SATURDAY 10 MAY 2025

SAT 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhl9kn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 00:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vy)
Ant antics

This week, a court in Kenya sentenced four men to either a year in prison or a fine of £5,800 for trying to smuggle 5,000 ants out of the country. The contraband included highly-valued ants like the giant African harvester ant, and it’s believed these ants were intended for exotic pet markets abroad.

But all this talk of ant smuggling got the Unexpected Elements team feeling antsy to talk ants!

We learn about the earliest ants who lived among dinosaurs, ants that can sniff cancer, and ants who were sent into space!

Then we take a turn from ants to anteaters and talk to Mariella Superina from the International Union for Conservation of Nature about the different adaptations and skills needed for anteaters to successfully eat ants.

Plus, we discuss plant smuggling and ant wrangling, both unexpectedly dangerous ventures.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.   

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Leonie Joubert and Godfred Boafo
Producers: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, with Imaan Moin, Robbie Wojciechowski and Minnie Harrop


SAT 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhlf9s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1mbtlksy)
US and China set to hold trade talks in Geneva, Switzerland

Join Roger Hearing ahead of this weekend's meeting in Switzerland of Chinese and American diplomats for trade talks this weekend. The stakes are high, as the outcome could reset the future of economic relations between the world’s two largest economies.

Also, we hear how Chinese Auto makers, who struggle to sell vehicles in North America because of the import tariffs, are expanding rapidly in many markets around the world.

And the government of Mexico is suing Google Maps over its decision to use the name "Gulf of America" instead of the longstanding "Gulf of Mexico".


SAT 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhlk1x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xky29)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl38xb9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:32 Stumped (w3ct6zj4)
Who should replace Rohit Sharma as India Men's Test Captain?

Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma debate who should replace Rohit Sharma as India Test captain?

Sharma has announced his retirement from the longest form of the game, so we discuss his impact and legacy.

Durham head coach Ryan Campbell joins us to share his thoughts on overseas player Brendan Doggett, who is tipped to be named in the Australia squad for the World Test Championship Final. Campbell also updates us on the fitness of England men's captain, Ben Stokes and bowler Brydon Carse. Plus, as Campbell is the former Netherlands coach, we ask what impact the Olympic games could have for Associate Nations?

New England head coach, Charlotte Edwards speaks about the significance of appointing a first ever national women's selector.


Photo: Rohit Sharma of India entering the ground before the start of play on day five of the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test match of Border Gavaskar trophy between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 30, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Credit: Speed Media/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)


SAT 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhlnt1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wgr)
Outlook Mixtape: Diving In

As the son of conservative Chinese parents Tony Wu never felt like he fitted in growing up in the US. He loved everything about the ocean but his parents discouraged any connection to it and Tony pursued a successful career in finance. But in every spare moment Tony immersed himself in the ocean, especially diving and underwater photography. He told Outlook's Emily Naylor about a close encounter with a sperm whale.

Colin Foord and Jared McKay are childhood best friends with a passion for aquatic life. As a kid Colin developed a strong love of sea life and would construct his own aquariums. Later, when Jay was suffering from depression, Colin would send him the equipment needed to build his own reef aquarium in his living room. Eventually they installed the Coral City Camera, a webcam streaming live from an urban coral reef in Miami which since lockdown has attracted thousands of dedicated daily viewers.

Melanie Barratt was born with congenital toxoplasmosis which left her severely visually-impaired. As a teenager she excelled academically but found it hard to keep friends. She found solace in the swimming pool where again she shone, earning a chance to represent Team GB at the 1996 and 2000 Paralympic Games. Despite winning gold medals at both, her confidence in the pool did not extend to her social life, where she struggled with self-loathing. One constant source of support, however, was Melanie’s mother who continued to inspire her even after her death. It would take decades and a gruelling swim across the English Channel – earning a place in history – for Melanie finally to find peace.

Presenter: Asya Fouks

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

(Photo: Cassette tape. Credit: Getty Images)


SAT 03:50 Witness History (w3ct743q)
Rescuing Palmyra’s treasures from the Islamic State group

In May 2015, when the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria was about to fall to jihadist fighters, a group of men risked their lives to load centuries-old artefacts from the city’s museum onto trucks and drive them to safety.

Before their advance to Palmyra, members of the group that called itself Islamic State had already been filmed for social media smashing statues that dated back to religious life in the Middle East before the Prophet Muhammad.

Khalil Hariri, an archaeology expert who worked at Palmyra’s museum, tells Josephine McDermott about his passion for its history and the personal price he has paid for the daring rescue.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: The damaged site of Palmyra in 2016. The graffiti reads ‘We remain’. Credit: Reuters)


SAT 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhlsk5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 04:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 today]


SAT 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhlx99)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xl99p)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl398kp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:32 Trending (w3ct72t8)
The TikTokers accused of triggering an election scandal

BBC Trending speaks to influencers about the campaigns which led to the cancellation of Romania’s December election.

They describe it as a wave. In the days before the presidential elections, influencers watched comments and content pour across TikTok in support of obscure far-right independent candidate Calin Georgescu. Georgescu’s victory was annulled and he has been banned from running in May's elections. Influencers at the heart of the story explain how it happened and demand answers.

Presenter: Rowan Ings
Producer: Georgiana Tudor
Additional reporting: Oana Marocico
Editor: Flora Carmichael

TikTok montage credit: Emma Audrey / Media 25 / Radio BIP
Voices in translation: Ariana Tudor and Masi Tudor


SAT 05:50 More or Less (w3ct6vys)
Warren Buffett’s brilliant bets

Warren Buffett has announced he is stepping down as CEO of his company, Berkshire Hathaway.

Buffett is one of the richest people in the world, and is widely held up as the greatest investor who ever lived. He’s also been remarkably critical of other masters of the financial universe.

