SATURDAY 13 JUNE 2026

SAT 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vs3vb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 00:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct8kcj)
The beautiful game

As the Fifa Men’s World Cup kicks off this week in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, football fever is everywhere – and this has the Unexpected Elements team exploring all things football.

First, we discover how it took eight years and 170 experiments for scientists to create the perfect grass pitch. Then, why a football is not really a ball… it’s a truncated icosahedron. We discuss how this shape revolutionised not only the beautiful game, but nanotechnology too.

Then, what secrets can your sweat reveal? We are joined by Prof John Rogers who explains how sweat is an underappreciated and understudied biomarker of our health.

And whether in life or in football, what is a better strategy – survival of the fittest or co-operation and teamwork? Author Rowan Hooper joins us to battle it out.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Chhavi Sachdev and Ogechi Ekeanyanwu
Producer: Ella Hubber, with Sophie Ormiston, Lucy Davies and Robbie Wojciechowski


SAT 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vs7lg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b3nmq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygglvv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct8m8v)
The World Cup referee barred from the United States

The 2026 World Cup kicked off last night in Mexico, after a series of controversies in the lead up, including over visas for foreign teams, fans, media and officials hoping to go to the host countries: US, Canada and Mexico.

The latest scandal involves FIFA dropping Somali referee Omar Artan, after the US refused him entry. FIFA‘s president Gianni Infantino said “we don't control everything”, and asked critics to ‘chill’.

US Customs and Borders protection said in a statement that “derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organisations” was discovered after Omar Artan landed at Miami International Airport to attend the tournament. Artan says he told border officials he knows nothing about the Somali militant group Al Shabab.

Today, we speak to Charles Gitonga, senior journalist and host of the BBC’s Focus on Africa podcast, about how Africans are reacting to the news, and whether the controversies will have long-term consequences for US-Africa relations.

Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Cat Farnsworth
Executive producer: Bridget Harney
Video editor: Matt Pintus
Mix: Travis Evans
Senior News Editor: China Collins

Photo: Somali referee Omar Artan. Credit: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images


SAT 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vscbl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b3scv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzyggqlz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:32 Stumped (w3ct99fb)
Will Ben Stokes captain England again after being replaced by Joe Root?

Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss what’s next for Ben Stokes and England?

Joe Root has replaced Ben Stokes as interim captain for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes and Gus Atkinson were both dropped following an incident in a London nightclub. The team discuss if curfews work, the return of Root as captain and what the future could hold for Stokes?

The biggest ever Women's T20 World Cup is here and we’re joined by Cricket broadcaster Annesha Ghosh to discuss if India could win the tournament for the first time?

Plus, Dr Raf Nicholson joins us to discuss her new book, The Women in Whites, which takes a closer look at the origins of the women's game in England, from the 18th century through to the present day.

Photo: Ben Stokes of England looks on after the First Test between England and New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground (Credit: Philip Brown/Getty Images)


SAT 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vsh2q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 03:06 Outlook (w3ct8hpl)
Outlook Mixtape: No ordinary Joe

Chris Barns, known as Brolga, is a kangaroo 'mum' – he rescues orphaned baby kangaroos, or joeys, carrying them around in a pillowcase to mimic their mother's pouch. While working as a tour guide in the Outback, Brolga would always check the pouches of kangaroos killed by cars on the road, finding that often the joeys would still be alive. He gave up his job to create a sanctuary for them in Alice Springs. After spending all of his money building a giant dingo-proof fence, he ended up living in a tin shack on site, without electricity or a toilet, sharing his bed with joeys. But after he starred in a BBC documentary series called Kangaroo Dundee, Brolga received hundreds of emails from fans which guaranteed the sanctuary's survival. And he was able to dedicate all his time to mothering orphaned joeys, some of which starred in a family film called Kangaroo, inspired by his life.

Mokhtar Alkhanshali is a young American who went back to his family's homeland in Yemen to work with the farmers there and try to get his coffee import business off the ground. As he told Outlook in 2017, he encountered all kinds of challenges including malaria, tape worm and air strikes. But despite the difficulties his business did well, and he is now opening a cafe and art gallery in San Francisco.

Marjoe Gortner was just four years old in 1944 when his parents had him ordained as an evangelical minister. He was dubbed ‘the miracle child’ and conducted his first marriage ceremony before he even went to school. During the 1950s he became a star turn on the American preaching circuit and attracted huge crowds for his exuberant preaching, raking in millions of dollars. But behind it all was an elaborate con, and years later Marjoe went public with an exposé documentary. He spoke to Outlook in 2022.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Hetal Bapodra

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: A transparent 60-minute cassette tape with a white label bearing the words: The Outlook Mixtape. Credit: Getty Images)


SAT 03:50 Witness History (w3ct98dq)
Hussein of Jordan: The survivor king

In 1970, King Hussein of Jordan survived after gunmen opened fire on his motorcade close to his summer palace. The king remained unharmed, but his driver was wounded. It wasn’t the king’s first near-miss.

Before being crowned, Hussein survived another attempt when his grandfather, King Abdullah, was assassinated by a Palestinian gunman in 1951. Hussein was saved when a medal deflected a stray bullet. And there were other attempts. One would-be assassin used nose drops poisoned with acid. Another time, a cook was given poison to put in the king’s food.

Many of the attempts were because of his pro-Western stance and his efforts to control Palestinian guerrillas. Jane Wilkinson has been through the BBC archives to find out more about the ‘survivor king’, who tells his story in his own words.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: King Hussein, 1970. Credit: Fred Ihrt/LightRocket via Getty Images)


SAT 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vsltv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 04:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct8kcj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 today]


SAT 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vsqkz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b44m7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 05:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygh2vc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:32 More than the Score (w3ct9bcr)
Aston Moore: Do coaches get better with age?

Last year, the Caribbean island nation of Curacao qualified for the Fifa men's World Cup for the first time in their history - led by 78-year-old manager Dick Advocaat. He's now set to become the oldest man to ever coach at the finals, when he leads Curacao out against four-time world champions Germany.

That got us thinking about how much experience matters for coaches. Does having decades of knowledge under your belt make you a better guide for young athletes - or less flexible and more set in your ways?

Last November, More than the Score's Ed Harry talked to Aston Moore, a British athletics coach who's worked with dozens of elite Olympians and Paralympians, including two-time world heptathlon champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson. He turned 70 in February, but has no intention of retiring. He explains the importance of commitment and adaptability for coaches and the athletes in their care - and why he prefers to teach people by letting them work out the answers for themselves, rather than telling them what to do.

Ed also hears from journalist Anthony Wootton, who discusses why sports organisations in North America seem to have more patience with their head coaches.

All this summer, More than the Score brings you more than the men’s football World Cup - the new teams, standout stars and fandoms shaping the tournament in ways the stats don’t show. Search for More than the Score, wherever you get your BBC podcasts.


SAT 05:50 More or Less (w3ct998t)
Andrew Ross Sorkin: What can the Great Crash of 1929 tell us about today?

The financial journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin on the numbers behind the 1929 crash.The Great Crash of 1929 has faded into history, but financial journalist and author Andrew Ross Sorkin argues it holds vital lessons for today.

Andrew came into the studio in London to discuss what we can understand about the crash in numbers, from ticker-tape running hours behind plunging stock prices to crucial metrics that sound the alarm bells before a financial crisis. Are they sounding today, in the middle of an AI stockmarket boom?

Andrew's new book is '1929: Inside the Crash'.

Presenter: Tim Harford
Series Producer: Tom Colls
Producer: Nathan Gower
Editor: Richard Vadon
Programme Coordinator: Brenda Brown
Sound Engineer: James Beard


SAT 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vsvb3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 06:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxt6rl)
SpaceX valuation rockets to over two trillion dollars

Elon Musk has become the world's first trillionaire after his company SpaceX debuted on the Nasdaq stock market in New York. Shares jumped more than twenty five per cent over their initial offer price, valuing the rocket, satellite, and AI firm at more than two trillion dollars. That makes it one of America's biggest company's by market value.

Also in the programme: violence in the West Bank; and Albertans prepare to vote on independence.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Freddie Carver, Director of the Humanitarian Policy Group at ODI Global; and Eunice Goes, Professor of Politics at Richmond American University London.

(Photo: A live feed shows SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on the day of SpaceX's initial public offering (IPO) at the Nasdaq MarketSite, in New York City, U.S., June 12, 2026. CREDIT: REUTERS/Jeenah Moon)


SAT 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vsz27)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 07:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxtbhq)
Musk becomes first trillionaire

Elon Musk on Friday became the world's first trillionaire after shares in his SpaceX rocket company soared during the biggest-ever stock market debut. The Tesla and SpaceX founder comfortably cemented his status as the world's richest man, with his total net worth standing at $1.11tn (£828bn) according to the Bloomberg rich list. It came as the rocket, telecommunications and artificial intelligence company listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange with a value of $2.2tn.

Also in the programme: riots in Belfast; and how to feed a dictator.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Freddie Carver, Director of the Humanitarian Policy Group at ODI Global; and Eunice Goes, Professor of Politics at Richmond American University London.

(Photo: Founder, CEO, Chairman, and Chief Engineer of SpaceX, Elon Musk, speaks via video link on the day of SpaceX's initial public offering (IPO) at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York City, U.S., June 12, 2026. CREDIT: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid)


SAT 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vt2tc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 08:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxtg7v)
Iranian drones targeting ships in Strait of Hormuz shot down

The US military says its forces have shot down a number of Iranian drones targeting commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest flare-up comes within hours of Washington and Tehran both indicating they were inching towards a peace agreement. Senior US administration officials said a text was close to being agreed.

Also in the programme: the controversial statue of writer Mikhail Bulgakov; and the new comedy musical ‘Here Comes J. Edgar!’.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Freddie Carver, Director of the Humanitarian Policy Group at ODI Global; and Eunice Goes, Professor of Politics at Richmond American University London.

(Photo: Vessels are anchored in the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 11, 2026. CREDIT: REUTERS/Stringer)


SAT 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vt6kh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct8m3q)
World Cup superfans

The most watched sporting event in the world has not been without its controversies, including high ticket prices and transport costs, as well as rows over visas and concerns about security.

But, in our conversations, we wanted to hear from supporters. We bring together three world cup superfans, including Craig who’s walked across the United States to see his team compete.

“Football is the universal language of the world,” he tells us. “That is just fact no matter where you travel, no matter where you go.”

We also hear from guests in Jordan, Curacao in the Caribbean, Cape Verde and Uzbekistan. They share their excitement of watching their countries take part for the first time.

Presenter: James Reynolds
BBC producers: Lindsay Brown and Isabella Bull
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham
Editors: Arja Haikonen and Harriet Oliver

A Boffin Media production in partnership with the BBC World Service Outside Source team

(Photo: Danny Pires - who features in our programme - at the recent Cape Verde v Bermuda friendly)


SAT 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzyghktw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:32 Americast (w3ct8lz6)
The battle in rural America against AI data centres

The world’s largest data centre (62sq miles) has been approved in Utah, but there is growing opposition towards the project. At twice the size of Manhattan with promises to create thousands of jobs, we look at the bi partisan opposition against it.
In this episode, Justin and Anthony discuss the enormous buildings being built across rural America, to house the huge amounts of data that A.I companies work with. Tech bosses say the centres are essential to the growth of Artificial Intelligence. Also, for many of these companies, now valued at billions of dollars, their stock price is based on data centres which need to be approved and built.
But there are growing bi partisan which range from the environmental impact, water pollution, electricity usage, sound pollution, falling property prices and their impact on the landscape of rural America.
We hear from the journalist and author Robert Bryce, who is an energy specialist and Substack columnist. He has been geographically tracking the development and opposition to data centres across the United States and has interesting observations on how this compares with the development of wind and solar energy.

HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

GUEST:
• Robert Bryce, Energy journalist, author and Substack columnist

GET IN TOUCH:
• Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
• Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480
• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #Americast

This episode was made by Tom Gillett, Ellie House, Alix Pickles and Purvee Pattni. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

If you want to be notified every time we publish a new episode, please subscribe to us on BBC Sounds by hitting the subscribe button on the app.

You can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.

US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155

Americast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Americast also makes lots of other podcasts, including Newscast. If you enjoy Americast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.

Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p05299nl
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd


SAT 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vtb9m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 10:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct996k)
World Cup: Beyond the pitch

"Some people think football is a matter of life and death... I can assure them it is much more serious than that." So said legendary Liverpool manager Bill Shankly. And whilst the World Cup is on, it can certainly feel like that, but whether you're a fanatic, glued to every last moment of action, or doing whatever you can to avoid being subjected to it, what you can't deny is the impact of soccer. So this week stories four World Cup stories that about so much more than soccer with a tale from Mexico, Canada and the USA

To Mexico where, as well as the competition's opening match in Mexico City, there will be games in both Monterrey and Guadalajara. Buoyed on by their passionate fans, Mexico will also have supporters a in a small enclave of the British Isles. Because deep in the South West of the UK is the county of Cornwall where over one hundred a fifty years ago a group of miners packed their picks and shovels and headed to Mexico to dig for silver, and in doing so introduced the sport of soccer.

There will be a total of 13 matches hosted by Canada at this World Cup... They have some experience because back in 2015 Canada hosted the Women's Soccer World Cup. It was also the year that Harry Manson a soccer player, became the inaugural First Nations athlete to be inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. Harry's is a story of inspiration and recognition for a community often disadvantaged, but his is also a sad one, a life tragically cut short. Harry Manson's story is also a microcosm of what life was like for Canada’s indigenous population in the late 19th century and for subsequent generations. Through the eyes of his family, including grandson Gary Manson, and historian Robert Jennings, we tell that story

In 1994 the USA hosted the FIFA Men's World Cup for the first time. The choice of host nation was a controversial one because, at that time, the US didn't have an active professional football league. Alan Rothenberg was the man in charge of organising the competition. He decided to book Motown legend, Diana Ross, to headline the opening ceremony in Chicago.. Something that turned out to become an iconic moment in World Cup history. Alan has been sharing his memories of the tournament

And last but not least the most important part of any sport.The fans! Or at least you'd hope so, but with things like high ticket prices it can often seem more like a money grab. Andy Milne has seen the way the World Cup has changed having travelled to the Men's competition since 1982. He's in North America in the hopes that his beloved England will fulfil a nation's dream and win the competition again! But for Andy the game is only a small part of the World Cup experience. For Andy it's the friendships he makes on the way that mean the most.

PHOTO: FIFA World Cup Trophy is displayed (CREDIT: Hector Vivas - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)


SAT 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vtg1r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b4w30)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzyghtb4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct8tw7)
Fighting resumes between Israel and Hezbollah

This week John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the impact of Israel’s recent attacks on Lebanon, analyses the flotation of SpaceX and what it will mean for Elon Musk, and looks at the outcome of the election in Armenia.

Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive Producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning Editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall


SAT 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vtksw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 12:06 World Questions (w3ct8snr)
Morocco: Young Women and Change

A special edition of World Questions, putting young Moroccan women at the centre of a national debate about rights, faith, and family law reform. Jonny Dymond chairs a diverse panel of women’s advocates in Marrakesh as they debate issues such as child marriage, inheritance, tradition and respect for women. As a new generation pushes for change, reform is being debated openly in Morocco and this programme hears from a panel and audience of young women at a pivotal moment in civil society.

The panel :
• Frizzy – Rapper and singer of the anthem for women’s equality campaign, ‘The Time Has Come’
• Dr Meryem Redouane – Head of the Women’s Section of the International Islamic Federation of Student Organisations (IIFSO)
• Kaoutar Rias – Student at the National School of Architecture, Tetouan and member of the National Council of Student Renewal (OREMA)
• Yousra Salhi - Feminist digital content creator and women’s rights activist

Producer: Charlie Taylor

(Photo: Young Moroccan women against a backdrop of the Moroccan flag. Credit: Getty)


SAT 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vtpk0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 13:06 Newshour (w1730bn1kjxvhs2)
US and Iran indicate a deal to end the war is close

Lebanese state media say Israel carried out airstrikes in the south shortly after ordering residents to leave about twenty locations. They say three injured people have been pulled from rubble following a strike near Tyre. Iran says that peace in Lebanon must be part of any agreement with the US. Tehran and Washington have both indicated that they're close to an accord, but there have been further hostilities. The US military said it shot down several Iranian drones in the Strait of Hormuz.

Also in the programme: President Trump says the US has killed the leader of a Venezuelan criminal cartel, Tren de Aragua; the UN condemns increasing levels of aggression and intimidation in the occupied West bank; and a new documentary speaks to the people who have worked as private chefs for some of the world's most notorious dictators!


(Photo: Daily life in Tehran as tension between Iran and US continues, Iran Islamic Republic Of - 21 Feb 2026. Credit: EPA)


SAT 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vtt94)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:06 Sportsworld (w1730c8vtqbldfs)
Live Sporting Action

Lee James is joined by journalists Roberto Abramowitz, Tomas Romero and Brian Mahoney to look back at the first two days of World Cup action and preview the rest of the first round.

Plus, we'll have the latest from the NHL and NBA Finals and Women's ICC T20 World Cup, which gets underway in the United Kingdom.

Photo: General view outside the SoFi Stadium on June 09, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Credit: FIFA via Getty Images)


SAT 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vv98n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b5q9x)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 18:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygjnk1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:32 More than the Score (w3ct9bcr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 today]


SAT 18:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct8rx7)
Pickles the dog finds the World Cup trophy

Pickles the dog became an unlikely hero before the 1966 World Cup when he found the stolen Jules Rimet trophy on his daily walk. Stardom beckoned as he was honoured with a medal and a role in a film, even becoming part of England's celebrations when they won the tournament. Uma Doraiswamy tells the story using archive recordings.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You’ll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.

Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women’s World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football’s biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who’ve had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.

(Photo: Pickles with his owner David Corbett watching the World Cup Final. Credit: Bill Rowntree/Mirrorpix via Getty Images)


SAT 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vvf0s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:06 The Inquiry (w3ct98pr)
Why does Ebola keep coming back?

In May 2026, the World Health Organization declared an Ebola outbreak in western Africa a public health emergency of international concern. Within days, hundreds of cases had been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo, raising fears that the virus could spread further across the region.

Ebola has been causing outbreaks for nearly 50 years, but despite advances in vaccines and treatments, the disease continues to return. But why is it so difficult to treat and contain?

This week's contributors include Syra Madad, infectious disease epidemiologist at the Harvard Belfer Centre, US; Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko, professor of tropical medicine at the University of Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo; Amanda Rojek, associate professor of health emergencies at the University of Oxford, UK and Julienne Anoko, risk communication and community engagement officer at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Kenya

Presenter: Tanya Beckett
Producer: Matt Toulson
Technical producer: Nicky Edwards
Editor: Tom Bigwood

(Photo: Ebola awareness banner in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Credit: Glordy Murhabazi/Getty Images)


SAT 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygjs95)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:32 Happy News (w3ct8nwj)
The Happy Pod: Surviving six days alone on Everest

We hear from the man who survived for nearly a week on one of the most dangerous parts of Mount Everest with little food, no water and few supplies. Dawa Sherpa became separated from his group after running out of oxygen during bad weather and his family had begun mourning his death. But, after six days, he was found by a cleaning crew, crawling and sliding his way back to base camp.

Also, the teenager who was surprised to find his exam paper included a poem he had inspired. It had been written by his mum several years earlier.

How an art student from Germany ended up in charge of a Swedish island.

The US singer Barry Manilow returns to the stage after overcoming lung cancer.

Plus, the boy who can impersonate the calls of more than 100 birds; and the mysterious knitted toys that have been popping up around an English village.

Presenter: Holly Gibbs.
Music: Iona Hampson

(Photo: Dawa Sherpa arriving at a hospital in Kathmandu. Credit: Reuters)


SAT 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vvjrx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 20:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct8h81)
Leila Slimani

Nikki Bedi speaks to the internationally acclaimed French-Moroccan author of Lullaby about the final part of her historical family trilogy, I’ll Take The Fire

Steven Spielberg remembers falling in love with space and how it has inspired Disclosure Day, his new conspiracy thriller

Actor Michael Fassbender shares the advice he was given by undercover agents for spy series The Agency

And with her latest novel just published, prize-winning author Ann Patchett reveals how she continues to be inspired by her own unconventional family and being a step-parent

Cultural critic Hanna Flint joins to give her take on these and more

Photo Credit: Catherine Hélie ©Editions Gallimard


SAT 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vvnj1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1kjxwgr3)
US-Iran deal to be signed on Sunday, says Trump

President Trump has said that a deal with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, hours after Tehran cast doubt on whether this would happen so soon. We look into Iran's proposal on its frozen assets. 

Also on the programme: a new blood test that can detect thousands of serious genetic conditions in the developing foetus, limiting the need for invasive screening during pregnancy; and why Anthropic has suspended its powerful new AI model just days following its public release.

(Photo: A woman holds an Iranian flag on a street in Tehran on June 10, 2026. Credit: Reuters)


SAT 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vvs85)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct996k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 today]


SAT 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vvx09)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b6b1k)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygk88p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:32 This Is Africa (w3ct8td4)
Ans-T Crazy

Ans-T Crazy was once voted Guinea’s best dancer but, as he tells This Is Africa in this episode, he couldn’t make enough money to sustain himself through dance, so turned to music.

Despite the lack of support and infrastructure in his country, Ans-T Crazy has made a success of it and has established his own label and management company. The ‘crazy’ in his name is a reference to the high energy performances he gives. His hits include Trois Fois, Avancer and Sèti, as well as La Guida, which is also the name he has given his own blend of Guinean musical elements and contemporary global and African music genres.

In 2025 Ans-T Crazy made history when he became the first Guinean urban artist to perform, alongside Nigeria’s WizKid and Yemi Alade and Mali’s Salif Keïta, at Morocco’s prestigious Mawazine festival.

SUNDAY 14 JUNE 2026

SUN 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vw0rf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct8m3q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 00:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygkd0t)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:32 The Documentary (w3ct9b80)
The Black Power Station: I rap what I like

On the edge of a failing South African city, a disused power station hums once again — this time with beats, voices, and possibility. Makhanda is a divided place and, for the majority, opportunities are scarce and challenges are constant: poverty is grinding, houses and roads crumble, unemployment is overwhelming, violence is never far away and life can be cheap.

But Makanda is also full of creativity and passion, and some of its young people are responding to the hardships they face with music. They are filling the gap where their futures should be with art rather than with drugs, alcohol or crime. The Black Power Station provides a stage for these musicians to do what they love as well as to get their message across. Their lyrics speak of poverty, inequality and violence but also of love, determination and hope.

With one of the artists as our guide, The Black Power Station: Resistance Generation takes us into the world of backyard studios and mobile phone mixing desks. From total first-timers to those starting to make a name for themselves, we get inside the heads of these musicians as they write, record and perform. We discover what music means to them, what their friends and families say about their ambitions and learn more about the dreams that spur them on. In particular, we’re taken through the highs and lows of the build-up to Euphoria – the Black Power Station’s music event of the year - where these artists get a chance to step into the spotlight and make themselves heard.

Presenter: Luthando Zingela
Producer: Jayne Morgan
Editor: Flora Zajicek
A The Big Light prodcution for BBC World Service


SUN 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vw4hk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b6kjt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygkhry)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:32 More than the Score (w3ct9bcr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 01:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct8rx7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:50 on Saturday]


SUN 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vw87p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b6p8y)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygkmj2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:32 Health Check (w3ct8k2h)
How reading fiction impacts our mental health

How does reading shape our mind and spirit? Why do novels make us feel more human?
In front of a live audience at the Hay Festival of Literature & Arts in Wales in the UK, Claudia Hammond looks at the science of what reading does to the mind and explores the profound impact it can have on our lives and well-being.

She is joined on stage by award-winning novelist and travel writer Joanna Kavenna; Dr Paula Byrne, Jane Austen biographer, writer and co-founder of ReLit: The Bibliotherapy Foundation and Ben Alderson-Day, Professor in Psychology at Durham University and lead researcher on ReaderBank, an ongoing research project studying reading, imagination and wellbeing.

With these leading experts in psychology and the literary world, she examines the range of imaginative experiences that fiction readers have, whether novels can deepen our capacity for empathy and the therapeutic effect of reading on our minds.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producer: Helena Selby


SUN 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwczt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 03:06 World Questions (w3ct8snr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwhqy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct99c2)
Myanmar's military strikes back

Pascale Harter introduces stories from Myanmar, Ukraine, South Africa and Belize.

Myanmar’s military, which seized power from the democratically elected government in 2021, reactivated a conscription law two years ago. Anyone of 18 to 35 years old now has to serve between 2 to five years in the army. Quentin Sommerville spoke to some who defected from the country's army and escaped to the other side in rebel-held territory in Karen State.

A number of African POWs are being held in a detention facility in western Ukraine, after being recruited to fight for Russia. Many say they were misled or coerced by illegal recruiters promising jobs and good pay. Sammy Awami went to meet some of them.

South Africa has recently seen a rise in anti-immigration rhetoric, anti-migrant protests and reports of xenophobic violence. Several African governments have moved to repatriate their own citizens from the country. In Johannesburg, Mayeni Jones reflects on the tensions, her own unease, and the difficulty of separating fact from rumour.

Ska, reggae, rumba and calypso are recognised around the world. But in Belize, a lesser-known Caribbean musical tradition rooted in the unique history and culture of the Garifuna people is thriving. Simon Broughton explores this distinctive sound, shaped by a rich mix of influences and a fiercely independent past.

Producer: Polly Hope
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Katie Morrison

(Image: Myanmar soldiers and police in the country’s northern Shan State, pictured in January 2026 Credit: ANTHONY WALLACE / AFP via GettyImages)


SUN 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygkw0b)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct8tw7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwmh2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b71jb)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 05:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygkzrg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:32 The Documentary (w3ct9b80)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:32 today]


SUN 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwr76)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 06:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxx3np)
Trump says peace agreement to be signed today

A small group of demonstrators in Tehran have held an overnight protest against the proposed deal between Iran and the United States, shouting slogans against the foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and the parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf. From Washington, President Trump said on social media that an agreement preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be signed on Sunday.

Also in the programme: a UFC event at the White House; and a population referendum in Switzerland.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Jacquelin Magnay, the Europe Correspondent for The Australian; and Joshua Hammer, author and foreign correspondent.

(Photo: US President Trump departs White House for Trump National Golf Club in Virginia, Washington, USA, 13 Jun 2026. CREDIT: BONNIE CASH/POOL/EPA/Shutterstock)


SUN 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwvzb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 07:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxx7dt)
Iran casts doubt over timing of deal

President Donald Trump has said a deal to end fighting between the US and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, after Iran cast doubt on the timing. In a post on social media, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route, would be "open to all" once the deal is agreed.

Also in the programme: a celebration of Ukraine's musical heritage; and should AI be granted 'personhood'?

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Jacquelin Magnay, the Europe Correspondent for The Australian; and Joshua Hammer, author and foreign correspondent.

(Photo: A newspaper displays coverage ahead of the expected U.S.-Iran peace deal signing, at a newsstand in Islamabad, Pakistan June 14, 2026. CREDIT: REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro)


SUN 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vwzqg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 08:06 Weekend (w1730c5l1sxxc4y)
The White House prepares for UFC event

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is heading to the White House on Sunday, becoming the first ever professional sporting event staged at the US presidential residence. About 4,300 people are expected at the invite-only mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn.

Also in the programme: President Putin’s youngest enemy; and a new memoir about Cantopop.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Jacquelin Magnay, the Europe Correspondent for The Australian; and Joshua Hammer, author and foreign correspondent.

(Photo: The White House is seen in the background as members of the U.S. Marines stand on stage at the ceremonial weigh-ins for fighters participating in UFC Freedom 250, at the Ellipse near the White House, in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 13, 2026. CREDIT: REUTERS/Nathan Howard)


SUN 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vx3gl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct99c2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 today]


SUN 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzyglgqz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:32 The Food Chain (w3ct8sw3)
Can music change the way food tastes?

Music is part of the backdrop to millions of meals every day. But what if it is doing more than simply creating atmosphere?

In this episode of The Food Chain, Rumella Dasgupta explores the growing evidence that sound can shape the way we experience food and drink. From scientists studying how the brain combines hearing and taste, to chefs designing dishes around playlists, we ask whether music has become an ingredient in its own right.

Chef Gaggan Anand explains why music sits at the centre of his restaurant in Bangkok, where sound, lighting and food are carefully choreographed into a single experience. Cognitive neuroscientist Ophelia Deroy shares research showing how music can influence our perception of sweetness, bitterness and texture, and explains why flavour is far more than what happens on the tongue.

We also hear from Ola Sars, founder of the business music platform Soundtrack, whose company helps restaurants, cafés and hotels tailor the music they play. He shares research suggesting that the right soundtrack can influence customer behaviour and even affect sales.

But not everyone is convinced. Dan Keeling, co-owner of London's Noble Rot restaurants and a former music industry executive who signed artists including Coldplay and Lily Allen, explains why he has chosen not to play music in his dining rooms at all.

From silent restaurants to carefully curated playlists, from neuroscience labs to commercial dining rooms, we explore the increasingly important role sound plays in the way we eat.

