Filtra per genere
Where the world is explained. Making sense of the big stories - looking behind the spin. Exploring the important questions about long-running stories and the latest global news. An honest, unvarnished, explanation of the world. Episodes from The Explanation, Unspun World, The Global Jigsaw and The Media Show.
- 93 - Unspun World: Why are US-Israel relations at an historic low?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's range of experts across the world, analyses why Israel’s government is deliberately flouting the wishes of its closest ally, the United States. Plus, the extent of China’s infiltration into western countries, and why there have been mass protests in Georgia over a new law.
Fri, 17 May 2024 - 92 - The Media Show: Netflix and the Baby Reindeer Fallout
Baby Reindeer is the Netflix drama that purports to be a true story – but a woman has come forward to say it’s based on her, and that she’s been totally misrepresented. Meanwhile, Piers Morgan has done an interview with her that itself has been called exploitative. Also in the programme, how AI generated news stories have been passed off as the work of human journalists, and the secret to a hit TV news theme tune.
Thu, 16 May 2024 - 91 - The Global Jigsaw: How China sees itself in Africa
“China is not buying Africa, it is building Africa” is the view from Beijing. How is this landing with local audiences? There have been hints of a cooling down of Sino-African friendship. For this episode, the team travels to the Kenyan capital Nairobi to get a sense of Chinese influence on the ground, and understand why Beijing has chosen it as a hub for its media operation in Africa.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sat, 11 May 2024 - 90 - Unspun World: What is Israel's plan for Gaza?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines what Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan for Gaza is now, looks at the mood on the Ukrainian frontline ahead of the arrival of US military aid, and analyses what is at stake in the South African general election.
Fri, 10 May 2024 - 89 - The Media Show: Reporting the US campus protests
US university campuses have been the scene of pro-Palestinian demonstrations over the last month. We assess the challenges of reporting the protests and hear why student journalists have been crucial to our understanding of the story. Also in the programme, Al Jazeera responds to the restrictions imposed on it by the Israeli government, and the experience of one reporter at the Met Gala.
Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Thu, 09 May 2024 - 88 - What is the dark web?
The secret club which keeps illegal content hidden, using encryption and anonymisation tools. But can it also be a force for good? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet, giving a cloak to crime. But defenders argue it also keeps activists and whistle blowers safe. Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC Technology Editor Zoe Kleinman about the origins of the dark web, cyber crime and internet censorship across the world.
Tue, 07 May 2024 - 87 - The Global Jigsaw: Turkey's foothold in Africa
A dive into the narratives surrounding Turkey’s ambitions in Africa, where Ankara is touting itself as a “non-colonising” alternative to Western powers. Turkey has been expanding its influence operations in Africa in recent years: from military muscle and drone diplomacy to education, humanitarian projects, soft power and spiritual bonding. We ask what sets Turkey apart from other foreign powers vying for influence on the continent, and what its distinctive approach has achieved.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sat, 04 May 2024 - 86 - The Media Show: Behind the information iron curtain
Across large parts of the globe, access to impartial news reporting and information has never been more difficult, creating an information iron curtain. To mark World Press Freedom Day, Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall present a special live event from the BBC Radio Theatre, which considers the impact of censorship and technological controls in Russia, Iran and China; how ingrained state disinformation has become and how it has distorted their citizens’ perception of the world.
Our panel also looks at attempts to circumvent internet blocking and state restrictions on free media, from the use of VPNs by those on the inside, to the innovative tactics adopted by outsiders who are trying to deliver truthful news to an often indoctrinated audience.
Thu, 02 May 2024 - 85 - Goodbye to the International Space Station
It was a triumph of international collaboration - a laboratory for hundreds of astronauts - but was the 120 billion dollar investment worth it? Considered as one of humanity’s greatest achievements, it was built by the USA, Russia, Canada, Europe and Japan. Since it launched into space in 1998, over 270 astronauts from around the world have conducted research in the orbiting laboratory, but it is due to be retired in 2030. So how significant has it been and what will replace it? Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s Science Correspondent Pallab Ghosh. We also examine the economic opportunities offered by the moon and ask if China is the emerging space power.
Tue, 30 Apr 2024 - 84 - The Global Jigsaw: Deconstructing Iran’s ‘Axis of Resistance’: Part two
Iran's loose coalition of allies and proxies, sworn against Israeli and US influence, that has been shaping events in the Middle East for decades. Its ability to disrupt has been highlighted in the context of the current Gaza war. In this episode, we take you to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Gaza to untangle the web of Tehran’s influence operations and explore its potential to thrive in times of crisis.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sat, 27 Apr 2024 - 83 - The Media Show: Secrets of the Celebrity Interview
Decca Aitkenhead is the Chief Interviewer of The Sunday Times and has interviewed countless big names, from Hillary Clinton to Madonna. As she wins yet another award for her writing, she reveals how she does it – and why body language is the key to getting the rich and famous to say things they might later regret. Also in the programme, we meet the creators of two TV formats that have been sold around the world. And can you teach creativity? The creative genius behind some of the world’s most celebrated adverts says you can. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Guests: Decca Aitkenhead, Chief Interviewer, The Sunday Times; Matt Bennett, Senior Executive Producer, Shine TV; Dean Nabarro, Co-founder, Magnum Media; Sir John Hegarty, Advertising Executive, The Garage Soho.
Thu, 25 Apr 2024 - 82 - Nuclear weapons - which countries have them?
