size of New York – in the middle of a rainforest. The current capital city, Jakarta, suffers from pollution, congestion, flooding, is prone to earthquakes and is also one of the fastest sinking cities in the world. The new high-tech metropolis called Nusantara aims to be carbon-neutral and better protected from natural disasters. But the project is facing some major hurdles and has fallen well behind schedule. On this episode Caitríona Perry is joined by Astudestra Ajengrastri and Rebecca Henschke to find out if Nusantara can live up to its environmental promises and if Jakarta will still be saved from sinking beneath the ocean. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Indonesia aims to create a high-tech forest city called Nusantara | |
| Javier Milei: Sitting Down With Argentina's President | 20240507 | Argentina's chainsaw-wielding President Javier Milei is implementing his radical economic agenda in a bid to stop spiralling inflation. But are Argentinians happy with how Mr Milei is reshaping their nation? Katya Adler speaks with the BBC's South America correspondent Ione Wells about her interview with the right-wing politician, his love for Margaret Thatcher and the Rolling Stones, and what it is like to interview world leaders. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts. The technical producers were Ricardo McCarthy and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The Madman' on his radical economic agenda and love for The Rolling Stones | |
| Jd Vance's Iran Test | 20260401 | 20260402 (WS) | 
And yet, the vice-president, who has substantial MAGA support and is expected to run for the 2028 presidency, now finds himself among Trump's team negotiating an end to the US-Israel war on Iran, a war he was reportedly skeptical of launching. What tactics will Vance use to secure both the interests of the president abroad, and his own domestic popularity among MAGA supporters who do not support the war? BBC Washington correspondent Daniel Bush joins us to discuss. Producer: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Can the vice-president help secure the US' interests in Iran, and those of his MAGA base? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Jeffrey Epstein And The Downfall Of Prince Andrew | 20251022 | 20251023 (WS) | 
The memoir of Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein's most well-known accusers, was published posthumously this week, repeating allegations against Epstein as well as Prince Andrew. The revelations come as Prince Andrew gave up his royal titles, amongst renewed and increasing scrutiny over his relationship with the convicted sex offender Epstein. Prince Andrew continues to vigorously deny all the allegations, but the loss of his titles is a big symbolic moment that allows the rest of the Royal Family to distance themselves from him. His downfall was accelerated by a disastrous 2019 interview with the BBC. We speak to the interviewer Emily Maitlis, now host of the News Agents podcast, about that day, and how Prince Andrew's story gives us an insight into the ways in which Jeffrey Epstein functioned. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Lucy Pawle and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: China Collins Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Prince Andrew. Credit: Toby Melville/Reuters) Journalist Emily Maitlis on Prince Andrew's disastrous 2019 interview with the BBC The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Joe Biden Out, Kamala Harris In? | 20240722 | A growing number of senior Democrats are throwing their support behind Kamala Harris to become the party's presidential nominee, after Joe Biden dramatically quit the race. The US president withdrew from November's election on Sunday, having faced weeks of calls to step aside following a calamitous TV debate against Republican opponent Donald Trump. President Biden immediately endorsed his vice president as his favoured candidate, who says she intends to 'earn and win' the nomination. In this episode, James Reynolds is joined by former BBC Washington correspondent Nick Bryant and special correspondent Jim Naughtie for their reaction. And the BBC's US special correspondent Katty Kay also drops in to give her assessment of how this impacts campaigning for both parties. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus, Richard Moran and Alice Aylett Roberts. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Incumbent VP gains support of top Democrats after President Biden exits 2024 race | |
| Julian Assange: Inside The Deal To Free Wikileaks Founder | 20240626 | A US court has finalised a plea agreement, which will see Julian Assange become a free man. The divisive WikiLeaks founder had been facing eighteen separate counts relating to national security, but instead admitted to a single espionage charge in exchange for time served. After pleading guilty to the offence in the Northern Mariana Islands, a US Pacific territory, the United States' longstanding extradition request was nullified, and Mr Assange is now returning to his native Australia. Caitríona Perry caught up with the BBC's North America correspondent Nomia Iqbal, and former legal correspondent Joshua Rozenberg for their reaction to the deal. They consider how the legal saga has impacted Julian Assange's image, and what it could mean for the future of free speech. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. US court finalises plea agreement which sees extradition request lifted | |
| Kamala Harris Delivers Biggest Speech Of Her Career | 20240823 | She vowed a 'new way forward' in what was billed as the biggest speech of her career. The atmosphere was electric when Kamala Harris took to the stage for the final night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. But did she succeed in convincing those watching at home that she should be named the next President of the United States? On this episode, Caitríona Perry is in Chicago with Courtney Subramanian and Brandon Drenon from the BBC's digital team. They discuss the key moments from the Democratic National Convention and examine how Donald Trump and the Republicans are shifting their strategy to target Kamala Harris as the confirmed Democratic nominee. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineer: Ben Andrews. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. The current VP officially accepts the Democratic nomination for President | |
| Kamala Harris Picks Tim Walz As Her Running Mate | 20240807 | How do the Democratic and Republican VP nominees compare and how they will impact the 2024 race. Kamala Harris has chosen the Minnesota governor, Tim Walz, to be her running mate in November's presidential election. Mr Walz is a former teacher and military veteran, who's expected to appeal to rural working-class voters. He's made an impact on social media in recent weeks by labelling former President Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, as 'weird'. The Trump campaign has dismissed Mr Walz as a dangerously liberal extremist. In this episode, Caitríona Perry speaks to our US Special correspondent Katty Kay and Jude Sheerin, who has led the BBC's online coverage of the past four presidential elections. With both tickets now officially set for the Presidential election, you may want to listen back to our episode covering the moment when Trump announced JD Vance as his VP pick. You can listen to it here: https://links.BBCpodcasts.com/oFsJImFd The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. How do the VP nominees compare and how they will impact the 2024 race | |
| Kenya Protests: How Gen Z Took On The Government | 20240704 | President William Ruto has cancelled new tax hikes after demonstrators stormed parliament. Young, middle-class Kenyans coordinated the protests on social media. BBC Senior Africa Correspondent Anne Soy tells Caitríona Perry this was unlike any protest movement Kenya has ever seen. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Tom Kavanagh and Tse Yin Lee. The technical producer was Gareth Jones and Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Tax hikes cancelled after demonstrators storm parliament | |
| King Charles: A ''difficult'' First Year | 20240506 | The 12 months that followed the Coronation of Charles III have been marked by illness and family troubles. How has the king navigated these challenges? What is the role of a monarch in the 21st Century? And what does the future hold for the British monarchy? Adam Fleming speaks to BBC royal correspondent Sarah Campbell and journalist and royal biographer Robert Hardman. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. How have the royals navigated the rocky months following the Coronation? | |
| La Fires: \u201cit Was Like Watching The End Of The World\u201d | 20250114 | It's been a week since wildfires started sweeping through Los Angeles, California, destroying swathes of the city and reducing communities, homes and schools to little more than rubble and ash. The inferno has now ravaged an area larger than Manhattan. Some fires have been extinguished but many are still burning, and with warnings in place for high winds, LA's exhausted firefighters and residents have more difficult days ahead. Jonny Dymond speaks with BBC freelance reporter Lucy Sheriff about her experience of evacuating and losing her house and community, all while six months pregnant. They also discuss what rebuilding Los Angeles might look like. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin, Eleanor Sly and Richard Moran Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins A week after the wildfires began, Los Angeles is still in danger | |
| Lab-grown Meat: Why Countries Are Banning It | 20240708 | Lab-grown meat is often touted as the solution to climate-friendly meat production. But in some parts of the world, governments are introducing laws to stop it from being produced. Why are some countries trying to ban it, before it's even on the shelves? Host Lucy Hockings speaks with Graihagh Jackson host of The Climate Question programme on the BBC World Service and our Asia business reporter Nick Marsh about whether cultivated meat is a potential solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Is cultivated meat a solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick? Host Lucy Hockings speaks with Graihagh Jackson host of The Climate Question programme on the BBC World Service and our Asia business reporter Nick Marsh about whether cultivated meat is potential a solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick. | |
| Lab-grown Meat: Why Countries Are Banning It | 20241227 | Lab-grown meat is often touted as the solution to climate-friendly meat production. But in some parts of the world, governments are introducing laws to stop it from being produced. Why are some countries trying to ban it, before it's even on the shelves? Host Lucy Hockings speaks with Graihagh Jackson host of The Climate Question programme on the BBC World Service and our Asia business reporter Nick Marsh, about whether cultivated meat is a potential solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick. At the moment, we're sharing some of our most popular episodes from the past twelve months, including this one. All of these episodes and many more are available to watch on the BBC World Service's YouTube channel. Just search for “The Global Story ? on YouTube to find us. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sam Bonham Is cultivated meat a solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick? | |
| Lebanon Ceasefire: 'a Dangerous And Fragile Moment' | 20241129 | Does Israel's deal with Hezbollah move the region closer to lasting peace? The agreement reached this week will save lives and allow thousands of displaced Lebanese and Israelis to return to their homes – if it holds. But the conflict in Gaza is expected to intensify, as the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows to ramp up pressure on Hamas. Can Joe Biden or Donald Trump broker another ceasefire? And how will Iran react as it watches its network of proxy groups fall apart? On this episode Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's international editor Jeremy Bowen. Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Alice Aylett Roberts Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Life And Death Activism In Iran | 20241213 | In 2022, mass protests erupted in Iran after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody. Those protests dissipated after a fierce crackdown. But individual acts of defiance and stories that tell the cost of activism have been making the headlines in recent weeks. In this episode, Parham Ghobadi tells Azadeh Moshiri about the life of Kianoosh Sanjari, a young man who faced the brunt of government oppression, and took his own life in an apparent final act of defiance against the regime. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The individuals risking their lives in defiance and the fight for freedom | |
| Life As A Woman Under Taliban Rule | 20240917 | How are Afghanistan's women and girls coping with harsh new restrictions? When the Taliban took back power in 2021, it promised to uphold women's rights with the limits of what it called “Islamic law ?. But officials have placed strict limits on women's education, employment opportunities, dress codes and, now, even the volume at which they speak. In this episode, Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's South Asia Correspondent Yogita Limaye, who has been interviewing Afghan women about their feelings of hopelessness, the state crackdown on protests and a growing mental health crisis. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly. Sound Engineers: Hannah Montgomery and Rohan Madison. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Lina Khan: The Woman Taking On Big Tech Billionaires | 20240410 | The US government is suing some of the biggest tech companies on the planet – Amazon, Apple, Google and Meta – in antitrust cases. The face of Washington's crackdown is Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, the youngest person ever to hold the post. So, who is the woman taking on Silicon Valley? And can she succeed? To answer these questions, host Adam Fleming speaks the BBC's North America business correspondent Michelle Fleury and former North America tech reporter James Clayton. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin, Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The antitrust cases against Amazon, Apple, Google and Meta | |
| Listener Q&a On Iran | 20260318 | 20260319 (WS) | 
In today's episode, we answer all of these and more, with BBC world affairs editor, John Simpson. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A woman marches with an Iranian monarchy flag during a 'Freedom for Iran' protest in New York, New York, USA, 15 March 2026. Credit: Olga Fedorova/Shutterstock BBC world affairs editor John Simpson answers your questions on the US-Israel war on Iran The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Live In Washington Dc | 20260209 | 20260210 (WS) | 
We wanted to get our heads around what other seismic changes we can expect in the rest of 2026: from Europe's new dynamic with Washington, to President Trump's meeting with President Xi of China, to the rebuilding of Gaza. So we sat down with two foreign policy experts: Tom Bateman, the BBC's State Department Correspondent, and Emma Ashford, a Senior Fellow at the Stimson Center and author of First Among Equals: US Foreign Policy in a Multipolar World. We were joined in the heart of Washington DC by a live audience at Syracuse University's Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship. Recorded Monday 2 February. Producers: Chris Benderev and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A live taping of The Global Story in Washington DC on 2 February 2026. Credit:Emma Carroll Hudson/Syracuse University We preview how the US may further reshuffle the world order, in front of a live audience. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Logan Paul And A Viral Crypto Controversy | 20241120 | Logan Paul is among the most recognisable social media personalities on the planet. From YouTuber to entrepreneur and even professional wrestler, his fearless approach has seen him amass a loyal following of millions. Now, as the influencer faces criticism over his role in promoting various crypto projects, the BBC looks into his history in the digital currency industry. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by Matt Shea and Jamie Tahsin, who are behind the new BBC documentary 'Logan Paul: Bad Influence?' They discuss Logan Paul's flourishing career, the controversy surrounding influencer-led cryptocurrency projects, and how the incoming Trump administration in the United States could transform the crypto landscape. Listeners in the UK can see the full film on iPlayer here: https://www.BBC.co.uk/programmes/m00256wn The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Mhairi Mackenzie Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Moran Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The influencer is facing criticism from fans | |
| Lukashenko: Putin's Man In Belarus | 20240717 | The authoritarian leader marks 30 years in power. Alexander Lukashenko has become a key ally for Vladimir Putin since the start of the war in Ukraine. He's also spent the last three decades tightening his grip on Belarus, launching a brutal crackdown on his political opponents. How has this veteran of Soviet politics shaped Eastern Europe? Caitríona Perry speaks to BBC Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg and Belarusian journalist Gennadiy Kot from BBC Monitoring. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery, Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Maradona And The Trial Transfixing Argentina | 20250317 | Argentina's football star Diego Maradona is once again back in the spotlight as a long-delayed trial examining the circumstances around his death gets underway in Buenos Aires. When Diego Maradona died in 2020, Argentinians took to the streets, united in both grief and in the celebration of a soccer legend. But it didn't take long before suspicions around his death started to circulate. In today's episode, we look at the trial involving his medical team and ask why Maradona's legacy is still so strong. Lucy Hockings is joined by Marcela Mora y Araujo. She's a journalist based in Buenos Aires who translated Diego Maradona's autobiography. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Jonny Hall Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The Argentinian footballer was widely regarded as one of the best in the world The Argentinian footballer was widely regarded as one of the best footballers in the world. | |
| Measles: Why Is There A Global Resurgence? | 20240604 | Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humanity – and one of the most preventable. But the number of cases around the world nearly doubled last year, and the US, UK and others have seen measles outbreaks in 2024. Katya Adler asks BBC health reporter and doctor Smitha Mundasad about the dangers of measles, why vaccination rates have fallen, and what these outbreaks say about our vulnerability to other illnesses. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Peter Goffin. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Cases of this highly preventable disease are surging worldwide | |
| Meeting Settlers And Palestinians In The West Bank | 20251223 | 20251224 (WS) | 
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has blamed a “minority ? that “does not represent the large settler public ?. Meanwhile, Israel's security cabinet has just approved the recognition of 19 new settlements as the government continues its settlement expansion push. We're joined by the BBC's Sarah Montague who has been speaking with Palestinians who say they are experiencing settler intimidation, and with a prominent settler who is a member of the Israeli parliament. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Marty Peralta Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Israeli border police remove settlers near Hebron. Credit Abir Sultan/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock. Settler attacks in the West Bank have reached a record high, says the UN. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Menopause: Are Attitudes Changing? | 20240614 | 20241231 (WS) | Millions of women around the world will start the menopause this year, but research shows that many are unprepared for it. For a long time, the menopause has been a taboo subject, a fact which both of our guests are seeking to change. Kirsty Wark is perhaps best known for presenting the BBC's Newsnight programme, but she also hosted the groundbreaking documentary ‘The Menopause and Me' in 2017. Professor Joyce Harper of the Institute for Women's Health at University College London is an expert on the menopause, and author of the book ‘Your Fertile Years'. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Tom Kavanagh and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Once a taboo subject, women are now being encouraged to talk about their experiences |
| Meta And Youtube Lose In A Landmark Trial | 20260327 | 20260328 (WS) | 
The companies say they intend to appeal against the verdict, which could set a legal precedent and have far-reaching consequences. Marianna Spring, the BBC's social media investigations correspondent, has spent the past year speaking to whistleblowers and insiders from social media companies, revealing how algorithms designed to connect people have been helping to tear them apart. We ask if this week's verdict is just the start of something much bigger. The BBC is throwing open the doors to Maida Vale Studios on Saturday 25 April for Castfest, a one-day celebration bringing its biggest news podcasts directly to fans. Apply for Castfest tickets below. Producer: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Sopund engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg leaves the court at the case accusing Meta and Google's YouTube of harming kids' mental health through addictive platforms, 18 February, 2026. Credit: Mike Blake/Reuters) A jury found the tech companies intentionally built addictive platforms The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Meta And Youtube Lost In A Landmark Trial. Is This Just The Tip Of The Iceberg? | 20260330 | 20260331 (WS) |  In a bellwether case, a jury in Los Angeles found on Wednesday that Meta and YouTube are responsible for a young woman's childhood addiction to social media, and intentionally built addictive platforms that harmed her health. The companies say they intend to appeal against the verdict, which could set a legal precedent and have far-reaching consequences. Marianna Spring, the BBC's social media investigations correspondent, has spent the past year speaking to whistleblowers and insiders from social media companies, revealing how algorithms designed to connect people have been helping to tear them apart. We ask if this week's verdict is just the start of something much bigger. Apply for Castfest tickets: https://www.BBC.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026 Producers: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg leaves court in Los Angeles, February 18, 2026. Credit: Mike Blake/Reuters. A jury found the companies intentionally built addictive platforms. The Global Story: Where the world meets America A jury in Los Angeles found on Wednesday that Meta and YouTube are responsible for a woman's childhood addiction to social media. |
| Mexico Election: A Blood-soaked Ballot | 20240531 | Mexico is in the midst of its bloodiest ever election. The country will get its first female President but this vote has been overshadowed by the murder of dozens of local candidates. Drug cartels are expanding their power and ordinary Mexicans say they fear for their safety. Will a new leader make a real difference? Katya speaks with the BBC's Mexico correspondent Will Grant and Latin America and Caribbean Editor Vanessa Buschschlüter. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Dozens of candidates have been murdered as Mexico prepares for its first woman President Dozens of candidates have been murdered, but could the first female President make the country safer? | |
| Mexico's Most Wanted Cartel Boss Is Dead. Is It Enough For Trump? | 20260227 | 20260228 (WS) | 
In the days that followed, the operation was celebrated by President Trump in his State of the Union address. But it came at a cost, as cartel members carried out retaliatory rampages across Mexico and turned many towns and cities into war zones. El Mencho's death came after months of pressure from the Trump administration on Mexico to do more to fight the drug cartels. According to one NBC News report, the US even considered sending troops into Mexico. Our correspondent, Will Grant, examines the dilemma Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum now faces – and we ask if she is now caught between Trump and the cartels. Producers: Chris Benderev and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image Credits: FILE PHOTO: Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), led by Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho, ? poses for a photo at an undisclosed location in Michoacan state, Mexico, October 15, 2022. REUTERS/Stringer Our correspondent in Mexico on the fallout of the killing of El Mencho. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Our correspondent in Mexico on the fallout of the killing of “El Mencho ?. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Missing Cryptoqueen: What Happened To The World's Most Wanted Woman? | 20240627 | Is she dead or alive? Ruja Ignatova launched a fake cryptocurrency that conned investors out of more than $4 billion. Then, with the police on her trail, she vanished. A years-long investigation has led BBC journalists down a rabbit hole of scams, spies and organised crime – including the new allegation that Ignatova may have been murdered by the suspected king of the Bulgarian underworld. But what is fact and what is rumour? Katya Adler is joined by Rob Byrne from the BBC podcast “The Missing Cryptoqueen ?, and Storm Theunissen from BBC Eye Investigations, who directed the Panorama film “The Missing Cryptoqueen: Dead or Alive? ? TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Ruja Ignatova persuaded millions to join her financial revolution. Then she disappeared | |