If you'd like to get in touch with the programme, please email: thefoodchain@bbc.co.uk


SUN 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vx76q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct8t0v)
Ending violence against women

Sexual and gender-based violence remains a reality for many women. In this programme we go to Rwanda to meet survivors who are beginning to find their voice after years of silence. We follow projects led by the development charity Tearfund and meet Sabine Nkusi, the organisation's lead on the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence. They are projects that create safe spaces for women who have experienced SGBV, while also engaging men and religious leaders in challenging ingrained beliefs.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We release a new edition every Tuesday. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporter/producer: Naomi Wellings
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Hal Haines

(Image: Sabine Nkusi of Tearfund, credit: Kevine Uwase/Tearfund)


SUN 10:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygllh3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct8sql)
Ground zero: reporting an epidemic

Ebola is a frightening and deadly disease, killing on average one half of people infected and spreading rapidly without containment measures. So how do BBC journalists report from the centre of an epidemic? BBC West Africa journalist Emery Makumeno has been reporting from Kinshasa in DR Congo on the Ebola outbreak; Musa Sangarie, Country Director for Sierra Leone for BBC Media Action, led public information campaigns in Sierra Leone in the 2014-16 Ebola epidemic; Camilla Mota, journalist with BBC News Brasil, has reported on the fall-out from the country’s Zika virus outbreak in 2015 and 2016; and Mattias Zibell Garcia, producer at BBC Mundo, reported on the recent Hantavirus outbreak in Ushuaia, Argentina.

The Fifth Floor is at the heart of global storytelling on the BBC World Service, bringing you the best stories from journalists in the BBC's 43 language services. We're here to help you make sense of the stories making headlines around the world; to excite your curiosity and to get to grips with the facts.

Recent episodes have investigated Russia’s youth armies and how they make soldiers of Ukrainian children; featured the BBC team who were the first journalists to the site of the Nigerian school kidnappings and reflected the effects of internet blackouts in Iran, Uganda and India.

If you want to know more about Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, and the legacy of Hugo Chavez; or how Vladimir Putin’s network of deep cover spies operates; or why Donald Trump signed an executive order granting white South Africans asylum in the US, we have all those stories and more.


Presented by Faranak Amidi.

Produced by Laura Thomas, Caroline Ferguson and Hannah Dean.

(Photo: Faranak Amidi. Credit: Tricia Yourkevich)


SUN 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vxbyv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b7s03)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzyglq77)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:32 More than the Score (w3ct9bcr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 11:50 More or Less (w3ct998t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


SUN 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vxgpz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct8m3q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 12:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygltzc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:32 Assignment (w3ct8h17)
Khartoum: Lessons in war

For three years a brutal civil war has been raging in Sudan. Hundreds of thousands have been killed. Millions have been forced from their homes. But the war has other hidden costs – particularly for the young. It’s estimated that 60% of the population is under 25, and millions have lost out on their education. Now after the capital Khartoum was recaptured by the army, for the first time in years, school and universities have re-opened in the city. But as Mohanad Hashim reports, the lives of Khartoum’s youth are still shaped by war.

Reporter: Mohanad Hashim
Producer: Alex Last
Sound engineer: Neil Churchill
Production co-ordinator: Katie Morrison
Series Editor: Penny Murphy

(Photo: Kids on a swing at a communal kindergarten in Khartoum. It was set up by local mothers who stayed during the battle for the city. Credit Alex Last)


SUN 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vxlg3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 13:06 Newshour (w1730bn1kjxydp5)
Israel carries out fresh strikes in Beirut

Israel has attacked the southern suburbs of Beirut at what it says was a Hezbollah infrastructure, in response to Hezbollah firing into its territory. The strikes could put the agreement between Iran and the United States to halt their war at risk. We hear from Ali Vaez, the Iran Project Director for the International Crisis Group.  Also on the programme;  Switzerland's proposal to limit the country's population to ten million has been rejected according to early projections, and the New York Knicks win their first NBA title in 53 years.

(Photo: Smoke billows from southern Lebanon following an Israeli strike, as seen from Marjayoun, Lebanon, June 14, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer)


SUN 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vxq67)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:06 Sportsworld (w1730c8vtqbp9bw)
Live Sporting Action

Lee James is live from New York on the opening weekend of the World Cup, bringing all the colour and atmosphere from the US city.

Lee will be joined by guests including former Sierra Leone international and MLS player Michael Lahoud and BBC football reporter John Bennett to discuss the big talking points from the World Cup.

There will be a focus on the African teams, including reaction to Morocco’s opening game against five-time champions Brazil. Morocco were one of the stories of the 2022 World Cup, reaching the semi-finals, so could Africa finally deliver its first World Cup?

Former Democratic Republic of Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani and the former Sierra Leone captain Steven Caulker join Lee to discuss the hopes of the 10 African sides competing in the tournament. Also hear from Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye ahead of their World Cup opener against France.

With Sportsworld in the US, Lee visits New York Cosmos to find out more about the club – from Pele’s arrival in 1975 to their current inaugural season back after their third incarnation.

Hear more about the nations making their World Cup debuts, as well as previews to Sunday’s games, including debutants Curacao against four-time winners Germany.

Away from football, will the New York Knicks secure their first NBA title since 1973? There will be reaction to game five of the NBA finals, plus a look ahead to UFC Freedom 250, which will take place on the unique setting of the White House's South Lawn.

Photo: A giant replica of the Adidas Trionda FIFA World Cup 2026 match ball seen inside the American Dream shopping mall adjacent to the MetLife Stadium on June 9, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Credit: AMA/Getty Images)


SUN 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vy65r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 18:06 The Climate Question (w3ct99hl)
How will climate change affect insects?

Insects play a crucial role in food production and the spread of disease, as well as being keystone species in many ecosystems. What does a warmer world mean for them?

Climate Question hosts Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar talk to zoologist Dr Tim Cockerill, Senior Lecturer at Falmouth University.

Got a question or comment? You can email the team: theclimatequestion@bbc.com

Producers: Diane Richardson, Graihagh Jackson and Grace Braddock
Sound mix: Mike Regaard and Tom Brignell
Editor: Simon Watts


SUN 18:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygmkg4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 18:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct983p)
Following the Path of the Rose

Saint, Sinner, Freedom Fighter, Leader, Follower, Symbol of the Divine Feminine… Mary Magdalene is one of the most controversial and significant figures in Christian history. But what does it mean to walk in her footsteps today? Journalist Natasha Serlin, embarks on a personal journey to connect with her legacy and explore how it resonates with her, here, now, today.

She traces Mary's path through southern France, beginning at the spot where she is believed to have first arrived: Saintes-Marie-de-la-Mer, and continuing to the cave of Saint Baume where she is said to have spent the final 30 years of her life. As Natasha walks, she becomes conscious of her presence, imagining her processing the loss of her beloved, enduring exile, and spreading a message of love, healing, empowerment and unity.

For Natasha, this journey has echoes of her own personal struggles: the loss of her mother, a divorce, leaving the family home, and more recently navigating the death of a dear friend. As she follows Marys's footsteps, she explores the physical terrain and her own inner landscape - open to whatever revelations may come.

Producer/presenter: Natasha Serlin
Series producer: Rajeev Gupta
Production co-ordinator: Mica Nepomuceno
Editor: Chloe Walker


SUN 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vy9xw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b8qz4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygmp68)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:32 In the Studio (w3ct8l5c)
Trine Hahnemann: Mixing cookery and hygge

Renowned Danish chef Trine Hahnemann tells Sahar Zand how she combines the concept of hygge with her cooking. Hygge is a word that is embedded in the Danish language. It is about relaxing and taking time away from the daily rush to enjoy life's quieter pleasures. And yet, Trine finds the time to write cookery books (over 20 so far), and run cookery lessons from the kitchen in her family home in Copenhagen. She tells Sahar how she does it, as she prepares a comforting meal of freshly harvested vegetables, and explains how she started her culinary career by cooking for rock stars on tour, including Red Hot Chilli Peppers, The Rolling Stones and Elton John.

Produced and presented by Sahar Zand


SUN 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vyfp0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 20:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct8kcj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 on Saturday]


SUN 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vykf4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1kjxzcn6)
US-Iran deal at risk after Israeli strike on Beirut

A deal between the US and Iran, which was reported to be on the verge of being signed, now appears at risk after Israel struck the southern suburbs of Beirut.

Also on the programme: Swiss voters reject a proposal to cap the country's population at 10 million; and the heart-wrenching story of a Syrian family disappeared by the Assad regime.

(Photo: An Iranian woman walks past a billboard featuring Iran's national flag at Enqelab Square in Tehran on June 14, 2026. Credit: EPA/Shutterstock)


SUN 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vyp58)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:06 The Climate Question (w3ct99hl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:06 today]


SUN 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygn1fn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:32 Assignment (w3ct8h17)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:32 today]


SUN 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vysxd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjm8b96yn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygn55s)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct8sql)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 today]

MONDAY 15 JUNE 2026

MON 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknk6vyxnj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 00:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct99c2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlgzygn8xx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 00:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct977q)
How do you build an unbuildable tower?

After 144 years the tallest tower on the Sagrada Familia is finally complete, but when Gaudi first designed it, the technology to build the tower didn’t exist. We’re joined by Tristram Carfrae, structural engineer and designer at Arup who was tasked with this impossible feat over a decade ago.

With the reappearance of screwworm in North America, we ask – is it ever acceptable to intentionally drive a species to extinction? Tom is joined by Dr Gregory Kaebnick from the Hastings Center for Bioethics to dive into the science that could make it happen and the ethics stopping us.

Four in five of us will check the weather daily, but do we really know what our apps are telling us? Meteorologist Simon King guides us through the complex models behind these forecasts that govern our daily decisions.

Plus, science journalist Caroline Steel is in the studio bringing us the scientific discoveries the headlines missed, but that you need to know.

Presenter: Tom Whipple
Producer: Kate White
Editor: Martin Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth


MON 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh52wnt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmf9q2)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rs7y6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 01:32 Discovery (w3ct8jsg)
The Life Scientific: Helen Hastie

What if robots of the future weren’t just clever machines, performing tasks in isolation, but trusted teammates you could have a chat with? That could respond naturally to conversational cues and even explain their work? Making this relationship a reality is a focus for Helen Hastie, Professor of Human-Robot Interaction and Head of the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh. Helen’s career has taken her from developing early dialogue systems - the ancestors of today’s generative AI - to working on sophisticated bots that can serve coffee with a side of small-talk, teach struggling kids with empathy, or provide calm and confident decisions as triage nurses. She’s also driven some of the UK’s flagship robotics initiatives, including as co-lead of the National Robotarium. Talking to Professor Jim Al-Khalili - who reveals he was once told off for rudeness by an early chatbot - Helen explains her hopes for useful, reliable and ultimately trustworthy robots; machines that aren’t just in our world but a welcome part of it.


MON 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh530dy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmffg6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rscpb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 02:32 CrowdScience (w3ct8k70)
Why does paper fold so well?

CrowdScience listener Haruka has been making origami cranes out of paper since she was a child. Creating one out of a cloth napkin, however, was a next-level challenge. It gave her a new appreciation of paper’s excellent foldability, and made her wonder: what is it about paper’s structure that means it remembers its creases?

We set out to unfold her question as we peer into paper’s secrets. First stop: Frogmore, the world’s first mechanised paper mill. Here, Dr Steven Mann is on hand to explain the papermaking process, the chemistry of paper, and why that makes for a foldable sheet.

Host Caroline Steel tries to make a paper crane, assisted by both listener Haruka and origami teacher Toshiko Kurata, who also introduces us to an array of paper types. Each type folds differently, and, with the help of a trusty microscope, Professor Bill Sampson from the University of Manchester reveals why.

Finally, we see just how complex paper folding can get, meeting Professor Tomohiro Tachi from the University of Tokyo, and his invention, The Origamizer.

Presenter: Caroline Steel

Producer: Cathy Edwards

Editor: Ben Motley

(Photo: Toshiko Kurata and Caroline Steel with origami creations - Credit:BBC)


MON 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53452)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 03:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct8t0v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rshfg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 03:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct8sql)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 on Sunday]


MON 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh537x6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 04:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmfnyg)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rsm5l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 04:32 The Conversation (w3ct99nk)
Fan fiction: a writer's playground

Have you ever finished a book or television series and wished you could stay longer in that world? Fan fiction is a thriving art form, with millions of women writing and sharing their tributes to favourite stories, by taking famous characters and placing them in new situations. Datshiane Navanayagam meets women who take part and study this world.
Dawn Walls-Thumma in the USA is a middle-grade teacher by day, and by night runs the Silmarillion Writers Guild, a community for fan fiction set in Tolkien's universe. This has led her to become a published Tolkien expert.
Kristine Michelle Santos in the Philippines is an associate professor of Japanese and researches Boys Love, the biggest genre of fanfiction in Japan and South-East Asia, and now a multi-billion yen industry.

Producer: Hannah Sander

(Image: (L) Dawn Wells-Thumma, courtesy Holly Lillis. (R) Kristine Michelle Santos, credit Aaron Vicencio)


MON 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53cnb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 05:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vpfv2)
US and Iran announce deal to halt the war

Pakistan's prime minister says a peace deal has been reached between the US and Iran which will end "military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon".

We go to Mongbwalu in the east of DR Congo, where we hear one Ebola survivor's advice for those worried about infection.

We bring you the latest from the World Cup in the USA as Iran have their first match later today.

(Photo: S President Donald Trump (C) and UFC CEO Dana White (R) walk past a military honor guard;Credit: Annabelle Gordon/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53hdg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 06:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vpkl6)
US and Iran say they have reached a deal

The deal between US and Iran to en the war will be officially signed on Friday in Switzerland according to Pakistan; details of what it contains - and doesn't - are still emerging.

Anne Soy is in Bunia, the capital of Ituri province, the epicentre of the outbreak of Ebola in the DR Congo where she has been hearing from families who have lost loved ones to Ebola.

And a win for Sweden, Ivory Coast and Germany in the Football World Cup. We go live there.

(Photo: A woman holds Iran's national flag during a gathering in support of the Iranian government against the US and Israel;Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/
EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53m4l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 07:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vppbb)
Trump says "oil will flow" once Iran deal is signed

The deal between Iran and USA is quite a moment for Donald Trump – celebrating not just his 80th birthday on Sunday but also a major diplomatic breakthrough. Pakistan's prime minister was first to announce the agreement, saying it will end "military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon". We go live to Tehran.

We go to Mongbwalu in the east of DR Congo as the country still grapples with Ebola. We hear from the mayor there

And in the World Cup, Sweden thrash Tunisia and Iran gets ready for their first match against New Zealand.

(Photo: US President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, US; Credit: Aaron Schwartz/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53qwq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 08:06 The Interview (w3ct8klb)
Dr Tedros, WHO: Viruses are invisible enemy

“There is more spending in defence and less spending in global health or in public health or health security, which makes us vulnerable...Because the invisible enemy could be more impactful. Imagine, have you ever seen a war in recent memory that killed 20 million people? Why can't we come to our senses?”