We look at the nuclear powers and those who want to join their club. Are nuclear weapons a deterrent or a strategic show of strength? We examine what treaties are in place to control the use of nuclear weapons and how they work in practice. Are there enough checks and balances to stop escalation? Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner.
Tue, 23 Apr 2024 - 81 - The Global Jigsaw: How drones have changed war
Drones have reshaped the battlefield in Ukraine - and created new challenges, raising concerns about the nature of future warfare. Drone technology has many iterations from Iran’s Shaheds and Turkey’s Bayraktars to the home-made war drone. We look into the history, the geopolitics and the worrying prospect of this tech teaming up with AI.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sat, 20 Apr 2024 - 80 - The Media Show: How Taylor Swift conquered the media
Taylor Swift is a media phenomenon. News outlets now have dedicated “Swift Correspondents”, Disney paid a record sum to stream her Eras tour, and she has a level of control over her music that other artists just don’t. We speak to two journalists who have the job of reporting on “Swiftonomics”” Also in the programme, a development in Hugh Grant’s legal fight with one of Rupert Murdoch’s newspaper groups. The actor accused The Sun of bugging his car and burgling his flat. Now he says he’s settled the allegations – which have been denied - for “an enormous sum”. And how to report the polarising topic of gender identity. In the UK a review has been published into what care children and young people who were questioning their gender were getting from health services. It makes recommendations for clinicians – but what lessons are there for journalists who want to report on the issue? Presenter: Katie Razzall Guests: Laura Snapes, Deputy Music Editor, The Guardian; Augusta Saraiva, Economics Reporter, Bloomberg; Jake Kanter, Investigations Editor, Deadline; Hannah Barnes, Associate Editor, New Statesman; Rebecca Coombes, Head of Journalism, The BMJ
Thu, 18 Apr 2024 - 79 - How does the New York Stock Exchange work?
The New York Stock Exchange is the largest in the world, valued today at over $25 trillion - but does it spread wealth or increase inequality? And what market forces are at play? Claire Graham asks the BBC’s North America business correspondent Erin Delmore the big questions. We also find out what stock market indexes like the Dow Jones actually measure, and which stocks are dubbed the ‘Magnificent Seven’.
Tue, 16 Apr 2024 - 78 - The Global Jigsaw: Sudan: A year of war
As it marks a year of war with no end in sight, Sudan faces the largest humanitarian and displacement crisis in the world. There are fears that if not stopped, the conflict could further destabilise an already volatile region. We try to piece together the picture from the few trusted sources that are left on the ground - journalists working in hiding and in constant danger. And a warning - there are distressing details.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Technical producer: Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sun, 14 Apr 2024 - 77 - The Media Show: Building Trump's social media app
Donald Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, continues to make headlines with its public listing. Billy Boozer, its former Chief Product Officer, reveals what it was like setting up the company with Trump. We're also joined by Prof Joshua Tucker and Prof Yini Zhang who has investigated how Trump has used Truth Social and X to drive news media attention.
The Executive Chairman of the Sky News Group, David Rhodes shares his plans for Sky News – and on his years as a senior TV news exec in New York.
Elon Musk has predicted that AI will surpass human intelligence within a year. OpenAI and Meta have also said that they're on the brink of releasing new AI models that will be capable of reason and planning. What will be the impact of these advanced AI models on the news media? We're joined by Madhumita Murgia, the AI Editor at the Financial Times, and author of a new book, Code Dependent, to discuss.
Thu, 11 Apr 2024 - 76 - The Global Jigsaw: Deconstructing Iran’s 'Axis of Resistance': Part one
The origins of the Iran-cultivated alliance of like-minded states and groups taking aim at Israel and the US. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Quds, or Jerusalem, force and the Basij militias regularly feature in the news; what are they, how do they operate and how have they become so influential? In this episode, we look at the branding and the ideological blueprint of the Tehran-led influence network that has been shaping events in the Middle East for decades.
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sun, 07 Apr 2024 - 75 - The Media Show: Fear, threats and intimidation
Have US diplomats been targeted by Russian sonic weaponry? Unexplained symptoms such as dizziness reported by personnel working around the globe have been dubbed "Havana Syndrome". Now a joint report between The Insider, Der Spiegel and CBS's 60 Minutes, alleges it’s the result of their brains being targeted by "directed energy" weapons operated by a secretive Russian military unit. The Media Show meets one of the journalists involved in the story. Moscow has denied the accusations. US officials have previously said it was unlikely a foreign power was to blame. British counter terrorism officers are investigating the stabbing last Friday of an Iranian TV host outside his home in London. Iran International presenter Pouria Zeraati was hospitalised, before being discharged and moving to a safe place under the supervision of the Metropolitan Police. The channel says it provides independent coverage of events in Iran and that it has faced a "significant escalation in state-backed threats". Iran's charge d'affaires in the UK said "we deny any link" to the latest incident. And as Gmail celebrates its 20th anniversary, how useful is email today as a form of communication? Or has it been overtaken by messaging apps like WhatsApp?
Thu, 04 Apr 2024 - 74 - The Global Jigsaw: Moscow attack: disinfo wars
Who is behind the Crocus City Hall attack? Within an hour of last week’s deadly attack on a concert hall outside Moscow, a campaign was gathering momentum to blame Kyiv for the atrocity while a parallel storyline claimed it was a Russian false flag operation. We track the blame game: the narratives and the counter-narratives underpinned by generous doses of disinformation. Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sun, 31 Mar 2024 - 73 - The Global Jigsaw: Contested waters: Helmand
The water dispute driving the turbulent relationship between Afghanistan and Iran is in an area faced with worsening climate change. The waters of the Helmand river are a lifeline for border communities, and a live wire that has at times nearly sparked wars. We follow the twists and turns of the row between Kabul and Tehran, and the shifting role of the Taliban within it.