Tim Harford talks to Financial Times journalist Robin Wigglesworth, author of the book Trillions, about Buffett’s money making method, and how he used a massive bet to make a point about hedge funds.

Presenter: Tim Harford
Producer: Tom Colls
Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown
Sound Mix: Giles Aspen
Editor: Richard Vadon


SAT 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhm11f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 06:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34vlrd)
Pakistan strikes back at India following airbase attacks

In the past several hours, a series of retaliatory strikes and diplomatic warnings have intensified fears of a broader conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
Islamabad says its latest action is in response to earlier Indian strikes on three Pakistani airbases, calling the retaliation “an eye for an eye.”
Also in the programme: the UK and Polish Prime Ministers, the French President, and Germany’s new Chancellor are in Ukraine today to show support for President Volodymyr Zelensky.
And a historic moment in the Vatican. Robert Prevost, a former Chicagoan has been elected Pope Leo the 14th. He becomes the first American to lead the Catholic Church and, as a naturalised Peruvian, the second Pope from South America after Francis.
To discuss this and more, Eunice Goes, professor of politics at Richmond University in the UK, and Sandip Roy, writer and broadcaster based in Calcutta, India. CREDIT: . Security beefed up in Kashmir, Srinagar, India, 10 May 2025. Photo by FAROOQ KHAN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock


SAT 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhm4sk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 07:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34vqhj)
Pakistan strikes back at India following airbase attacks

Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated over the disputed region of Kashmir. Islamabad says it launched retaliatory strikes after Indian attacks on three Pakistani airbases, calling its response “an eye for an eye.” The exchange has raised fresh fears of broader conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Also in the programme: Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates says he plans to give away nearly all of his fortune within the next two decades before closing his foundation. He has already donated over $100 billion through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and says he wants to ensure his legacy isn’t simply one of wealth. And the International Booker Prize approaches. One of the shortlisted works is “ Heart Lamp”, a collection of short stories by Indian author Banu Mushtaq, translated into English for the first time by Deepa Bhasthi. The stories focus on the lives of Indian women, bringing Mushtaq’s 35-year literary career to a global audience. To discuss this and more, we’re joined by Eunice Goes, professor of politics at Richmond University in the UK, and Sandip Roy, writer and broadcaster based in Calcutta, India. CREDIT: Indian people gather around a damaged vehicle and house after cross-border shelling from Pakistan, at Jammu town in Jammu and Kashmir, India, 10 May 2025. Mandatory Credit: Photo by MUKESH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock


SAT 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhm8jp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 08:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34vv7n)
India says Pakistan fired missiles at its bases, after Pakistan accused India of striking its airbases

India says Pakistan used missiles to target its bases, hours after Pakistan accuses India of firing at three of its military airbases.
The US and China are meeting to discuss trade. Ahead of the talks, President Trump proposed to cut tariffs on goods from China from 145% to 80%.
Also , this year marks 80 years since the first Moomin book was published and turned into icons of Nordic literature and culture. Author Tove Jansson’s niece Sophia talked about Moomins’ enduring legacy.
To discuss this and more, we’re joined by Eunice Goes, professor of politics at Richmond University in the UK, and Sandip Roy, writer and broadcaster based in Calcutta, India
CREDIT: A man walks amidst debris on the roof of a damaged house, following Pakistan's military operation against India, in Rehari, Jammu, May 10, 2025 / REUTERS


SAT 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhmd8t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmg)
Inside Gaza

After 19 months of war, Israel says it is preparing to expand its military campaign in Gaza.

The aim is to defeat and dismantle Hamas – regarded as a terrorist organisation by many countries - and bring home the remaining 59 hostages – up to 24 of whom are believed to be alive. They have been held in captivity since Hamas gunmen attacked Israel on October 7th 2023.

There have been several strikes on Gaza within the last week alone, with reports of dozens of people killed and wounded. We hear from women and men in the Palestinian territory about the bombings, the food shortages and their fears for another looming crisis ahead.

Aid agencies have warned that, since Israel cut off humanitarian aid on March 2nd after the collapse of a two month ceasefire, mass starvation is imminent.

“Hunger leads to chaos,” says Weam, in Deir al-Balah, a city in the central Gazan strip. “People rush to any place where food is found, pushing and trampling one another. And, if someone dies, they are left on the ground.”

Israel says it is complying with international law and there is no aid shortage because thousands of lorry loads entered during the ceasefire.

We hear from two aid workers for their perspective on the situation.

Hosted by Lukwesa Burak.

A Boffin Media production with producer Sue Nelson in partnership with the BBC OS team and producers Iqra Farooq, Mark Wilberforce and Isabella Bull.

(Photo: Displaced Palestinians collect donated food in Jabalia, northern Gaza. Credit: Photo by MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SAT 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl39rk6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4p)
Why are millions livestreaming a Swedish forest?

It's all to do with moose! Plus, the story of Dr Jocelyn Bell Burnell who changed astronomy forever, the call of Anastasia - a new-age group in Germany - and you say goodbye to BBC World Service legend, Julian Marshall, who is leaving the airwaves after half a century!


SAT 09:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv6)
Jamming shortwave, too many repeats and Americast

Despite international pressure, China is continuing to try and block shortwave broadcasts in parts of Asia. We hear from the BBC’s distribution team about how Over To You listeners can help report the problem.

Plus a listener tells us his views on what he sees as an excessive number of repeats on the World Service. And, ahead of a longer interview with the team in a few weeks’ time, we hear listener feedback on Americast.

Presenter: Rajan Datar
Producer: Howard Shanno.
A Whistledown production for the BBC World Service


SAT 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhmj0y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 10:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct7z05)
Chess mates

The ancient game of chess is one steeped in tradition, with a history dating back centuries. The classical form of chess is still prominent on the global stage, but streaming and online platforms have seen the game now increasingly being played online – so much so that it’s set to make its debut at the Esports World Cup later this year.