Justin Webb speaks to Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, about the invisible threat of viruses and the rapid spread of a new strain of Ebola.

Tedros recently visited the Democratic Republic of Congo where this latest outbreak started. It is particularly challenging because it involves a rare species of Ebola for which there is no vaccine, and the epicentre is in an area affected by conflict. There are also cases in neighbouring Uganda.

The WHO General-Director claims governments are focusing too much on defence spending, and he makes an impassioned plea for countries to allocate more money to global health, and to prevent future pandemics.

Thank you to the Today team for its help in making this programme.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with with President of the International Rescue Committee David Miliband, Former Sudanese leader Aisha Musa and writer Maggie O’Farrell. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Justin Webb
Producer: Cordelia Hemming
Editor: Damon Rose

Get in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.

(Image: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Credit: Reuters)


MON 08:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rt353)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct8gfx)
Sherbro Island: can Sierra Leone build a global business hub?

Off the coast of Sierra Leone, Sherbro Island has been earmarked for an ambitious transformation: a new centre for international business and investment, designed to rival cities like Singapore or Hong Kong. The BBC’s Ed Butler travels to the island to investigate the project and speaks to developer Siaka Stevens, who is leading the effort alongside supporters including film-star Idris Elba, about the vision and what it will take to deliver it. But how realistic is the ambition, and can it become more than a promise?

Presenter/producer: Ed Butler
Editor: Stephen Ryan

Each Monday on Business Daily, we take you around the globe to the heart of the stories and meeting those living through them.

You can email the team: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk


MON 08:50 Witness History (w3ct8r3f)
The Georgian exodus from Abkhazia

In 1993, separatist forces took Sukhumi, the capital of the former Soviet territory of Abkhazia.

As Georgian authorities lost control of the region, more than 200,000 people were forced to flee.

Many had no choice but to cross the Caucasus Mountains on foot, and hundreds are believed to have died along the way.

Georgian writer Guram Odisharia speaks to Stefania Gozzer about his harrowing escape from Abkhazia and the heartbreaking scenes he witnessed - experiences he later captured in his book The Pass of the Persecuted.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: Georgians flee from Abkhazia on foot in 1993. Credit: Jon Jones/Sygma via Getty Images)


MON 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53vmv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 09:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmg8p3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rt6x7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 09:32 CrowdScience (w3ct8k70)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh53zcz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 10:06 The History Hour (w3ct99l8)
Opening the archives: A cellist, a playwright and a king

Max Pearson presents a collection of the week's Witness History interviews from the BBC World Service. And today, we’re celebrating international archives week, set up to highlight the importance of protecting the world's historical records.

Our guest is BBC curator Joe Schultz who talks about some of the jewels in the BBC radio collections. We find out why cellist Mstislav Rostropovich was stripped of his Soviet citizenship in 1978.

Anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela reveals how he survived prison in South Africa. Plus, Pablo Picasso and his fellow artists enjoy a Surrealist summer in 1930s France. And more on the inspiration behind Anton Chekhov's most famous play, Three Sisters.

We hear about the Jordanian king who survived numerous assassination attempts to become one of the Middle East’s longest serving leaders. And finally, Pickles the dog: the four-legged hero who found the stolen Jules Rimet trophy ahead of the 1966 World Cup.

Contributors:

Joe Schultz – BBC curator.

Mstislav Rostropovich - virtuoso cellist.

Nelson Mandela – former president of South Africa.

Eileen Agar – Surrealist artist.

Paul Shishkoff – friend of playwright Anton Chekhov.

King Hussein of Jordan.

Jack Pizzey – TV documentary-maker.

Pickles the dog – hero of the 1966 World Cup.

David Corbett – Pickles' owner.

(Photo: Cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, 1950. Credit: Michael Ward/Getty Images)


MON 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54343)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmgj5c)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rtgdh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mc4)
What are Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump up to in Albania?

In the centre of Albania's capital, Tirana, thousands have been taking to the streets. The target of the protests are not just the government, but also Donald’s Trump daughter, Ivanka, and her husband, Jared Kushner.

The pair have been working on a new multi-billion dollar luxury tourism project that will see part of Albania’s unspoiled coast turned into luxury hotels and villas, sparking what some have dubbed the, 'Flamingo Revolution’', due to risk to the local flamingo population.

We speak to Emily Wither, the reporter behind the BBC documentary, 'Albania: Land, Money and Sea', about how a stretch of Albanian coastline has become the latest battleground in the Trump family's global business ambitions.

Producers: Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin
Executive producer: James Shield
Video editor: Matt Pintus
Mix: Travis Evans
Senior News Editor: China Collins

Photo: An inflatable flamingo is seen on the beach in the area planned for the coastal resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump near Vlora, Albania, 06 June 2026. Credit: Malton Dibra/EPA/Shutterstock.

Clip: The Money Pit/TM & © Universal (1986)/Tom Hanks/Shelley Long/Richard Benjamin/David Giler, Kathleen Kennedy, Art Levinson, Frank Marshall, Steven Spielberg.


MON 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh546w7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 12:06 Outlook (w3ct8hxd)
Diving with the ‘Seahorse Whisperer’ of LA

Roger Hanson was born far from the ocean in America’s mid-west. A schoolteacher for years, he discovered diving after his marriage broke down and it soon became an obsession. Any spare time he had he’d spend underwater, finding peace and solace in the depths from his heartbreak on land. Eventually, he moved to California so he could dive in the Pacific Ocean every day before work. One morning he spotted a Pacific seahorse in the bay near his home. The unusual fish was many miles from its native habitat in Peru, and Roger was so enchanted he resolved to build it a new one. He constructed a vast underwater city called Atlantis, and soon a colony of seahorses had moved in. Roger spent hours each day with the colony, documenting the rarely seen lives of these beautiful creatures of the sea - a pastime which eventually earned him the nickname ‘The Seahorse Whisperer of LA’. He was later joined in his conservation mission by Ashley Arnold, a US army veteran-turned-scuba instructor who started diving as a form of rehabilitation after her time in the military. This unlikely duo spoke to Mobeen Azhar about their role tending to this thriving underwater community.

Pipe Major Chukwu Oba Kalu has turned a teenage dream into a national revival of bagpipe playing in Nigeria. When he was 18 he saw someone playing the instrument for the first time. He was captivated and told himself that one day he would learn how to play. His first challenge was getting hold of the practice materials and a set of bagpipes. Chukwu taught himself the basics, and then started to recruit old retired players to form a band. But his ambition didn’t stop there, as he wanted to see an old and faded tradition of Nigerian military pipe bands revived. This interview was first broadcast in 2023.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producers: Zoe Gelber and Rob Wilson

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: Roger Hanson stands on a Cailfornia beach in the shallow waves, wearing his scuba gear. He is looking at the camera, holding his flippers in his left arm. The sky behind is grey and moody. Credit: Getty Images/Carolyn Cole/LA Times)


MON 12:50 Witness History (w3ct8r3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54bmc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 13:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmgrnm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 13:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rtpwr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 13:32 The Conversation (w3ct99nk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54gch)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 14:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt758lk)
Iran and US agree deal to end war

Iran and the US have agreed a deal that would end their war, with the Strait of Hormuz shipping channel set to reopen in due course. The agreement is expected to be formalised on Friday. With Pakistan having helped mediate, we hear from the country’s planning and development minister.

Also in the programme: The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak worsens with 782 cases now confirmed; and we speak to the Japanese writer Asako Yuzuki about her books Butter and Hooked which have proved a hit in the literary world.

(Photo: US President Donald Trump looks on during a Cabinet meeting in the White House, May 2026. Credit: Samuel Corum/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 15:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54l3m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 15:06 The Interview (w3ct8klb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 15:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rtyd0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct8gfx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


MON 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct8d3d)
Will oil prices come down after US and Iran deal?

The US and Iran have reached an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. We will be hearing what this mean for oil prices in the global market.

In the UK there's a ban on under 16' on social media. The UK says it it going further than other countries to remove high-risk features on gaming platforms and livestreaming sites.

And Starbucks across South Korea close for a staff history lesson - after a marketing stunt went horribly wrong.

Presenter: Sarah Rogers
Producer: Barbara George


MON 16:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54pvr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 16:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvstvcqj)
Iran and US agree deal to end war

State media in Lebanon say an Israeli strike on a car in the south has killed one person. The reported strike comes hours after the United States and Iran said they'd reached a deal to end their war, which included Lebanese territory. We speak to our correspondents and hear messages from Lebanon, the US, Israel and from an Iranian.

Marius Borg Høiby, the 29-year-old son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been found guilty of two counts of rape and sentenced to four years in prison. Our newsroom reporter gives details.

We look ahead to today's World Cup games and speak to our correspondent in Cape Verde, the country making their first ever appearance at the World Cup.

We also speak to volunteers about what it takes to be a good volunteer in big sports events.

A BBC investigation has revealed that Russia was behind arson attacks last year that targeted Britain's prime minister, Keir Starmer. Our reporter explains.

Presenter: Pria Rai.

(Photo: A veiled Iranian woman walks past a wall painting of Iran's national flag on a street in Tehran, Iran, 15 June 2026. Credit: ABEDIN TAHERKENAREH/EPA)


MON 17:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54tlw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 17:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvstvhgn)
Iran squad in US for World Cup opener

Some members of Iran's large community in Los Angeles say they will protest against the participation of their national team, saying they represent the Iranian government. Iran play New Zealand in Los Angeles in their first game of the tournament. We speak to our correspondent in Los Angeles and hear from Iranians abroad.

Britain has announced plans to ban under-16s from using social media. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said social media was designed to be addictive, and was harming children’s happiness and mental health. We get speak to our tech reporter, hear reaction to the ban and find out how the ban has worked in Australia.

Cape Verde is making their first ever appearance at the World Cup. We have the latest from fans.

Presenter: Pria Rai.

(Photo: Iran's Arya Yousefi during training. Credit: Daniel Cole/Reuters)


MON 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh54yc0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 18:06 Outlook (w3ct8hxd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


MON 18:50 Witness History (w3ct8r3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55234)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmhh4d)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rvfcj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct8rjz)
2026/06/15 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


MON 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh555v8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 20:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct99c2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rvk3n)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 20:32 Discovery (w3ct8jsh)
The Life Scientific: Dean Lomax

Have you ever been told you aren't good enough to do something, then gone ahead and proved the naysayers wrong by doing it anyway - in glorious, headline-grabbing style?

That is the satisfying story of Dr Dean Lomax. Dean grew up in Doncaster with a passion for fossils but after failing various school exams, was told by teachers that he'd never make it as a palaeontologist. Undeterred by leaving school with no qualifications, Dean sold his childhood Star Wars collection to fund a fossil-hunting trip to America that changed his life - after which a chance discovery led to him publishing his first ever scientific paper at the age of just 20.

Today, he’s an expert on ichthyosaurs - the massive marine reptiles that once inhabited our seas - and has discovered and named several new species, written books for both adults and children, and brought the prehistoric world to life on TV. Talking to Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Dean discusses dinosaurs as a 'gateway science', discovering the Rutland Sea Dragon and the importance of cutting out noise from nay-sayers to follow your dreams...


MON 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh559ld)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt763tg)
Iran and US agree deal to end war as Israel says its forces will stay in Lebanon

US President Donald Trump said on Monday a preliminary agreement to end the war in the Gulf has already been signed by the United States and Iran. White House officials have been giving some details about the Iran deal. They say the Strait of Hormuz will re-open on Friday - the same day the deal is formally signed in Geneva - with shipping traffic increasing gradually.

Also on the programme: A wave of Russian strikes on Ukraine has killed ten people and badly damaged one of Kyiv's most sacred and historic cathedrals, we hear from historian and archaeologist Maksym Ostapenko; and scientists have found a new way to detect microplastics in the living tissue of our bodies with a laser, we speak to medical imaging lecturer Stephen Patrick, who led the research.

(Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 15. Credit: Reuters)


MON 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55fbj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 22:06 The Interview (w3ct8klb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rvslx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 22:32 The Conversation (w3ct99nk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55k2n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmhz3x)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rvxc1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct8fn2)
How will a US and Iran deal affect global shipping?

The US and Iran agree deal to end war and could lead to supplies of gas and oil flowing more freely across the world. We hear from the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and from one of the world's biggest container shipping firms - Hapag-Lloyd.

And as the UK ban socials for under 16's is that the right approach? And how it will affecting businesses?


(Picture: Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 14, 2026. Credit: Reuters)

TUESDAY 16 JUNE 2026

TUE 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55nts)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 00:06 The History Hour (w3ct99l8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55skx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmj6m5)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rw4v9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mc4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Monday]


TUE 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh55xb1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmjbc9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rw8lf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:32 Assignment (w3ct8h18)
Lebanon's abandoned lives

People who have had to abandon their homes because of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, explain what life is like in Lebanon, a country which has been repeatedly hit by war. A social worker describes how she thinks most Lebanese citizens now keep a bag of important belongings packed and ready to go by their front door in case they need to leave home at a moment's notice. A mother is close to tears talking about having to rearrange her daughter's fourth birthday party because of the imminent threat of missile strikes. Israel's military forces are currently occupying southern parts of Lebanon. They say they are there for the purposes of self-defence and to destroy Hezbollah's military capabilities. It is estimated a million people have had to move out of their homes as a result. It is not clear when or if those people will get to return or whether they will still have homes to go back to.

Presenter: Carine Torbey
Producer: Nick Holland
Sound engineer: Rod Farquhar
Editor Penny Murphy

(Photo: Makeshift tents for displaced Lebanese people. Credit: Anwar Amro/AFP)


TUE 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56125)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 03:06 Outlook (w3ct8hxd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Monday]


TUE 03:50 Witness History (w3ct8r3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh564t9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmjkvk)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rwj2p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:32 In the Studio (w3ct8l5d)
World Cup poetry: Lines for the beautiful game

Lifelong Arsenal supporter Mark Wilberforce is rooting for Ghana and England at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, which is jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico.

He’s fascinated by the language we use to describe the beautiful game – so In the Studio has commissioned poet Ian McMillan to write a poem about the tournament. We hear how Ian finds inspiration for the lines on the page from the lines on the pitch – and about some of the strategies he uses when words run dry.

Describing the joy - and heartache - of football is the job of commentators like Joyce Annor Yeboah – aka Afia Empress – who commentates in both English and Twi for the Ghanaian Angel Broadcasting Network. And we also hear from California’s poet laureate Lee Herrick whose loyalty is divided between the USA and his birth country, South Korea.


TUE 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh568kf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 05:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vsbr5)
Trump says details of Iran deal to be released 'pretty soon'

The US officials said the agreement had been signed electronically by Trump, Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. "I am very happy to say it's signed, the deal is all signed," he said during talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit on Monday.