Presenter: Krassi Twigg Producer: Kriszta Satori
Sun, 24 Mar 2024 - 72 - Unspun World: What's next for President Putin after winning re-election?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines what’s next for Vladimir Putin after winning re-election, analyses the possibility of civic unrest in the United States as Joe Biden and Donald Trump compete for the Presidency, and looks at the battle between miners and environmentalists over extracting rare metals from the bottom of our deepest oceans.
Sat, 23 Mar 2024 - 71 - The Global Jigsaw - Contested waters: Crimea
How water is used as a weapon of war following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. An irrigation system, once created at Stalin’s order as a project of grand Soviet social engineering, is now running dry. We dig into the history of the Crimean water dispute - the surprising twists and turns and the narratives constructed by both Russia and Ukraine.
Presenter: Krassi Twigg Producer: Kriszta Satori
Sun, 17 Mar 2024 - 70 - Unspun World: Has Russia turned the tide in its war in Ukraine?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Russia has turned the tide in its war in Ukraine, looks at the situation in Haiti in the wake of the gang violence sweeping the country, and examines whether in the future oceans will be navigated by unmanned ships.
Sat, 16 Mar 2024 - 69 - The Global Jigsaw: What hope for Haiti?
Gang violence has turned the small Caribbean nation into a “living nightmare”, with rapes, kidnappings and killings a daily occurrence. More than a decade after a devastating earthquake - and billions of dollars spent on recovery - Haiti is back on its knees. Plans for a new Kenya-led, UN-approved security deployment have stalled amid a debate about how much of a help or hindrance foreign assistance is. We check-in with the reality on the ground and take stock of the arguments.
Sun, 10 Mar 2024 - 68 - Unspun World: What's life like on the ground in Gaza and the West Bank?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the humanitarian situation in Gaza, analyses what it would take to bring peace to the conflicts there and in Ukraine, and explores the significance of the meeting of the National People’s Congress in China.
Sat, 09 Mar 2024 - 67 - Unspun World: Is a ceasefire in Gaza within reach?Sat, 02 Mar 2024
- 66 - Unspun World: What Alexei Navalny's death means for Vladimir Putin's grip on RussiaSat, 24 Feb 2024
- 65 - Unspun World: Can Israel win its war in Gaza?
John Simpson, talks to Jeremy Bowen, the BBC's international editor, who analyses whether Israel can win its war in Gaza. He examines what is really happening to the Chinese economy with BBC Asia Pacific editor Celia Hatton and looks at what the outcome of Indonesia’s elections might mean for the world’s third largest democracy with Jonathan Head, the BBC's South East Asia correspondent.
Sat, 17 Feb 2024 - 64 - Unspun World: How Russia's economy has survived despite sanctions
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses how the Russian economy has thrived despite Western sanctions, examines the American military’s role in the Middle East, and looks at the developing food crisis in Ethiopia.
Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt
Sat, 10 Feb 2024 - 63 - Unspun World: Is Ukraine losing Western support?
This week John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Ukraine can win its war with Russia without the wholehearted support of the West, examines what effect the International Court of Justice’s ruling on Israel might have on the war in Gaza, and looks at the challenges ahead following an expected general election in Britain this year.
Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt
Sat, 03 Feb 2024 - 62 - Unspun World: Is the war in Gaza slipping away from Israel?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, asks whether the war in Gaza is beginning to slip away from Israel, examines the implications of Iran’s missile strike on Pakistan, and considers what the inauguration of a temple in India means for the forthcoming elections there.
Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt
Sat, 27 Jan 2024 - 61 - Unspun World: What's the West's strategy for the Houthis?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the strategy behind the US and UK attacks on the Houthis in Yemen, analyses whether the elections in Taiwan have made an invasion by China more likely, and looks at the implications of Donald Trump’s dominant victory in Iowa.
Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt
Sat, 20 Jan 2024 - 60 - What does the World Bank do?
The World Bank was originally established after World War Two with the goal of eradicating poverty and establishing shared prosperity. With new challenges such as health crises, climate change and the establishment of the Asian Development bank, the World Bank’s purpose is under greater scrutiny than ever before, but has its core mission changed? Michelle Fleury, the BBC’s North America business correspondent, talks to Claire Graham about the origins and purpose of the World Bank, and the current challenges it faces as it tries to support sustainable development throughout the world.
Wed, 03 Jan 2024 - 59 - What is sportswashing?
In recent years, many sports have received huge investment from oil-rich petrostates, and while the term ‘sportswashing’ is relatively new, the idea of using sport as a way to deflect negative publicity has been around for years. The impact of recent huge investment has changed the landscape for football, golf, F1, cricket and boxing and many believe this to be a new form of soft power for those involved. Dan Roan, sports editor at BBC News, talks to Claire Graham about the accusation that countries are investing in sport and high-profile events to improve their international reputation.
Mon, 25 Dec 2023 - 58 - What is BRICS?
Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa make up what is currently called BRICS, a group of emerging economies which is challenging the Western-dominated order and institutions through its collective power. Its New Development Bank is seen as a rival to the World Bank and IMF. Its political and financial strength looks set to grow, with a soar in applications from other nations to join. Its latest expansion will see the bloc at least double in size in 2024. But what are its aims? And how does it plan to achieve them? BBC correspondent Emir Nader talks to Claire Graham about this growing club of nations and its potential influence around the world.