| Missing In Ukraine: Lyudmila's Search For Her Parents | 20250131 | Tetiana and Oleh Plachkov have spent their whole lives in Melitopol, a city in eastern Ukraine. They fell in love, married and had a daughter Lyudmila. They started a business, running two restaurants, popular with their neighbours for special occasions. But since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, their family has been torn apart like so many in Ukraine. Jonny Dymond speaks to our eastern Europe correspondent, Sarah Rainsford, about one family among many whose loved ones have disappeared under the Russian occupation. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins One family's story, among the many thousands missing in Ukraine | |
| Mohamed Al Fayed: Predator At Harrods | 20240919 | Mohamed Al Fayed was an Egyptian billionaire businessman who owned Harrods in London, one of the world's most famous department stores. He also owned the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Fulham Football Club, and famously courted the British Royal Family. But a new BBC investigation reveals he's also accused of being a serial rapist and abuser of women in his employment. Katya Adler speaks with Cassie Cornish-Trestrail and Keaton Stone about Al Fayed's alleged crimes and we hear first-hand testimony from the women speaking out. Warning: this conversation contains details some may find distressing. You can hear the full investigation on the podcast World of Secrets, Season 4: Al Fayed – Predator at Harrods. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts. Sound Engineers: Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. A new BBC investigation reveals he's been accused of being a serial rapist | |
| Mohammed Bin Salman: From Pariah To Peacemaker | 20250313 | How did Saudi Arabia come to host leaders from the US, Russia and Ukraine for peace talks? Just a few years ago, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was publicly identified as the man who ordered the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. As a result, he was referred to as a pariah by former President Joe Biden. So, how did MBS go from pariah to peacemaker? Jonny Dymond speaks to journalist Jonathan Rugman, producer of the BBC documentary 'The Kingdom' about the life of Mohammed bin Salman. Producers: Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh, Mhairi MacKenzie and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins How did Saudi Arabia come to host leaders from US, Russia and Ukraine for peace talks? | |
| Mohammed Bin Salman: The Unstoppable Prince? | 20240821 | After ruthlessly outmanoeuvring hundreds of rivals, Mohammed bin Salman has become the most powerful man in Saudi Arabia. The crown prince believes his sweeping vision for the country will bring in investment, top flight sport and visitors from around the world. His only demand in return... absolute loyalty. So, is MBS unstoppable? On this episode Caitríona Perry speaks to Jonathan Rugman, journalist and producer of a new documentary “The Kingdom: The World's Most Powerful Prince ?, which shines a fresh light on how he got to power and how far he'll go to maintain it. They are also joined by the BBC World Service Arab Affairs Editor Sebastian Usher, who has spent time in Saudi Arabia for many years. Listeners in the UK can watch “The Kingdom: The World's Most Powerful Prince ? on iPlayer: https://www.BBC.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m001zprm/the-kingdom-the-worlds-most-powerful-prince The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. Sound Engineer: Mike Regaard and Jack Graysmark. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. The Saudi Crown Prince has amassed unrivalled power. What's his next move? | |
| Money, Money, Money (...)and The Us Election | 20240909 | Democrats and Republicans are donating billions to back candidates in November's election. So far, the 2024 US election has been defined by surprises and unprecedented moments. But if one thing is certain, it's that the election will cost a lot of money. Donors from both major parties are donating billions of dollars in the hopes of seeing their candidates win the White House and hundreds of local races. So, what is all that money spent on? And what impact is it having on US politics? Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's correspondent in Washington DC, Anthony Zurcher, and Matt Foster from American University, also in the capital. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. Sound Engineer: Hannah Montgomery. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Moscow 'tightens The Screws' On Critics Abroad | 20240822 | 20240823 (WS) | At the start of August, the world watched as 16 political prisoners were released by Russia in the biggest prisoner swap with the west since the Cold War. But what will life be like as opposition figures in exile? Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's Will Vernon who tells the stories of Russian dissidents who have faced intimidation and violence since leaving the country. They are also joined by our Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford was expelled from Russia after decades of reporting. She is the author of 'Goodbye to Russia' which details how Vladimir Putin's time in power has reshaped the country. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. Sound Engineer: Mike Regaard and Jonny Baker. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Freed from prison, Russians opposing the Kremlin overseas face threats and intimidation Freed from prison, Russian critics of the Kremlin now face a new battle to continue their opposition abroad |
| Mpox: How Dangerous Is It? | 20240819 | It has been declared a global health emergency twice in two years. Mpox – formerly known as Monkeypox – is spreading rapidly across Africa and has also been detected outside the continent. And scientists are worried about the speed at which a new strain is being transmitted. On this episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by Dorcas Wangira our Africa Health correspondent and Dominic Hughes the BBC's Global Health correspondent. They discuss what risk mpox poses to the wider global population and how worried we should be. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Laurie Kalus. The technical producers were Jeremy Morgan and Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| My Return To Rwanda: 30 Years After Fleeing The Genocide | 20240408 | It's 30 years since the genocide in Rwanda took the lives of an estimated 800,000 people. The anniversary also marks three decades since Victoria Uwonkunda fled the country with her family. Now a BBC journalist, she has returned for the first time to confront those awful days and see how the country has worked toward forgiveness, reconciliation and brighter future. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. The BBC's Vic Uwonkunda confronts the past and explores forgiveness in her homeland The BBC's Vic Uwonkunda makes the journey of a lifetime to confront the past and explore forgiveness in her homeland. | |
| Neom: Can Saudi Arabia Afford To Build The Futuristic Mega-city? | 20240515 | Neom, Saudi Arabia's ambitions city of the future, promises a car-free, carbon-free space open to all. At the heart of the plans are two skyscrapers as tall as the Empire State building, carved into the desert in a straight line for more than 100 miles. But can this dream ever become a reality? BBC Verify's Merlyn Thomas has been investigating allegations that Saudi security forces were permitted to use lethal force while clearing inhabitants from the vast building site. Our Middle East Business Correspondent, Sameer Hashmi, tells us that Saudi Arabia is banking on Neom to help future proof its economy, but that they might struggle to cover the rising costs of the project. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran. The technical producers were Gareth Jones and Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Glowing sand, levitating trains and a fake moon...can the Saudis make it a reality? | |
| Netanyahu Is Not Dead. So Why Did The Internet Think He Was? | 20260320 | 20260321 (WS) | 
The rumour was false – Netanyahu had not died, nor been involved in a strike. The photos and videos were AI-generated. But when Netanyahu posted several videos of himself, debunking and mocking the rumour, some people on social media still refused to believe these were really him. Today on the show, Thomas Copeland from BBC Verify explains how the economics of social media drive the creation of AI-generated fake videos – sometimes by people with no strong feelings about the war itself. And we speak to Peter Pomerantsev, author of Nothing Is True and Everything is Possible, who says the essential strategy behind wartime disinformation remains unchanged since ancient times. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shows his hand as he speaks at a cafe Credit: Benjamin Netanyahu/Reuters) Is Iran the first AI slop war? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Noise: The Not-so-silent Killer? | 20250324 | How sounds could be damaging your health. Long-term exposure to the noises of everyday city life has been linked to higher levels of stress, diabetes and heart disease. On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's health and science correspondent James Gallagher about life in two of the world's loudest cities – Barcelona in Spain and Dhaka in Bangladesh. And James puts his own body to the test, to find out how it responds to the most annoying sounds. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Jack Graysmark Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins | |
| North Korea: Why Putin And Xi Are Courting Kim | 20240617 | The war in Ukraine has shifted the balance of power between Moscow, Pyongyang, and Beijing. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, new alliances and meetings come into focus. After Vladimir Putin's visit to China in May, there are now reports of an imminent meeting between the Russian President and Kim Jong Un. The North Korean leader has recently hailed his country's ties with Russia, saying the two nations are 'invincible comrades-in-arms. Katya speaks to the host of the BBC's Lazarus Heist podcast, Jean Lee, and the Financial Times' Seoul bureau chief, Christian Davies. They discuss what North Korea's end game is and how worried the rest of the world should be. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Notre-dame: A Landmark Rising From The Ashes | 20240508 | It has been five years since Notre-Dame de Paris was devastated by fire. Now, thanks to a massive restoration effort, French President Emmanuel Macron says the cathedral will partially reopen in December. Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield and journalist Madeleine Schwartz of The Dial Magazine about the special place Notre-Dame holds in the hearts and minds of the French people, and why people from all over the globe pitched in to help save it. How workers from around the world are rebuilding the Paris cathedral | |
| Nuclear Power: Inside Europe's Radioactive Tomb | 20240619 | As reactors and waste grow, Finland's fix is a lone example. Sixty nuclear power plants are under construction worldwide, and a further 110 are planned. Yet no one really knows what to do with the lethal waste. It's been piling up for decades. Now, in a giant network of tunnels 450m underground, the Finns say they have the world's first permanent solution. Lucy Hockings talks to the BBC's Adrienne Murray, who has toured the tunnels, and Graihagh Jackson, from The Climate Question podcast. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories, and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was presented by Lucy Hockings. It was made by Pete Ross and Neal Razzell. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas, and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Nukes For Nothing: The Deal That Broke Ukraine's Trust | 20250905 | 
Ukraine's denuclearisation is often considered a huge success story in nuclear non-proliferation, but in retrospect, it may have paved the way for Putin's 2022 invasion. As talk of US-European security guarantees for Ukraine resurfaces in the context of tentative Russia-Ukraine peace talks, we speak with BBC Paris correspondent Andrew Harding about the history of the 1994 agreement, and consider whether Ukraine would ever again believe promises made to protect it. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins France's President Emmanuel Macron (R) and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky arrive to chair the Coalition of the Willing Summit, at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris, on September 4, 2025. Ludovic Marin/ Getty An exploration of the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, intended to enshrine Ukraine's security The Global Story: Where the world meets America As talks continue among Western leaders about security guarantees for Ukraine, we tell the story of the last time the United States promised to keep Ukraine safe. From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Nukes For Nothing: The Deal That Broke Ukraine's Trust | 20251229 | 20251230 (WS) | 
In 1994, Ukraine surrendered the world's third-largest nuclear arsenal, inherited from the collapsed Soviet Union, in exchange for security assurances from the US, Russia, and the UK. Ukraine's denuclearisation is often considered a huge success story in nuclear non-proliferation, but in retrospect, it may have paved the way for Putin's 2022 invasion. As talk of US-European security guarantees for Ukraine resurfaces in the context of tentative Russia-Ukraine peace talks, we speak with BBC Paris correspondent Andrew Harding about the history of the 1994 agreement, and consider whether Ukraine would ever again believe promises made to protect it. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: France's President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ludovic Marin/ Getty An exploration of the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, intended to enshrine Ukraine's security. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Olympics: Is Paris Poised For Success? | 20240726 | France is grappling with climate, security and political turmoil as the Games officially begin. So what's the mood on the streets of Paris? Will this be the “greenest ? Olympics and Paralympics ever, as organisers have promised? And could the Games offer a lifeline to President Emmanuel Macron after disappointing parliamentary elections? James Reynolds speaks to the BBC's Paris Correspondent Andrew Harding. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin, Alix Pickles and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. France grapples with politics, climate and security as the Games begin | |
| One Man's Quest To Get His Brothers Released From Gaza | 20251007 | 20251008 (WS) |  On October 7 2023 Hamas attacked Israel, taking 251 people hostage. Gali and Ziv Berman were among them – twin brothers who lived on a kibbutz near the Gaza border. They were 24 years old. Now, after 2 years they are among the remaining hostages still being held in captivity. But in the last few days the prospect of ending the war in Gaza and releasing the remaining hostages seems closer than ever. That possibility gives Gali and Ziv's older brother Liran Berman cautious hope. Liran speaks to Asma at length about his memories of October 7th, his quest to get his little brothers out of Gaza, and who he will give credit to if the peace deal succeeds. Producers: Valerio Esposito, Lucy Pawle and Cat Farnsworth Editor: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Liran Berman by Valerio Esposito Liran Berman recounts the two years since his brothers were taken hostage by Hamas. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Overtourism: Can Travel Hotspots Cope With The Crowds? | 20240702 | 2024 is expected to be a record-breaking year for tourism, with more travellers going on holiday than ever before. But hotspots like Venice, Hawaii and Bali are also struggling from overtourism. Rajan Datar, host of the BBC's Travel Show, has been meeting people who live in some of the world's tourism hotspots and tells Lucy Hockings about the impact huge numbers of visitors are having on communities and the environment. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Johnny Hall. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Our demand for selfies is testing the most famous destinations to the limit | |
| Overtourism: Can Travel Hotspots Cope With The Crowds? | 20241226 | 2024 is expected to be a record-breaking year for tourism, with more travellers going on holiday than ever before. But hotspots like Venice, Hawaii and Bali are also struggling from overtourism. Rajan Datar, host of the BBC's Travel Show, has been meeting people who live in some of the world's tourism hotspots and tells Lucy Hockings about the impact huge numbers of visitors are having on communities and the environment. At the moment, we're sharing some of our most popular episodes from the past twelve months, including this one. All of these episodes and many more are available to watch on the BBC World Service's YouTube channel. Just search for “The Global Story ? on YouTube to find us. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Johnny Hall Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Palestinian State Recognition: Does It Change Anything? | 20240530 | Spain, Ireland and Norway have formally recognised a Palestinian state, as have about 140 other countries. But Israel's most influential allies, including the US, have said they will not do so until there is a mutually agreed peace deal. Katya Adler asks the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale what this acknowledgment of statehood could mean for Palestinians, and what diplomatic tools governments are using to influence Israeli policy in Gaza. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producer Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Ireland, Norway and Spain join 140 other countries in recognising statehood | |
| Pardons, Missiles And A Ceasefire: Biden's Last Few Weeks | 20241204 | With just weeks left in office, President Biden is making moves that could define his legacy. He has issued an official pardon for his son Hunter, who was facing possible prison sentences in two criminal cases. Biden's decision has already prompted furious claims of hypocrisy from Republicans, and the White House has announced that the President is considering more pardons before the end of his term. In recent weeks, the president has also allowed Ukraine to use US long-range missiles to strike inside Russia and has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. On this episode Azadeh Moshiri is joined by our North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher and the BBC's Diplomatic correspondent James Landale. They examine how these decisions might shape Biden's legacy, impact Donald Trump's second term, and shape the future of the Democratic party. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Jonny Hall Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson With weeks left in office, President Biden is making moves that could define his legacy | |
| Paris 2024: Breaking Makes Its Olympic Debut | 20240809 | How a street dance from New York made it to the Games. Breaking is an art form, a cultural touchstone, and now an Olympic sport. So what does it take to be a champion? And can breakers use this moment in the spotlight to inspire the next generation of b-girls and b-boys? On this episode Azadeh Moshiri is joined by BBC Sport Correspondent Katie Gornall and Zack “Cracker Zacks ? Slusser, the vice president of Breaking DanceSport for USA Dance. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alix Pickles and Peter Goffin. Sound Engineers: Phil Bull and Jonny Baker. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. How a street dance made it to the Games How a street dance from New York made it to the Paris Games. | |
| Paris Olympics 2024: The Make Or Break Year For The Games? | 20240426 | This summer Paris will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games for the first time in a century. Excitement in the city is growing, but so is the list of problems facing organisers. Critics have warned that the river Seine is too polluted for the planned swimming competitions, and security concerns are at an all time high following threats from the Islamic State group (IS) to European sporting events. Katya Adler speaks to BBC sports editor Dan Roan and Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield about what Parisians think about the incoming spectacle, and whether it can truly leave a legacy on the city. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Emilia Jansson and Peter Goffin. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. What Parisians think about the event and the legacy it could leave | |
| People Who Could Change The World In 2026 | 20260106 | 20260107 (WS) | 
Producers: Xandra Ellin and Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: FC Barcelona's Lamine Yamal celebrates scoring a goal. Credit: Pablo Morano/Reuters. Our picks for who will have the power and influence to shape the next year's big stories The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Perfume's Dark Secret: Child Labour Behind Some Of Your Fragrances | 20240528 | A BBC investigation has uncovered the use of child labour in the supply chains of some of the world's most luxurious fragrances. The BBC's evidence reveals that, during the 2023 jasmine picking season, children in Egypt - some as young as five years old - were working in dangerous conditions throughout the night, often earning as little as a dollar a day. All the luxury perfume brands claim to have zero tolerance on child labour. Katya speaks to Ahmed ElShamy and Natasha Cox, from the BBC Eye Investigations team. You can watch BBC Eye's Perfume's Dark Secret on the World Service Youtube page. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett-Roberts, Tom Kavanagh and Emilia Jansson. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Pickers earn as little as a dollar a day, while huge profits are made in the industry | |
| Pope Francis: How 'woke' Is He? | 20240423 | Ever since he rose to the top of the Catholic Church in 2013, Pope Francis has had a reputation in international media as a moderniser. His forthright defence of the environment, and unprecedented outreach to members of the LGBT community, are examples of progressive positions which have caused friction with more conservative members of the faith. But a recent document released by the Vatican, headlined by its staunch opposition to gender reassignment and surrogacy, is now challenging that liberal image. So how should we define the Pope's ideology? On this episode, Mark Lowen is joined by the BBC's Religion Editor Aleem Maqbool, and long-time Vatican reporter Delia Gallagher. They consider the conflicting expectations from liberal and conservative Catholics, and ask how Pope Francis might be planning for both his legacy and eventual successor. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Frank McWeeny. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. A new Vatican document is challenging the Catholic leader's progressive image | |
| Preparing For War: Is Europe Getting Ready? | 20240430 | The war in Ukraine has increased tensions in Europe as governments across the continent look to secure a peaceful existence. Expanding military service, increasing defence spending and joining Nato are only a few options available. But the importance of self-defence becomes clearer each day as Donald Trump, who is famously not fond of Nato, may move back into The White House. So what are countries going to do? Katya Adler speaks to BBC Europe correspondent Nick Beake and BBC Russian Service journalist Oksana Antonenko, who is based in Latvia, about their experiences and stories from the Baltic countries and other nations bordering Russia. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Emilia Jansson. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Conscription and military spending are back on the agenda | |
| President Trump Is Back | 20250121 | 
Mr Trump said he would immediately begin a review of trade policies - and that new tariffs would bring in massive amounts of money to enrich Americans at other countries' expense. He repeated threats to take over the Panama Canal - claiming that China had taken control of the waterway. The Global Story has teamed up with other BBC podcasts to dissect Trump's speech. Jonny Dymond is joined by James Cook and Chris Mason from Newscast, Anthony Zurcher and Marianna Spring from Americast, and Victoria Derbyshire from Ukrainecast. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Jack Maclaren, Teodora Agarici and Shiler Mahmoudi Sound engineer: Ricardo McCarthy Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Chris Gray Senior news editors: China Collins and Sam Bonham (Photo: Donald Trump during his inauguration as 47th US president. Credit: Chip Somodevilla/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) The Global Story joins Newscast, Americast, and Ukrainecast to dissect Trump's speech | |
| Pronatalism: Make America Procreate Again? | 20250327 | Malcolm and Simone Collins hope to have 10 children to help avoid what they see as a pending demographic collapse. They tell Lucy Hockings that as pronatalists they want to promote the dangers of falling fertility rates and encourage other people to have more children. Whereas many people might see their lifestyle as extreme, pronatalism seems to be gaining support at the heart of the Trump administration. But some people worry that some pronatalist practices cross the line into eugenics and that the far right are also adopting the ideology. Our correspondent in Washington, Nomia Iqbal, helps us to put it all in context. Producers: Richard Moran and Mhairi MacKenzie Technical producer: Frank McWeeny Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Malcolm and Simone Collins hope to have 10 children to help avoid 'demographic collapse | |
| Putin: War Or Peace? | 20250318 | The Russian leader has been mulling a 30-day ceasefire proposal put forward by the US, ahead of talks with Donald Trump on Tuesday. Will Vladimir Putin accept a temporary pause in fighting, let alone a long-term deal? What are the pressures that could sway him toward peace, or cause him to drag out the war in Ukraine? On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to journalist Owen Matthews, author of the book “Overreach: The Inside Story of Putin's War ?. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: James Piper and Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The Russian leader mulls Trump's Ukraine ceasefire proposal | |
| Putin's New Eurovision | 20250919 | 20250920 (WS) | 