We are in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where I'm looking at the efforts to tackle the spread of Ebola.

Iran twice came from behind in Los Angeles as they denied New Zealand a first win at a World Cup.

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump arrives at the G7 summit in Evian, France; Credit:Isabel Infantes/PA)


TUE 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56d9k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 06:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vsgh9)
President Trump joins world leaders at the Group of Seven

Speaking alongside the French president, Trump said he would now turn his attention to secure peace between Russia and Ukraine.Leaders are due to hold discussions in the coming days on issues including trade, migration, and the world economy.

We are in the Democratic Republic of Congo looking at the efforts to tackle the spread of Ebola... especially in camps for internally displaced people.

And Isaac Fanin is in Los Angeles where he has been watching Iran play New Zealand.

(Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron greets U.S. President Donald Trump during the G7 summit in Evian, France; Credit: Isabel Infantes/PA)


TUE 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56j1p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 07:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vsl7f)
Iran and Ukraine to dominate G7

On Monday, during talks with French President Macron, Trump said "I am very happy to say it's signed, the deal is all signed," referring to the preliminary agreement with Iran. Ukraine and Iran will be the focus of G7 summit in France.

Anne Soy is in the Democratic Republic of Congo where she has been visiting the Ebola epicentres as the country continues to tackle the spread of Ebola.

And Isaac Fanin is in Los Angeles where he has been watching Iran play New Zealand.

(Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron greets U.S. President Donald Trump during the G7 summit in Evian, France; Credit: Isabel Infantes/PA)


TUE 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56mst)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct8t0w)
Snakebite solutions

Snakebite kills tens of thousands of people every year, many of them in rural communities where treatment can be delayed, expensive or difficult to reach. In southern Nepal, reporter Craig Langran joins a community organiser responding to snake rescue calls and teaching villagers what to do when snakes appear near their homes. And in a laboratory at Monash University in Malaysia, researchers are working on broader antivenoms that could reduce the guesswork doctors face when a patient arrives after a bite.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We release a new edition every Tuesday. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporter/producer: Craig Langran
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Andrew Mills

(Image: Subodh Acharya catches snakes in southern Nepal, Craig Langran/BBC)


TUE 08:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rx026)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct8gqy)
Follow the Money: who profits from the Iran war?

When the US and Israel struck Iran in March 2026, Wall Street was opening as missiles were still flying. Within hours, a small number of investors and companies stood to make billions. The conflict has already cost an estimated $40 billion. Sam Fenwick follows the money; from defence contractors replacing weapons systems, to gas exporters benefiting from disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, and to anonymous traders who appear to have bet on the strikes before the news broke.

Presenter: Sam Fenwick
Producer: Matt Lines

You can email the team on businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

(Picture: Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner fires a missile in support of Operation Epic Fury, Mar. 1, 2026. Credit: U.S. Navy photo)


TUE 08:50 Witness History (w3ct985z)
50 years since the Soweto Uprising

Half a century ago, an event took place that shook the apartheid regime in South Africa to its foundations - the Soweto Uprising.

It began with a demonstration by schoolchildren against being taught in Afrikaans.

The government met the protesters with brutal force, and the ensuing violence shocked the world.

In 2010, Alan Johnston spoke to one of those former schoolgirls, Bongi Mhkabela, about that pivotal moment.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: Protesting pupils use the Regina Mundi Church as a refuge during the student uprising in Soweto. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56rjy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmk5l6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rx3tb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:32 Assignment (w3ct8h18)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh56w92)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 10:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct8h81)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


TUE 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57016)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmkf2g)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rxc9l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mhn)
Iran, the US and Israel: who really won?

The US and Iran have agreed a deal to end the war, which – if all goes to plan – will be signed at a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday.

But the agreement remains shrouded in mystery, and major questions remain about whether both sides can reach a long-term peace deal.

We speak to the BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, about how the past few months have affected the global economy, the region, Iran’s nuclear capabilities, its regime and its people.


Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle

Executive producer: James Shield

Audio mix: Travis Evans

Video producer: Matt Pintus

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: A drone view shows vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 15, 2026. Photo credit: Reuters


TUE 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh573sb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 12:06 Outlook (w3ct8jby)
The real School of Rock: I made a hit album with my students

In the 1970s, Hans Fenger – a free-spirited rock wannabe – spent his days making music in Vancouver, Canada. He had no grand plans except making it as a star. But when he became a father, his responsibilities began to shift. He found himself teaching music at a school in a rural area called Langley, known as Western Canada’s Bible Belt. When a chance moment led him to teach them modern tunes from the radio, the school choir went from a handful of kids to a few hundred – and grew into a makeshift band.

In 1976 and 1977, Hans and his students recorded two concerts in the school gym covering songs by The Beach Boys, David Bowie and Paul McCartney. Records were pressed for the kids and their parents to take home. Hans left Langley and two decades later he received an unexpected phone call from a radio DJ. The Langley album had found its way onto the airwaves – and was about to have a second life.

In 2002, Hans reunited with his students – now all grown up – for a televised performance. And when screenwriter Mike White saw this documentary, he was inspired to create the film School of Rock, starring Jack Black as the teacher. Hans Fenger and his former student Darla Kendrick spoke to Mobeen Azhar.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producers: Elena Angelides and Edgar Maddicott
Film archive: School of Rock / Paramount Pictures / Richard Linklater

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: A black and white photograph of a young Hans Fenger in 1976. He sits on a chair, playing guitar, with long hair and a moustache. Behind him, the school choir stand on tiered rows of benches. Credit: Kevin Finseth)


TUE 12:50 Witness History (w3ct985z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh577jg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmknkq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 13:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rxlsv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:32 In the Studio (w3ct8l5d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57c8l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 14:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt785hn)
G7: UK expands Russia sanctions

Leaders meet in France with Iran and Ukraine high on agenda; and a BBC investigation finds that Russia was behind a series of arson attacks targeting the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, we hear from a Labour politician on how the UK should now respond.

Also in the programme: The grisly trade of cat-meat in Vietnam; and acclaimed British artist Anish Kapoor unveils major new exhibition at London's Hayward Gallery. 

(Image: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian. Credit: Isabel Infantes/PA Wire)


TUE 15:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57h0q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct8t0w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 15:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rxv93)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct8gqy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


TUE 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct8d7x)
Why is consumer spending falling in China?

China's consumer spending and investment have fallen to levels unseen since the pandemic but what does that mean for their economy going forward?

Also Donald Trump shares more details on that Iran-US deal at the G7.

And we'll be finding out why tourism is declining in the Caribbean island of Cuba.

Presenter Sarah Rogers
Producer: Barbara George and Aleeza Siddiq


TUE 16:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57lrv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 16:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsty8mm)
Trump says Iran will 'never have nuclear weapon'

Donald Trump says as part of the US's deal to end the war, Iran will "never have a nuclear weapon". Speaking at the G7 summit in France, the US president also criticised Israel's strikes on Lebanon, saying: "You don't have to knock down an apartment house every time you're looking for somebody". We speak to our Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet about everything that's been happening.

American tennis superstars Serena and Venus Williams will return to Wimbledon action together - after they were handed a wildcard to compete in the women's doubles. Serena made her comeback at Queen's last week, four years after playing what many expected to be the final match of her career at the 2022 US Open. We hear reaction.

We speak to people evacuated from South Africa following a wave of protests against illegal immigration there.

Presenter: James Reynolds

Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a bilateral meeting with the President of the United Arab Emirates Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on the sidelines of the G7 summit, in Evian-les-Bains, France, June 16, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein


TUE 17:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57qhz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 17:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvstydcr)
Trump insists Strait of Hormuz will open 'toll-free'

Donald Trump insists the Strait of Hormuz will open "toll-free" under the US's deal with Iran to end the war. Speaking at the G7 summit in France, the US president also says Iran will "never have a nuclear weapon" and criticised Israel over Lebanon. We speak to our correspondents from Iran, the US and Ukraine to hear all the latest news from the summit.

Cape Verde fans are still celebrating their team's historic feat in the World Cup, drawing with Spain. Against the European champions, the 40 year old goalkeeper Vozinha made seven saves to keep a clean sheet for Cape Verde. We speak to fans to get their reaction.

We speak to people evacuated from South Africa following a wave of protests against illegal immigration there.

Presenter: James Reynolds

Photo: Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 16, 2026. Credit: Reuters.


TUE 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57v83)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 18:06 Outlook (w3ct8jby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


TUE 18:50 Witness History (w3ct985z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh57z07)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmld1h)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6ryb8m)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct8rph)
2026/06/16 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


TUE 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh582rc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:06 Assignment (w3ct8h18)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 20:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6ryg0r)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:32 Tech Life (w3ct8jy0)
ChatGPT prompt generates disturbing images

A group of cybersecurity researchers found a prompt which gets past ChatGPT’s guardrails and causes it to generate some disturbing images. We unpack what this tells us about the way AI is trained, and how it could be exploited.
Also on the show, after a recent episode about potholes, we were contacted by the UK’s ministry of transport. We speak to their chief scientific adviser about potholes and the future of transport.
And what is a quantum diamond magnetometer? We speak to the company which has just put one into space – in order to measure where magnetic north really is.

Presenter: Chris Vallance
Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

(Image: A phone with the white and black ChatGPT logo on it. In the background is green Matrix-style code. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh586hh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt790qk)
President Trump lashes out at Israel

Has Donald Trump just left the Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu with the biggest political headache of his life? We hear from Israel's governing Likud party.

Also on the programme:
The Russian caricaturist shot dead in Poland; the argument within the Church of England over reparations for historically profiting from slaver; and as the Williams sisters prepare to return to Wimbledon at a combined age of eighty-nine - the phenomenon of the never-ageing sports stars.

(Picture: People walk past rubble at the site of an Israeli strike in Tyre, southern Lebanon. Credit: REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra)


TUE 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58b7m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct8t0w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rypj0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:32 In the Studio (w3ct8l5d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58fzr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmlw10)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6ryt84)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct8fsl)
SpaceX overtakes Amazon to become world's fifth most valuable firm

Elon Musk's SpaceX has overtaken Amazon to become the world's fifth most valuable company after a surge in its share price. Why are people keen to invest in commercial space?

Also, Cuba's tourism feels the impact of US oil blockade as fewer people visit the country . We hear from a local tourist guide.

And will AI replace jobs of young people? We hear from a father and daughter about the challenges of finding work in the AI world.

(Picture: SpaceX's initial public offering (IPO) at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York City. Credit: Reuters)

WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE 2026

WED 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58kqw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 00:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct8h81)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


WED 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58ph0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmm3j8)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rz1rd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mhn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Tuesday]


WED 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58t74)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmm78d)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rz5hj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 02:32 The Climate Question (w3ct99hl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:06 on Sunday]


WED 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh58xz8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 03:06 Outlook (w3ct8jby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Tuesday]


WED 03:50 Witness History (w3ct985z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh591qd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 04:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmmgrn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rzdzs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 04:32 Good Bad Billionaire (w3ct9bc3)
Cristiano Ronaldo: Football's first billionaire player

Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in poverty on the remote island of Madeira, but became football's first billionaire player, and one of the most recognisable people on the planet. BBC business editor Simon Jack and journalist Zing Tsjeng trace Ronaldo's rise from a homesick kid playing for the academy at Sporting CP, to global superstardom at Manchester United and Real Madrid, where relentless training and record-breaking performances turned him into a sporting and commercial machine.

Zing and Simon explore the business of modern football: from mega transfers and billion-dollar brand deals, to tax battles and legal disputes. Ronaldo leveraged social media fame to build his CR7 empire, so is he the ultimate self-made success story, a divisive global brand, or simply the most effective monetiser of talent in sporting history?

Good Bad Billionaire is the podcast that explores the lives of the super-rich and famous, tracking their wealth, philanthropy, business ethics, and success. There are leaders who made their money in Silicon Valley, on Wall Street and in high street fashion. From iconic celebrities and CEOs to titans of technology, the podcast unravels tales of fortune, power, economics, ambition and moral responsibility. Simon and Zing put their subjects to the test with a playful, totally unscientific scorecard — then hand the verdict over to you: are they good, bad, or simply billionaires? Here's how to contact the team: email goodbadbillionaire@bbc.com or send a text or WhatsApp to +1 (917) 686-1176. Find out more about the show and read our privacy notice at www.bbcworldservice.com/goodbadbillionaire


WED 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh595gj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 05:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vw7n8)
At G7 Ukraine hopes to engage Trump

At the gathering of G7 leaders in France, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, perhaps sensing a window of opportunity now that there's a framwork around a truce between Iran and the US, approached his American counterpart and asked President Donald Trump for additional Patriot air‑defence missiles on the final day of the summit in France.

A BBC report from Pakistan where motobike couriers smuggle millions of litres of illegal Iranian fuel across the border.

And in the latest rounds of matches from the Football World Cup tournament. Argentina's Lionel Messi scores a hat-trick in a match against Algeria.

Presenters: James Copnall and Barbara Plett Usher.

(Photo:France hosts G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains - 16 Jun 2026. Credit: Ludovic Marin/EPA).


WED 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5996n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 06:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vwcdd)
Fuel smugglers between Iran and Pakistan

The BBC has gained rare access to the motorbike couriers who smuggle millions of litres of illegal Iranian fuel across the mountains into Pakistan. The riders risk their lives for tiny profits.

Iran has told Israel to stop its attacks in southern Lebanon, or face what it called a hard response.

And we speak to an Iraqi football fan on what it feels like to return to the world cup tournament after 40 years.

Presenters: James Copnall and Barbara Plett Usher

(Photo: Pakistani fuel smuggler in in Balochistan, Pakistan. Credit: BBC).


WED 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh59dys)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 07:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vwh4j)
Zelensky meets Trump at G7 Summit

At the G7 gathering of world leaders Ukraine's President asks his US counterpart Donald Trump for more air defence missiles. What sort of difference could it make? We ask a Ukranian MP

Also at the G7 summit Donald Trump has said the Strait of Hormuz will fully reopen soon and insists it will remain toll free. We look at whether any shipping is currently moving in the Strait and the job that needs to be done to make the waterway safe.

And a retired Briitish couple describe having warning shots fired near them by a Russian warship - the couple were on a yacht sailing off the coast of the Isle of Wight when the incident happened.

Presenters James Copnall and Barbara Plett Usher.

(Photo: World leaders at G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains. Credit: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters).


WED 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh59jpx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 08:06 The Interview (w3ct98h0)
Gebran Bassil, Lebanese politician: Hezbollah should disarm

“The state of Lebanon needs to have an exclusivity of arms. And definitely, Hezbollah needs to be disarmed… Disarming a group or a community is not possible by force, it's possible by conviction. You put pressure, but you cannot eliminate a whole society, a whole community. We need to have an exclusivity of arms in the hand of the state, an exclusivity of decision through a political process, pressuring Hezbollah to disarm, but getting also in parallel a full withdrawal of the Israelis from occupied Lebanese territories and a full cessation of hostilities.”