Wed, 20 Dec 2023 - 57 - How does the World Health Organization work?
Many global health experts believe we should brace ourselves for more epidemics and pandemics in the future. But deadly diseases are not exactly new. Since 1948, the World Health Organization’s aim has been "the attainment by all people of the highest possible level of health". Many would say its greatest achievement has been the eradication of smallpox; in more recent years, some were critical of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Tulip Mazumdar, the global health correspondent for BBC News, speaks to Claire Graham about the organisation’s successes, failures and future.
Wed, 13 Dec 2023 - 56 - Unspun World: Can anything break the stalemate in the Ukraine war?
Can anything break the stalemate in the Ukraine war? Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, tells the BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, about growing tensions for President Zelensky as so little progress is made on the frontline. As the UN exits countries in Africa, diplomatic correspondent, James Landale, asks if the organisation meant to promote peace, security, and cooperation around the world is still fit for purpose. Plus, science editor, Rebecca Morelle, shares the latest extraordinary discoveries in space.
Sat, 09 Dec 2023 - 55 - What is Five Eyes?
A secret intelligence pact between the UK and US began during the Second World War, focused on intercepting communications and breaking codes. Expanding to what is now known as Five Eyes, with the addition of Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the secrecy around the alliance continued for decades. It wasn’t until 2013, when the ex-NSA contractor Edward Snowden leaked classified documents, that the extent of its operations came into the public spotlight. Gordon Corera, the BBC’s security correspondent, talks to Claire Graham about the origins of this spy network and how relevant it is in a modern digital world.
Wed, 06 Dec 2023 - 54 - Unspun World: How migration is changing European politics
Wilders’ Dutch victory sends tremors around Europe so why is migration now top of the European political agenda? Europe editor, Katya Adler, gives world affairs editor, John Simpson, her analysis. Also, once the ceasefires end, we ask Jeremy Bowen what does the future hold for Israel? And as COP28 opens with the head of the state oil company, Sultan al-Jaber, as its president, a BBC documentary, Breathless, exposes how oil giants are risking the health of millions in the Gulf with toxic air pollution.
Sat, 02 Dec 2023 - 53 - Unspun World: A pause in fighting in Gaza
A ceasefire in Gaza but BBC world affairs editor John Simpson, asks Yogita Limaye - who has been gathering material from the area - what it is like for those living there? Also Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, on why Vladimir Putin might welcome unrest in the Middle East. We also turn to Argentina and ask South American correspondent, Katy Watson, what the new president - a former tantric sex guru and admirer of Donald Trump - might do for the economy. Plus, COP28 is on the horizon but its president this year is UAE oil boss Sultan al-Jaber. Why?
Sat, 25 Nov 2023 - 52 - The Global Jigsaw: Global perspectives on the Israel Gaza war
The Israel Gaza conflict has commanded attention in every corner of the globe and has created what media present as unprecedented polarisation. Leaders seeking a bigger role on the world stage have used this as an “ideological purity test” and an opportunity to promote their own vision of a multi-polar world.
Get in touch: theglobaljigsaw@bbc.co.uk
Producers: Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Sun, 19 Nov 2023 - 51 - Unspun World: Can the US and China get along?
China and the US make deals on the military and fentanyl trafficking. The BBC's World Service's Asia Pacific editor, Celia Hatton, explains why the two superpowers need each other now more than ever. Plus, how long can Israel continue to count on the West’s support in the conflict in Gaza? BBC reporter Guy Hedgecoe finds out if the Spanish Prime Minister can stave off Catalan independence and Moe Myint Myint reveals why the Myanmar military's days might be numbered.
Sat, 18 Nov 2023 - 50 - The Global Jigsaw: Israel and Gaza special
The war of narratives reflecting power tilts in the Middle East. Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on 7 October, which is said to have killed an estimated 1,300 people, triggered a war in Gaza that has so far claimed more than 10,000 lives. A “Ground Zero” moment for Israel, “a golden opportunity” for Jihadists, a window for those opposing normalisation with Israel. We explore the narratives, and the driving forces behind them, to understand how this war could change the region.
Sun, 12 Nov 2023 - 49 - Unspun World: What's Israel's endgame in Gaza?
Security correspondent, Frank Gardener, gives his take on the future of the region. The BBC's World Affairs editor, John Simpson, also asks Mini Al-Lami from BBC Monitoring what jihadi groups make of the conflict. He has over 100 charges against him but might Donald Trump be on his way back to the White House? North America editor, Sarah Smith, looks ahead to the US elections next year. Plus - pressures on Germany as immigration keeps growing. Is the country reaching a tipping point? Berlin correspondent, Jessica Parker, gives her view.
Sat, 11 Nov 2023 - 48 - Unspun World: Tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border
BBC World Affairs editor, John Simpson, is in Lebanon - a country deeply nervous it might get sucked into yet another war with Israel. So what are the chances it will? Analysis from Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega. Lebanon has been politically and economically unstable for years. It is also hugely diverse. Jim Muir- a stalwart of the BBC’s reporting in Lebanon for nearly 50 years - shares his view on the nation today.
Sat, 04 Nov 2023 - 47 - Unspun World: Will Israel invade Gaza?
Will Israel launch a ground assault in Gaza and, if they do, what is at stake? BBC World Affairs editor John Simpson gets the latest from Middle East correspondent Tom Bateman.