Intervision burned bright and fast – disappearing long before the fall of the Berlin Wall. But this weekend, with Russia still exiled from the Eurovision Song Contest because of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin is reviving the competition, and the USA is due to compete. In today's episode, BBC Moscow correspondent and Eurovision superfan Steve Rosenberg explores the intertwined histories of Eurovision and Intervision, and the politics behind Putin's decision. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Editor: China Collins (Photo: The international music contest Intervision at Zaryadye Park in Moscow. Credit: Maxim Shipenkov/EPA/Shutterstock) Why is Vladimir Putin relaunching Intervision, the Soviet era version of Eurovision? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Putin's Pursuit Of Russian Greatness | 20260114 | 20260115 (WS) | 
Today, we speak to Vitaly Shevchenko, co-host of Ukrainecast, about how Russia cultivates and controls its sphere of influence. President Vladimir Putin has called the Soviet Union's collapse 'the greatest geopolitical catastrophe' of the 20th century. Since he came to power in 1999, Putin has tried to exercise influence over what he calls Russia's ‘near abroad': the former Soviet republics in its backyard. Producers: Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Russia's President Vladimir Putin. Vyacheslav Prokofyev/ Sputnik/ Reuters Putin's mission to restore Russia to its Soviet-era glory. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Return To Auschwitz: 'i Want The World To Remember Us' | 20250127 | It's 80 years since the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp was liberated. As we commemorate the memory of the six million Jews and other groups murdered by the Nazis in the Holocaust, a survivor of Auschwitz tells us why it's more important than ever to remember what happened there. On today's episode Lucy Hockings speaks to Tova Friedman, an American author and therapist, and one of the youngest Auschwitz survivors. Tova arrived at the extermination camp at the age of just five years old. She now speaks to young people in person and via TikTok about how she survived a year in Auschwitz as a very young child. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins A Holocaust survivor on her journey back 80 years after liberation | |
| Riviera Or Statehood: The Future Of Gaza | 20250903 | 
There are two competing international visions for the future for Palestinians: much of the Western world will recognise Palestinian Statehood at this month's United Nations General Assembly in a push towards the two-state solution; whilst Donald Trump has touted plans for a US-controlled Gaza riviera. But how do these ideas line up with reality on the ground, as Netanyahu's government continues to bombard the Gaza Strip, approves plans for expanding settlements and expresses support for a ‘Greater Israel' that expands across the Middle East? We consider Gaza's future with BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen. Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image: President Trump Meets With Visiting Israeli PM Netanyahu At The White House. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Two opposing visions for a post-war Gaza, with BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen The Global Story: Where the world meets America From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Russia And Israel Put Steve Witkoff's Diplomacy To The Test | 20250911 | 
Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul and Trump's closest confidante, is now at the center of American foreign policy as the ‘envoy for everything'. On today's Global Story, we speak with the BBC's State Department Correspondent, Tom Bateman, and ask whether Witkoff's unconventional style is a weakness – or a strength. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: President Donald Trump and Steve Witkoff. Sarah Yenesel/EPA/Shutterstock Trump's envoy for everything has no diplomatic experience. Is it a problem or a strength? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Trump's envoy for everything has no diplomatic experience. Is it a weakness or a strength? From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Russia's Frozen Assets: Will They Fund Ukrainian Weapons? | 20240502 | When President Putin ordered Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv's western allies assembled unprecedented sanctions packages to target the Kremlin's access to international funds. That included freezing an estimated $300bn of central bank assets, the majority of which are held in Europe. As domestic enthusiasm for Ukrainian aid has dimmed in some western nations, the question about how to use these frozen funds has risen rapidly up the international agenda. On today's episode, Katya is joined by Ben Chu, BBC Newsnight's Economics Editor, and Tom Keatinge, from the Centre for Finance and Security at the RUSI think tank. They discuss whether new US legislation could pressure European leaders to make a decision on the fate of the frozen assets, and consider the risk of retaliation by Russia. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus, Alix Pickles and Neal Razzell. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Kyiv's western allies are contemplating the seizure of up to $300bn | |
| Saydnaya Prison: Inside Assad's 'human Slaughterhouse' | 20241210 | Syria's notorious Saydnaya prison is one of many that have been liberated as rebels take control of the country. We hear from our correspondent Barbara Plett Usher who has been inside the prison where thousands of opposition supporters are said to have been tortured and executed under the Assad regime. Family members rushed in to see if their relatives were among those released. But will these people find answers in their search? And what will this mean for Syria's future? On this episode Azadeh Moshiri is joined by the BBC's Middle East regional editor Sebastian Usher who compares the collapse of the regime to the start of the civil war, which began in 2011. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The search for loved ones inside Syria's detention centres | |
| Sextortion: 'in Six Hours, My Son Was Dead' | 20240621 | Sextortion is the fastest-growing scam affecting teenagers globally and has been linked to more than 27 suicides in the US alone. Many of the scammers appear to be from Nigeria - where authorities are under pressure to do more. It's feared that sextortion is under-reported due to its sensitive nature. But US crime figures show cases more than doubled last year, rising to 26,700. But what types of sextortion crimes are on the rise and what's being done to stop them? In this episode, Katya Adler is joined by our Cyber correspondent, Joe Tidy and Alex Goldenberg, Director of Intelligence at the Network Contagion Research Institute at Rutgers University. WARNING: This episode deals with issues of suicide and depression. If you are experiencing distress, despair or suicidal thoughts, contact a local mental health care provider. If you live in the US or Canada, you can call or text 9-8-8 to be connected to a support line. You can learn about the resources available in the UK at www.BBC.co.uk/actionline Or you can access help anywhere in the world through Befrienders Worldwide at www.befrienders.org The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Beth Timmins and Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. How Nigerian scammers blackmail teens worldwide | |
| Shein: How The Fast Fashion Disruptor Ran Into Real World Problems | 20251127 | 20251128 (WS) |  The backlash over the opening of Shein's first brick and mortar store in Paris this month is just one in a series of controversies and complaints over the ultra-fast fashion retailer. As the company looks to go public, we explore whether its business model can withstand the world's scrutiny. Laura Bicker, the BBC's China Correspondent, tells us what she found in the Guangzhou factories supplying Shein, and co-host Tristan Redman heads to the Paris store. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producers: Bridget Harney and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A customer shops at Shein in Paris, France. Sarah Meyssonnier/Reuters The inside story of Shein's success, and the challenges it faces in its bid to go public The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Smartphone Ban: Why An Irish Town Is Taking Children's Phones | 20240618 | The question of when, or whether, to allow young children to have their own smartphones is a dilemma for parents around the world. One town in Ireland decided to take action to make it easier for parents to say no. Greystones made global headlines when the headteachers from all of the town's primary schools came together to invite parents to sign up to a voluntary code, pledging not to buy phones for children until they reached secondary school. Around a year after the ‘ban' of sorts came into effect, the BBC's Beth McLeod travelled to the town in County Wicklow to investigate the impact. Through conversations with teachers, parents, children and Ireland's health minister, she tells us about the origins of a policy designed to minimise exposure to potentially harmful online content, and hears how some people want the big tech companies headquartered in nearby Dublin to do more to prevent young people from accessing damaging material on their platforms. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Tom Kavanagh and Alice Aylett Roberts. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. How parents and teachers are protecting kids from online threats | |
| Social Infertility: What's Behind Falling Birth Rates? | 20241111 | The proportion of people without children is growing around the world. For some, this new reality reflects changing social attitudes and a desire not to have children, but for others, the decision has been taken out of their hands by a range of factors. The latest statistics available reflect the extent to which this has become a global phenomenon: while the US birth rate is at a record low, China reported its first population decline in six decades in 2022. The BBC's population correspondent Stephanie Hegarty tells host Lucy Hockings that economic concerns are among the most important when it comes to individuals and couples deciding whether or not the time is right to have a baby, and discusses how the concept of “male malaise ? is impacting fertility rates. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Laurie Kalus and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineer: Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas | |
| South Africa Elections: 'democracy Means Nothing To Me' | 20240524 | It is 30 years since the end of apartheid in South Africa and Nelson Mandela was elected as the country's first black president. Since then, Mandela's party - the African National Congress - has dominated politics, delivering every president. People are going to the polls again at the end of this month. Nomsa Maseko, the BBC's South Africa correspondent tells us what the elections might mean for the rainbow nation as voters weigh frustration and loyalty to Mandela's ANC party. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh and Rachel Hagan. The technical producers was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Spain Stands Up To Trump | 20260309 | 20260310 (WS) | 
The Spanish Prime Minister and US President have butted heads on many issues; the war in Gaza, immigration and defence spending among them, but in the past week their relationship got even more fiery, with Donald Trump threatening to cut off all trade with Spain. What makes Sanchez willing to stand up to Trump? And will his gamble be worth it? Guy Hedgecoe, a reporter for the BBC based in Madrid, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore, Valerio Esposito and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez delivers a speech during closing ceremony of the 'Spain, Vanguard in the Green Industry', in Madrid, Spain, 08 September 2025. Credit: Daniel Gonzalez/EPA/Shutterstock. Pedro Sanchez's anti-war and pro-immigration views have caused clashes with the US leader. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Stolen Treasures: Scandal At The British Museum | 20240527 | Founded in 1753, the British Museum was designed to securely showcase some of the world's most valuable objects, a guardianship role now enshrined in UK law. So, it was nothing short of a scandal when last year it emerged that up to 1500 of its artefacts had disappeared – some allegedly stolen by a museum insider. The BBC's Culture Editor Katie Razzall has spoken to some of those studying what happened. She joins Katya to consider whether the iconic institution remains fit for purpose, and if it should have the right to keep a hold of many of its controversially acquired items in the first place. For more on this topic, you can search for Katie's new nine-part series ‘Thief at the British Museum' wherever you get your BBC podcasts. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The iconic institution is scrambling to protect its reputation after alleged thefts | |
| Stranded In Space: Another Crisis For Boeing | 20240902 | Two Nasa astronauts are stuck in space after their Boeing Starliner spacecraft suffered technical problems. It's the latest in a long line of crises facing the company, which is one of the largest and most important in the United States. So, is this one failure too far for Boeing? Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's business correspondent Theo Leggett and climate and science reporter Georgina Rannard about the problems facing Boeing and if its Starliner space programme is in trouble. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Beth Timmins and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineers: Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Two astronauts are stuck after their Starliner spacecraft suffered technical problems. Two Nasa astronauts are stuck after their Starliner spacecraft suffered technical problems. | |
| Succession: The Secret Battle For The Murdoch Empire | 20240920 | Rupert Murdoch is locked in a secret court battle with three of his eldest children, over the future of his media empire. The news mogul owns some of the most influential outlets in the world, including Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, and The Times of London. It has been reported that Mr Murdoch wants to amend a family trust to ensure his son and political disciple Lachlan inherits controlling voting rights at News Corp and Fox, but a campaign to unseal the proceedings has been unsuccessful. On this episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's culture and media editor Katie Razzall, and Brian Stelter, chief media analyst at CNN. They unpack what we know about the succession fight, and discuss whether the public should have a right to know what's going on behind closed doors. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles. Sound Engineers: Nicola Brough and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. The media mogul is taking on three of his children in court | |
| Sydney Mall Attack: How A Social Media Frenzy Unfolded | 20240417 | Following the knife attack in a shopping mall in Sydney, speculations and false allegations were spread online at an alarming rate. It even led to an innocent man being labelled as the attacker. Mark Lowen speaks to the BBC's Sydney correspondent Katy Watson on the shock and sorrow in the country. And BBC Disinformation & Social Media Correspondent Marianna Spring tells him about her experience confronting one of the people at the heart of the social media frenzy. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Emilia Jansson. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. A stabbing rampage in Australia fuelled by hate and false accusations | |
| Syria's Illegal Drug Empire | 20250204 | The deposed President Bashar al-Assad has been linked to the multi-billion dollar trade of a narcotic called Captagon. Syria's new rebel leaders have promised to stamp it out. So what will it take to end the country's association with the drug? Presenter Caitríona Perry speaks to the BBC's Emir Nader, who has been reporting on the drug trade in the Middle East. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Inside the multi-billion dollar industry linked to deposed President Bashar al-Assad | |
| Telegram's Nightmare Week | 20240830 | Telegram CEO, Pavel Durov, is under investigation over criminal activity on the messaging app. He spent four days in detention after being arrested when arriving in France and is now barred from leaving the country. Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's Cyber Correspondent, Joe Tidy about what Durov's arrest means for Telegram. And what it signals about future moderation on social media platforms... and the limits of free speech. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. Sound Engineer: Stephen Bailey. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Its CEO, Pavel Durov, is under investigation over criminal activity on the messaging app | |
| Thailand: The First Same-sex Marriages In Asia's Lgbt Haven | 20250124 | On Thursday, Thailand's long-awaited same-sex marriage law came into effect, with more than a thousand couples thought to have officially tied the knot already. The legislation comes after years of campaigning, and at a moment when a public yearning for change is being increasingly felt on the political stage. Characterised by its conservative establishment and royalist military, Thailand has nonetheless developed a reputation as a haven for LGBTQ+ people in Asia, and has now become the largest country on the continent to legally enshrine equal marriage rights. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by Ruchaya 'Rayya' Nillakan, after she and her wife were officially married along with more than a hundred other couples at a mass celebration in a luxury Bangkok shopping mall. Also there was the BBC's South East Asia correspondent, Jonathan Head, who explains how this landmark moment came about, and considers why the majority of Thailand's Asian neighbours are yet to follow suit. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Tom Kavanagh, and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins It's the largest country on the continent to pass an equal marriage law | |
| The Abuse Scandal Facing The Church Of England | 20241119 | What the resignation of the Church's most senior figure, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, means for Anglicans worldwide. An independent report found that the Church of England failed to act on allegations that more than a hundred boys were physically and sexually abused by a man running Christian summer camps in the UK and Zimbabwe. What does this mean for the millions of Anglicans in Africa, many of whom were already feeling out of step with the UK leaders of the Church? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's religion editor Aleem Maqbool and the BBC's correspondent in Zimbabwe Shingai Nyoka. WARNING: This episode includes discussions of child sexual abuse. Some listeners may find this content disturbing. Producers: Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Moran Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson What the resignation of the Church's most senior figure means for Anglicans worldwide | |
| The Ai Models Invading Our Feeds | 20241212 | Is artificial intelligence making social media more dangerous? With online personalities increasingly dictating the way many of us live our lives, we are firmly in the age of the influencer. And with the advent of AI influencers, longstanding concerns about unrealistic beauty standards or unattainable lifestyle goals, are being argued even more strenuously by critics of the industry. But are the feeds of these AI-generated models any less 'real' than the enhanced profiles we have been exposed to for years? On today's episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's cyber correspondent Joe Tidy. He reveals all on his recent trip to meet the creators of one of the world's most successful AI influencers, Aitana... Producers: Laurie Kalus and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| The Bondi Beach Massacre And The Rise Of Antisemitic Violence | 20251216 | 20251217 (WS) |  Australia is reeling after its deadliest mass shooting in decades, in which gunmen opened fire on Jewish people gathered for a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach in Sydney. At least 16 people have been killed – among them a 10-year-old and a Holocaust survivor. The massacre has triggered a reckoning in Australia and beyond. While some are asking how this horror could have happened, others believe an attack like this was grimly inevitable after a string of antisemitic incidents in Australia in the past few years. In today's episode, we speak to the BBC's Religion Editor Aleem Maqbool and the ABC's Hamish Macdonald to explore why antisemitism has surged since October 7th 2023, and why many Jewish communities feel their governments aren't doing enough to keep them safe. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Rabbi Yossi Freidman at a memorial for shooting victims at Sydney's Bondi Beach. Mark Baker /AP Why some feared an attack like this was coming. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Charlie Kirk Blueprint | 20250912 | 
Today, we speak to Semafor political correspondent, David Weigel, about the blueprint Kirk pioneered for winning young minds to the conservative cause. Then, we speak to Daniel Ogoloma, who partnered with Kirk for a debate while he was a student at Oxford University. He tells us about his plan to bring Kirk's ideas into Nigerian politics. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin, Valerio Esposito, Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo credit: Trent Nelson / The Salt Lake Tribune / Reuters How Kirk tried to make conservative ideas\u00a0cool, and then export them\u00a0around the world. The Global Story: Where the world meets America How the millennial activist tried to make conservative ideas cool, and then export them around the world. From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| The Cities Built On Scamming Us All | 20260326 | 20260327 (WS) | 
The so-called “scam centres ? of Southeast Asia bring in billions of dollars a year, expertly swindling unsuspecting foreigners out of their savings. Today, BBC Southeast Asia correspondent Jonathan Head offers an inside look at these formidable hubs of corruption and human trafficking, and explains how governments around the world are working to intervene. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: New high rises in the city of Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, visible from Thailand's border. Credit: Jonathan Head/BBC. How sophisticated crime syndicates are duping unsuspecting foreigners The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Cost Of Usaid Cuts To Women In Afghanistan | 20251023 | 20251024 (WS) | 
But earlier this year, following deep cuts to USAID under the Trump administration, more than 400 USAID-backed medical clinics have closed, and for pregnant women in desperate need of care, the impacts are devastating. The BBC's South Asia and Afghanistan correspondent, Yogita Limaye, tells us about the families she met on her recent reporting trip, and the lives lost because women did not get the care they needed. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Picture: Taliban bans female medical education, Afghan female doctors and midwives face setback, Kabul, Afghanistan, 24 Dec 2024. Samiullah Popal/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock Over 400 health clinics have shut. The impact on pregnant women has been devastating. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Dangers Of China's Cyber-nationalism | 20241028 | A Japanese schoolboy was fatally stabbed by a stranger outside a school in China last month. The killing caused outrage and increased diplomatic tensions between Tokyo and Beijing. Japan blamed the attack on rising xenophobia and online nationalism in China. It was the third high-profile attack on a foreigner in recent months, all of which China has described as “isolated incidents ?. On this episode, Katya Adler is joined by BBC digital journalist Fan Wang, and Kerry Allen, who is a China media analyst at BBC News. They discuss whether growing Chinese cyber-nationalism is fuelling violence against foreigners and what impact it is having on China's reputation abroad. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineers: Stephen Bailey and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Is xenophobia to blame for the murder of a Japanese schoolboy? | |
| The Dark Memes Behind Charlie Kirk's Murder | 20250916 |  The assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk shocked America and exposed the depth of its political divides. Since a suspect has been arrested, the search for clear motive has only become more complicated. In today's episode, the BBC's Social Media investigations correspondent Marianna Spring examines the meaning of the inscriptions on the bullet casings associated with the murder. The markings take us into the dark corners of the internet, but what do they tell us about why Charlie Kirk was killed? Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Aron Keller and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Utah Governor Spencer Cox. Cheney Orr/Reuters Could memes found on bullets point to a possible motive behind Charlie Kirk's murder? The Global Story: Where the world meets America The assassination of Charlie Kirk has shocked an already deeply polarized America. Could internet memes engraved on the bullets point to a possible motive? | |
| The Death Of Reading | 20251202 | 20251203 (WS) |  Are we living through the slow death of reading - replaced by an addictive screen culture that fragments our attention and floods us with trivial or unreliable information? Writer and voracious reader James Marriott believes we are entering a post-literate age with profoundly negative consequences for education, culture and democracy itself. In today's episode, James traces how an 18th century ‘reading revolution' shaped the modern-world - and what might follow its sudden decline. Producers: Aron Keller and Sam Chantarasak Editor: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: The al-Nahda al-Arabiya library in central Baghdad. (Credit: Ahmed Jalil/EPA) What do we lose when screens replace books? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Death Of Reading | 20260101 | 20260102 (WS) | 