Jeremy Bowen speaks to Gebran Bassil, the Lebanese politician who served as the country’s Foreign Minister between 2014 and 2020.

Mr. Bassil, who is from the country’s Maronite Christian ethnic group, leads the right-wing Free Patriotic Movement political party. The party was founded over 30 years ago by the former President of Lebanon, Michel Aoun, who is also Bassil’s father-in-law.

In October 2024, a year after the Hamas-led attacks of 7 October started the current Middle East conflict, the Free Patriotic Movement party announced that it was cutting ties with Hezbollah. Bassil slammed the Iranian-backed militant group for threatening the safety and stability of Lebanon when it launched its own attacks on Israel in support of Hamas.

As the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues in southern Lebanon, Bassil and his party are part of growing calls for the country to take a new direction.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with the World Health Organisation’s Hanan Balkhy; Ali Bahreini, Iranian ambassador to the UN; and Syrian Minister, Hind Kabawat. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Jeremy Bowen
Producers: Samantha Granville and Ben Cooper
Editor: Justine Lang

Get in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.

(Image: Gebran Bassil. Credit: Getty)


WED 08:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6rzwz9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct98s1)
Founders: The supermarket billionaire, John Catsimatidis

Greek-born billionaire John Catsimatidis rose from working in a New York grocery store to build the Gristedes supermarket chain and a wider business empire after leaving university before graduating. Now head of the Red Apple Group, with interests spanning real estate, energy, aviation and media, he remains a prominent figure in US business and politics, regularly discussing business with President Trump, despite setbacks including a collapsed airline venture and an unsuccessful run for New York mayor.

Founders - the stories of the emotions from the highs and lows of starting a successful business

Presenter: Leanna Byrne
Producer: Amber Mehmood

You can email the time: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

(Picture: John Catsimatidis attends the Economic Club of New York in New York City, U.S., May 28, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Jeenah Moon)


WED 08:50 Witness History (w3ct9887)
Women Walk Home: Cyprus' forgotten peace march

In June 1987, hundreds of women walked towards a ceasefire line that had divided Cyprus since 1974.

The island was split after a coup backed by Greece and a subsequent Turkish military intervention, which left thousands displaced on both sides.

Many of the women were Greek Cypriots who had fled their homes in the north during the conflict.

They hoped their peace walk would draw international attention to the island’s division, as they wanted to return to the homes they had lost more than a decade earlier.

The group held white flags and banners with their slogan ‘We Come In Peace’ in Greek, Turkish and English.

Some media coverage at the time described the protest as potentially provocative and warned it could escalate tensions.

Niki Katsaouni, one of the leading figures of the movement, speaks to Elena Angelides.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: Women Walk Home march. Credit: University of Cyprus Library)


WED 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh59ng1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 09:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmn2h9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s00qf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 09:32 The Climate Question (w3ct99hl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:06 on Sunday]


WED 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh59s65)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 10:06 World Questions (w3ct8snr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


WED 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh59wy9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmn9zk)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s086p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mkx)
Hungary pays couples to have babies: Does it work?

Global fertility rates are at record lows globally, and governments around the world are urging couples to grow their families.

Under Viktor Orbán’s leadership, Hungary implemented some of the most aggressive pro-natalist policies in the world — including generous subsidies for couples who promise to have children, lengthy paid maternity leave, and thousands of dollars in interest-free loans.

But does paying people to have kids actually work? We speak to BBC populations correspondent Stephanie Hegarty about the possibilities and limitations of pro-natalist government policies.

Producers: Xandra Ellin and Hannah Moore

Executive producer: Bridget Harney

Mix: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: A mother holding the feet of her baby. Credit: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire


WED 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5b0pf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 12:06 Outlook (w3ct8jkq)
The engineer who invented a fix for his own heart condition

Tal Golesworthy has the inherited condition Marfan syndrome. Symptoms include, poor eyesight , very long limbs – people with Marfan’s are usually very tall, and also a heart condition.

As his own heart problems developed, Tal became more and more concerned about the major surgery that he might need. He was facing a life-changing operation that he really didn’t want.

For people with Marfan’s the aortic root, the first bit of pipework leaving the heart, stretches and deforms. This can lead to a fatal rupture.

Treatment usually involves replacing the root with a synthetic pipe and replacing heart valves with mechanical ones, patients also need to take drugs for the rest of their lives and avoid strenuous activities.

Tal says he was a coward and as an active person didn’t want his life to be restricted. Determined to avoid that operation the British engineer spent the next 4 years developing an alternative. He called it PEARS (personalised external aortic root support) – a tailor-made mesh to stitch around the root to stop it from expanding.

The photo of Tal shows him holding a three- dimensional model of his own aortic root. He is also wearing a T-shirt picturing the model which looks a bit like a fat curved sausage bulging at one end and open at the other.

In the treatment an exact model of the patients’ aortic root is produced using medical scans; an individual mesh support is then tailor made to fit.

Tal became the first patient to receive the device 22 years ago, but also wanted others to benefit. He threw himself into efforts to make the treatment more widely available, setting up a company to manufacture the device, but it was soon bankrupt as the medical establishment was not so interested in Tal’s innovation. He says the slow progress took a huge toll on his mental health and if he’d know at the time how difficult it would become, he may have never have pursued the idea . However, today while conventional heart surgery is still the dominant treatment for his condition, a growing number of centres worldwide offer Tal’s invention as an alternative.


WED 12:50 Witness History (w3ct9887)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5b4fk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 13:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmnkgt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 13:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s0hpy)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 13:32 Good Bad Billionaire (w3ct9bc3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5b85p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 14:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7c2dr)
AI titans meet leaders of the big economies

Bosses of the top Artificial Intelligence firms have met the leaders of the world's biggest economies. At a G7 lunch in France, they've been discussing AI risks and dangers. Who has more power right now - the politicians or the billionaire CEOs?

Also in the programme: How the Great Pyramid at Giza has survived several thousand years worth of earthquakes; and why the world's coral reefs may be more resilient to climate change than we thought.

(Photo: US President Donald Trump, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung, Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi attend a working lunch with G7 leaders on innovation and AI during the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, June 17, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein)


WED 15:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5bcxt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 15:06 The Interview (w3ct98h0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 15:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s0r66)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct98s1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


WED 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct8db5)
Ready, Fed, Go!

US Fed Chair Kevin Warsh who was appointed by Trump is to set to oversee his first meeting, but will he hold rates steady?

In Japan, six major ice cream makers have been raided following accusations that they have unfairly raised prices.

And the Boss of Mondelez who own Cadbury and Toblerone speaks on why he decided to not exit Russia despite their invasion of Ukraine.

Presenter Sarah Rogers
Producer: Barbara George and Aleeza Siddiq


WED 16:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5bhny)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 16:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv15jq)
Uzbekistan's World Cup debut

It's the first time Uzbekistan have qualified for a World Cup, and they are the first central Asian team ever to qualify. BBC Uzbek's reporter joins us from Tashkent with fans.

Norway's royal family says the Crown princess, Mette-Marit, has undergone a successful lung transplant. We speak to people who have had lung transplants.

We speak to South Africans about their concerns over illegal migration. Our correspondent in Johannesburg explains why there has been a rise in anti-migrant sentiment in the country.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Uzbekistan's Abdukodir Khusanov reacts June 10, 2025; Credit: Maxim Shemetov/Reuters)


WED 17:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5bmf2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 17:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv198v)
Search for six-year-old Ebola patient

Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are searching for a six-year-old Ebola patient and her mother after armed men stormed the hospital where they were being treated. We speak to the BBC's Anne Soy about the latest and about her trip to the Ebola affected region in the DRC.

Fifty-two years after their World Cup debut, the DRC is back. We speak to fans who are getting ready to watch their team facing Portugal.

It's the first time Uzbekistan have qualified for a World Cup, and they are the first central Asian team ever to qualify. We hear from fans in Tashkent.

Speaking at the G7 summit, President Trump has warned that he is ready to resume military action if Tehran doesn't abide by its obligations. We have the latest.

The Grammy Awards is adding five new categories, including best Asian pop music performance, best Latin song, and best traditional folk album. We speak to our music correspondent and musicians who will soon be eligible for some of the new categories.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Medical workers at the Rwambara General Reference Hospital in Bunia, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, June 16, 2026. Credit: Gradel Muyisa Mumbere/Reuters)


WED 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5br56)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 18:06 Outlook (w3ct8jkq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


WED 18:50 Witness History (w3ct9887)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5bvxb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmp8yl)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s175q)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct8rrr)
2026/06/17 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


WED 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5bzng)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 20:06 The Climate Question (w3ct99hl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:06 on Sunday]


WED 20:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s1bxv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 20:32 Health Check (w3ct8k2j)
The global toll of food poisoning

The WHO has conducted their first global assessment of food contamination in over a decade and found that more than 1.5 million people are killed by food poisoning every year. Dr Ann Robinson joins Claudia Hammond to discuss the common causes of foodborne illness.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis which can cause sudden and severe joint pain. Claudia is joined by Professor Nicola Dalbeth an academic rheumatologist at the University of Auckland in New Zealand to discuss misconceptions about the disease.

Reporter Tony Vinyoh then brings us to Cameroon, where Mbingo Baptist hospital is creating its own compressed oxygen supply to address the shortages and high costs of life-saving medical interventions.

We also discuss a new wearable ultrasound patch which could detect pregnancy complications in real-time, and we hear about a weekly 5 kilometre run in a park which has grown to become a global phenomenon - with over one million events across 5 continents and 23 countries - promoting regular exercise and well-being.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producers: Jonathan Blackwell and Georgia Christie


WED 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5c3dl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7cxmn)
US releases details of initial deal with Iran

A Memorandum of Understanding outlined by the United States suggests it has found common ground with Iran, but there are still questions about whether this preliminary deal achieves any more than the agreement signed when Barack Obama was president. Meanwhile Israel, the US partner in the recent war, faces the possibility of a stronger Iran and a new balance of power in the Middle East. We hear from Alon Ben Dah-veed, senior military correspondent for Israel's Channel 13.

Also in the programme: the fuel shortages affecting Russian drivers as a result of the Ukraine war; an introduction to so-called 'micro-history'; and the death at the age of 99 of the last member of a leading British 'girl band' of the 1950s, the Beverley Sisters.

(Photo: US President Donald Trump holds a press conference during the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France; Credit: REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein)


WED 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5c74q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 22:06 The Interview (w3ct98h0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s1lf3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 22:32 Good Bad Billionaire (w3ct9bc3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5cbwv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmpry3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s1q57)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct8fvv)
Is Russia running short on fuel?

Donald Trump’s new Federal Reserve chair, Kevin Warsh, has held interest rates steady at his first policy meeting, despite being appointed with a clear expectation that borrowing costs would fall. What does it mean for ordinary business owners in the States?

And we look how motorbike couriers smuggling Iranian fuel into Pakistan, where riders say the war has triggered a new boom.

Plus how does one of the world’s biggest oil producers end up short of fuel? We're in Russia where drivers are queuing for hours to fill up their tanks.

(Picture: Smoke and fire rise from an oil depot in Rostov Region. Credit: Reuters)

THURSDAY 18 JUNE 2026

THU 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5cgmz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 00:06 World Questions (w3ct8snr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


THU 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5cld3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmq0fc)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s1ynh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mkx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Wednesday]


THU 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5cq47)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmq45h)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s22dm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 02:32 The Documentary (w3ct9b96)
The Russian dream

It is an unlikely migration trend - Westerners swapping life in Texas or London for Moscow or Nizhny Novgorod. In 2024, President Vladimir Putin introduced the Russian Shared Values visa, sometimes called the “anti-woke” visa, offering up to three years of residency to citizens of 47 so-called “unfriendly” countries who say they align with Russia’s traditional spiritual and moral values.

Applicants do not need to speak Russian or pass a history test to qualify. Instead, they must reject the social and cultural direction of their home country. We hear the stories of people making this move. What motivates them and how do their expectations compare with the reality of life in Russia?

Presenter/producer: Dan Hardoon
Editor: Mike Wendling
Sound engineer: Richard Courtice
A Story² production for BBC World Service


THU 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5ctwc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 03:06 Outlook (w3ct8jkq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Wednesday]


THU 03:50 Witness History (w3ct9887)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Wednesday]


THU 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5cymh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 04:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmqcnr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s29ww)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 04:32 The Food Chain (w3ct8sw4)
Why do we love smoky flavours so much?

The history of smoking foods stretches back many years, but when did what began purely for preservation become a highly sought-after flavour? In this episode of The Food Chain, Ruth Alexander explores the origins of smoked foods and finds out why their flavours are so appealing to so many people around the world. She visits a smokehouse run by Michael Price in the port city of Lancaster in north-west England, where he explains the techniques used to flavour a variety of fish, as well as some of the more unusual demands he’s received from chefs. We learn about the science behind smoked flavours from Professor Heather Smyth, a flavour chemist and sensory scientist at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. And food historian, Professor Ken Albala, walks us through thousands of years of history via a meal prepared using his own home smoker in Stockton, California. We also investigate the impact of EU legislation with the European Food Safety Authority, following a European ban on several smoke flavour additives, and ask what this might mean for the future of smoked foods.

If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email thefoodchain@bbc.co.uk

Producers: Sam Clack and Izzy Greenfield
Sound engineers: Jack Wilfan and Hal Haines

(Image description: racks of fish fillets inside a smoker)


THU 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5d2cm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 05:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vz4kc)
Trump and Iran have signed an initial deal

President Trump and Iran's president have signed an initial deal aiming to end the war. The agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz. But the issue of Iran's nuclear programme, the main reason stated by the US for the conflict, is still to be negotiated over an extendable 60-day period.

We report on how the burials of Ebola victims are being conducted in the Democractic of Congo. The most infectious phase of Ebola is when an infected person dies, so how are the dead being handled?

And we report from the World Cup. We are in Vancouver and looking at the Democratic Republic of Congo's 1-1 draw with Portugal and England's dominant performance against Croatia.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the media upon arrival at Paris Orly airport, following the G7 Summit. Credit: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters).


THU 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5d63r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 06:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vz89h)
US-Iran first step deal to end war

Pakistan's prime minister says the deal signed between Iran and the US will take immediate effect; it includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the end of the US blockade of Iranian ports. We look in detail at the deal.

We hear from the mayor of Kyiv, Vitaly Klitschko, his city has come under fresh Russian attacks just hours after President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with President Trump and EU leaders at the G7 summit in France.

And day seven of the World Cup is complete, which means all 48 teams have now played their first group games. We report on the tournament so far from Vancouver.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga.