Plus, World Service Middle East editor, Sebastian Usher, examines the position of other Arab countries in the region - is there a chance they will get dragged into the conflict?
Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine rages on but, as the winter draws in, is Ukraine any closer to victory?
Sat, 28 Oct 2023 - 46 - The Global Jigsaw: Who’ll be Argentina’s next president?
After a shock primary win, far-right libertarian economist Javier Milei is leading polls ahead of Argentina's presidential election. He's vowing to upend the status quo. With poverty rising, inflation into triple digits and recession looming, Argentinians are divided over who to trust to lead them out of the crisis. The intensifying virulence of the debate in the already polarised political landscape makes that choice even harder.
Fri, 20 Oct 2023 - 45 - Unspun World: Israel declares war on Hamas after deadly attack
Israel starts 'a prolonged and powerful campaign' in Gaza. What might be the consequences? BBC World Affairs editor John Simpson analyses the fallout.
Also in the programme: diplomatic correspondent James Landale examines why European leaders are changing the way they tackle mass migration; senior North America reporter Anthony Zurcher explores why the United States has become increasingly ungovernable; and a BBC Eye Investigations team uncovers deadly loan apps in India and beyond. Reporter Poonam Agarwal reveals the trap ensnaring some of the world's poorest people.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 14 Oct 2023 - 44 - Unspun World: Are democracies hindering the fight against climate change?
Short-term politics gets in the way of dealing with an ever-warming planet. The BBC's climate editor, Justin Rowlatt, discusses the problems with how democracies tackle climate change with the BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson.
With no victory in sight, are some leaders in Europe growing weary of supporting Ukraine? The BBC's Europe editor, Katya Adler, outlines the growing tensions inside the EU.
What next for Niger now the military is in charge, and what might it mean for the region? West Africa correspondent Mayeni Jones explains what she learnt from those on the ground after gaining rare access to the country. And Armenians have fled Nogorno-Karabakh. Kian Sharifi from BBC Monitoring analyses what's at stake for neighbouring countries.
Photo: Fridays for Future climate rally in Italy, Naples - 06 Oct 2023. Credit: Photo by CESARE ABBATE/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 07 Oct 2023 - 43 - Unspun World: Can anyone in Russia challenge Putin now?
Now Yevgeny Prigozhin is dead, can anyone in Russia challenge President Putin’s power? BBC Russian news editor Famil Ismailov gives us his vision of the future for Ukraine.
Machismo in Mexico is alive and kicking, but it looks like the country’s heading for its first female president. South America correspondent Katy Watson analyses what this might mean for women’s rights and society as a whole. Plus, after more than a decade in South Africa, BBC correspondent Andrew Harding reflects on the highs and lows and his hopes for the nation’s future.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Ben Watt
Sat, 30 Sep 2023 - 42 - The Global Jigsaw: Wagner after Prigozhin
What next for the notorious Wagner group after the plane crash that wiped out its leadership? The Russian private military group that’s left boot prints in Europe, the Middle East and Africa is facing an uncertain future. We look at official movements and narratives - in Russia and abroad - to lift the deliberate veil of murkiness and find the clues.
Get in touch: theglobaljigsaw@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Fri, 29 Sep 2023 - 41 - Unspun World: What has changed for women in Iran, a year after Mahsa Amini's death?
Iranian women are still fighting for freedom, despite government crackdowns. World Service correspondent Faranak Amidi speaks to the BBC’s world affairs editor, John Simpson, about the fight for equality. They also discuss what has changed since Mahsa Amini's death in police custody.
We also ask BBC Ukrainian editor Marta Shokalo what life is like now in Ukraine, with the war showing no sign of ending anytime soon. And how much of a threat are Chinese spies to the West? The BBC’s security correspondent, Gordon Corera, reveals how today’s espionage works.
Sat, 23 Sep 2023 - 40 - The Global Jigsaw: Grain deal special
Russia and Turkey failed to reach an agreement to bring Ukrainian grain to countries that desperately need it, at a meeting in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. What are the obstacles - and the implications for global food security? The Global Jigsaw team brings together Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Middle East and Africa experts to assess what could happen next.
Sat, 09 Sep 2023 - 39 - Could Puerto Rico become America's 51st state?
As a US territory, Puerto Rico uses the dollar, its people are US citizens and they can move freely back and forth. However, it isn’t a US state, and its residents can’t vote in presidential elections or for members of Congress.
The country has a deep debt crisis, high unemployment and has experienced devastating hurricanes and earthquakes. As a result, migration to the US is common, with almost a million more Puerto Ricans in the US than on the island. In 2020, a non-binding referendum resulted in Puerto Rico voting again to become a US state. But will it ever happen?
BBC Mundo’s Ronald Avila-Claudio tells us more about his homeland and what the future might hold.
Presented by Claire Graham and produced by Owen McFadden for the BBC World Service.
Wed, 23 Aug 2023 - 38 - Kosovo–Serbia relations
After unilaterally declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo has been recognised by many countries, but not Serbia, which still claims it as one of its provinces. After the break-up of the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Serbia cracked down on Kosovo separatists, resulting in a NATO military intervention in 1999. Tensions have remained high and have begun to flare up again in recent years.
The majority Albanian population mostly supports independence, but in the northern areas of Kosovo, Serbs are the majority, and many refuse to recognise Kosovan institutions. BBC Serbian reporter Aleksandar Miladinović explains these divisions, and considers if relations between the two countries can ever be normalised.