Are we living through the slow death of reading - replaced by an addictive screen culture that fragments our attention and floods us with trivial or unreliable information? Writer and voracious reader James Marriott believes we are entering a post-literate age with profoundly negative consequences for education, culture and democracy itself. In today's episode, James traces how an 18th century ‘reading revolution' shaped the modern-world - and what might follow its sudden decline. Producers: Aron Keller and Sam Chantarasak Editor: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: The al-Nahda al-Arabiya library (Arab Renaissance Library) in central Baghdad. AHMED JALIL/EPA. What do we lose when screens replace books? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Decision Facing Zelensky | 20251124 | 20251125 (WS) | 
Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, was faced with a dilemma last week – either make concessions to Putin, or risk losing US support. But Zelensky said there were 'signals that President Trump's team hears us', and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a 'tremendous amount of progress' had been achieved. We're joined by the Oscar-winning Ukrainian film-maker Mstyslav Chernov, and by BBC Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse, to discuss how Ukrainians feel about the leaked peace plan. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky sits inside a vehicle. Credit: Susana Vera/Reuters. Ukraine's dilemma:\u00a0make concessions to Putin, or risk losing US support. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Ukraine's dilemma: make concessions to Putin, or risk losing US support. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Disgraced Uk Doctor Behind Autism Misinformation | 20250926 | 20251224 20250927 (WS) 20251225 (WS) | 
In September, President Trump and the U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. held a press conference in which they made extraordinary new claims about autism. They suggested a potential link between the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of autism. They also advocated spacing out childhood vaccinations. The two men's interest in the link between vaccines and autism goes back decades but these claims did not originate in the US. They trace back to the UK in 1998, when disgraced former doctor Andrew Wakefield first published his now-debunked theory linking MMR vaccines to autism cases in children. The science journalist Adam Rutherford explains to the Global Story how the Wakefield vaccine conspiracy became the biggest medical disinformation disaster in recent history, and how these ideas found fertile ground in the Trump administration. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown, James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: President Trump & Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters How a British doctor created the vaccine myth behind Trump's autism announcement. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. On Monday President Trump and the U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. held a press conference in which they made extraordinary new claims about autism. They suggested a potential link between the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of autism. They also advocated spacing out childhood vaccinations. Today on the Global Story science journalist Adam Rutherford explains how the Wakefield vaccine conspiracy became the biggest medical disinformation disaster in recent history, and how these ideas found fertile ground in the Trump administration. Image: President Donald Trump, in front of U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., delivers remarks linking autism to childhood vaccines and to the use of popular pain medication Tylenol for pregnant women and children, claims which are not backed by decades of science, at the White House. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque |
| The Fifa-trump Bromance | 20251205 | 20251206 (WS) | 
We speak to Dan Roan, the BBC's sports editor, about why Infantino is cosying up to Trump, and what it means for football and global diplomacy. Producer: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Image: Fifa President Gianni Infantino shows US President Donald Trump the World Cup Trophy in the Oval Office. Credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Fifa's new 'Peace Prize' raises questions about politics in the world's biggest sport The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Fight For The Arctic | 20250109 | US President-elect Donald Trump has repeated his intention to take control of Greenland, the Arctic territory controlled by Denmark. Greenland sits between the US, Europe, and the dominant Arctic power that is Russia. And further heating up tensions in the region is the fact that climate change is chipping away at the ice, creating new shipping routes and making key oil, gas and mineral resources easier to access. On this episode, Katya Adler is joined by the BBC's defence correspondent Jonathan Beale and journalist and author Tim Marshall to discuss the intensifying competition in the region and if we are heading for a new ‘cold war' in the High North. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Phil Bull and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson How melting ice and geopolitical rivalries are heating up competition in the Arctic | |
| The Final Hours Of The Assad Regime | 20241209 | 
As it became clear that Assad had fled, the BBC's Lina Sinjab crossed the border from Lebanon, becoming the first western journalists to report from Damascus as a new era began. She tells Azadeh Moshiri how some Syrians celebrated while others looted the president's former home. And our Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, explains what the future might hold for Syria, now that everything has changed. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Sergi Forcada Freixas Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Syria's President Bashar al-Assad fled the country, ending 50 years of rule by his family | |
| The Gathering Economic Storm | 20260410 | 20260411 (WS) | 
In theory, the deal should cut the prices of fuel worldwide, as well as allowing essential supplies of fertiliser, helium and other goods to reach businesses. But the fragility of the ceasefire is leaving markets uncertain, and prices remain volatile. Will the ceasefire eventually help lower costs? And if so, when? Sean Farrington, presenter of the BBC's Wake Up To Money, joins us to explain. For our explainer on the conflict in Lebanon, listen back to our episode from March 19th: https://www.BBC.co.uk/programmes/w3ct71b5. Producers: Hannah Moore, Aron Keller and Cat Farnsworth Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins The Iran war has made oil and gas prices volatile. Will the ceasefire bring stability? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Global Surrogacy Boom | 20250106 | Surrogacy is a booming global industry generating billions of dollars every year. But while demand for surrogacy is rising - more and more countries are taking steps to ban it completely. Most recently in Italy – where the far-right government has passed a new law that makes surrogacy a “universal crime ?, putting it on the same level as child abuse and human trafficking. So, is surrogacy exploitative or empowering women? On this episode Lucy Hockings speaks with the BBC's gender and identity correspondent Sofia Bettiza about how to balance the desire of gay or infertile couples to become parents with the rights of the women who carry the children. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Daniel Ehrlich Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson More countries are banning surrogacy - but demand is growing | |
| The Great Wealth Transfer: Will It Divide Millennials? | 20250326 | The baby boomer generation has become the richest in history. In recent years there has been some degree of animosity between the boomer generation and their younger millennial counterparts. The millennial generation have been much less well off than their parents and are often stereotyped as living beyond their means. But this could all be about to change. Now younger people are expected to inherit billions from their parents. It's expected to be the largest transfer of wealth in human history. But that won't be shared out equally - So, what are the social and economic implications of The Great Wealth Transfer? Lucy Hockings speaks with BBC business correspondent Erin Delmore and the BBC's population correspondent Stephanie Hegarty. They discuss what The Great Wealth Transfer could mean for the millennial generation. Producers: Richard Moran, Eleanor Sly and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineer: Ricardo McCarthy Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Big inheritances to younger generations could reshape economies, housing and society | |
| The 'holy Grail' Of Shipwrecks | 20250103 | The wreck of a Spanish galleon, the San José, is thought to hold a cargo of gold, silver and emeralds worth $18 billion dollars. It's laid on the seabed off the coast of Colombia for more than 300 years, after being sunk by the British. Decades after it was discovered, a debate still rages among various groups who think they have the right to retrieve the San José's long lost cargo. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to marine archaeologist Dr Rodrigo Pacheco-Ruiz and our business correspondent Gideon Long to find out who's claim to the wreck is strongest. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The battle over $18 billion worth of gold, silver and emeralds sunk with the San Jose | |
| The Hostage Negotiator's Guide To Making Deals With Putin's Russia | 20251113 | 20251114 (WS) | 
One man who has successfully negotiated with Russia – and with many of America's adversaries – is Roger Carstens, former Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs. From 2020 to 2025 he worked to free dozens of US citizens taken hostage and wrongfully detained around the world, including in Russia. Securing their release often required complex deals that took years to put together. What does it take to successfully negotiate with Putin's Russia? Producer: Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: Roger Carstens. Credit: BBC Roger Carstens on how he freed Americans wrongfully detained by Russia. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Hostage Negotiator's Guide To Making Deals With Putin's Russia | 20251231 | 20260101 (WS) | 
Donald Trump has spent this year trying to negotiate a deal to end the war in Ukraine. So far, Vladimir Putin doesn't seem interested in the US' proposals. One man who has experience successfully negotiating with Russia – and many other American adversaries – is Roger Carstens, former Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs. From 2020 to 2025 he worked to free dozens of US citizens taken hostage and wrongfully detained around the world, including Russia. Securing their release often required complex deals that took years to put together. What does it take to successfully negotiate with Vladimir Putin's Russia? Producer: Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: Roger Carstens. Credit: BBC Roger Carstens on how he freed Americans wrongfully detained by Russia The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The International Drama Of Miss Universe | 20251126 | 20251127 (WS) | 
The pageant – styled as a celebration of women of all backgrounds and nationalities – has suffered waning international attention in recent years, with many questioning the ideals of femininity it seems to espouse. Could the drama of this year's competition get people watching again? BBC journalist and Miss Universe expert, William Lee Adams, joins us to discuss. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Hannah Moore Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Miss Universe 2025 has been chaotic and scandalous - but will it win back viewers? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Israeli Soldiers Refusing To Fight | 20241219 | The BBC has spoken to Israeli reservists who are refusing to return to the war in Gaza. Imbued with a sense of national duty following the October 7th attack by Hamas, but now troubled by the things they've witnessed in Gaza, some Israeli soldiers say they won't return to the army. We hear from one soldier who compares the devastation inflicted by Israel's military in the Gaza Strip to an apocalypse, and said his colleagues would routinely loot and vandalise Palestinian houses, claims denied by the Israeli military authorities. BBC special correspondent Fergal Keane has spoken to several of them, and tells our presenter Azadeh Moshiri why their stories reflect deep political divisions which exist within Israeli society. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The BBC speaks to reservists refusing to return to the war in Gaza | |
| The Louvre Daytime Heist That Shocked The World | 20251021 | 20251022 (WS) | 
Erin Thompson, Professor of Art Crime at The City University of New York, tells us about the crime that has stunned France - and the rest of the world. Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller, Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: A security employee near the glass Pyramid of the Louvre Museum, Paris. Benoît Tessier/Reuters How thieves stole France's crown jewels and what they could do with them The Global Story: Where the world meets America How did thieves break into the world's most visited museum, in broad daylight, and make off with eight pieces of priceless jewelry? |
| The Medications That Can Trigger Sex And Gambling Addictions | 20260407 | 20260408 (WS) | 
Millions of people in the US and around the world have been prescribed these medications, which are used to treat various illnesses, from Parkinson's to depression. But they have well-established side effects: around 1 in 6 people who take them develop impulse control disorders. Noel Titheradge, investigations correspondent, shares the story of one American woman who developed hypersexuality after she took a dopamine agonist drug. Like many of the patients Noel has spoken to, she says she was not warned that her medication could dramatically change her personality. Noel's investigation is also a BBC podcast series. Search for ‘Shadow World: Impulsive'. If you have any concerns about medication you're taking, speak to your doctor. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to BBC.co.uk/actionline. Producers: Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A mixture of pills. Credit: Lauren Hurley/PA Wire A BBC investigation uncovers devastating side effects of a class of prescription drugs. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Most Contested Land In The World? | 20240723 | A look at a much-debated slogan, and a journey through the land that it refers to; from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean sea. Since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas last year, the cry “From the River to the Sea ? has been heard more and more as a pro-Palestinian slogan. But what river? What sea? And what exactly does the phrase mean? It is the subject of intense controversy. BBC Current Affairs journalist Tim Whewell joins our presenter Lucy Hockings to discuss his journey from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea, across a tiny stretch of land - that is perhaps the most argued-over in the world. Tim has produced a two-part series about his journey for The Documentary podcast. You can listen to it by searching The Documentary wherever you get your BBC podcasts. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Beth Timmins, Laurie Kalus and Peter Goffin. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. A journey through a land - and a slogan - between the River Jordan and the Mediterranean | |
| The Murders That Moved A Nation: Italy's New Femicide Law | 20251212 | 20251213 (WS) |  **This episode contains descriptions of abuse and violence** In November, the Italian parliament voted unanimously to introduce the term “femicide ? into the country's legal code. The murder of a woman – on account of her gender – is now a distinct crime, punishable with a life sentence. The United Nations reported that last year nearly 50,000 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or family members. Italy is the latest country to adopt a specific law in an effort to curb violence against women following a string of brutal murders of young women. One of the most publicised was Giulia Tramontano, who was repeatedly stabbed by her partner while seven-months pregnant. Her murder - along with another case – sparked fierce outrage across Italy, culminating in the new law being passed. In this episode, we hear from Giulia's sister, Chiara Tramontano, and the BBC Southern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford. Producer: Valerio Esposito Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: A framed photo of Giulia Tramontano at her funeral. Credit: Alessandro Memoli/KONTROLAB/LightRocket via Getty Images) How two shocking murders of young women fueled outrage in Italy and led to femicide law The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Mystery Of Putin And The Apartment Bombs | 20260127 | 20260128 (WS) | 
The government blamed Chechen militants, a conclusion corroborated by many journalists at the time. But whispers of a darker conspiracy persist to this day. A new BBC podcast, The History Bureau: Putin and the Apartment Bombs, tells the story of those bombings and re-examines how these tragic events helped propel Vladimir Putin to power. Asma talks to the host of the series, Helena Merriman. Producers: Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Moscow apartment buildings in the 1990s. Credit: BBC. How a series of attacks on Russian apartments helped propel Putin's rise to power. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The New Race To The Moon | 20260223 | 20260224 (WS) | 
Artemis II will take its crew farther from Earth than any human has travelled in decades - a crucial step towards landing on the lunar surface once again. At the same time, China has been quietly advancing its own plans for a crewed Moon landing. Some experts say this signals the start of a new space race – not just for prestige, but to build a long-term presence on the Moon, tap its resources and use it as a stepping stone to Mars. We speak to the BBC's Science Editor, Rebecca Morelle. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Official Artemis crew portrait. Josh Valcarcel/NASA Handout/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock Nasa's Artemis II launch this spring marks the beginning of a new space race. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Oil Lobbyist Who Tried To Sink The First Big Climate Deal | 20251119 | 20251120 (WS) |  The American lawyer, oil lobbyist and master strategist Don Pearlman is said to have chain-smoked his way through almost every UN climate gathering from the early 1990s until his death in 2005. Some of those who saw Pearlman operate in Kyoto, where the first legally binding international agreement on climate change was agreed in 1997, say he created the playbook for stalling climate talks. The Kyoto protocol was never ratified by the United States, and Pearlman is now the subject of a major play, Kyoto, which has just transferred from London to the Lincoln Center in New York. As the COP30 climate summit takes place in Brazil, we speak to BBC climate journalist Jordan Dunbar, who's been trying to piece together the true story of the man once nicknamed ‘the high priest of the carbon club'. Producers: Aron Keller and Cat Farnsworth Eexecutive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Don Pearlman at the Kyoto summit / BBC. The true story of the man once described as 'the high priest of the carbon club The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Origins Of Ice | 20260210 | 20260211 (WS) | 
Democrats are demanding changes to the way ICE operates, including banning face masks and requiring agents to have warrants signed by a judge before they can enter private properties. Republicans say these measures could make officers less safe. Meanwhile, the controversy over ICE has spread to other countries. A protest broke out in Milan in response to the presence of ICE agents in Italy, who say they are helping with American security operations during the Winter Olympics. Camilo Montoya-Galvez, immigration reporter for CBS News, has been covering ICE operations across multiple US cities. He tells us the history of how this previously little-known law enforcement agency was created, and how it has become so internationally controversial. Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Chris Benderev Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Anti-ICE protests in Milan. Credit: Reuters/ Alkis Konstantinidis How ICE went from a little-known US law enforcement agency to international controversy. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Post-world War Ii Era Is Over. What Comes Next? | 20260116 | 20260117 (WS) | 
The BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen wraps up our week of special coverage. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Presidents Putin, Trump and Xi as Russian dolls. Credit: Yuri Kochetkov. EFE/REX/Shutterstock) Did the rules-based order ever exist and what could replace it if it goes away? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Rebel Commander Running Syria | 20241220 | 
After interviewing al-Sharaa at the presidential palace which until recently was the heart of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Jeremy speaks to Lucy Hockings for this episode of The Global Story. So, is he really a reformed radical? Will he respect the rights of women? And even if these are his intentions, is he the man who can make it happen? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh and Alix Pickles Sound engineers: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The BBC's Jeremy Bowen brings us his interview with HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa | |
| The Rehabilitation Of Syria's Ex-jihadist President | 20251001 | 20251002 (WS) | 
The BBC's senior international correspondent Orla Guerin joins us from Damascus, where she's been speaking to Syrians about the country's future. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image: Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Khalil Ashawi / Reuters Syria will soon hold its first elections since Assad fell. Will they be democratic? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Syrian president Ahmed al-Sharaa is due to hold the country's first elections since the fall of the Assad regime. How will they shape Syria's future? |
| The Republican Crusade Against Public Media | 20250328 | Ever since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, his representatives have been following through on promises to slash federal spending. Their latest target is public media, and this week fierce Trump-loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene led a hearing demanding that the bosses of NPR and PBS justify their government funding. Public broadcasting has been a longtime bugbear for many conservatives, who say it is tainted by a liberal bias. So, as pressure mounts, can these organisations survive? On today's episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to Micah Loewinger, co-host of On the Media, a podcast covering the intersection between politics and the media – it's made by WNYC, a member station of NPR. They discuss the resilience of public media, and consider what defunding it could mean for free speech and accountability in the modern political landscape. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Peter Goffin Technical producer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The Trump administration wants to defund both NPR and PBS | |
| The Russians Snitching On Each Other For Anti-war Views | 20240913 | Ever since the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine there have been widespread reports of Russians reporting fellow citizens to the police for anti-war views; often leading to prosecution and, in some cases, prison sentences. It's revived memories of the Soviet past when informing on colleagues and neighbours was actively encouraged. Katya Adler speaks to our Russia editor Steve Rosenberg about the people he has met who have been caught up in this new wave of denunciations. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Eleanor Sly and Beth Timmins. Sound Engineers: Antonio Fernandes and Rohan Madison. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. A wave of denunciations was sparked after the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine | |
| The Saudi Prince's Long Road To Rehabilitation | 20251118 | 20251119 20251119 (WS) 20251120 (WS) | 
Tuesday's meeting between President Trump and Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler will build on a relationship between the two leaders which has endured the scandal. But can both parties walk away from these strategic talks with what they want? On Trump's part, some movement towards the Abraham Accords; and for MBS, a chunky defence package. We talk to BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Brian Snyder/Reuters Can MBS reclaim his place on the world stage after global outrage of Khashoggi's killing? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Scandal Sinking An Oscars Campaign | 20250228 | 
Lucy Hockings is joined by BBC culture reporter Noor Nanji and Matthew Belloni, entertainment journalist and founder of the digital media platform, Puck. They dissect the noise around the movie, and consider what Academy voters might be thinking. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. (Photo: Composite image of Karla Sofía Gascón, Credit: Mario Anzuoni/Reuters, and Academy Awards statuette, Credit: Caroline Brehman/EPA) Producers: Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Phil Bull and James Piper Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Offensive posts by Emilia Perez star Karla Sof\u00eda Gasc\u00f3n have caused controversy Offensive posts by Emilia Pérez star Karla Sofía Gascón have caused controversy. | |