Not by the Playbook’s Katie Smith finds out more about the stories behind this historic board game – from a world record holder to the designer of one of the world’s most valuable and lavish chess sets.

Nigeria's Tunde Onakoya shares his story from learning to play in a barber shop to setting the world record for the longest chess match last month. He played against Shawn Martinez for 64 hours in New York’s Times Square and he’s wanting to help children in Africa with a similar story to his.

Jules Gambit was a junior chess champion in her youth but found that she was struggling to make friends, so made the switch to ballet. She’s now back involved in chess and is now a rising star in the streaming community. What brought her back to chess and is streaming the future of the sport?

Anthony Mathurin is no stranger to strategic games as a chess coach and a contestant on The Traitors, but is he staying faithful to the classical form of chess?

Also meet the designer of one of the most valuable and lavish chess sets in the world. The Pearl Royale is estimated to cost $4 million – but what’s the story behind the design? Australian jewellery artist Colin Burn reveals all.

Listen to Not by the Playbook on the BBC World Service every Saturday at 0900 GMT, or find it as a podcast wherever you get your BBC podcasts.
Get in touch with us via email and use the hashtag #NBTP on social media.

Photo: The Pearl Royale chess set which is made of diamonds, blue sapphires and South Sea pearls. Credit: Aaron McPolin/Colin Burn)


SAT 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhmms2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xm0sg)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3b01g)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78bk)
Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin’s game plan

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses Russia’s current strategy in Ukraine, looks at the preparations the Polish are making for a possible Russian invasion of their country, and examines the escalating tensions between Israel and the Palestinians in the West Bank.

Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski


SAT 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhmrj6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 12:06 The Documentary (w3ct7gjn)
Tongue and talk: Keeping language alive in Africa

Justice Baidoo, a journalist in Ghana, is teaching his two young children how to speak the ancient African language of Ahanta. He home schools them with lessons several times a week in an effort to keep the indigenous language alive in a continent where many are disappearing due to the over dominance of English and French, and in more recent years the added power of American culture through mass media, online and through mobile phones.

Justice hears how locals are trying to revive Ahanta by setting up a radio station and running regular dedicated church services attracting a one-thousand-strong congregation before travelling across Ghana to hear people speaking the endangered language of Animere in the village of Kunda.

He also hears about efforts to support languages that are dying out in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa - and how gaming companies in Africa are using indigenous languages in their stories to help teach young gamers their mother tongue.

Producer: Ashley Byrne and Justice Baidoo in Ghana
A Made in Manchester production for BBC World Service


SAT 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhmw8b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 13:06 Newshour (w172zss1ms0s0ty)
Trump: India and Pakistan agree to a ceasefire

President Trump says India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire -- after four days of cross border attacks. He said the agreement had been reached after a long night of talks mediated by the United States. Mr Trump congratulated both sides on "using common sense and great intelligence." Pakistan's foreign minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement, saying Islamabad had always strived for peace and security, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. There's been no word yet from India.

Also in the programme: The Syrian Jews visiting Damascus; and the Soviet spacecraft that's fallen back to Earth.

(Photo: Police officers inspect metal debris, amid hostilities between India and Pakistan, in a field on the outskirts of Jalandhar, India, May 10, 2025. Credit: Reuters/Stringer)


SAT 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhn00g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqgybs8mcx)
Live Sporting Action

Sportsworld has live commentary from the Premier League with Champions League chasing Manchester City at already relegated Southampton. We’ll also bring you updates from the games involving Brentford, Brighton and Fulham, who are all chasing European football next season.

Lee James will be joined by former USA, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Friedel and former Premier League midfielder Dan Gosling.
We’ll also review the Champions League semi-finals and the fortunes of Manchester United and Tottenham in the Europa League semi-finals, plus we preview El Classico between Barcelona and Real Madrid in La Liga.

Away from football, it’s the start of the men’s Giro d’Italia cycling and the end of the La Vuelta Femenina, Moto GP in France, the World Ice Hockey Championships and the NBA Conference semi-finals.

Plus, as Jannik Sinner makes his return to tennis at the Italian Open after his ban, we’ll discuss him and what has changed in the time since his Australian Open win at the start of the year.

Photo: Flynn Downes of Southampton and Matheus Nunes of Manchester City chase the ball during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Southampton FC at Etihad Stadium on October 26, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Credit: Getty Images)


SAT 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhngzz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xmw0c)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 18:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3bv8c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:32 Trending (w3ct72t8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 today]


SAT 18:50 More or Less (w3ct6vys)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 today]


SAT 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhnlr3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722g)
Will Serbia’s mass protests unseat the president?

Serbia’s citizens have been protesting for over six months, taking part in demonstrations around the country in reaction to their government’s alleged corruption. Though the country’s president, Aleksandar Vučić, has attempted to appease them, the movement shows no sign of slowing down.

Situated in the Western Balkans, Serbia has had a long history of conflict; from the Ottoman Empire to the dissolution of Yugoslavia, but the ongoing civil unrest comes at a crossroads moment for President Vučić. Serbia is awaiting approval to join the European Union yet remains closely tied with the Kremlin.

As the Serbian government seeks to solidify its place in the world, protestors continue their calls for transparency and accountability. This week on The Inquiry we ask “Will Serbia’s mass protests unseat the president?”