Wed, 16 Aug 2023 - 37 - What is Nato?
Nato members agree to support each other if they come under attack. That’s the fundamental purpose of Nato, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, formed in the wake of World War II. But how has its remit changed in the seven decades since its foundation? Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, more states have sought to join Nato, but its expansion is perceived as a threat by President Putin.
James Landale, the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent, explains how Nato works and what challenges lie ahead for the organisation.
Wed, 09 Aug 2023 - 36 - Venezuela crisis
How has Venezuela, home to the world's largest oil reserves, become crippled with food and medicine shortages, hyper-inflation, violence and corruption? Hugo Chavez promised a socialist revolution in the 1990s, using high oil prices to fund his economic developments. However, during his time in power, he became increasingly autocratic and the economy slumped. Following Chavez’s death, Nicolas Maduro, also from the socialist PSUV party, became President but global oil prices began to plummet. The economy went into freefall and controversial elections in 2018 have led to ongoing political unrest. Jorge Pérez, a BBC Mundo journalist, explains how Venezuela descended into chaos.
Wed, 02 Aug 2023 - 35 - The EU
With its foundations in the ashes of World War II, the European Union was initially formed to avoid further wars and remove trade barriers. It grew from a six-nation club as the ECC in 1957, to today’s 27 members that covers much of the continent and has evolved to tackle contemporary issues such as mass migration, a global pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
In recent years, it survived a wave of Euroscepticism that led to Britain leaving (Brexit), but other member states have looked to reform from within, preferring to stay part of the larger bloc during uncertain times.
Katya Adler, the BBC’s Europe Editor, shares insights into the EU from its foundation to its contemporary challenges.
Wed, 26 Jul 2023 - 34 - Who are the Rohingyas?
In 2017, a deadly crackdown by Myanmar's army resulted in the mass exodus of Rohingya Muslims across the border into Bangladesh. Years later, many of those who fled are still in refugee camps.
But why have the Rohingya people become stateless? And will they ever return to Myanmar, which is now run by a military junta after a coup ousted Aung San Suu Kyi and her government in 2021.
The BBC’s Burmese Editor, Soe Win Than, explains how tensions grew in the Rakhine State and explores if the Rohingya Muslims and Rakhine Buddhists could ever live side by side again.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Wed, 19 Jul 2023 - 33 - What is a war crime?
What is the difference between a war crime, a crime against humanity and genocide? And who holds those responsible to account?
Anna Holligan, the BBC's correspondent in The Hague, gives an insight into how the International Criminal Court works. She shares some of the cases of those who have been charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community, from Congolese warlord Thomas Lubang to Bosnian Croat war criminal Slobodan Praljak.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Wed, 12 Jul 2023 - 32 - Unspun World: Is it time to return looted art?
What should we done with stolen treasures? The BBC's culture editor, Katie Razzall, confronts colonialism's legacy with world affairs editor John Simpson. John also finds out if victory is finally in sight for the Ukrainians. Security correspondent Frank Gardner thinks it might be if they can push past the Russians' strong defences - but not all Ukrainians are up for fighting. Eastern Europe correspondent Nick Thorpe has been on the trail of those who risk life and limb to escape the front line. Plus, who might fill the vacuum left by first French and now UN troops leaving Mali - Wagner or jihadis? Beverly Ochieng from BBC Monitoring reveals a precarious state of affairs.
Sat, 08 Jul 2023 - 31 - Haiti's gang crisis
Since Haiti’s devastating earthquake in 2010, the country has been in turmoil. Some 200 gangs have taken control in the absence of a functioning state, with murder, kidnapping and rape becoming commonplace. President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in 2021 and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight to the violence.
Harold Isaac, a Port-au-Prince based journalist, explains how Haiti has descended to this point, and if there’s any hope of a more stable future for the country.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Wed, 05 Jul 2023 - 30 - Unspun World: Is Putin's time up?
President Putin's days might well be numbered, BBC Russian service editor Famil Ismailov tells world affairs editor John Simpson. John also hears from Ukrainian journalist Olga Malchevska about how united Ukrainians are as the war drags on, and finds out why President Biden rolled out the red carpet for India’s prime minister - and what it says about China - with BBC Hindi reporter Zubair Ahmed. Plus, is populism in politics finally on the way out? Diplomatic correspondent James Landale gives his take on some of the world's most memorable leaders.
Fri, 30 Jun 2023 - 29 - How Lebanon’s economy collapsed
Protests, power cuts and bank hold-ups – Lebanon was already struggling before the 2020 port explosion that devasted its capital, Beirut, but now it’s in a desperate economic collapse. The Lebanese people are struggling to buy basic food and medicine. And the country also hosts the highest number of refugees per capita worldwide. BBC correspondent in Beirut, Carine Torbey, tells us how Lebanon got here and how it might recover. Presenter: Claire Graham. Producer: Owen McFadden.
Wed, 28 Jun 2023 - 28 - How the Good Friday Agreement helped bring peace to Northern Ireland
This year marks 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement, signed by politicians from Northern Ireland and the British and Irish governments in an attempt to bring peace to Northern Ireland. Over his 26 years at the BBC, Denis Murray reported extensively on the peace process, including this pivotal moment. He explains to Claire Graham how it came about, its legacy and how it's still discussed in today's political battles.