| The Sentencing Of The 'hong Kong 47' | 20241126 | A Hong Kong court has sentenced dozens of pro-democracy leaders to years in jail for subversion. All but two of the so-called Hong Kong 47 were jailed in the biggest trial yet under a sweeping national security law imposed by China shortly after explosive pro-democracy protests in 2019. A day later, influential pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai testified in a trial that could see him spend the rest of his life behind bars. So what does the future look like for the city's pro-democracy movement? On today's episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to Danny Vincent, a BBC reporter in Hong Kong who has been following the lives of the protesters since 2019. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Alice Aylett Roberts Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| The Supreme Court Battle Over Trump's Tariffs | 20251104 | 20251105 (WS) |  The Trump administration faces a Supreme Court challenge on Wednesday over its use of tariffs, an economic policy that has upended global trade. This case, which has been described by the President in epic terms, questions the legality of Trump's signature economic policy - and poses one of the biggest existential threats to his second term so far. In today's episode, we speak to small business owners across the US, and to BBC business reporter Natalie Sherman, who will be at the Supreme Court this week. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: US President Trump unveils new tariffs on so-called Liberation Day. Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock Trump faces a Supreme Court challenge over the legality of his tariffs policy The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| The Tightrope Of Reporting In Putin's Russia | 20260218 | 20260219 (WS) | 
Today, we speak to Steve Rosenberg, the BBC's Russia editor, on the tightrope of reporting from Moscow under Vladimir Putin. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow. Credit: Sputnik/Alexander Kazakov/Pool/Reuters. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to an intense crackdown on dissent. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Uk's Assisted Dying Debate | 20241128 | The UK parliament is preparing to vote on whether terminally ill adults in England and Wales can request assistance to end their life. The potential social change this bill could herald has seen commentators compare it to the legalisation of abortion, the abolition of the death penalty, and the introduction of same-sex marriage. But despite strong public support, and the growing number of countries sanctioning assisted dying in some form, ethical questions mean it remains a divisive and emotionally charged issue. On today's episode, Katya is joined by the BBC's global health correspondent Dominic Hughes. They look at the proposed UK legislation, and discuss how it compares to existing laws on assisted dying throughout the world. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Alice Aylett Roberts Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson MPs are preparing to vote on access for terminally ill adults | |
| The Undercover Rebels In Myanmar's Military | 20241224 | A new BBC investigation has found that Myanmar's once-formidable military now controls less than a quarter of the country's territory. The surging resistance movement has been fuelled by young pro-democracy activists who fled to jungle camps following a brutal crackdown by the ruling junta in 2021. As the BBC witnesses the activities of one key militia group up close, we reveal their secret weapon — spies who are bringing down the army from the inside. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by BBC Burmese editor Soe Win Than and Rebecca Henschke, one of the journalists behind the investigation. They recount the events which inspired these fighters and explain why, despite their success, victory still feels a long way off. To listen to the full investigation, search for The Documentary wherever you get your BBC podcasts. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Annie Brown Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson BBC investigation reveals the resistance movement's secret weapon | |
| The Us Ran A War Game On The Aftermath Of Maduro's Fall - It Predicted Chaos | 20260107 | 20260108 (WS) | 
On today's episode, we speak to the former Washington Post journalist Douglas Farah, who participated in war games on Venezuela during Donald Trump's first term, as well as during the Obama and Biden administrations. Producers: Hannah Moore and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A protest against US strikes on Venezuela and the capture of President Maduro, in Brazil. Tuane Fernandes/Reuters Officials have for years run war games on Venezuela - here's what they predicted. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The Venezuela Model For Regime Change | 20260324 | 20260325 (WS) | 
Meanwhile in their home country, the Trump-approved interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has been making deals with the US government over Venezuela's oil and critical minerals. The BBC's South America correspondent, Ione Wells, has been in Caracas to find out how much life has altered under Rodriguez's leadership, and to what extend Donald Trump may see this regime change as a blueprint for US intervention elsewhere. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Valerio Esposito and Hannah Moore Executive producers: Bridget Harney and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez. Credit: Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria How do ordinary Venezuelans feel about the country's future? The Global Story: Where the world meets America As Delcy Rodriguez strikes deals with the US administration, how do ordinary Venezuelans feel about their country's future? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| 'the Violence Is Getting Out Of Hand': Crime Grips Cuba's Streets | 20241007 | The late leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, famously called Cuba “the safest country in the world ?. But more and more Cubans are starting to speak out about crime on their streets. And increased violence isn't the only problem it is facing. Blackouts, food shortages and a lack of water are all fuelling a mass exodus from the country. On this episode, Caitríona Perry speaks to our Cuba correspondent Will Grant about what its rising crime rate reveals about life on this struggling island. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts and Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineers: Ricardo McCarthy and Gareth Jones Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson It was called the safest country in the world but do Cubans still feel safe? | |
| The War In Lebanon, Explained | 20260319 | 20260320 (WS) | 
Lebanese authorities say that more than 900 people, including at least 111 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since 2 March. More than a million others have been forced to leave their homes. On Wednesday, Israel widened its air strikes from the southern suburbs of Beirut into the city centre. And there are fears that what Israel has called a “limited ? ground operation could lead to an occupation of the south. Israel says it is targeting not only Hezbollah fighters and leaders, but also businesses it claims are linked to the group and help finance its military operations. From his post in Beirut, BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega explains the long history of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, and we ask what could come next. Producers: Chris Benderev and Aron Keller Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo Credit: Smoke rises after an Israeli strike in central Beirut's Bachoura neighbourhood, following an escalation between Hezbollah and Israel, amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Beirut, Lebanon, 12 March, 2026. Creit: Claudia Greco/Reuters The BBC's correspondent in Beirut on how we got here and what's next The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The 'weight Loss Revolution' Changing The World | 20260211 | 20260212 (WS) | 
These medications — like Mounjaro and Wegovy — have become ubiquitous. In just a few short years, they've transformed the way we live, move, and eat, whether we take them or not. And access and demand are only increasing, as pill forms of the drugs come onto the market. But where did they come from? And how are they reshaping our world? Today, we speak to Giles Yeo, a professor of molecular neuroendocrinology at the University of Cambridge, about the so-called weight loss revolution. Producer: Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Someone using a set of weighing scales. Chris Radburn/PA) GLP-1s are changing the way you live, move, and eat \u2014 whether you take them or not. The Global Story: Where the world meets America GLP-1s are changing the way you live, move, and eat — whether you take them or not. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| The World Cup Kiss That's Gripping Spain | 20250210 | Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain's football federation, is on trial accused of sexual assault for kissing the player Jenni Hermoso at the 2023 World Cup medal ceremony. Hermoso told the trial last week that the incident 'stained one of the happiest days of my life'. Rubiales, who has denied any wrongdoing, is expected to give evidence in the coming days. Host Lucy Hockings speaks to The Global Story's very own Sergi Forcada Freixas about how the incident stole headlines from the World Cup win. And our gender and identity correspondent Sofia Bettiza explains how the case has fuelled a conversation on sexual assault and consent that has been simmering in Spain for years. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Stephen Bailey Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Spain's former football boss accused of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain's football federation, is on trial for sexual assault for kissing the player Jenni Hermoso at the 2023 World Cup medal ceremony. | |
| Three Weeks That Changed Life In Lebanon | 20241010 | Israeli air strikes have forced more than 1.2 million Lebanese to flee their homes in the past few weeks, and have killed more than 2,000 people in the country in the past year. While the fighting has escalated in recent weeks, there have been regular exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel since October 2023. Hezbollah initially began firing missiles into Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid Israel's war against Hamas, and continues to say that such attacks will only stop with a ceasefire there. Meanwhile, Israel has also launched a ground invasion of southern Lebanon, and there are fears of further escalation with key Hezbollah backer Iran, which recently fired rockets at several military targets in Israel. Caitríona Perry talks to Beirut-based BBC Arabic correspondent Rami Ruhayem about how Lebanon is coping with the intensification of a conflict which had been simmering for months. Producers: Richard Moran, Tom Kavanagh and Mariana Hernandez-Carrillo Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Titan Sub Implosion: What Have We Learned? | 20240927 | When OceanGate's Titan submersible went missing last June, it sparked a monumental rescue mission which captured the attention of the world. After days of searching, authorities concluded that the vessel had suffered a catastrophic implosion, and that all five passengers died almost instantly. For the past two weeks, the US Coast Guard has been hearing testimonies from former employees and industry experts, to try to identify what went wrong. On this episode, Azadeh Moshiri is joined by the BBC's science editor, Rebecca Morelle, to discuss the most revealing evidence, and consider whether the tragic event could have been avoided. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Phil Bull and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Richard Fenton-Smith The US Coast Guard has held two weeks of hearings | |
| Trump Asks: What's The Purpose Of The Un? | 20250924 | 20250925 (WS) | 
Today, Asma reports from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she speaks to BBC Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale and BBC New York Correspondent for the United Nations Nada Tawfik. Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Editor: China Collins (Photo: Donald Trump speaks during the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Credit: Sarah Yenesel/EPA/Shutterstock) President Trump called the future of diplomacy into question at the UN General Assembly The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Trump Blindsided As Israel Strikes Qatar | 20250910 | 
In the US, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was notified about plans of the strike ahead of time, but said, “Unilaterally bombing inside Qatar, a sovereign nation and close ally of the United States [...] does not advance Israel or America's goals ?. On today's Global Story, we talk to the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, about the impact this could have on future peace talks. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sept 8 2025. Menahem Kahana / AFP via Getty Images. How Israel's bombing of Qatar has shaken the Gaza peace process The Global Story: Where the world meets America On Tuesday, Israel carried out a series of unexpected bombings in Qatar, targeting senior Hamas leaders. From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Trump Is Bailing Out Argentina. What Happened To 'america First'? | 20251014 | 20251015 (WS) | 
Further reading: 'How Milei's 'Thatcherite' economics divided his nation - but won over Trump' https://www.BBC.co.uk/news/articles/c9865l8540eo Producer: Viv Jones. Executive producer: James Shield. Mix: Neil Churchill. Senior news editor: China Collins. Photo:Reuters/Al Drago Trump is offering his friend Javier Milei, Argentina's president, a $20 billion lifeline. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Trump On Trial: The Star Witness Speaks | 20240516 | What Michael Cohen's testimony means for the case and the US election. The former president's lawyer once said he'd take a bullet for Donald Trump. Now, he's trying to sink the knife as the prosecution's key witness. Caitriona Perry in Washington talks to Madeline Halpert, who has been in court covering the trial from the start, and our North America Editor Sarah Smith. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com, or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story makes several other podcasts, including Americast and Ukrainecast. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell, Rachel Hagan and Emilia Jansson. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Trump's 'ceo Of Everything' | 20251008 | 20251009 (WS) | 
Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Rupert Murdoch and Larry Ellison look on, at the White House, in Washington, US, 3 February, 2025. Credit: Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) Who is Larry Ellison, and what is his hold on America's AI, attention and legacy media? The Global Story: Where the world meets America The billionaire, Larry Ellison, and his family could soon control huge portions of America's AI, attention economy and legacy media. |
| Trump's Gaza Plan: The End Of The Two-state Solution? | 20250206 | President Donald Trump wants to take over Gaza and rebuild it as an international hotspot for business and tourism. The plan could drastically change the future of the Middle East. For decades, US presidents have said that establishing a sovereign Palestinian state, to exist alongside Israel, is the only way to achieve a permanent peace. But can that ever happen if Gazans are moved out of Gaza, as President Trump has suggested? On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams and the longstanding – if distant – diplomatic hopes for two-state solution. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Annie Smith Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The US proposal to take over Gaza could drastically change the future of the Middle East | |
| Trump's Iran Options | 20260323 | 20260324 (WS) | 
This is a critical moment where the war could turn into a long drawn-out conflict. Or it could be a moment where Donald Trump dashes for a quick exit. The BBC's world affairs correspondent Joe Inwood and the BBC's Persian service's Ghoncheh Habibiazad discuss with Tristan where this could all go next? Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump gestures as he steps from Air Force One, March 20, 2026. Credit: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters Pressure mounts on the President to 'wind down' the Iran war. What could that look like? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Trump's New Top Team | 20241114 | 
On this episode, Caitríona Perry asks the BBC's senior North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher about new additions to Team Trump like Elon Musk, and notable absences, like Ivanka Trump. Producers: Peter Goffin and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Gareth Jones Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson | |
| Turkey: Erdogan's Political Deja Vu | 20250321 | The mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, was arrested on Wednesday on corruption and terror charges he insists are politically motivated. Considered the leading candidate to face Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the next election, Mr Imamoglu's eligibility had been thrown into doubt after his university degree was annulled earlier this week. His detention is being compared to President Erdogan's own arrest when he was Istanbul mayor more than a quarter of a century ago - a moment widely seen as the catalyst for his rise to national stardom. On this episode, Jonny Dymond is joined by journalist and author Elcin Poyrazlar, and BBC Monitoring's Dilay Yalcin. They discuss how Turkey has changed under Erdogan's leadership, and consider what the arrest of his rival says about his fears for future. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Tom Kavanagh and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The detention of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has echoes of the Turkish president's past | |
| Uk Election: Could The Brits Ditch The Conservatives? | 20240701 | After a turbulent decade in British politics, this is the week that UK voters will head to the polls. The election could see the Conservative party ousted after nearly 15 years running the country. Could Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's gamble on a summer election bring about a generational political shift? Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC World Service's UK Political Correspondent Rob Watson about the campaign. And finds out why the BBC's Disinformation Correspondent Marianna Spring has been tracking the election across 24 social media accounts. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Johnny Hall. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The Conservative party could be ousted after nearly 15 years running the country | |
| Ukraine War: The Men Avoiding Conscription | 20240620 | Many Ukrainians are going into hiding to avoid mobilisation squads sending them to the front line. But as war with Russia continues, Kyiv is struggling to recruit enough men to defend their country. Conscription has become a divisive issue, and with the age of draft eligibility recently decreasing to 25, it is a topic which some believe could threaten national unity. On this episode, Katya Adler speaks to BBC correspondent Jean Mackenzie, and BBC Monitoring's Russia Editor Vitaliy Shevchenko. They examine some of the fears around enlisting, as well as the resentment of others who have served, and explain how conscription is changing the fabric of Ukrainian society. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories, and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Eleanor Sly. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas, and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Many draft-eligible Ukrainians are hiding from mobilisation squads | |
| Ukraine's Children: Growing Up Under Fire | 20240605 | The Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 changed the lives of students, shop keepers and nurses who unexpectedly found themselves fighting for their country. It has also transformed childhood, with many young people seeing fathers, brothers and sisters head to the front line. A generation already disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, are now facing up to displacement, violence and bleak years ahead. The BBC's eastern Europe correspondent, Sarah Rainsford, travelled to Ukraine to hear the stories of Angelina, Daniel and Lera. She tells us how the conflict has impacted their lives and how they adapting to overcome this new set of challenges. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran, Rachel Hagan and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The stories of Angelina, Daniel and Lera show how the conflict has transformed childhood | |
| Ukraine's Defiance, Four Years On | 20260225 | 20260226 (WS) | 
Ukraine has put its official losses at 55,000 soldiers, and the BBC has verified the deaths of more than 180,000 on the Russian side, although the true toll is likely to be much higher. Tens of thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded, and millions have been displaced. In today's episode, the BBC's international editor Jeremy Bowen, travels through Ukraine, speaking to people living on the front line, to soldiers, and to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, about what they would concede – if anything - for a peace deal with Russia. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A Ukrainian woman attends a memorial ceremony for fallen servicemen at the Military Cemetery in Kharkiv. Credit: Sergey Kozlov/EPA/Shutterstock. Perspectives on the war from those living on Ukraine's front line The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Ukraine's Fight For Justice In Bucha | 20240409 | It's two years since occupying Russian troops departed the Ukrainian town of Bucha. The trail of death and destruction they left behind has been widely condemned, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky among those who have alleged Russia committed war crimes there. On today's episode Katya speaks with BBC Eastern Europe Correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who recently returned to Bucha to hear from survivors. They're also joined by the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen, who was among the first journalists to arrive on the scene in Bucha in 2022. They consider whether international law is sufficiently equipped to prosecute allegations of war crimes, and if tangible justice is possible. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin, Laurie Kalus, Beth Timmins and Rachel Hagan. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Remembering the atrocities of Russian occupation two years later | |
| Ukraine's Surprise Attack On Russian Soil | 20240814 | Could this offensive sway the dynamics of the war in Kyiv's favour? Thousands of Russians have been evacuated from border regions as Ukrainian forces continue to gain ground. Meanwhile Vladimir Putin has called the offensive a “major provocation ? and vowed to “kick the enemy out ?. In this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia Editor for BBC Monitoring and co-host of Ukrainecast, and Francis Scarr, a Russia expert from BBC Monitoring. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Beth Timmins and Peter Goffin. Sound Engineers: Jonny Hall and Ben Andrews. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Ukraine's Women At War: The Witches Of Bucha | 20241025 | The women of Ukraine are on the frontline in many respects. They make up the majority of those fleeing abroad to escape the war and protect their children. They are also increasingly keeping Ukrainian society functioning, as more and more men are conscripted into the army to fight. The Witches of Bucha, as they call themselves, are a volunteer air defence unit made up almost entirely of women, now helping to protect Ukraine's skies. On this episode, Katya Adler is joined by the BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who has just returned from a reporting trip to Bucha, and BBC Journalist Olga Malchevska, who is from Ukraine. They look at how Ukrainian women have been stepping up and filling the gaps left behind by the country's men at war. They also discuss how the conflict may change traditional gender roles in Ukraine. Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Hannah Montgomery Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The female unit gunning down Russian drones On this episode, Katya Adler is joined by the BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who has just returned from a reporting trip to Bucha, and BBC Journalist Olga Malchevska, who is from Ukraine. They look at how Ukrainian women have been stepping up and filling the gaps left behind by the country's men at war. They also discuss how the conflict may change traditional gender roles in the Ukraine. | |
| 'unwanted': Australia And Disabled Migrants | 20240806 | Australia is a proud ‘migration nation' with a third of its population born abroad. But many foreigners with disabilities or medical conditions are often denied a visa – and those already living in Australia face the threat of being made to leave. Campaigners are now pressuring ministers over policies that the UN has labelled as discriminatory. Lucy Hockings speaks with our Australia correspondent Katy Watson about the country's migration policies and how they have affected her own family. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh. Sound engineers: Ben Andrews, Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard Assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith Australia relies on immigration to thrive but not everyone is welcomed with open arms | |
| Us Campus Protests: Dismissed? | 20240509 | The President downplays demos as summer nears. What's next for the US student movement? The noisy protests over the war in Gaza are at a crossroads: the academic year is winding down and students are graduating or heading home, just as the Israeli military has begun fighting Hamas in Rafah. Sumi Somaskanda talks to BBC's North America Correspondent Nomia Iqbal and BBC US Correspondent Helena Humphrey about what they've seen on campuses across the US whether President Biden's call for order jeopardises the youth vote. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. We are part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Us Election: Biden Stumbles Against Trump | 20240628 | The candidates' age becomes an even greater focus after the first televised debate of the 2024 presidential election campaign. President Biden – sounding hoarse and at times muddling his words – gave a stumbling performance in a 90-minute showdown with Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Trump repeated falsehoods – from abortion to taxes and the deficit – and at first avoided answering if he would accept the 2024 election result. Caitríona Perry is at the CNN Presidential Debate venue in Atlanta with Courtney Subramanian, from the BBC Digital team. They speak to former BBC US correspondent and author Nick Bryant. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Candidates' age becomes even greater focus after first presidential debate | |