Contributors:
Gordana Andric, Executive Editor at Balkan Investigative Reporting Network, Belgrade, Serbia
Dr. Andi Hoxhaj OBE, Lecturer in Law and the Director of the European Law LLM pathway programme, King’s College, London
Ivana Randelovic, Senior Programme Officer for Europe at Civil Rights Defenders, Belgrade, Serbia
Dr. Helena Ivanov, Associate Research Fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, Belgrade, Serbia

Presenter: Tanya Beckett
Producer: Daniel Rosney
Researcher: Maeve Schaffer
Editor: Tara McDermott
Technical Producer: James Bradshaw
Production Management Assistant: Liam Morrey

Image credit: Srdjan Stevanovic via Getty Images


SAT 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3bz0h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:32 The Global Jigsaw (w3ct7yv6)
The Trump effect on global media

We assess the damage to independent journalism globally by cuts to USAGM and USAID, described as “the chainsaw approach” of the Trump administration. The defunding of Voice of America, RFE/RL (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty) and its multiple language services has been decried as “a gift to dictators”. Although these cuts are being disputed in court, they could have long-lasting implications for audiences around the world. Can the harm be undone?

Producer: Kriszta Satori
Presenter: Krassi Twigg
Contributors: Pascal Fletcher, Samia Hosny, Margaryta Maliukova, Andrey Vladov, Tom Lam, Sarbas Nazari, Moses Rono


SAT 20:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhnqh7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 20:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt5)
American playwright Neil LaBute

Nikki Bedi and cultural critic Zing Tsjeng discuss Oscar-winning French actor Juliet Binoche and co-star Ralph Fiennes being reunited for The Return, and the film’s take on Homer’s Odyssey. And Nikki talks to American playwright and filmmaker Neil LaBute about his play How to Fight Loneliness.

Australian director and writer PJ Hogan on his cult classic of Australian cinema, Muriel’s Wedding.

Nikki speaks to German actor and filmmaker Natja Brunckhorst about her heist comedy Two to One set during German reunification in 1990.

Dutch director Michael Dudok de Wit reflects on collaborating with Japanese animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli.

Main image: Neil LaBute
Photo credit: Fotos International, Getty Images

And there’s music from Spanish singer Rita Payés.


SAT 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhnv7c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 21:06 Newshour (w172zss1ms0szsz)
India and Pakistan accuse each other of ‘violations’ of ceasefire deal

Pakistan and India have accused each other of violating the ceasefire brokered after four days of cross-border attacks. Explosions have been heard in the disputed region of Kashmir an hour after the ceasefire came into effect. We get the latest updates from the region and speak to a former US diplomat about the role played by the United States in mediating the deal.

Also in our programme: European leaders meet in Kyiv in a show of solidarity for Ukraine; and the chimpanzees who have found peace after a life of being experimented on.

(Photo: Flashes are seen in the sky over Indian-administered Kashmir after India-Pakistan ceasefire announcement. Credit: Reuters).


SAT 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhnyzh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct7z05)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 today]


SAT 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhp2qm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xngr0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3cg00)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:32 This Is Africa (w3ct72ct)
Kenya Mko Wapi: Part three

Arbantone is Kenya's youngest and most vibrant musical genre. It's super popular with Nairobi's Gen Z-ers, and an arbantone banger, Anguka Nayo, became the anthem of the protestors who took to the streets last June over the government's controversial finance bill.

But can this dance music, based on borrowed dancehall beats, with lyrics in sheng (swahili slang) win over a global audience?

DJ Edu meets Ares66 and Motif da Don, producers who are trying to professionalise Arbantone and get the corporate backing needed to take it higher.

He also meets three of the biggest artists right now, Dyana Cods, Ssaru and Sean MMG.

Image: Ssaru, DJ Edu and Sean MMG

SUNDAY 11 MAY 2025

SUN 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhp6gr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3ckr4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx3)
Educating Nigeria

Every Nigerian child has the constitutional right to free and compulsory primary education, and free secondary education, yet there remains a huge gap between that law and the reality. One in every five of the world’s out-of-school children lives in Nigeria.

In a nation with one of the world’s youngest populations, this lack of access to education could potentially cost the country its future. Its government recently acknowledged that there are 10.5 million children not being educated.

It’s a complex picture which includes underfunding, a lack of skilled teachers – and an issue of safety. In the northern states, communities have experienced a decade of bandits targeting schools and kidnapping children for ransom.

BBC Africa journalist Yemisi Adegoke hears from parents and students at the sharp end of this crisis, discovers more about what is being done to get children into school despite insecurity, and asks the difficult questions to those in power.

(Photo: A boy stands next to a swing frame in the playground of Zion Baptist secondary school in Jos, 27 February, 2025. (Credit: Olympia de Maismont/AFP)


SUN 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhpb6w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:06 on Saturday]


SUN 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3cph8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:32 Trending (w3ct72t8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 01:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct6yks)
Creating ‘HawkEye’ and goal line tech

In 2000, keen cricketer Paul Hawkins wanted to turn his passion into innovation when he created the technology we now know as ‘HawkEye’ and goal line technology.

It was first used in cricket in 2001.

Then, after several controversial sporting moments, involving Serena Williams and Frank Lampard, it was introduced in tennis and football.

Now it’s used in more than 25 sports around the world.

50-year-old Paul Hawkins tells Megan Jones he’s not ready to hang up his bat, racket, or boots just yet.

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: Dr. Paul Hawkins, inventor of the Hawk-Eye system. Credit: AP Photo/Nick Wass)


SUN 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhpfz0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xntzd)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3ct7d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:32 Health Check (w3ct6vj7)
Shingles vaccine lowers risk of heart disease

Receiving a specific type of shingles vaccine may provide a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular events like stroke or heart failure for up to 8 years. With reports of other shingles vaccines protecting against the risk of dementia, scientists are trying to understand the mechanism underlying these unintended benefits.

The WHO aim to eliminate the neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis from endemic countries by 2030, we investigate what might be standing in the way of this goal.

After 18 years and over 200 snake bites, key protective compounds have been identified in Tim Friede’s blood with the potential to make a snake antivenom with “unparalleled” protection.