(Photo: People walk past a banner with a picture of Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in Tehran, Iran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/Reuters).


THU 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5d9vw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 07:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98vzd1m)
US and Iran sign deal to end war in Iran

Donald Trump has signed a priliminary agreement to end America's war with Iran. The deal would see the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz. We have reaction from the US where the deal has already been described as having "no teeth".

All 48 teams competing in the World Cup tournament have now played their first games. We assess their progress.

And we report on how burials for Ebola victims are taking place in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The period after a person dies is when the body is most infectious.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: People drive past a banner with a picture of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in Tehran, Iran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/Reuters).


THU 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5dfm0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 08:06 The Inquiry (w3ct98ps)
Can Brussels crack the gender pay gap?

A new directive strives to narrow the 11% hourly wage gap between men and women in the EU.

Around the world, the gender pay gap has been shrinking as women gain access to higher education and better employment opportunities. Though varied hours, industries and care responsibilities make this inequality a difficult problem to tackle with one universal policy.

Member states have just passed their deadline to implement measures that will hold employers to account for pay disparities in the workplace so will pay transparency solve the persistent gap?

We are joined by Emma Duchini, assistant professor of economics, University of Essex, UK; Marianne Bertrand, professor of economics, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, US; Adamnesh Bogale, head of gender, African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET), Ghana and Marina Tverdostup, economist, Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, Austria.

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Evie Yabsley
Sound engineer: Toby James
Editor: Tom Bigwood

(Photo: A woman typing)


THU 08:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s2swd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct8glf)
When will petrol and gas get cheaper again?

The US and Iran interim deal is aimed at reopening one of the world's most important shipping lanes. But even if an agreement is signed, how quickly can things return to normal? How soon can oil tankers and LNG shipments return to service? When might energy supplies begin to ease? And how long before drivers, businesses and households actually feel the benefit through lower prices? Markets may react within hours, but the real-world impact could take much longer.

This is the latest episode of our weekly Power Players show. It's hosted by Rahul Tandon in the UK and our North America Business Correspondent Michelle Fleury in New York, in conversation with the BBC's Economics Editor Faisal Islam.

Producer: Niamh McDermott
Editor: Stephen Ryan
Executive producer: Justin Bones

(Photo: People drive past an anti-U.S. billboard depicting US President Donald Trump and the Strait of Hormuz, in Tehran, Iran, 17 May, 2026. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA - West Asia News Agency)


THU 08:50 Witness History (w3ct98bh)
The discovery of Mungo Man

On 26 February 1974, geologist Dr Jim Bowler discovered a 42,000-year-old skeleton in New South Wales, Australia.

The remains were nicknamed Mungo Man, as they were found in Lake Mungo.

The discovery rewrote Australia's history, it proved Aboriginal Australians had occupied the continent for tens of thousands of years.

Rachel Naylor speaks to Dr Bowler about Mungo Man's original cremation with ochre and his secret reburial in 2022.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: A Mutthi Mutthi Elder welcomes Mungo Man back to country during a smoking ceremony in 2017 in Balranald, Australia. Credit: Lisa Maree Williams / Getty Images)


THU 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5dkc4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 09:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmqzdd)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s2xmj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 09:32 The Documentary (w3ct9b96)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5dp38)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 10:06 The Explanation (w3ct98mj)
The Media Show: Citizen journalists at protests - reporting or activism?

Following the sentencing of 13 people for violent disorder during protests in Southampton, attention has turned to the role of content creators who film demonstrations and public disorder. The judge cited the usefulness of footage filmed by so-called “citizen journalists”. Siddharth Venkataramakrishnan of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue and content creator Wesley Winter give their perspective on the issue.
The BBC has begun setting out changes as part of plans to deliver significant savings across the organisation. The measures include the closure of several programmes across radio and current affairs output, alongside wider reductions in staffing. Jonathan Munro, Global Director of BBC News, outlines the changes.
Norma Percy has spent years getting to the heart of some of the biggest moments in recent history. Her documentaries have been celebrated for talking directly to the people who made the decisions. As the BBC airs her latest film - about Brexit - she reflects on her storied career and the future of documentary making.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Producers: Lisa Jenkinson and Lucy Wai
Researcher: Ruth Waites
Technical Coordinator: Jack Sharp
Sound: Rebecca Millar


THU 10:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s31cn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 10:32 Over to You (w3ct99km)
Focus on Eastern Europe

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has and continues to impact the region of Eastern Europe dramatically. With correspondent Sarah Rainsford, Qasa looks at how reporting on the region has changed since the war. Are other stories being lost or sidelined as the war continues to dominate news agendas? Over to You also look at how the World Service is going about countering the spread of disinformation, going behind the scenes of BBC Monitoring, and looking at the launch of BBC News Magyarul and Romania. We also assess how BBC News Polska has fared a year on from its launch.

A Whistledown Production.


THU 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5dsvd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmr6wn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s353s)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mfd)
Could Trump-backed ‘El Tigre’ become the next president of Colombia?

On Sunday, Colombia will elect a new president. A Trump-endorsed outsider, Abelardo de la Espriella, nicknamed ‘The Tiger,’ is now ahead in the polls, and within striking distance of the presidency. His platform promises a military crackdown on narcoterrorism and closer collaboration with the United States.

Many Latin American nations have shifted to the right in recent elections, and the Colombia vote is seen as a crucial litmus test for the wider region’s political landscape. Could Colombia be the next country in Latin America take a hard turn to the right? And how might that benefit President Donald Trump? We speak to BBC South America correspondent, Ione Wells.

Producers: Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin

Executive producer: Bridget Harney

Mix: Travis Evans

Video producer: Matt Pintus

Senior news editor: China Collins

Phto: Colombian right-wing presidential candidate Abelardo De La Espriella. REUTERS/Cesar Quiroz


THU 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5dxlj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 12:06 Outlook (w3ct8j45)
Facing addiction while pursuing music nearly cost me it all

Janet Devlin from County Tyrone in Northern Ireland rose to fame on the UK’s staple Saturday night television singing competition The X Factor at just 16 years old. She did extremely well, though coming back to ‘normal’ life wasn’t quite as successful. Told that three out of four people in the UK would now recognise her, for her own safety she withdrew from the outside world, and started using alcohol as a coping mechanism while in isolation.

Attempting to pursue a music career in the public eye while having borderline personality disorder, bipolar 2, and undiagnosed ADHD amid the grips of alcoholism would prove a near-impossible task. Janet is now years into recovery and used her experiences to inspire her third studio album called Confessional. In this episode there are references to some of the mental health challenges she faced from a young age, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts. If you are in need of support there are details of help available in many countries at Befrienders Worldwide. Just search www.befrienders.org.

The photo of Janet shows her performing on stage as the headline act of The British Country Music Festival in 2025. There's blue and pink concert lighting above her and she's holding a microphone in her hand and singing with her eyes closed. Janet has curly platinum-blonde hair with a black cowboy hat on. She's standing with one arm extended outward with tattoos visible, including one of a horse. The silhouettes of audience members fill the foreground.

Janet has also written an autobiography called My Confessional.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producer: Emily Naylor

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo Credit: Dave Nelson)


THU 12:50 Witness History (w3ct98bh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5f1bn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 13:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmrgcx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 13:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s3dm1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 13:32 The Food Chain (w3ct8sw4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5f52s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 14:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7fz9v)
Agreement to end US-Iran war signed

A basic agreement has been signed to end the war between the US and Iran. The negotiations now turn to the really difficult issues: we hear from Iran and Israel.

Also in the programme: Ukraine targets Moscow in a massive drone attack; researchers say it's way too easy to get around ChatGPT's guardrails; and an ancient oak tree in Sherwood Forest linked to Robin Hood has died - or is it just entering its next phase?

(IMAGE: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian showing a signed a memorandum of understanding with the US in Tehran, Iran, 18 June 2026 / CREDIT: Photo by IRANIAN PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE/HANDOUT/EPA/Shutterstock (16934712a))


THU 15:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5f8tx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 15:06 The Inquiry (w3ct98ps)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 15:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s3n39)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct8glf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


THU 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct8d5n)
Eyes are on the Strait of Hormuz as oil tankers start moving

US and Iranian officials have signed a 'memorandum of understanding' to end the war which began in March. Oil and LNG prices are expected to fall as ship traffic resumes.

Dozens of Ukrainian drones have struck the biggest oil refinery in Russia's capital Moscow. Many parts of Russia have suffered fuel shortages in recent weeks.

And Cuba's Communist government has approved reforms to try and revive its economy in the face US oil blockade.


THU 16:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5fdl1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 16:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv42ft)
US-Iran deal latest

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian says the deal with the US shows it "did not trade its dignity and independence for any threat or pressure". Our correspondents explain more.

The New York Knicks are celebrating their first NBA Championship title win since 1973 with a parade. Our correspondent is there.

After the Crown Princess of Norway underwent a successful lung transplant, we speak to doctors who carry out those procedures.

And the second round of group matches gets underway at the World Cup. South Africa play Czech Republic. We discuss the backlash the South African side are facing from fellow African football fans.

(Photo: A screen grab shows Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian holding a signed memorandum with U.S. President Donald Trump, in Tehran, Iran, June 18, 2026, taken from a video. Credit: Pool via WANA/Reuters TV/Handout)


THU 17:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5fjb5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 17:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv465y)
JD Vance speaks on US-Iran deal

US Vice-President JD Vance is holding a news briefing. He says 12.5 million barrels of oil flowed through the Strait of Hormuz after the deal with Iran was signed. Our Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet joins us to explain more and we hear a conversation with Iranians abroad.

The video game developer Rockstar has revealed the pre-order date and official cover art for Grand Theft Auto 6. Our gaming expert tells us more about the much anticipated release.

And the New York Knicks are celebrating their first NBA Championship title win since 1973 with a parade. We get an update from our correspondent who is there.

(Photo: U.S. Vice President JD Vance speaks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 18, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Eric Lee)


THU 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5fn29)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 18:06 Outlook (w3ct8j45)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


THU 18:50 Witness History (w3ct98bh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5frtf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjms5vp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s442t)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct8rm7)
2026/06/18 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


THU 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5fwkk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 20:06 The Documentary (w3ct9b96)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 20:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s47ty)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 20:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct977r)
Finding the evidence for the social media ban

After this week’s announcement that under-16s will be banned from major social media platforms, we delve into the evidence behind the ban with Professor Amy Orben, Programme Leader of the Digital Mental Health Group at the University of Cambridge, and Dr Catherine Sebastian, Head of Evidence at Wellcome.

Also on the show, what can penalty shoot-outs teach us about international diplomacy? And how does the valuation of a football player impact the number of crashes seen after their team plays? Professor of Mathematical Sciences at Bath and football fan, Kit Yates, joins Tom to assemble their very own World Cup squad of science.

Presenter: Tom Whipple
Producers: Kate White, Katie Tomsett, Keiran Manetta-Jones
Editor: Martin Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth


THU 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5g09p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7gtjr)
US defends its deal with Iran

Donald Trump says he expects a ceasefire to take effect "on all fronts", including between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon while Vice President JD Vance says the memorandum signed with Tehran is already bearing fruit and insisted that Washington holds the cards in coming negotiations. Meanwhile, a message attributed to Iran's Supreme Leader says that Tehran will not submit to any excessive demands.

Also in the programme: why one critic calls Barack Obama's Presidential Centre a 'Klingon Prison'; and how Nigerian sisters born conjoined at the head are enjoying life after pioneering surgery assisted by artificial intelligence.

(Photo: US Vice President JD Vance speaks to the media about the Iran-US memorandum of understanding in the White House Briefing Room in Washington, DC, USA Credit: JIM LO SCALZO/EPA/Shutterstock)


THU 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5g41t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 22:06 The Inquiry (w3ct98ps)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s4hb6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 22:32 The Food Chain (w3ct8sw4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5g7sy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmsnv6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s4m2b)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct8fqb)
US lifts Iran naval blockade following US-Iran deal

The US has lifted its Iran naval blockade following the US-Iran deal. Both countries have signed a deal but what does it actually mean for the two nations?

We head to Cuba where the government’s unveiled sweeping reforms, trying to steady an economy that’s really under pressure.

And the Governor of Massachusetts has unofficially "legalised" the Scottish dish haggis, as the state continues to welcome Scotland fans during the World Cup.

Presenter: Vishala Sri-Pathma
Producer: Barbara George and Parisa Qurban

FRIDAY 19 JUNE 2026

FRI 00:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gck2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:06 The Explanation (w3ct98mj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Thursday]


FRI 00:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s4qtg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct8tw8)
Who’re the winners and losers of the US-Iran deal?

This week John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the new deal aimed at ending the war between the US and Iran, analyses Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union, and looks at the worsening situation for women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive Producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning Editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall


FRI 01:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gh96)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmsxbg)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 01:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s4vkl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct8mfd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Thursday]


FRI 02:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gm1b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmt12l)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 02:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s4z9q)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:32 Tech Life (w3ct8jy0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


FRI 03:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gqsg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 03:06 Outlook (w3ct8j45)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Thursday]


FRI 03:50 Witness History (w3ct98bh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Thursday]


FRI 04:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gvjl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmt8kv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 04:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s56sz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct983q)
War, God and the Islamic Republic

Since the outbreak of war involving Iran, Israel and the U.S. in late February 2026, Iranians have been living through months of fear, instability and profound uncertainty. A fragile truce came into effect on April 8, but by May 2026 ceasefire efforts were still under strain, with negotiations continuing and tensions in and around the region far from settled.

In this edition of Heart and Soul, Emily Wither speaks to Iranians inside the country about how war, repression and disillusionment have reshaped their relationship with religion. For some, years of state control in the name of Islam — now intensified by the trauma of recent conflict — have deepened the divide between official religion and personal faith.

Some still pray to God, but in intimate, private ways far removed from state doctrine. Others have drifted away from formal religious belief altogether, finding comfort instead in Persian poetry, music, mysticism and ancient cultural texts such as the Shahnameh. Through anonymous voices from inside Iran, the programme explores a quiet but profound spiritual shift: away from imposed religion, and toward more personal and self-fashioned ways of making meaning.

[Photo Description: An Iranian woman who is not wearing a mandatory headscarf stands in front of the tomb of the 14th-century Iranian poet, Hafez, in Shiraz, Iran, on October 8, 2024. Photo Credit: Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Producer/Presenter: Emily Wither
Series Producer: Rajeev Gupta
Editor: Chloe Walker
Production Coordinator: Mica Nepomuceno


FRI 05:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5gz8q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 05:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98w21gg)
Iran says Trump signed the deal out of desperation

The US vice president, JD Vance defended the deal against widespread accusations it gives many concessions to Iran. We go to Iran to get the latest reactions

We go to DRC and hear from a priest in one of the areas worst impacted by the Ebola outbreak

And Mexico become the forts country to qualify for the knock our stages in the World Cup

(Photo: Iran and US sign agreement to end war, Tehran, Iran Islamic Republic Of - 18 Jun 2026; Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock)


FRI 06:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5h30v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 06:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98w256l)
US lifts naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said he had approved the deal with the US despite having a "different view", without elaborating. He said he allowed it to go ahead after assurances from Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian that he would "protect the rights of the Iranian nation".