Producer: Owen McFadden Presenter: Claire Graham
Sat, 04 Mar 2023 - 27 - Ethiopia, Eritrea and border wars
Relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia have historically been difficult. Eritrea won independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a 30-year war. A bitter border war between the two countries began a few years later. But by 2020, Eritrea sent troops to fight alongside the Ethiopian government against rebel forces in its northern Tigray region.
Kalkidan Yibeltal is a BBC correspondent in Addis Ababa. He explains the complex history between the two countries, and looks at the tentative peace now emerging in Tigray.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Sat, 25 Feb 2023 - 26 - Sudan’s journey from independence to revolution
A military coup in 1989 brought Omar al-Bashir to power, until being overthrown by the military in the face of mass protests in 2019. During this time, war has raged in Darfur, South Sudan has gained independence and the Sudanese people demanded a return to civil government.
BBC journalist Mohanad Hashim grew up in Khartoum and has reported extensively on the Middle East and Africa. He speaks to Claire Graham about Sudan’s journey from independence to revolution.
Producer: Owen McFadden Presenter: Claire Graham
Sat, 18 Feb 2023 - 25 - How Yemen has been engulfed by civil war
After almost a decade of fighting, civil war in Yemen has caused one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Nawal Al-Maghafi is a Special Correspondent with the BBC who has been reporting on the Middle East since 2012. She explains to Claire Graham how this complex war began between government backed forces and the Houthi rebels.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Sat, 11 Feb 2023 - 24 - Who are the Uyghurs and why are they being persecuted?
China has been accused of the mistreatment of the Uyghur people in the north-western region of Xinjiang for a number of years. This Muslim ethnic group are distinct with different culture, language and history to China's ethnic majority, Han Chinese. But why did the government start this crackdown? And what’s really going on?
Senior correspondent John Sudworth was based in China for nine years, and reported on the treatment of the Uyghur people. He speaks to Claire Graham to help us understand the region and how Xinjiang became a surveillance state.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Sat, 04 Feb 2023 - 23 - Cuba–United States relationsSat, 28 Jan 2023
- 22 - Roe v Wade and abortion in America
Fifty years ago, Jane Roe found herself at the centre of a ruling that would fuel US politics for the following decades. The Roe V Wade case gave women the constitutional right to abortion, until 2022 when it was overturned by the US Supreme Court.
Claire Graham speaks with Katty Kay about the 1973 legal case, the legacy of that ruling and how abortion became such a central issue in contemporary American politics.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Sat, 21 Jan 2023 - 21 - How Syria's peaceful uprising became a civil war
Inspired by the Arab Spring, peaceful protests began in Syria in early 2011. However, a complex civil war followed which has lasted over a decade and involved many other countries. Lina Sinjab, a BBC Middle East correspondent, explains how the conflict in her native country began. From the arrest and torture of protesting teenagers in Daraa to the rise of the Islamic State (IS), the last 12 years have devastated the country and inflicted immense suffering on the Syrian people. Is there an end to war in sight? Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Sat, 14 Jan 2023 - 20 - Understanding the long history between Russia and UkraineSat, 16 Apr 2022
- 19 - Understanding South Africa’s continuing quest for equality
Claire Graham talks to the former BBC News Africa Bureaux Chief, Milton Nkosi, to get a better understanding of why the post-apartheid dream of a ‘Rainbow Nation’ has still not materialised.
The Explanation is a snackable audio guide giving you the backstory behind the headlines. Unpacking complex chains of events, The Explanation will make the stories in question much easier to understand.
Sat, 09 Apr 2022 - 18 - Understanding the power that Saudi Arabia wields
Claire Graham and guests explain the important, long-running stories that are in the newsClaire Graham talks to the BBC’s Middle East correspondent, Anna Foster, to get a better understanding of how the Saudi Royal family has maintained a strong global influence in spite of events which have drawn worldwide criticism.
Sat, 02 Apr 2022 - 17 - Understanding relations between Taiwan and ChinaSat, 26 Mar 2022
- 16 - Understanding the rise of Boko HaramSat, 19 Mar 2022
- 15 - Understanding North Korea and the Kim dynastySat, 12 Mar 2022
- 14 - Understanding the Islamic State groupSat, 25 Dec 2021
- 13 - Understanding how Russia has changed under PutinSat, 18 Dec 2021
- 12 - Afghanistan: Women, girls and their rightsSat, 11 Dec 2021
- 11 - Understanding Iran: Reconciling religion and democracySat, 04 Dec 2021
- 10 - Israeli-Palestinian relationsSat, 27 Nov 2021
- 9 - Understanding democracy in Hong Kong
Why are there democracy protests in Hong Kong? Anu Anand talks to Stephen McDonell.
The Explanation is a snackable audio guide giving you the backstory behind the headlines. In each episode, presenter Anu Anand meets a BBC News correspondent who has lived and breathed these stories. She’ll hear clear analysis along with powerful archive. The Explanation will go back in time to unpack complex chains of events and will make the stories in question much easier to understand.
Sat, 20 Nov 2021 - 8 - Unspun World: Xi Jinping: President or emperor?
Chinese service editor Howard Zhang speaks to world affairs editor John Simpson about Xi Jinping's growing ambition and what it means for China - and the rest of us. We also speak to Olga Ivshina, BBC News Russian correspondent, to find out how many Russian soldiers have really died so far in the war - a figure that's a lot higher than the Kremlin will admit - and we find out why the Saudis are so keen to get their hands on major sports tournaments with sports editor Dan Roan. Plus, the seas around the UK and Ireland are hotter than ever before. We ask environment correspondent Matt McGrath how worried we should be.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 24 Jun 2023 - 7 - What is the Wagner Group?