Also on the show, a trial led by Professors Adalsteinn Gunnlaugsson and Per Nilsson has shown that a prostate cancer treatment regimen that takes two-and-a-half weeks is as safe and effective as longer 8-week courses, ten years on from treatment.

Plus, if you have celiac disease should you be worried about kissing someone who has just eaten gluten? A new study looks at how much gluten is exchanged in a kiss.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producer: Hannah Robins
Assistant Producer: Katie Tomsett
Researcher: Tabby Taylor Buck
Studio Managers: Cath McGee and Sarah Hockley


SUN 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhpkq4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 03:06 The Documentary (w3ct7gjn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhppg8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trc)
Fear and mistrust in the new Syria

Pascale Harter introduces dispatches from Syria, Poland and Germany.

After the fall of Assad, Syria's new leadership promised to protect the rights of all the country's religious and ethnic minorities. But a wave of sectarian violence in March this year is fueling division between communities, while long-held grievances are proving hard to resolve. Lucy Williamson travelled to Syria's coastal region, where minority Alawite communities recently came under attack after some Assad loyalists attacked the new government's forces.

Bordering both Ukraine and Russia, Poland has its own concerns over safety and security. The government has pledged to up its military spending this year, and is also rolling out military training for civilians. Will Vernon visited a training camp - but found not all Poles keen to enrol.

And 80 years after the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany was liberated, Amie Liebowitz has been to a reunion of people whose lives were marked forever by the place. While there, she heard stories of the weddings and births among the community of displaced people housed in a nearby camp just after the end of World War Two - and also traced her own family's histories of survival.

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

Image: A member of Syria's new General Security Forces handles hand grenades in the coastal region of Latakia, Syria - April 2025.

Image Credit: Fred Scott/BBC


SUN 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3d1qn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78bk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhpt6d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xp66s)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3d5gs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:32 today]


SUN 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhpxyj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 06:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34yhnh)
India-Pakistan ceasefire holds despite fresh violation claims

A fragile ceasefire is in place between India and Pakistan after four days of cross-border attacks. President Trump announced the ceasefire on social media yesterday, crediting the U.S. with helping broker the agreement. However, within hours, both countries accused each other of violations. Pakistan denied the claims, saying it remains committed to peace.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare Saturday night address from the Kremlin, saying Russia is ready for “serious negotiations.” He proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday, May 15, aiming to address what he called “the root causes of the conflict” and explore a new ceasefire. Hours later, Kyiv’s mayor and the Ukrainian air force warned of a Russian airstrike on the capital.
In other news, Pope Leo XIV will lead his first Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, just weeks after the funeral of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Joining us to discuss these developments: Sophie Lambin, founder of Kite Insights, and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell. CREDIT PICTURES: An Indian paramilitary soldier stands guard in Srinagar, the summer of Indian Kashmir, 10 May 2025. / EPA


SUN 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhq1pn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 07:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34ymdm)
Fragile India-Pakistan ceasefire holds amid ongoing tensions

A fragile ceasefire is in place between India and Pakistan after four days of cross-border attacks. President Trump announced the ceasefire on social media yesterday, crediting the US. with helping broker the agreement. However, within hours, both countries accused each other of violations. Pakistan denied the claims, saying it remains committed to peace.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday, May 15, aiming to address what he called “the root causes of the conflict” and explore a new ceasefire. Hours later, Kyiv’s mayor and the Ukrainian air force warned of a Russian airstrike on the capital.
There are six books shortlisted for this year Booker Prize, including "Small Boat" by the French writer and philosopher, Vincent Delacroix. It's a fictional interpretation of a real life incident which took place in the English Channel in November 2021. Twenty-seven migrants, on their way to the UK, drowned when their boat sank.
Joining us to discuss these developments: Sophie Lambin, founder of Kite Insights, and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell. CREDIT: People celebrate after the ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan, in Hyderabad, Pakistan, May 10, 2025. REUTERS


SUN 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhq5fs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 08:06 Weekend (w172zw81x34yr4r)
Putin invites Ukraine to direct talks hours after EU leaders call for Moscow to agree to a 30-day ceasefire

Russia's President Putin has offered direct talks with Ukraine in the Turkish city of Istanbul this coming Thursday. President Putin said that Moscow wanted serious negotiations to remove what he called "the root causes of the conflict." He said an agreement on a ceasefire might be possible.
Also, a fragile ceasefire is in place between India and Pakistan after four days of cross-border attacks despite accusations of violation.
Artificial Intelligence is throwing some complex ethical questions. Recently, AI created a digital representation of a dead man whose statement was played in court - giving the impression that the victim was addressing the court himself from beyond the grave.
Joining us to discuss these developments: Sophie Lambin, founder of Kite Insights, and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell
Russian President Vladimir Putin gives a statement to the media at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia May 11, 2025. Sergey Bobylev/Host agency RIA Novosti/Handout via REUTERS


SUN 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhq95x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 today]


SUN 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3dng9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yc)
Stress, eat, repeat?

When you’re feeling stressed, does it affect your appetite?

In this programme Ruth Alexander is joined by two experts in chronic stress to discuss why it can cause us to crave certain foods, the impact on our bodies and whether there’s anything we can do to prepare for periods of stress in our lives.

Ruth is joined by Professor Rajita Sinha, clinical psychologist and founding director of the Yale University Interdisciplinary Stress Center in the United States, and Dr Mithu Storoni, neuro-ophthalmologist and author of the books ‘Stress-Proof’ and ‘Hyperefficient’.

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

Presented by Ruth Alexander.

Produced by Beatrice Pickup and Bisi Adebayo.