We hear more on what the opening of the Hormuz will mean.

Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester in northern England, has won a seat in Parliament a pivotal step in his plans to fight Mr Starmer for to be the head of the Labour Party, and therefore prime minister.

And Isaac Fanin is in Vancouver and will tell us about that Canada thumping win as Mexico goes through to the last 32 teams

(Photo: Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman; Credit: Reuters_AutoIngest)


FRI 07:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5h6rz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 07:06 Newsday (w1730c1d98w28yq)
Further talks between Iran and the US appear to be delayed

Talks were due to take in Iran's nuclear programme and the withdrawal of regional US forces. The initial accord - which has begun opening up the Strait of Hormuz - has prompted significant criticism in the US - but praise from the leadership in Iran.

We'll hear about the ebola outbreak in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo, talking to a priest to hear how the work of the church is affected, from burials to sharing wine and food.

And I'm Isaac Fanin in Vancouver, where we saw Canada make World Cup history with a spell binding 6-0 victory, as Mexico becomes the first country to qualify for knock our stages.

(Photo: Iran and US sign agreement to end war, Tehran, Iran Islamic Republic Of - 18 Jun 2026; Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock)


FRI 08:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hbj3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:06 The Interview (w3ct98k8)
Jack Clark, Anthropic co-founder: put brakes on AI

“Right now, it’s like the AI industry has a gas pedal, but it doesn’t have a brake pedal in the car. And what we’re saying is we want to build that brake pedal so we in the world have an option. In the future, you might say: ‘Let’s get all of the benefits we can for, say, biology and medical research, and let’s take a pause on AI research, where we can absorb the societal changes.’”

Faisal Islam speaks to Jack Clark, co-founder of Anthropic, one of the companies at the forefront of the artificial intelligence revolution and the maker of the Claude chatbot.

Jack says AI systems are becoming dramatically more capable, changing how work happens even inside Anthropic itself. He argues that artificial intelligence could accelerate scientific discovery, reshape industries and transform economies.

But he also warns that increasingly powerful AI systems will require new forms of oversight and control. As these technologies become more capable, he argues that governments and society need mechanisms to slow development if it moves too far, too fast.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with Sundar Pichai and Julia Gillard.

You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Faisal Islam
Producer: Osman Iqbal
Editor: Damon Rose and Justine Lang

(Image:Jack Clark. Credit: Getty)


FRI 08:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s5psh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct8g9d)
Taking Stock: AI and jobs, affordability and Toy Story

Rahul Tandon is joined by Rebecca Choong Wilkins in Singapore and Walter Todd in South Carolina, USA. They discuss which jobs may be most resistant to the rise of AI and whether skilled trades such as plumbing and locksmithing could offer greater job security. They also compare the challenges facing the US and Chinese economies in light of the latest data releases. And can Toy Story 5 match the box-office success of its predecessors?

Producers: Neil Morrow and Bisi Adebayo
Executive Producer: Justin Bones

You can email the team: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk


FRI 08:50 Witness History (w3ct98dr)
The discovery of Lyme disease

In 1975, a mysterious outbreak of illness struck children in the United States, triggering a medical breakthrough.

Prof Allen Steere uncovered a bacterial infection which was spread by blood‑sucking ticks. It was formally identified for the first time and would go on to be named Lyme disease, after the town where it first emerged. He speaks to Reena Stanton-Sharma about what led to the discovery.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.

For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.

(Photo: Prof Allen Steere in his lab at Massachusetts General Hospital in 2013. Credit: Yoon S. Byun/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)


FRI 09:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hg87)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmtw9h)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 09:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s5tjm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct977r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 10:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hl0c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 10:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct8kck)
Anyone for chips?

The spiralling cost and short supply of microchips – something the tech journalists have dubbed ‘RAMageddon’ – has the Unexpected Elements team investigating all things chip-related.

We start things off by finding out about a mini cervix-on-a-chip and how this could help us better understand premature birth.

We then feel a little salty when we discover that chips (also known as fries) may create cancer-causing acrylamides when cooked. Should we be worried?

Next up, Professor Paul Graham from the University of Sussex reveals why gulls love to steal your chips, and (crucially) tells us how to defend our dinner.

Plus, the world’s largest whale graveyard, the health benefits of the humble spud and why some people are better at napping than others.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Katie Silver and Kai Kupferschmidt
Producers: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, with Sophie Ormiston and Robbie Wojciechowski


FRI 11:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hprh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmv3sr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 11:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s620w)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct8m8w)
How to stop Iran from building a nuclear weapon

On Wednesday, President Trump met with Iranian leaders to sign an initial memorandum of understanding towards ending the months-long war. In a press conference after the signing, Trump was triumphant. Specifically, he touted the deal’s firmness on one of the US’s key priorities: ensuring that Iran can never develop a nuclear weapon.

Whilst Iran has agreed to “not procure or develop nuclear weapons," there are many questions left unanswered. What does it actually look like to police the weapons programmes

Today, we speak to someone intimately familiar with the weapons inspection process: President of the Institute for Science and International Security, David Albright. In the 1990s, Albright worked in Iraq with the UN, investigating the nation’s weapons programme under Sadaam Hussein.

Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth
Executive producers: Bridget Harney and China Collins
Mix: Travis Evans
Video producer: Matt Pintus
Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump holds a press conference during the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, June 17, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein


FRI 12:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hthm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 12:06 Outlook (w3ct8hpm)
Outlook Mixtape: Notorious D. A. D.

Two dads who wanted to make their mark on the world and the daughters who surfed the wake they made.

Lloyd Kaufman has been the father of American anti-establishment filmmaking for over 50 years. His production company Troma Entertainment is known for its gory, controversial and politically-charged movies. His daughter Lily-Hayes grew up on the sets of these bizarre and often quite gruesome Troma films. She had her first on-screen role at the age of four in one of Troma’s biggest hits – the 1984 horror-comedy The Toxic Avenger – a film about a nerd who turns into a mutant superhero after falling into a vat of nuclear waste. When it came time for Lily-Hayes to pick her own career path, she wanted to push back against her father's anti-establishment line of work. But how could she rebel against the ultimate rebel? Well, she went into investment banking and forged a ‘normal’ life on the trading floor. One day she witnessed a colleague take part in a chicken nugget eating contest. It was a scene that would rival even the grossest scenes she’d seen on a Troma set and it pushed her back towards the call of the Tromaverse.

When Serena Kutchinsky’s father Paul took over the hugely successful family business, the celebrated London jewellers House of Kutchinsky, in the 1980s, he wanted to make his mark. So he began work on his masterpiece: a giant, golden, diamond-encrusted egg, inspired by the famous French Fabergé eggs. Paul’s egg was crafted from 15kg of solid gold, decorated with over 20,000 rare pink diamonds, and put on sale for £7m – today’s equivalent of around $30m. But it soon became apparent that there was a problem: no one wanted to buy it. Paul had gambled his century-old family business on the egg, but within a year of its making the firm had crumbled and Serena’s family had fallen apart. The egg itself would be repossessed by the company that had supplied its dazzling pink diamonds. No one in the Kutchinsky family would speak of the egg for years – until decades later, Serena went looking for it.

Presenter: India Rakusen
Producer: Andrea Rangecroft

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: A transparent 60-minute cassette tape with a white label bearing the words: The Outlook Mixtape. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 12:50 Witness History (w3ct98dr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 13:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5hy7r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmvc90)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 13:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s69j4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct983q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 14:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5j1zw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 14:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7jw6y)
Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire, a senior US official has confirmed to the BBC. Earlier, planned talks to cement the ceasefire between Iran and the US were delayed with reports suggesting it was due to Iranian concern over Israel's actions in Lebanon.

Also on the programme: the by-election result that could decide Britain's next prime minister; and how the resident organist for the Boston Red Sox baseball team has been entertaining visiting Scottish football fans.

(Photo: Khadija Amara, whom local residents said had not left her home, fills a jerrycan with water as she sits among the rubble of a house, which was damaged by an Israeli strike in the Tyre district, southern Lebanon on June 19, 2026.)


FRI 15:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5j5r0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:06 The Interview (w3ct98k8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 15:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s6k0d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct8g9d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


FRI 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct8d14)
India's biggest ever share offer

IPO aims to raise $4 billion for Jio Platforms hopes, the telecom unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance.

Is the UK economy 6% smaller as a result of voting for Brexit in 2016?

And Iran says ships won't be charged for passing through the Strait of Hormuz during the 60 days peace negotiations period.


FRI 16:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5j9h4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 16:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv6zbx)
Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire

A senior US official has confirmed to the BBC that Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to a ceasefire. We speak to our correspondent in Beirut and bring together Trump voters to share their views on the US deal with Iran.

French prosecutors have confirmed that the Moroccan football captain Achraf Hakimi will face trial on rape charges. Our reporter explains.

Scientists have been warning that temperatures in Antarctica are significantly higher than they should be at this time of year. We speak to researchers who have spent time in Antarctica.

The former Manchester mayor Andy Burnham says he’ll lay out a new path for Britain after winning a seat in parliament - setting him up to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Our political correspondent explains.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Smoke rises over southern Lebanon after Israeli strikes, Metula, Israel - 19 Jun 2026. Credit: ATEF SAFADI/EPA)


FRI 17:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5jf78)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 17:06 Outside Source (w1730c6dvsv7331)
Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire

Israel and the armed Lebanese group Hezbollah have agreed to a ceasefire, a senior US official has confirmed to the BBC. The agreement follows concerns that continued fighting in Lebanon could undermine the deal between the US and Iran, which calls for an end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. We get reaction from Lebanon and hear from Israelis.

We also bring together Americans who voted for President Trump for their assessment of the US deal with Iran.

Health officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo have told the BBC that a six-year-old Ebola patient who was abducted from a hospital by armed men has been released and is now receiving treatment. We speak to our colleagues who have been reporting from the Ebola-affected region in the DRC.

Italy’s top diplomat has cancelled a trip to the US, accusing President Trump of insulting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Our reporter explains.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: A woman inspects her destroyed house in an Israeli airstrike in the village of Qlaileh, southern Lebanon, 19 June 2026. Credit: WAEL HAMZEH/EPA)


FRI 18:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5jjzd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 18:06 Outlook (w3ct8hpm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


FRI 18:50 Witness History (w3ct98dr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 19:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5jnqj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmw2rs)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 19:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s70zx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct8rgq)
2026/06/19 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


FRI 20:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5jsgn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct8m3r)
South Africa's migrant deadline

For many undocumented migrants in South Africa, the past few weeks have brought uncertainty and fear about what lies ahead.

South Africa is the continent’s most developed economy, attracting people from poorer countries seeking work. But it also has a high rate of unemployment – almost one in three are without jobs. Although (officially) foreigners make up some 6% of the population, many more migrants are believed to be in the country without papers.

Protestors have told them they have until the end of June to leave, and some countries have already been repatriating their citizens.

In our conversations, we bring together migrants to share their experiences of rising tensions. We also hear from those who have decided to return and South Africans who want an end to illegal migration.

“For us to fix this country of ours, we have to secure our borders,” Olivier tells host James Reynolds. “People here illegally either they are criminals, or they are suffering in the process or they’re just getting a whole bunch of stuff for free and not contributing.”

Presenter: James Reynolds
BBC producers: Lindsay Brown, Ben Davis, Akwasi Sarpong and Angela Sheeran
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham
Editor: Arja Haikonen

A Boffin Media production in partnership with the BBC World Service Outside Source team.

(Photo: Ghanaians arrive with their luggage at the airport as Ghana repatriates hundreds of its citizens from South Africa May 27, 2026.Credit: Siphiwe Sibeko/Reuters)


FRI 20:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s74r1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:32 CrowdScience (w3ct8k71)
How does Bluetooth work?

CrowdScience listener Rachel uses Bluetooth headphones on her cycle to work, seamlessly playing music from her phone without using wires. But how does this technology send information through the air?

To find out, Rachel and presenter Caroline Steel travel to Cambridge in the UK to meet telecommunications expert William Webb. He explains what Bluetooth signals actually are – and demonstrates why their properties are linked to the invention of leaky microwave ovens.

Caroline speaks to Jaap Haartsen, the inventor of Bluetooth, who reveals the hidden meaning of its logo, and what the name has to do with an ancient Viking king.

And she learns how a new flavour of “low energy” Bluetooth is having an unexpected application: helping ecologists like Damien Farine understand animal behaviour. Which leads her to an old tobacco barn in Switzerland, to meet researcher Bettina Almasi and her team – along with some very cute baby barn owls.

Presenter: Caroline Steel

Producer: Anand Jagatia

Editors: Ben Motley & Ilan Goodman

(Photo:Composite photo collage of hands hold phone device internet antenna connection technology bluetooth - stock photo- Credit: Deagreez via Getty Images)


FRI 21:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5jx6s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 21:06 Newshour (w1730bn1xt7kqfv)
Israel and Hezbollah agree ceasefire, as more Lebanon strikes reported

Israel and Hezbollah have agreed a ceasefire, a US official says, following intense Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon that the government said killed 47 people.

Also on the programme, the US government says it will stop funding programmes in South Africa intended to tackle the spread of HIV and AIDS, there's been a furious reaction in Italy after President Trump claimed the prime minister Georgia Meloni begged him for a photo at the G7 summit; and the ballet dancer, Carlos Acosta, on taking his Cuban dance group on tour.

(Photo: Smoke rises over southern Lebanon after Israeli strikes, Metula, Israel - 19 Jun 2026. ATEF SAFADI/EPA/Shutterstock)


FRI 22:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5k0yx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:06 The Interview (w3ct98k8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 22:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s7d79)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct983q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 23:00 BBC News (w1730nknxh5k4q1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:06 The Newsroom (w1730bqjzjmwkr9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 23:30 BBC News Summary (w1730nlhc6s7hzf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct8fkt)
World Cup hydration breaks give advertisers advantage

The World Cup hydration breaks are giving players the chance to cool off, but we look at why this is an advantage for advertisers.

Venice is now charging day-trippers up to $11 to enter the city in the latest efforts to tackle over tourism, we take a look at what impact this will have on local businesses.

And the Toy Story 5 film is out today, we take a look at why the film's franchise has been a huge success for over three decades.

Presenter: Vishala Sri-Pathma
Producer: Barbara George and Parisa Qurban

(Photo by Buda Mendes / Getty Images)