| Us Election: Biden's Fight To Stay In The Race | 20240710 | Questions surround President Joe Biden's run for re-election this November. After an underwhelming performance in the first debate with Republican rival Donald Trump, calls for the incumbent to step aside and let somebody else stand as the Democratic candidate have grown louder within the party. With concerns over the president's fitness for office hanging like a cloud, we look at whether or not the Democrats could nominate an alternative candidate without his agreement, and examine some of the contenders who could potentially enter the fray. Host Caitríona Perry speaks with the BBC's US Special correspondent Katty Kay and North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher about the president's fight to stay on his party's ticket. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Tom Kavanagh and Alice Aylett Roberts. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The president defies Democrats who want him to go | |
| Us Election: Do Celebrity Endorsements Work? | 20240918 | Can Taylor Swift and Elon Musk swing the vote for Harris or Trump? From Billie Eilish to Oprah, Hulk Hogan to Kid Rock, the rich and famous are lining up behind the 2024 presidential candidates. But will Americans vote the way their favourite celebrities tell them too? Or is it all just window dressing for the presidential campaigns? In this episode Caitríona Perry speaks to reporter Ana Faguy from the BBC's Washington Bureau and Ashley Spillane, a former president of Rock the Vote, who has written a report for Harvard University about celebrities' impact on democratic participation. Producers: Peter Goffin, Eleanor Sly and Keiligh Baker. Sound Engineer: Ricardo McCarthy. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Can Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and Elon Musk swing the vote for Harris or Trump? | |
| Us Election: Is Kamala Cutting Through? | 20240813 | The Democratic convention in Chicago is fast approaching - the moment when Kamala Harris is due to be officially confirmed as the party's nominee to replace President Biden. So we're asking how this dramatic change at the top of the ticket has impacted polling ahead of November's election. What do the numbers tell us in the crucial swing states, and which issues will move the dial for the voters who could tip the balance in the race against Donald Trump? On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by Courtney Subramanian from the BBC's digital team in Washington DC and Eli Yokley, US politics analyst at polling firm Morning Consult. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. The technical producers were Jonny Hall and Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. What the polls say after a dramatic change to the Democratic ticket | |
| Us Election: Is Silicon Valley Shifting Towards Trump? | 20240816 | Major tech titans like Elon Musk are openly backing Republicans for the first time. This week, Donald Trump's chat with the owner of X solidified their friendship after years of animosity. And he's not the only tech entrepreneur shifting his support to the Republicans. So, is Silicon Valley, the traditionally left-leaning hub of tech, really moving to the right? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to digital reporter Mike Wendling and business reporter Natalie Sherman about how one of the wealthiest zip codes in California might impact the race for the White House. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Jeremy Morgan.The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| Us Election: The Big Issues Ahead Of The Vote | 20241020 |
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| Us Election: The Other Races That Could Shape America | 20241030 | As well as electing a president, Americans will also choose hundreds of governors, representatives, and senators. While these races have been overshadowed by the surprisingly dramatic presidential election, they may well determine how much power and success Kamala Harris or Donald Trump has in the White House. On this episode Caitríona Perry speaks to our digital reporter Sam Cabral about the key down ballot races to watch as the results come in. And fellow digital reporter Holly Honderich explains why some Americans will also get to vote directly on one of the elections most divisive topics: abortion. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran, Beth Timmins, Mariana Hernández Carrillo Sound engineer: Philip Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Beyond the president, Americans will also choose governors, representatives, and senators | |
| Us Election: The Rfk Jr Wildcard | 20240529 | Will Kennedy draw votes from Biden or Trump? It is one of the key questions in US politics. For answers, our reporters Lucy Proctor and Mike Wendling went to several Robert F Kennedy Jr's events to hear from his supporters directly. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email theglobalstory@BBC.com or message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Neal Razzell and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Us Election: The Week That Changed The Presidential Race | 20240719 | Donald Trump has accepted his nomination at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, rounding off one of the most consequential weeks in modern US political history. Just days after facing down an attempt on his life, the former president delivered a characteristically meandering speech to a rapturous reception. Meanwhile, incumbent President Joe Biden is facing fresh calls from fellow Democrats to stand aside, with new reports suggesting he may be closer than ever before to doing so. Caitríona Perry is joined by BBC reporter Kayla Epstein, from inside the convention, to discuss how it has set the stage for rest of the campaign, and the additional pressure its success may have piled onto the Biden camp. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Donald Trump has accepted his nomination. Now all eyes are on President Biden | |
| Us Election: Trump Picks Vp As Failed Assassination Investigated | 20240716 | We're at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee for a defining moment in the US presidential race after the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. Republican and Democratic leadership have called for unity, and a cooling of rhetoric. But is this consistent with the mood of the American public, in an election campaign which is so highly charged and so divisive? And we'll find out all about Donald Trump's new vice-presidential running mate JD Vance. Caitríona Perry speaks with North America correspondent Tom Bateman and US reporter Mike Wendling. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Alice Aylett Roberts. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Former president unveils November running mate JD Vance Former president unveils November running mate JD Vance at Republican National Convention. | |
| Us Election: Vice-presidential Debate Reaction | 20241002 | Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz have been facing off in a surprisingly amicable vice-presidential debate which focussed strongly on policy. Rather than resort to personal jabs, the pair seemed laser-focussed on the records of their respective running mates, covering topics from immigration to abortion and the economy. In this shortened campaign some analysts have suggested the event carried heightened importance, but did the performance of either candidate move the needle and were voters really paying attention? Caitríona Perry is joined at the debate venue in New York by the BBC's North America reporter Kayla Epstein for her immediate reaction to proceedings. The clips in this episode are from the CBS News Vice Presidential Debate. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson JD Vance and Tim Walz face off in New York | |
| Us Homelessness: Is Sleeping In Public A Crime? | 20240425 | Homelessness in the United States is at its highest level on record. It's a topic which is presenting challenges for liberal and conservative politicians alike, and this week the nation's Supreme Court convened to hear its most significant case on homelessness in decades. Why? It could allow cities across the country to effectively make being homeless illegal. On today's episode, Adam Fleming speaks to the BBC's Samantha Granville who is reporting from LA – where almost a third of the US homeless population resides. We hear how people sleeping on the streets there feel about facing criminal punishment, and consider the political significance of this case in a presidential year. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles. The technical producers were Matt Hewitt and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The Supreme Court could allow cities to effectively ban being homeless | |
| Us Immigration: Could Biden's Border Policy Decide The Election? | 20240607 | President Biden has announced executive action to reduce the number of people crossing unlawfully into the US. American voters often cite immigration as among the most important issues on their mind ahead of the election in November. Many have been waiting to see how the president will respond to rival Donald Trump's strong rhetoric on the issue. But can his plan win over undecided voters without alienating his core supporters? The BBC's Angelica Casas in San Antonio, Texas shares her reporting from the border. And Nomia Iqbal, our correspondent in Washington DC guides us through a political minefield for the Democrats. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. The president has announced executive action to reduce the numbers crossing the border | |
| Us Suicides: Why Are So Many Young People Dying? | 20240501 | A record number of Americans are taking their own lives, and suicide is now the second-leading cause of death in the US for people under the age of 35. Why is this happening? How can you get help if you need it? And how is the US responding to what President Biden calls a ‘crisis' in youth mental health? Mark Lowen speaks to BBC North America correspondent Will Vernon. He's been to North Carolina State University, which has seen a string of student suicides over the past two years. They are joined by Jordan Burnham, a suicide survivor and youth mental health advocate in the US. WARNING: This episode deals with issues of suicide and depression. If you are experiencing distress, despair or suicidal thoughts, contact a local mental health care provider. If you live in the US or Canada, you can call or text 9-8-8 to be connected to a support line. You can learn about the resources available in the UK at BBC.co.uk/actionline. Or you can access help anywhere in the world through Befrienders Worldwide at www.befrienders.org The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins. The technical producers was Gareth Jones and Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. | |
| Us Supreme Court: A Crisis Of Confidence? | 20240712 | Polling suggests that less than half of Americans hold favourable views of the highest court in the land. Its willingness to overturn laws on some of the most politically divisive issues - abortion, gun rights and presidential immunity - has drawn new attention to the institution...and the nine justices. Caitriona Perry speaks to Jan Crawford, the National Legal Correspondent for the BBC's partner in the US, CBS. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. TGS is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, you may well like some of our other pods, too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Eleanor Sly. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Why American trust in their top court is near an all-time low | |
| Venezuela: What's Next After Disputed Election? | 20240730 | Protests have erupted across Venezuela, with thousands taking to the streets over the outcome of the country's presidential election on Sunday. President Nicolás Maduro, who electoral authorities say won a third term, blamed the 'extreme right' for stirring unrest as security forces clashed with those demonstrating. Meanwhile, the opposition are questioning the legitimacy of the official result, and say they have proof their candidate Edmundo González secured a clear victory. With a growing number of western leaders also showing scepticism, what next for the South American nation as it continues to navigate a severe economic crisis and crippling rates of emigration? On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda is joined by the BBC's regional correspondents Ione Wells and Will Grant to discuss the struggles millions of Venezuelans are facing, and examine the political context. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Jack Graysmark and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Protests have erupted across the country as opposition question Maduro victory | |
| Viktor Orban: The Man Trump Calls 'a Great Leader' | 20240904 | The Hungarian prime minister has become a hero to many US conservatives. So how has Mr Orban changed Hungary throughout his 14 years in power? And why is he such an appealing figure to right-wing politicians around the world? In this episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's Central Europe correspondent Nick Thorpe, who has been covering Mr Orban's career since the 1980s. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Eleanor Sly and Alix Pickles. Studio Engineers: Mike Regaard and Jeremy Morgan. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Hungary's PM has become a hero to many US conservatives | |
| Viktor Orban's Dilemma: Trump's Favour Or Russian Oil | 20251107 | 20251108 (WS) | 
Viktor Orban, Hungary's prime minister, is visiting the White House on Friday to try to resolve a dispute over Russian oil and gas. Orban wants to keep buying it, but Trump wants countries to wean themselves off Russian energy and help put the brakes on Russia's war in Ukraine. Will Trump choose to keep an old friend close, or put pressure on Putin? We speak to Nick Thorpe, the BBC's correspondent in Budapest, who has covered Orban since the 1980s. Producer: Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Suzanne Plunkett, Reuters. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| War In Ukraine: Is Russia Winning? | 20240523 | The war in Ukraine has turned from a relative stalemate to a major Russian offensive in the past few weeks. Several villages on Ukraine's north-eastern frontier near the city of Kharkiv have fallen under Moscow's control. Now overstretched Ukrainian troops are struggling to contain the most significant ground offensive since 2022. On this episode Katya Adler is joined by the BBC's Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and the host of Ukrainecast Vitaly Shevchenko to discuss whether Russia is starting to win the war with Ukraine. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Emilia Jansson. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Moscow is gaining ground in its military offensive | |
| War In Ukraine: Jailed For Helping Russia | 20240829 | Almost 2,000 Ukrainians have been convicted of collaborating with Moscow since Russia's invasion of their country in 2022. But, the UN and others say the legislation under which they were sentenced is being applied too broadly, and fails to show empathy towards those living under occupation. As Kyiv focusses on a new front in the ground war inside Russia, we hear from eastern Ukraine, where some feel they have been unfairly targeted by their government. The BBC's Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, joins Caitríona Perry to recount the testimonies of those accused of collaboration, and discuss how the Kursk incursion could be impacting the ongoing defence effort inside Ukraine. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineers: Phil Bull and Mike Regaard. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. | |
| War Through The Eyes Of A Child | 20250217 | Gaza has an incredibly young population, with pre-war estimates suggesting around half of those living in the territory are under 18, according to health ministry figures. When the conflict began in October 2023, Israeli authorities told civilians to move to a 'humanitarian zone' to ensure their safety. But, BBC analysis shows that this area was targeted almost 100 times in an eight-month period last year - the Israel Defence Forces say Hamas fighters were operating there. Now, a new BBC documentary filmed in the zone shows what civilian life in the midst of war is really like, as three children fight to survive. Jonny Dymond is joined by Jamie Roberts, a co-director of the film. He introduces us to Zakaria, an 11-year-old living alone at one of Gaza's few functioning hospitals, al-Aqsa. Listeners in the UK can see the full documentary, Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone, on BBC iPlayer. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Eleanor Sly and Richard Moran Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Dafydd Evans Assistant editors: Alice Aylett Roberts and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Zakaria is an 11-year-old living alone in Gaza | |
| Was The Air Strike On An Iranian School A War Crime? | 20260316 | 20260317 (WS) | 
Since an air strike on a school in Iran two weeks ago, the Pentagon has faced mounting questions over the possible involvement of the US military. Iranian officials say the strike killed 168 people, including about 110 children. US media have reported that military investigators believe American forces were likely responsible for hitting the school unintentionally – but that they have not reached a final conclusion. Today, Merlyn Thomas from BBC Verify explains what we know so far about the strike. And we speak to Oona Hathaway, a professor of international law at Yale University who previously worked at the US Department of Defence, about the potential legal consequences. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Studio manager: Mike Regaard Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: People attend the funeral of the victims following a reported strike on a school in Minab, Iran, March 3, 2026. Credit: Amirhossein Khorgooei/ISNA/WANA via Reuters. What we know\u00a0so far about the strike - and what the legal consequences could be. The Global Story: Where the world meets America What we know so far about the strike - and what the legal consequences could be. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| West Bank: A BBC Investigation Into Alleged War Crimes | 20240503 | As part of an investigation into the conduct of Israel's security forces in the West Bank, which has been under military occupation for more than half a century, the BBC has pieced together what happened on the day two boys were killed. With violence having surged in the enclave in the months since the Hamas led attack on Israel on 7 October, the BBC team also found evidence of civilians threatened with weapons and increasing tensions. On today's episode, Katya is joined by director Josh Baker and reporter Isobel Yeung. They discuss what they saw and share the interviews they conducted on the ground while navigating gun battles, combat raids and secret meetings. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Matt Hewitt. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Why were two Palestinian boys shot by the Israeli military? | |
| What Could Happen If The Us Strikes Iran? | 20260204 | 20260205 (WS) | 
Trump says he wants to do a deal with Iran, and the two sides appear to be talking. White House special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet with the Iranian Foreign Minister on Friday in Istanbul. But Trump has threatened that if no agreement is reached, he's ready to order US forces into action. Frank Gardner, the BBC's security correspondent, lays out what could happen if talks fail, and Trump decides to strike Iran. He describes several scenarios that might have major consequences for the Iranian leadership, its people, the wider region and the world. Producers: Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. Credit: Iran's Supreme Leader Office/EPA/Shutterstock) The US and Iran are in talks, but Trump has threatened strikes if a deal can't be agreed. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What Happened To Nigeria's Kidnapped Chibok Girls? | 20240412 | This weekend marks a decade since 276 schoolgirls were abducted by Boko Haram militants in Chibok, northern Nigeria. The world united in rage, with millions sharing the #bringbackourgirls campaign. Despite that, ten years later, many of the girls still haven't returned home. And Nigeria is reckoning with another wave of mass kidnappings. Two BBC journalists - Yemisi Adegoke and Azeezat Olaoluwa - have recently visited Chibok, a town guarded on all sides by the military. They bring us the stories of the girls who escaped, the families still missing their daughters and the men repenting for their role in abduction. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com. Or, message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory. The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Richard Moran and Rachel Hagan. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Ten years after #bringbackourgirls, more than 90 still haven't returned home | |
| What If Russia Wins? | 20251103 | 20251104 (WS) | 
Last week, President Donald Trump said that the US would resume testing nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, several recent films and books imagine a near future scenario where a nuclear attack is threatened or carried out. Tristan talks to Carlo Masala, professor of international relations at the Bundeswehr University Munich and author of If Russia Wins. His book imagines a scenario where Russia attacks a Nato country to see whether the alliance will respond, risking a nuclear confrontation. Masala believes Russia is already engaged in ‘hybrid warfare' with Europe, and he wrote his book as a warning to the west. Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller, Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: A photo published by Swedish armed forces that it says shows a Russian mig-31 fighter jet that took part in the violation of Estonian airspace. Swedish Armed Forces/ Reuters. Credits: The War Game (1965) / Dir: Peter Watkins / BBC Dr Strangelove (1964) / Dir: Stanley Kubrick / Columbia Pictures A House of Dynamite (2025) / Dir: Kathryn Bigelow / Netflix One professor's imagined scenario has become an international bestseller. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| What Is Sudan's War Really About? | 20251120 | 20251121 (WS) | 
More than 150,000 people have been killed and about 12 million have been forced from their homes since Sudan's civil war began in 2023. But more than two years on, the reasons for the conflict are still not clear. And there are questions about why the international community - including the United States - isn't doing more to try and stop the supply of weapons to Sudan, and to bring the fighting to an end. On today's episode, we are joined by BBC Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher, who has been reporting on Sudan since the 1990s, and Nawal Al-Maghafi, a senior investigations correspondent, whose recent reporting from Khartoum has brought to light the particular tragedy facing children in this war. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: A child who lost his leg due to artillery shelling by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), stands at a displacement camp in Al-Dabbah, Sudan. Credit: El Tayeb Siddig/Reuters. Sudan's war has been described by the UN as the world's largest humanitarian crisis The Global Story: Where the world meets America Sudan's war has been described by the UN as “the world's largest humanitarian crisis ? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What 'looksmaxxing' Tells Us About Modern Masculinity | 20260219 | 20260220 20260220 (WS) 20260221 (WS) | 
A controversial internet streamer who goes by the name Clavicular has taken the internet by storm, going to extreme lengths to try to enhance his looks – from using steroids and testosterone to hitting his face with a hammer. Clavicular has become the poster boy for an online movement called ‘looksmaxxing', centred on maximising physical attractiveness. Like many subcultures, it has given rise to a whole new lexicon which is gradually migrating from the margins of the internet to the mainstream. In today's episode, we turn to journalist and documentary filmmaker Matt Shea to explain whether Clavicular – and the movement he champions – is just another viral curiosity, or a strange symptom of modern masculinity. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A hand holding a mobile phone showing an influencer holding a hammer to his face on screen. Credit: Yui Mok/PA Wire) Inside the 'looksmaxxing' trend, which could be reshaping male beauty standards. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What Next For Iran? | 20260302 | 20260303 (WS) | 
President Trump has urged Iranians to “seize control of your destiny, and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach, ? but how realistic are the prospects of them forming a new – and significantly different - government? And how will the weakened regime retaliate against the US and Israel's strikes? Caroline Hawley, Diplomatic Correspondent for the BBC, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore, Aron Keller and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A woman holds an image of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, Iran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters. Iran's supreme leader has been killed in joint US-Israeli airstrikes The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What Next For Venezuelans? | 20260128 | 20260129 (WS) | 