(Image: a woman studying and eating a slice of pizza whilst wearing headphones. Credit: Getty Images/ BBC)


SUN 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhqdy1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxg)
The classroom tablet revolution

From Malawi, Myra Anubi takes a look at ways that technology is improving children’s education. Malawi has free primary schools - but almost 90% of 10 year olds are unable to read properly. So the government is distributing tablets to schools up and down the country. They use software that helps kids to learn maths and reading at their own speed and in their own language. Tests have shown that literacy and numeracy are improving and the children come to school more often.

Myra also visits the world’s first 3D printed school. In Malawi there aren't enough school buildings. Is 3D printing the solution to bringing better classrooms to where they are most needed?

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. 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
Producer: Richard Kenny
Malawi producer: Marie Segula
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Andrew Mills

(Image: Children at Takumana school, Malawi using tablets, Richard Kenny/BBC)


SUN 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3ds6f)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70sv)
The Russian grandma who went to jail

Natalya Filonova is a former kindergarten teacher, a mother, a grandmother. But she’s also an activist and in 2022 she was arrested during a demonstration against the war in Ukraine. Nina Nazarova from BBC Russian has been trying to find out what happened to her. Plus, how a homeless bumblebee brought a community together, with Joao Fellet from BBC Brasil; and a brief history of the 'black dandy style' celebrated at this week's Met Gala in New York, with World Service journalist Danai Nesta Kupemba.

Prestented by Faranak Amidi
Produced by Alice Gioia and Caroline Ferguson

(Photo: Faranak Amidi. Credit: Tricia Yourkevich.)


SUN 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhqjp5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xpxpk)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3dwyk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:32 Trending (w3ct72t8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 11:50 More or Less (w3ct6vys)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


SUN 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhqnf9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 12:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3f0pp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:32 The Global Jigsaw (w3ct7yv6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:32 on Saturday]


SUN 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhqs5f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 13:06 Newshour (w172zss1ms0vxr1)
Zelensky says Russia talks offer is a 'positive sign'

The Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has given a cautious response to Vladimir Putin's offer of direct peace talks. Mr Zelensky said it was a positive sign that Russia was beginning to consider an end to the war - but again called on Moscow to commit to a ceasefire, starting on Monday. In a surprise late night statement, President Putin proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday. He said the talks would address what he described as "the root causes of the conflict."

Also in the programme: As Pope Leo gives his first Sunday address at the Vatican, we speak to two young Catholics; and the South African jazz musician paying homage to a Zulu rain goddess.

(Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Credit: Getty Images)


SUN 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhqwxk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:06 The Climate Question (w3ct701s)
Why does it matter that Greenland is melting?

Greenland is an island covered in a sheet of ice that is over 3km thick in places, containing 7.4 metres of average global sea level rise.

Due to climate change, it’s melting at an astonishing rate.

In a programme first broadcast in 2023, we meet some of the people being forced to rapidly adapt their traditional ways of life. And find out why ice loss means sea level rises for elsewhere in the world – but the opposite for the island itself

Joining presenter Graihagh Jackson are:
• Mads Malik Fuglsang Holm, reporter in Greenland
• Twila Moon, deputy lead scientist at the National Snow and Ice Data Centre, University of Colorado, USA

Email us : theclimatequestion@bbc.com

Producer: Ben Cooper
Series Producers: Simon Watts and Alex Lewis
Editor: China Collins
Sound Engineer: Tom Brignell
Production Coordinators: Debbie Richford, Sophie Hill and Jacqui Johnson


SUN 14:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3f85y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:32 Happy News (w3ct6ty5)
The Happy Pod: Learning to read in your 30s

We meet a man learning to read in his 30s, and inspiring others. He overcame embarrassment to share his journey on his TikTok, Oliver Speaks. Also, laughter yoga;, rehoming chimps, and an 81-year-old female Ironman.

Presenter: Jannat Jalil
Music: Iona Hampson


SUN 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhr0np)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 15:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqgybscn14)
Live Sporting Action

Sportsworld has commentary of the new Premier League champions, as Liverpool take on Arsenal at Anfield. While the title may be decided, there are still Champions League places up for grabs, and there will be updates and reaction from the day’s four other games. Former Liverpool defender Steven Caulker joins Delyth Lloyd to look back at all the weekend’s Premier League action.

Plus, it could be a pivotal day in Italy, with the top two sides both in action, and Italian football expert Mina Rzouki is on this week’s EuroStars to preview the matches involving Inter and Napoli, while there will also be updates from El Classico in Spain.

Away from football, the team also bring you the latest from the Italian Open tennis, and the Conference semi-final stage of the NBA play-offs.

Photo: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool under pressure from Jurrien Timber of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Credit: Getty Images)


SUN 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhrhn6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xqwnl)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3fvxl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:32 The Cultural Frontline (w3ct7yrg)
Taiwan’s artistic trailblazers

How Taiwanese artists are exploring history, identity and the relationship with China in their work.

Presenter Elaine Chong speaks to trailblazing Taiwanese artists about how they're exploring their history, identity and responding to the complex relationship with China.

We'll hear from the showrunner Hsin-Mei Cheng of upcoming TV series Zero Day in which a fictional Chinese invasion of Taiwan plays out over ten episodes.

Heavy metal frontman and former politician Freddy Lim tells us why he thinks Taiwanese culture is distinctive and how he uses his music to explore his country's and family's history.

Award-winning author Yang Shuang-zi and translator Lin King discuss how the historical novel Taiwanese Travelogue, set in the 1930s, resonates with contemporary Taiwan.

And the winner of Ru Paul's Drag Race 2024, Nymphia Wind explains how Taiwanese culture influences her drag style.

Produced by Lucy Collingwood and presented by Elaine Chong for the BBC World Service.
Photo credit: Nymphia Wind, photographer Felipe Santiago, Getty Images


SUN 20:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhrmdb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 20:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 on Saturday]


SUN 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhrr4g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 21:06 Newshour (w172zss1ms0wwq2)
Zelensky says he will meet Putin for talks

After pressure from President Trump, President Zelensky has dropped his previous insistence on a ceasefire before negotiations. He says he is prepared to meet President Putin face-to-face in Istanbul on Thursday.