The Wagner group has been linked to military conflicts around the world, but who are they?
The Russian mercenary organisation is believed to have been founded nearly 10 years ago, but ramped up recruitment in recent years, particularly since the beginning of Russia's war in Ukraine. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, it now commands 50,000 fighters in Ukraine alone, but is said to have links to other parts of the world, particularly in many African nations.
BBC Russia’s Andrei Goryanov has been based in Riga, Latvia since the BBC Russian Bureau relocated after the invasion of Ukraine. He explains who the Wagner Group are, where they have been and how aligned they are with President Putin and his government.
Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden
Wed, 21 Jun 2023 - 6 - Unspun World: Who can challenge Trump?
The BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, asks defence correspondent Jonny Beale where the war in Ukraine is heading and what victory might look like; finds out from North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher if any of the Republican presidential candidates will give Donald Trump a run for his money; analyses a new era in relations in the Middle East with Baran Abbasi from BBC Persian; and explores why South Africa is in so much trouble, and what can be done about it, with South Africa correspondent Nomsa Maseko.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt.
Sat, 17 Jun 2023 - 5 - Unspun World: What's it like reporting on the war from inside Russia?
The BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, asks Russia editor Steve Rosenberg what the mood is like in Russia as the war gets closer to home; finds out from South Asia editor Rebecca Henschke why no one is taking any notice of the brutal civil war in Myanmar; and asks Balkans correspondent Guy Delauney why tensions are flaring up again in Kosovo. John also speaks to former Beijing correspondent John Sudworth, to find out if Covid really originated from a lab in Wuhan after all.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 10 Jun 2023 - 4 - Unspun World: Can the US transform the world's economy?
Can the US transform the world's economy? We get the detail - and why it matters for the rest of us - from economics editor Faisal Islam. And our host, the BBC’s world affairs editor John Simpson, asks Olga Robinson from BBC Verify how the new team goes about sorting fact from fiction in Russia's war with Ukraine. BBC Urdu's Farhat Javad examines what's next for cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan in Pakistan. And environment correspondent Helen Briggs marvels at thousands of newly discovered ocean creatures already at risk from deep sea mining.
Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 03 Jun 2023 - 3 - Unspun World: Could AI outsmart humanity?
Unspun World provides an unvarnished version of the week's major global news stories with the BBC's world affairs editor John Simpson and the BBC's unparalleled range of experts.
This week, John finds out what it's like to report from the battlefield with Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse; Asia Pacific editor Celia Hatton on President Xi's gameplan; how worried should we be about artificial intelligence, with technology editor, Zoe Kleinman, and what is fuelling the political, economic and social turmoil in Ecuador, with BBC's Mundo's Ana Maria Roura.
Sat, 27 May 2023 - 2 - Unspun World: Is Ukraine's counter-offensive a turning point?
Unspun World provides an unvarnished version of the week's major global news stories, with the BBC's world affairs editor John Simpson and the BBC's unparalleled range of experts.
This week John explores the ongoing war effort in Ukraine with BBC Monitoring's Vitaliy Shevchenko; the future of Turkey with international correspondent Orla Guerin; what President Assad of Syria's rehabilitation will mean for Syrians, with Middle-East correspondent Lina Sinjab, and he speaks to the BBC's science correspondent, Pallab Ghosh, about the pangenome. What is it, and how can it help humanity?
Producers: Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt
Sat, 20 May 2023 - 1 - Introducing The ExplanationWed, 17 May 2023
Podcast simili a <nome>
- All In The Mind ABC listen
- CrowdScience BBC World Service
- Discovery BBC World Service
- Health Check BBC World Service
- The Documentary Podcast BBC World Service
- The Food Chain BBC World Service
- The Forum BBC World Service
- The Inquiry BBC World Service
- The Real Story BBC World Service
- Witness History BBC World Service
- El Partidazo de COPE COPE
- Herrera en COPE COPE
- The Dan Bongino Show Cumulus Podcast Network | Dan Bongino
- Es la Mañana de Federico esRadio
- Más de uno OndaCero
- El Larguero SER Podcast
- Nadie Sabe Nada SER Podcast
- Credlin Sky News Australia / NZ
- Outsiders Sky News Australia / NZ
- Sharri Sky News Australia / NZ
- The Bolt Report Sky News Australia / NZ
- The Rita Panahi Show Sky News Australia / NZ
- 辛坊治郎 ズーム そこまで言うか! ニッポン放送
Altri podcast di Formazione Scolastica
- History Extra podcast Immediate Media
- TED Talks Daily TED
- The Rest Is History Goalhanger Podcasts
- In Our Time: History BBC Radio 4
- Learning English Conversations BBC Radio
- Learning English Stories BBC Radio
- Entrez dans l'Histoire RTL
- History Time History Time
- Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott Loyal Books
- Battleground Goalhanger Podcasts
- Au Cœur de l'Histoire - Des récits pour découvrir et apprendre l'Histoire Europe 1
- Curiosidades de la Historia National Geographic National Geographic España
- SER Historia SER Podcast
- موسوعة الكتب الصوتية Podcast Record
- Franck Ferrand raconte... Radio Classique
- 6 Minute English BBC Radio
- Luke's ENGLISH Podcast - Learn British English with Luke Thompson Luke Thompson
- You're Dead to Me BBC Radio 4
- Classical Music Quiet. Please
- Real Survival Stories NOISER