And while President Trump has made it clear he sees oil as a very important priority for the United States's future relationship with Venezuela and increased American involvement in the country's oil operations, how do Venezuelans feel about this prospect? Our guest today, reporting from inside Venezuela, is BBC correspondent Norberto Paredes. How do Venezuelans feel about their country since Maduro's departure? Producers: Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak and Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: People walk past a painting of an oil pump on Venezuela's national flag, in Caracas. Credit: Gaby Oráa/Reuters) Nicol\u00e1s Maduro ruled for over a decade, but what's changed for Venezuelans now he's gone? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Nicolás Maduro ruled for over a decade, but what has changed for Venezuelans now he's gone? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What The Former Prince Andrew's Arrest Means For The Royal Family | 20260220 | 20260221 (WS) | 
The arrest came after police said they were assessing a complaint that Andrew allegedly shared confidential material with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. We're joined by BBC Royal Correspondent Sean Coughlan to discuss what Andrew's arrest means for the future of the British monarchy. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin. Executive producer: James Shield. Senior news editor: China Collins. Photo: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, leaves Aylsham Police Station. Credit: Phil Noble/Reuters. Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He denies wrongdoing The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What Trump's Victory Means For The World | 20241107 | Leaders across the world have been reacting to Donald Trump's stunning victory in the US presidential election. America's president-elect returns to the global stage in the context of multiple ongoing conflicts, and economic uncertainty for major players. So as international governments adjust to his seismic comeback, how might the policy decisions of a second Trump administration be felt worldwide? On this episode Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale, to discuss the potential implications in Ukraine, the Middle East, China, Europe, and beyond... The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Tom Kavanagh, Mariana Hernández Carrillo, Beth Timmins, and Eleanor Sly Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson How US policy could change from international security to the global economy | |
| What Would It Take For Putin To Stop Fighting In Ukraine? | 20251217 | 20251218 (WS) | 
As the fourth anniversary of Russia's full scale invasion approaches, no peace deal can be agreed without Vladimir Putin's support. Can he be persuaded to accept anything short of a Russian victory? We speak to the BBC's Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg. Producers: Valerio Esposito, Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin. Executive producer: James Shield. Senior news editor: China Collins. Mix: Travis Evans. Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin. Credit: Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Pool via Reuters. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Whatever Happened To Iran's Nuclear Programme? | 20251201 | 20251202 (WS) | 
The aim was clear: destroy Iran's nuclear-enrichment facilities amid warnings that Tehran was dangerously close to developing a nuclear weapon. But conflicting reports in the immediate aftermath left the public uncertain about how effective the operation really was. Six months after the bombings, we speak with Parham Ghobadi, senior reporter for BBC Persian, about what the war actually achieved, the current state of Iran's nuclear programme, and what daily life inside Iran looks like today. Producer: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A US Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. Credit: US Air Force) Six months on, what did the US and Israel's strikes on Iran actually achieve? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| What's Behind The Deadly Protests In Bangladesh? | 20240724 | Over 150 people have been killed in violent clashes across Bangladesh. The protests started with students demanding an end to the quota system that reserved a third of public sector jobs for the relatives of veterans from the country's war for independence from Pakistan in 1971. But now the Supreme Court has ruled just 5% of the roles can be reserved. The protests represent the biggest challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the world's longest-serving female head of government. In this episode Caitríona Perry speaks to the BBC World Service South Asia Regional Editor Anbarasan Ethirajan, and Sabir Mustafa, who was the head of the BBC's Bengali language service for 22 years and now works for VOA. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Over 150 people have died, but can PM Sheikh Hasina calm the growing public anger? Over 150 people have died, but can Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina calm the growing public anger? | |
| What's Behind The Uk Riots? | 20240808 | Violent anti-immigration protests have been taking place in cities across the UK for more than a week, leading to hundreds of arrests. The unrest has been linked to the online spread of misinformation about the fatal stabbing of three young girls in the seaside town of Southport in late July. With more protests expected, police have insisted the situation is “manageable ? and praised the thousands who have turned out in counter-demonstrations. But how did an isolated attack lead to riots throughout the country? On this episode Caitríona Perry is joined by the BBC's investigations correspondent, Daniel De Simone, to explain what's been happening both on the ground and online, and examine how far-right groups looked to capitalise on uncertainty following the tragic events in Southport. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus, Peter Goffin, and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Anti-immigration protests have turned violent across the country | |
| What's Behind Trump's Rift With Colombia? | 20251105 | 20251106 (WS) | 
In today's episode, we speak to BBC Mundo's William Marquez to examine the history of the US-Colombia alliance, and what might be at stake if it falls apart. Producer: Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Colombian President Gustavo Petro. Credit: Reuters/Luisa Gonzalez Colombia has been a US partner in the war on drugs. That relationship is under strain. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| What's Next For Venezuela? | 20260105 | 20260106 (WS) | 
President Trump says the US will run Venezuela “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition ?. But Maduro's allies – including its new interim president – remain in charge. We speak to Ione Wells, the BBC's South America correspondent, about what might happen in the coming weeks and months. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Nicolás Maduro in an image distributed by President Trump which he said was taken on board the USS Iwo Jima. Trump said the US will 'run the country' after capturing President Maduro and his wife The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| When Popes Get Political | 20251128 | 20251129 (WS) | 
It wouldn't be the first time that a pope has weighed in on politics. From Nazism to communism and the Cold War, from refugees to climate change, popes have used their position to influence global affairs. In this episode we speak to author and presenter Edward Stourton, who has covered religious affairs and the USA extensively for the BBC, about what power Pope Leo XIV has, and what lessons he can learn from his predecessors. Producers: Lucy Pawle and Sam Chantarasak Executive producers: James Shield and Bridget Harney Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Image: Pope Leo XIV visits Ankara, Turkey on 27 November. Vatican Media Handout/EPA/Shutterstock Will Pope Leo follow his predecessors in trying to influence global affairs? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| When The Two Most Powerful Men In The World Met | 20251031 | 20251101 (WS) | 
The BBC's China Correspondent, Laura Bicker, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Annie Brown Senior News Editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans IMAGE: U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping as they hold a bilateral meeting at Gimhae International Airport, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, in Busan, South Korea, October 30, 2025. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein. Donald Trump and Xi Jinping held their first meeting in six years to talk tariffs The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Which Country Educates Its Children Best? | 20241127 | Every few years governments around the world compete in global rankings to see which nation is deemed to have the best school system in the world. Schools in Asia often get the best results, and other countries like Estonia and Canada are also highly praised. But in many parts of the world there are often huge barriers to getting children into the classroom at all - such as poverty, climate change and war. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Sean Coughlan and Professor John Jerrim from University College London about which countries have the most successful education systems in the world and what others can learn from them. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson A good education can help changes lives but some children face huge barriers | |
| Who Are The Rebels Threatening Assad's Grip On Syria? | 20241203 | The long-running civil war in Syria has unexpectedly sprung back into the spotlight after rebel groups launched a surprise offensive on Aleppo, one of the country's largest cities. Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has vowed to crush the rebel uprising, prompting air strikes from Russian forces allied with his regime. This is an unexpected resurgence of a conflict that has been largely dormant for years. Azadeh Moshiri speaks with BBC Monitoring's jihadist media specialist Mina Al-Lami and BBC correspondent Barbara Plett Usher about who these rebels are and whether this will this redraw the lines of the Syrian conflict. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Tom Kavanagh and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Jonny Hall Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The long-running civil war has unexpectedly sprung back into the spotlight | |
| Why Are Australian Teens Being Kicked Off Social Media? | 20241206 | Australia will ban children under 16 from using social media, after its parliament approved the world's strictest laws. Tech companies could be fined up to A$50m ($32.5m; £25.7m) if they don't comply. But as many parents know, keeping teenagers off social media is a challenge. So, can a ban like this really work? And how might it be implemented? In this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's cyber correspondent Joe Tidy and our correspondent in Australia, Katy Watson. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Richard Moran and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Dafydd Evans Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Australia's parliament has approved laws banning children under 16 from social media Australia's parliament has approved the world's strictest laws banning children under 16 from social media. | |
| Why Are More Younger Adults Getting Cancer? | 20250226 | The number of cancer cases among the under-50s around the world appears to have risen sharply in the past 30 years. Studies have shown that there are rising cases of breast, colorectal and other cancers in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. But what is driving the increase in younger adults getting cancer and can anything be done to stop it? Presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to freelance health journalist David Cox about what scientists think could be driving this worrying trend. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Cases of breast, colorectal and other cancers are surging in the under 50s Cases of breast, colorectal and other cancers are surging in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. | |
| Why Are There Millions Of Empty Homes In Japan? | 20241021 | Abandoned houses – or “akiyas ? – have become a symbol of the crisis facing Japan's population. But a wave of young foreign bargain hunters has started snapping up some of these abandoned homes, inspired by viral DIY videos and social media influencers. Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's Tokyo correspondent Shaimaa Khalil, who has been to meet some of the people bringing akiyas back to life. Producers: Peter Goffin, Alix Pickles and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson How abandoned houses became a symbol of the Japanese population crisis | |
| Why Are Us Parents Moving Kids Out Of Public Schools? | 20240826 | How politics and culture wars are shaping education choices for some parents. Arizona is one of a growing number of American states offering taxpayer-funded vouchers to families who send their children to private schools or homeschool them. They say it gives parents more control over how – and what – their children learn. But what does this mean for the future of public education in the US? On this episode, Caitríona Perry speaks to BBC journalists Alex Last and Ellie House, who have made a documentary about school choice in Arizona. You can listen to it by searching 'Assignment: Rejecting Public Education in Arizona' on The Documentary podcast from the BBC World Service. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Peter Goffin. Sound Engineers: Philip Bull and Ricardo McCarthy. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. How politics and culture wars are shaping education choices in Arizona | |
| Why Australia's Gun Laws Aren't As Strong As You Might Think | 20251218 | 20251219 (WS) | 
However, the mass murder of at least 15 people in an antisemitic attack at Bondi beach on Sunday has again raised the issue of gun access, and Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese has said he is “ready to fight ? to strengthen the laws again. On today's show, Ariel Bogle, an investigations reporter with Guardian Australia, explains why the number of guns in Australia has been rising, and how stricter laws might be received in the country. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Marty Peralta Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Photo of unregistered handguns that were returned to police, near Smederevo, Serbia. Credit: Dimitrije Goll /EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock Australia reconsiders its gun control laws, following the Bondi Beach massacre. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Can't India Tackle Its Sexual Violence Crisis? | 20240930 | The brutal rape and murder of a student on a bus in Delhi shocked the world in 2012. Yet despite the Indian government introducing stricter laws on sexual violence, little progress has been made to actually make women safer. Last month there were widespread protests after the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at the hospital where she worked. What should India's leaders do differently to protect women at home, at work and on the streets? On this episode, Katya Adler speaks to the BBC's India correspondent Soutik Biswas and presenter Devina Gupta. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus, Tse Yin Lee and Peter Goffin Sound engineers: Dafydd Evans and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson The rape and murder of a doctor at her own hospital exposes a failure to protect women | |
| Why Did Trump Bring Tony Blair Into The Gaza Peace Process? | 20251002 | 20251003 (WS) | 
Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Viv Jones Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Picture: Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair. Credit: Victoria Jones/PA Wire President Trump trusts Tony Blair, but he's a divisive figure in the Middle East. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why Did Trump Turn His Back On Project 2025? | 20240802 | Project 2025, described as a possible policy blueprint for a second Trump presidency, has become a lightning rod on the campaign trail. Donald Trump has been attempting to distance himself from it for weeks, stating that he had no involvement. Meanwhile, Democrats have recently intensified their criticism of the measures outlined in its pages. After the architect of Project 2025 - Paul Dans - stepped down earlier this week, Trump's campaign stated it would welcome the demise of the project. In this episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher and Bob Costa, Chief election & campaign correspondent for CBS News. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. This episode was made by Richard Moran, Eleanor Sly and Tse Yin Lee. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. Trump's campaign would welcome the demise of conservative blueprint for his presidency | |
| Why Do So Many Trains Crash In India? | 20240729 | Just over a year ago, a devastating crash involving three trains killed nearly 300 people and injured more than 800 in India's eastern Odisha state. It was one of the deadliest train crashes in history. But this isn't the only crash to happen on Indian railways – one of the largest railway networks in the world. Lucy Hockings talks to Alessandra Bonomolo – the director of a new BBC documentary about last year's collision called Why Trains Crash - and BBC India correspondent Soutik Biswas. They discuss why so many train crashes happen in India. Could the Odisha rail crash have been prevented - and are we doing enough around the world to make our railways safe? The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: Gareth Jones and Ben Andrews Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Exploring what caused a triple-train crash that killed nearly 300 people in Odisha Nearly 300 people died when three trains collided in Odisha, but this is just one of the many deadly crashes in India's rail history. | |
| Why Does Trump Want The Panama Canal? | 20250128 | Since returning to the White House, Donald Trump has made a string of expansionist foreign policy announcements, angering several of his international counterparts. After reiterating his ambitious intention to purchase Greenland, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico, the US president doubled down on his insistence that Washington should regain control of the Panama Canal, the essential shipping passage he claims has been commandeered by China. Built by the United States in the early twentieth century, the waterway transformed global trade and marked America's emergence as a superpower on the world stage, before being transferred to Panamanian control via a 1977 treaty. So why has Donald Trump got it in his sights now? On this episode Jonny Dymond speaks to Julie Greene, a professor of American studies at the University of Maryland, about the storied history of the Panama Canal. And the BBC's North America business correspondent Michelle Fleury discusses the politics and economics behind the Trump administration's diplomatic pursuit of the trade route. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Laurie Kalus, Mhairi MacKenzie and Beth Timmins Sound engineer: Annie Smith Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The White House says the trade route is 'operated' by China | |
| Why France Might Soon Have A Far-right Government | 20250915 | 20250916 (WS) | 
So how did this party, with its controversial history, rehabilitate its image? And what would the first far-right government since World War Two mean not just for France, but for Europe and the rest of the world? Producers: Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Marine Le Pen. Yoan Valat/EPA/Shutterstock How Marine Le Pen rehabilitated her party's image The Global Story: Where the world meets America How Marine Le Pen's far-right party rehabilitated its image, and is now on the cusp of power. From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why Hamas Agreed To A Ceasefire - But Isn't Disarming Yet | 20251013 | 20251014 (WS) |  Donald Trump is in Israel today on a victory lap after securing what he claims is the beginning of lasting peace in the Middle East. The Gaza ceasefire – and with it, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners – follows weeks of intense talks brokered by American negotiators. Some of the hostage families have credited the US president with achieving the ceasefire, but his team has more experience in the New York real estate world than in diplomacy. So how exactly did they achieve a deal? And will Hamas really agree to its next phase – disarming and having no role in Gaza's future? Guest: Lyse Doucet, chief international correspondent. Producers: Lucy Pawle and Sam Chantarasak. Executive producer: James Shield. Mix: Travis Evans. Senior news editor: China Collins. Image: A member of the internal security forces loyal to the Palestinian group Hamas, mans a checkpoint in the Gaza Strip. Photo by Eyad BABA / AFP via Getty Images. Donald Trump is in Israel after securing what he says is the start of lasting peace. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why Has Israel Gone Back To War? | 20250319 | On Tuesday night, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that combat against Hamas in Gaza had resumed in full force. This followed several hours of early morning air strikes targeting Gaza, which killed more than 400 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, making it one of the deadliest days of the conflict so far. Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's Jon Donnison, who witnessed the strikes from the Israeli border town of Sderot. He helps us to understand this latest escalation and why Israel has decided to return to war. Producers: Richard Moran, Mhairi MacKenzie and Tom Kavanagh Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Benjamin Netanyahu says combat in full force has resumed against Hamas Benjamin Netanyahu says “combat in full force ? has resumed against Hamas. | |
| Why Has Trump Authorised Cia Action In Venezuela? | 20251017 | 20251018 (WS) | 
The US military operation has the region on edge, leaving analysts wondering whether this is just part of a new war on drugs, or a push to bring down the Maduro regime. The BBC's Will Grant briefs us on these latest developments, and the CIA's history in Latin America. Producers: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Editor: Annie Brown and James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Miguel Gutierrez/Shutterstock Following recent boat strikes, Trump says he is considering strikes on Venezuelan soil The Global Story: Where the world meets America Following recent boat strikes, Trump says he's considering strikes on Venezuelan soil. |
| Why Has Trump Pardoned Honduras's Drug Trafficker Ex-president? | 20251203 | 20251204 (WS) | 
It was only last year that Hernández was convicted in a New York courtroom of being part of a huge drug trafficking conspiracy, after being extradited to the US. Prosecutors said the operation flooded America with cocaine and turned Honduras into a “narco-state ?. But Trump has claimed the investigation was a Biden administration “set up ?, and Hernández is now a free man. As the Trump administration ramps up its military threats against Latin American drug cartels, including multiple strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean, why has it pardoned Hernández? Will Grant reports. Producer: Xandra Ellin, Hannah Moore and Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Juan Orlando Hernandez being escorted by US agents for extradition in 2022. Credit: Fredy Rodriguez/Reuters) Juan Orlando Hern\u00e1ndez was jailed for helping smuggle cocaine into the US but is now free The Global Story: Where the world meets America Former President of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, was jailed for helping smuggle cocaine into the US but is now free. Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Hungary's Chaotic Election Matters To Trump | 20260406 | 20260407 20260407 (WS) | 
Among claims of Russian interference, staged assassination attempts and threats to release a sex tape, the campaign has taken a series of dramatic and unexpected turns. Ahead of an expected visit by US Vice President JD Vance, we ask the BBC's Europe editor, Katya Adler, how such a small country became a pivotal geopolitical battleground - and whether a defeat for Orbán could signal a shift for the populist right worldwide. Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Renee Park Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: US President Trump meets with Hungary's Prime Minister Orbán at the White House. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters. Would Orb\u00e1n's fall signal a global shift for populism? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Would Orbán's fall signal a global shift for populism? |
| Why Indian Midwives Killed Baby Girls | 20240912 | Inside a 30-year mission to expose a pattern of infanticide. In the 1990s, midwives in northern India admitted that they were regularly paid to kill new-born baby girls whose families did not want them. It's an issue that speaks to India's complicated relationships with gender, caste and wealth. So what do these killings say about the status of women and girls in India? And why are some babies still being rejected by their families in 2024? Katya Adler speaks to journalists and filmmakers Amitabh Parashar and Anubha Bhonsle, who have just made a documentary for the BBC called “The Midwife's Confession ?. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly. Sound Engineers: Dafydd Evans and Philip Bull. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Inside a 30-year mission to expose infanticide | |
| Why Is China Giving Satellite Tv To 10,000 African Villages? | 20240903 | Nearly a decade ago, China promised to provide 10,000 remote villages in Africa with free digital TV access. It was a sign of warm relations between Bejing and the continent - as well as being another step in China's plan to spread its influence across the globe. Caitriona Perry speaks with Shawn Yuan and Ankur Shah from the BBC's Global China unit about whether China really managed to expand its power in Africa by giving away free satellite TV. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins. Sound Engineers: Jeremy Morgan, Stephen Bailey and Hannah Montgomery. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. How Beijing is expanding its influence in Africa | |