Also in the programme: The US government is "actively looking at" suspending 'habeas corpus' - the right of a person to challenge their detention in court - according to one of President Trump's top aides; and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria at the end of the Second World War..

(Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky gestures as he addresses a joint press conference following a meeting of the 'Coalition of the willing' at the Mariinskyi Palace, the official residence of the president of Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, 10 May 2025, amid the ongoing Russian invasion.
'Coalition of the willing' leaders meet in Kyiv, Ukraine - 10 May 2025. Credit: Sergey Dolzhenko/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SUN 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhrvwl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:06 The Climate Question (w3ct701s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 today]


SUN 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3g74z)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


SUN 22:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]


SUN 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhrzmq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1l1xrcn3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3gbx3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70sv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 today]

MONDAY 12 MAY 2025

MON 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlfvhs3cv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 00:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxdwl3ggn7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 00:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yf8)
Gain-of-Function: Loss-of-Funding

This week, the White House posted an executive order which details the administration’s intent to stop ‘dangerous gain-of-function research’. We talk to Gigi Gronvall, an immunologist and biosecurity expert at Johns Hopkins University who fears the timing and added bureaucracy could stop all sorts of important biosciences unnecessarily, and that the order is somewhat ideologically driven.

Also, Nasa’s Juno mission has provided data on the most powerful volcanic event ever recorded, which took place on the planet Io, one of Jupiter’s moons. Hellish Io, squeezed as it is by the immense gravity of Jupiter, has not been observed from its poles before in this manner. Last week at EGU25, Science in Action got to speak with the mission’s principal investigator, Scott Bolton of Southwest Research Institute.

Still on Jupiter’s moons, we also ask whether there could there be life on Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa? Scientists believe their glaciated oceans may harbour conditions suitable for life. Also at the EGU meeting were Jonathan Lunine, chief scientist at Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Lab, and Athena Coustenis, director of research at the Paris Observatory in Meudon.

Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Alex Mansfield with Tabby Taylor-Buck
Production co-ordinator: Josie Hardy

(Photo: Clinical support technician extracts viruses from swab samples. Credit: Jane Barlow/Getty Images)


MON 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sx2d4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6wgdj)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdlfnj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 01:32 Discovery (w3ct6svv)
Unstoppable: Tebello Nyokong

Dr Julia Ravey and Dr Ella Hubber are both scientists, but it turns out there’s a lot they don’t know about the women that came before them. In Unstoppable, Julia and Ella tell each other the hidden, world-shaping stories of the scientists, engineers and innovators that they wish they’d known about when they were starting out in science. This week, the story of a woman who gained her education by herding sheep during her childhood to becoming one of Africa’s most prominent scientists.

Born under Apartheid in South Africa, Tebello Nyokong and her family uprooted their lives to escape the unequal education system enforced upon Black South Africans. After herding sheep proved she could do anything a boy could do, Tebello ended up studying science and found a love for chemistry. In the face of limited opportunities, she once again uprooted her life and took her studies oversees, but this was when she was introduced to something huge: a new, ground-breaking cancer treatment. Now Tebello is using nanotechnology to get this therapy off the ground, all while she fights to make Africa a science superpower.

Presenters: Ella Hubber and Julia Ravey
Guest Speaker: Professor Tebello Nyokong
Producers: Ella Hubber and Julia Ravey
Assistant producers: Sophie Ormiston, Anna Charalambou and Josie Hardy
Sound Designer: Ella Roberts
Production Coordinator: Ishmael Soriano
Editor: Holly Squire

(Image: Professor Tebello Nyokong. Credit: Professor Tebello Nyokong)


MON 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sx648)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6wl4n)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdlkdn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 02:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssl)
Is red sky at night really sailor’s delight?

You may have grown up hearing the saying “red sky at night, sailor’s delight, red sky in morning, sailor’s warning” - or maybe a variation of it. CrowdScience listener Alison, who sees many dazzling red skies from her home in the Yukon, Canada, certainly did. And now she wonders if the saying is a sensible prediction of coming weather or just another old wives’ tale.

Alison and presenter Anand Jagatia run a little experiment, getting up at the crack of dawn and staying up until dusk for 5 days to record if the sunset and sunrise can predict their local weather.

While we wait for the results, we track this weather proverb back to its ancient roots to find out how important it may have been to the people without satellites or even thermometers to guide them.

We also tap into the expertise of modern-day weather predictors, meteorologists. What are the atmospheric pressure systems that cause red skies, and how do they influence the weather globally? And what exceptions to the rules might turn a trusty old proverb on its head?

Presenter: Anand Jagatia
Producer: Ella Hubber
Series Producer: Ben Motley


MON 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sx9wd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 03:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdlp4s)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 03:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


MON 03:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]


MON 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sxfmj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6wtmx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdlswx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 04:32 The Conversation (w3ct708l)
Tackling the tide of trash

Datshiane Navanayagam talks to women from Nigeria and the UK who are trying to ensure what we throw away doesn’t go to waste.

Esther Fagbo is a partner at Wecyclers in Nigeria – a for-profit social enterprise that pays waste pickers and households for their recyclable rubbish in densely populated Lagos. Alongside her work at Wecyclers she has carried out projects with Fair Plastic Alliance, an NGO that supports the health and livelihood of waste workers, including a 2024 documentary Heroes of Recycling.

Maxine Mayhew is chief operating officer, collections and specialist services at Biffa, one of the UK's largest waste-management companies. They work out what can be recycled and deliver to recycling centres. Maxine oversees collections and sorting of household waste for local authorities, as well as all industrial and commercial collection and waste from construction and demolitions. She also heads up the company shop group which stops goods that could be in the food chain going to landfill, so that they can instead go to those facing food poverty.