| Why Is Donald Trump Obsessed With The Chagos Islands? | 20260312 | 20260313 (WS) | 
The island is one of about 60, known as the Chagos Islands. Tropical, remote, and very mysterious. So mysterious that one person who knows what goes on there said that if you did too, it would give you vertigo. The BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale joins us to discuss what happens on the Chagos Islands that makes them so important to President Trump. What have they got to do with Iran, and why are they at the centre of an ever-growing diplomatic row? Producer: Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: File photo of Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos archipelago and site of a major United States military base in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Credit: Reuters Trump, Starmer, and the mysterious islands fracturing the 'special relationship'. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Is Elon Musk Meddling In European Politics? | 20250110 | 
Lucy Hockings speaks with Mike Wendling and Jessica Parker about whether Musk's motivations for getting involved in European politics are professional or personal. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Alix Pickles Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins (Picture: Elon Musk. Credit: Reuters) How the tech billionaire went from a political centrist to a right-wing radical | |
| Why Is The French President Suing Candace Owens? | 20251028 | 20251029 (WS) | 
We speak to the BBC's Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty, host of the Fame Under Fire podcast, about what the Macrons are risking by filing the lawsuit – and whether it's only adding more fuel to the flames. Presenter: Tristan Redmond Producer: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Candace Owens. Rebecca Cook/Reuters) Owens is accused of spreading a conspiracy theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why Is The Us Government Deporting People Building Factories? | 20250909 |  Hundreds of workers, most of them South Korean nationals, were detained last week at a Hyundai plant in Georgia after the largest immigration raid of Trump's second term. The raid puts two of the administration's key priorities to the test - cracking down on illegal immigration and bringing manufacturing back to America - but has it exposed a conflict between the two policy goals? We speak to BBC Verify US Correspondent Nick Beake who has been to the site, and to Jake Kwon from the BBC Seoul bureau, about whether this has jeopardised relations between the US and one of its major trading partners. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: US immigration raid at Hyundai-LG plant in Georgia. Shutterstock/EPA The ICE raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia exposes conflicts between Trump's priorities The Global Story: Where the world meets America The ICE raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia exposes the conflict between Trump's key priorities, and could jeopardise relations between the US and one of its major trading partners | |
| Why Is Trump Suddenly Saying Ukraine Can Win The War? | 20250925 | 20250926 (WS) | 
So, is this just another rhetorical turn from the US president, or has something materially changed in Ukraine's favour? Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia editor for BBC Monitoring, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins What has happened to convince Donald Trump that Kyiv can, win all of Ukraine back? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social this week that Kyiv can, “win all of Ukraine back in its original form ?. What has happened to convince him? |
| Why Is Trump Threatening To Sue The BBC? | 20251112 | 20251113 (WS) | 
How did the management of the world's most trusted news broadcaster reach crisis point, and what does this tell us about today's media landscape? BBC culture and media editor Katie Razzall explains. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin and Hannah Moore Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins This podcast was edited on 12 November 2025. We removed a reference to Donald Trump “threatening to remove BBC journalists' access to his press conferences'. This statement should have been attributed to a reported briefing by a senior White House official. (Photo: BBC headquarters in London. Credit: Andy Rain/EPA/Shutterstock) Donald Trump is threatening to sue the BBC for $1 billion. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why K-beauty Is Everywhere | 20251219 | 20251220 (WS) | 
How did the South Korean government help K-beauty ride the soft power wave that has also brought us TV shows like KPop Demon Hunters, and pop groups such as Blackpink and BTS? And what are the risks of buying into the ‘perfect' beauty ideals that the industry promotes? Today, we speak to Elise Hu, the host of TED Daily Talks host and author of 'Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital'. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Marty Peralta Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Model Lee Hyun-yi attends the photocall event celebrating the launch of AHC's new product ‘Full Lift Eye Cream for Face' at the FKI Tower Conference Center in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu. Credit: iMBC/Imazins via Getty Images. How South Korea became the world's second-largest exporter of cosmetics. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Mexico Is Electing Judges, By Popular Vote | 20241217 | Next year, Mexico will become the first country in the world to begin electing all its judges by popular vote. The radical judicial reform was passed by the Senate in September, where the ruling Morena party hold a commanding majority. They argue the change will promote transparency and accountability in a justice system which has faced accusations of corruption, nepotism, and bowing to political and criminal pressure. But critics say it is a direct threat to democracy which weakens the ability of the judiciary to hold the government to account - including the Supreme Court. On today's episode, Lucy Hockings is joined by the BBC's correspondent in Mexico, Will Grant. They examine the politics behind this shakeup, and discuss why many members of the legal community are protesting the measures. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Mariana Hernández Carrillo and Laurie Kalus Sound engineer: Rohan Madison Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson Critics say the radical judicial reform threatens democracy | |
| Why Netanyahu Gets What He Wants From The Us | 20250929 | 20250930 (WS) | 
Today we speak to the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet who has reported on Netanyahu for three decades. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Xandra Ellin, Aron Keller and Cat Farnsworth. Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 26, 2025. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon The Israeli prime minister meets President Trump in the White House on Monday. The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why The Royal Visit To The Us Is Dividing Brits | 20260403 | 20260404 (WS) | 
The King is facing a difficult time at home in the UK too, with significant public opposition to the visit and anger over his brother Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Can the King and Queen sprinkle some royal magic on President Trump and improve the royal image at the same time? Asma and Tristan are joined by the BBC's senior royal correspondent, Daniela Relph. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Renee Park Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: President Donald Trump and King Charles III at a state banquet at Windsor Castle, in September 2025. King Charles will visit Washington DC amid growing tensions between the US and the UK. The Global Story: Where the world meets America King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit Washington DC this month amid growing tensions between the US and the UK. |
| Why The Us Says Europe Is Facing 'civilisational Erasure' | 20251211 | 20251212 (WS) | 
The US government's new National Security Strategy paints the most complete picture yet of who the administration sees as its allies and its adversaries, and it has left Europe's leaders reeling. Today, we speak to the BBC's State Department correspondent, Tom Bateman, about how Trump has turned traditional US foreign policy on its head. Producer: Viv Jones, Lucy Pawle and Hannah Moore Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One, 9 December, 2025. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters) President Trump takes on the US's traditional allies in a foreign policy upheaval The Global Story: Where the world meets America The world order is shifting by the day — old alliances are fraying, autocrats are on the rise, and global trade is in turmoil. A lot of this turbulence can be traced back to decisions made in the US, but America isn't just a cause of upheaval abroad—it's also a symptom of the same forces disrupting things across the world. That's where The Global Story comes in. From September 2025, this daily podcast from the BBC tackles the news at this exact intersection: where the world and America meet. With one host (Asma Khalid, former NPR White House correspondent) in DC, one host (Tristan Redman, former Al Jazeera international correspondent) in London, and the backing of the best international newsroom in the world, this podcast tells the intertwined story of America and the world – how each shapes the other, daily. The Global Story. Where the world and America meet. |
| Why The Us-canada Relationship Is On Shaky Ground | 20251029 | 20251030 (WS) | 
The ad is just the latest skirmish between the US and its neighbour to the north. We speak to the BBC's senior Canada reporter, Nadine Yousif, about how we got here and what the future has in store for the relationship between the two countries. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown and James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: US President Donald Trump (R) meets Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney (L) in the Oval Office at the White House, Washington DC,7 October, 2025. Credit: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) How a TV ad from an Ontario politician reignited Trump's trade war against Canada The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Why Thousands Of Uk Prisoners Are Being Freed Early | 20241018 | There is an overcrowding crisis in UK prisons. There are also problems with gang violence, drug abuse, self harm and a record number of weapons now being made in jails. To deal with the chronic overcrowding, the UK government has begun releasing thousands of prisoners early in England and Wales. Katya Adler is joined by senior UK correspondent Sima Kotecha to talk about her time inside one of Britain's most notorious jails as they examine how the prison system in England and Wales has been stretched to breaking point. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly Sound engineers: Matt Dean and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson There is an overcrowding crisis in prisons across England and Wales | |
| Why Trump Is Threatening To Go 'guns A-blazing' Into Nigeria | 20251110 | 20251111 (WS) | 
But how true are the claims that there is a persecution – or even a genocide – of Christians in the West African country? And how does Nicki Minaj come to thank him for his intervention? We speak to the BBC's global religion correspondent, Lebo Diseko. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: People walk along a street flanked by St. Joseph Catholic Church and Kano Road Central Mosque in Kaduna, Nigeria, 4 November, 2025. Credit: Marvellous Durowaiye/Reuters) How true are the claims that there is a persecution of Christians in Nigeria? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Trump's Thailand-cambodia Peace Deal Unravelled | 20251215 | 20251216 (WS) | 
We speak to Jonathan Head, the BBC's southeast Asia correspondent, from Surin on the Thai side of the border. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Bridget Harney Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Photo: Thailand's Prime Minister watches as Cambodia's Prime Minister and President Trump shake hands. Mohd Rasfan/EPA/Shutterstock What happens when one of Trump's solved wars becomes unsolved? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Why Trumpworld Is Obsessed With Free Speech In Britain | 20250918 | 20250919 (WS) | 
The two leaders appear to have a strong relationship. But there's one big issue that's become a sticking point between them. Increasingly, free speech in the United Kingdom is a hot button rallying cry among the conservatives in the United States. Why have Republicans in America become so obsessed with free speech across the Atlantic? Especially when a crackdown on speech is kicking off at home. This programme includes language which some listeners find offensive. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: US President Donald Trump on second State Visit to the UK. Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA Credit: Father Ted/Hat Trick Productions/Channel 4 US Republicans are obsessed with criticizing UK's free speech amidst a crackdown at home The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Will A Social Media Ban For Australian Teens Work? | 20251209 | 20251210 20251210 (WS) 20251211 (WS) | 
Australian teens are bracing for a new law coming into effect this week that will ban social media accounts for anyone under the age of 16. The Government says the legislation is designed to protect the mental wellbeing of Australian children and teens – but it's already proving controversial, not least among American tech companies and some politicians who see the ban as a threat to free speech. In today's episode, we are joined by Katy Watson, the BBC's Australia correspondent, to discuss how the country became a global test case for a bold new policy – and crucially, whether it will succeed. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: A teen using her phone ahead of social media band for users under 16. Hollie Adams/Reuters The world's first social media ban for under 16's starts this week - will it succeed? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Will Ai Take Your Job...or Help You Keep It? | 20240401 | Almost as soon as the company Open AI released ChatGPT4, people started to ask...will it take my job? On this episode, we're concentrating on more hopeful questions. Aleks Krotoski is a social psychologist and presents the BBC Radio 4 series The Artificial Human and Daniel Susskind is an economist at the Institute for Ethics in AI at Oxford University. They help us think about was we might futureproof our careers in this new world and the opportunities AI might open up for us. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We're keen to hear from you, wherever you are in the world. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell The Global Story. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. #TheGlobalStory The Global Story is part of the BBC News Podcasts family. The team that makes The Global Story also makes several other podcasts, such as Americast and Ukrainecast, which cover US news and the war in Ukraine. If you enjoy The Global Story, then we think that you will enjoy some of our other podcasts too. To find them, simply search on your favourite podcast app. This episode was made by Alix Pickles, Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Generative AI could make some jobs redundant, but create others we can't even imagine yet | |
| Will Bad Bunny Take On Maga At The Super Bowl? | 20260205 | 20260206 (WS) | 
In today's episode, Puerto Rican cultural critic Carina del Valle Schorske, who profiled Bad Bunny for The New York Times Magazine, explains how the artist's pride in his homeland is infused throughout his music, and considers how he might use the US' biggest stage this weekend to challenge the president's policies. This episode was updated on 5 February 2026 for music rights reasons. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Bad Bunny poses on the red carpet during the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Credit: Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Why the NFL's choice of the Puerto Rican star is proving controversial The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Will Donald Trump Take Over Greenland? | 20250310 | The people of Greenland go to the polls for an election this week at a time when Donald Trump says he wants to take over the autonomous Danish territory. The US President hasn't ruled out using military force, arguing that America needs the world's biggest island for Arctic security. A majority of Greenlanders say they don't want to be owned by the US, but many are asking serious questions about whether it should seek independence. Jonny Dymond speaks with the BBC's Europe correspondent Nick Beake and Ulrik Pram Gad, a Senior Researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies, about the Danish view of the potential US land-grab and the likelihood of an independent Greenland. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Tom Kavanagh and Alice Aylett Roberts Sound engineers: Dafydd Evans and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins The US President tells Denmark that it will get the territory 'one way or the other | |
| Will Gen Z Protests Around The World Continue In 2026? | 20260109 | 20260110 (WS) | 
Today we speak to the BBC's social media investigations correspondent, Marianna Spring, about how social media helped spark a movement that transcended borders, and where the so-called, 'Gen Z Revolution' goes from here. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A protester carries a banner featuring a Malagasy version of the logo of the popular Japanese manga One Piece, during a nationwide youth-led demonstration over frequent power outages and water shortages, in Antananarivo, Madagascar, October 13, 2025. Credit: Siphiwe Sibeko/ Reuters) 2025 was the year of youth-led protests across the world. What's next for the movement? The Global Story: Where the world meets America Throughout 2025, a massive youth protest movement took shape across the world. In some cases the protesters' ambitious demands were met. Where does the movement go now? Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Will Germany Lift The Firewall Around The Afd? | 20250203 | Since the end of World War Two and Nazi rule, Germany has been hyper-vigilant about keeping right-wing hardliners out of government. For decades, mainstream politicians have shunned parties like the AfD. But now, with a federal election just weeks away and the AfD rising in the polls, a frontrunner in the race for chancellor has accepted the party's support on an immigration bill. It's an unprecedented step. But does it mean the far-right is being normalised? On this episode, Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's correspondents in Berlin, Damien McGuinness and Jess Parker, about the evolution of the AfD, and how the party's growing popularity challenges the way Germans think about their own politics and history. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Laurie Kalus and Mhairi MacKenzie Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Jonny Baker Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins Why mainstream politicians are now open to working with the far-right party | |
| Will His Uk Ban Kill Kanye West's 'comeback'? | 20260409 | 20260410 (WS) | 
Kanye has apologised for his actions, which include releasing a song glorifying Hitler and selling t-shirts with swastikas, and blamed his bipolar diagnosis. With rising levels of global antisemitism, his appearances have become increasingly controversial. But despite his UK ban Kanye is selling out shows in US stadiums. So will Kanye West be able to make a comeback? Producer: Viv Jones, Lucy Pawle, Valerio Esposito, Xandra Ellin Digital producer: Matt Pintus Executive producer: James Shield Editor: China Collins (Photo: Kanye West in North Charleston, South Carolina, US, 19 July, 2020. Credit: Randall Hill/Reuters) The UK has banned him because of his antisemitic behaviour The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Will Netanyahu Change Course? | 20240906 | Israel has been rocked by huge protests after six hostages being held in Gaza were shot and killed last weekend. Fury at the Netanyahu government's handling of negotiations with Hamas has prompted a wave of public indignation which has spilled into the streets. We examine whether or not the demonstrations and rising international pressure over the number of Palestinians being killed in Gaza, will force Benjamin Netanyahu's government to change its position. On today's episode, host Katya Adler is joined by the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen, who has been reporting from the Middle East for decades. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Peter Goffin, Laurie Kalus and Tom Kavanagh. Sound Engineer: Jack Graysmark. Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas. Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith. Pressure grows on the PM after protests erupted when six hostages were killed in Gaza | |
| Will The Gaza Ceasefire Hold? | 20251010 | 20251011 (WS) | 
We speak to Liran Berman, whose brothers Gali and Ziv are amongst the last hostages, Laila Ezzat Al Shana, a mother in Gaza, and the BBC's state department correspondent, Tom Bateman. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Image: Reactions in Gaza after President Trump announced that Israel and Hamas agreed on the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire. Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters Israel and Hamas have approved Trump's plan for a Gaza ceasefire - but will it last? The Global Story: Where the world meets America |
| Will Trump Take Control Of Greenland? | 20260108 | 20260109 (WS) | 
We speak to journalist Adrienne Murray in Copenhagen to find out how Greenlanders and Danes feel about Trump's comments, and what any US action on Greenland could mean for the future of Nato and Europe. Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Danish troops take part in military drills in Greenland. Credit: Guglielmo Mangiapane/ Reuters Trump's refusal to rule out military force is causing anxiety in Europe and Nato. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Will Trump's Board Of Peace Actually Stop Wars? | 20260123 | 20260124 (WS) | 
We speak to BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner about whether it could even replace the United Nations. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Valerio Esposito Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump in Davos, Switzerland, January 22, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst How Trump's Board of Peace is positioning itself as an alternative to the UN. The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| With Jimmy Lai In Jail, Have Trump And The West Abandoned Hong Kong? | 20260212 | 20260213 (WS) | 
Lai's sentence, which is the harshest yet under this law, has caused global concern over whether this is an attempt by Beijing to crackdown on dissent and democracy in the Chinese territory. We speak to Danny Vincent, the BBC's Hong Kong reporter, who was the last journalist to interview Jimmy Lai. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Chris Benderev Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Jimmy Lai is escorted out of a Correctional Services Department vehicle and into the Court of Final Appeal in Hong Kong, China, 09 February 2021. Credit: Tyrone Sui/Reuters The media mogul's case has caused global concern that Beijing is cracking down on dissent The Global Story: Where the world meets America Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. |
| Xi Jinping Takes The Trade War To Iowa | 20250306 | 
In recent days, China has imposed retaliatory tariffs on US goods, specifically targeting agricultural exports from key states like Iowa, Illinois or Kansas. So, is Xi Jinping taking the trade war straight to Iowa? And how will these new tariffs impact Trump's heartland? On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to the BBC's North America business correspondent, Michelle Fleury, and Shawn Yuan, from the BBC's Global China Unit. (Picture: Headshot of China's President Xi Jinping. Credit: Agustin Marcarian/Reuters) Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh Sound engineer: Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins China's retaliatory tariffs on agricultural exports could hit Trump's rural heartlands | |
| Xi's Axis Of Frenemies | 20250904 | 
Xi's military parade, watched over by Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, seemed a provocation to the west – most notably, Donald Trump – and a signal of his will to redraw the world order, lessening China's reliance on the US. In today's episode, the BBC's Celia Hatton considers: how long will China's friendships last with world leaders who have for years been its rivals? Producers: Hannah Moore and Lucy Pawle Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image: Xi Jingping at a WW2 anniversary reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Florence Lo/Reuters Is China's president redrawing the global power balance or just keeping his rivals close? The Global Story: Where the world meets America China's Xi Jinping assembled foreign leaders including Putin, Kim Jong Un and Modi in Beijing this week. Is he redrawing the global power balance or just keeping his rivals close? From September 2025, The Global Story: Where the world meets America | |
| Zelensky's Diplomatic Rollercoaster | 20250303 | 
On this episode, presenter Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale and the BBC's Daniel Wittenberg, who was in the Oval Office for the meeting between Trump and Zelensky. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@BBC.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480. (Picture: Volodomyr Zelensky at a summit with European leaders in London. Credit: Javad Parsa/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) Producers: Richard Moran and Peter Goffin Sound engineer: Stephen Bailey Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins From the explosive Trump meeting to a new deal with Europe |
Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC's international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption.
We are away for Christmas, so this is a repeat of a previous episode.
Sumi Somaskanda and Anthony Zurcher respond to questions about the upcoming US election