Produced by Jane Thurlow

(Image: (L) Maxine Mayhew credit Biffa. (R) Esther Fagbo credit Fotovillager/Asere Oluwatunmise Samuel.)


MON 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sxkcn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 05:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6vyd7)
Ukrainian President willing to meet Vladimir Putin

The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will travel to Turkey on Thursday to take part in direct talks with Russia, but no ceasefire has been agreed. This comes after a forceful message from President Trump demanding that the two parties engage with each other.

Hamas say that they will release the last surviving American Israeli hostage, Edan Alexander, as talks on a ceasefire continue.

Today the Philippines will go to the polls in mid term elections. Battling it out will be the country's two major political clans, the Marcos family and the Dutertes.

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky at a joint press conferences following a meeting of the 'Coalition of the willing.' Credit: Dolzhenko/EPA-EFE)


MON 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sxp3s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 06:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6w24c)
President Zelensky will meet Russia for direct talks

Ukrainian president, Volodomyr Zelensky, says he will be in Turkey on Thursday for direct talks with Russia about the war. He's under pressure from Donald Trump to start dialogue without the precondition of a ceasefire. But in Kyiv there's scepticism that a deal can be agreed.

Can the ceasefire deal between India and Pakistant hold? The two nuclear armed nations appeared to be in a cycle of escalation before an agreement was reached on Saturday, but tensions remain high.

And the US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent says there has been substantial progress in trade talks with China.

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky reacts during a joint press conference at a meeting of the "Coalition of the willing" Credit: Darek Delmanowicz EPA-EFE)


MON 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sxsvx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 07:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6w5wh)
President Zelensky urged to meet Vladimir Putin

The Ukraine leader Volodomyr Zelensky says he'll travel to Turkey on Thursday for talks with Russia. But there's no ceasefire deal in place, despite demands from Ukraine's European allies.

Members of British special forces have told the BBC that they witnessed colleagues killing unarmed civilians in Afghanistan.

And the the US President Donald Trump says that he will sharply reduce the cost of prescription drugs for Americans. With its private medical system some medicines cost ten times as much as they would in other countries.

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: (L-R) France's President Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer walk to attend a joint press conference following a meeting of the 'Coalition of the willing' at the Mariinskyi Palace, Kyiv. Credit: Darek Delmanowicz/EPA)


MON 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sxxm1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzj)
Sir John Major, former UK Prime Minister - are the lessons of WW2 being forgotten?

Nick Robinson speaks to Sir John Major, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

It’s 80 years since VE day marked the end of WW2 in Europe - and Sir John reflects on the lessons that should be remembered from the conflict. He is the last British Prime Minister who was alive during the Second World War.

Sir John warns democracy should not be taken for granted, and is in retreat in some parts of the world - where tyranny is instead taking its place. He sets out his belief in fighting for the freedom of Ukraine, in a stronger NATO, and in a united Europe able to defend itself.

The former Prime Minister also looks back at previous Victory in Europe days, and the moving ceremonies, moments and people that have stayed with him.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Nick Robinson
Producers: Ben Cooper, Lucy Sheppard
Editor: Max Deveson

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


MON 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdm8wf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rxj)
Tariffs and terroir

We’re in the French winemaking region of Burgundy which last year sold 400 million dollars of wine to the United States. The US is the region’s biggest export market, but could import tariffs put paid to that?

On the other side of the Atlantic, you might think the winemakers of Oregon and California would be cracking open something special to celebrate. How is the prospect of American tariffs on European wine going down with the US competition?

Presented and produced by John Laurenson

(Picture: Vineyard worker, Élodie Bonet, in Burgundy, France.)


MON 08:50 Witness History (w3ct7460)
Intervision Song Contest

In 1980, Finnish singer Marion Rung won the Intervision Song Contest.

Born in the 1960s, Intervision was the Eastern Bloc’s answer to Eurovision. It ran until 1980, although in 2025 Russia’s President Vladimir Putin ordered its revival.

Finland, which maintained neutrality during the Cold War, was one of the few countries to participate in both competitions. Marion Rung achieved top 10 Eurovision finishes in 1962 and 1973 before winning Intervision. She speaks to Ben Henderson.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Marion Rung performing at the Intervision Song Contest in 1980. Credit: Juha Jormanainen/Shutterstock)


MON 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sy1c5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6xfck)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdmdmk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 09:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sy539)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 10:06 The History Hour (w3ct71vp)
Rescuing Palmyra’s treasures and 80 years since VE Day

Max Pearson presents a collection of the week's Witness History interviews from the BBC World Service. Our guest is Rubina Raja, professor of classical archaeology and art at Aarhus University in Denmark.

First, we go back to May 2015, when the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria was about to fall to Jihadist fighters and how of a group of men risked their lives to preserve the world-famous archaeology.

Plus, the entrepreneur and engineer Yoshitada Minami and his wife Fumiko Minami who came up with a way to liberate women from two to three hours of housework a day through the invention of the rice cooker in 1955.

Then the story of the sinking of the Lusitania, the British ocean liner sunk by a German submarine off the coast of Ireland during the First World War.

Also, celebrating 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe we dive into the BBC archives to listen to correspondents capturing the scenes of joy across London on VE day in 1945.

Finally, how in 2000, keen cricketer Paul Hawkins wanted to turn his passion into innovation when he created the technology we now known as ‘HawkEye’.

Contributors:

Khalil Hariri - archaeology expert who worked at Palmyra’s museum
Rubina Raja - professor of classical archaeology and art at Aarhus University in Denmark
Aiji Minami - son of Yoshitada and Fumiko Minami
Margaret Hague Thomas – passenger on the Lusitania
Leslie Morton – merchant seaman on the Lusitania
Paul Hawkins – founder of ‘Hawkeye’

(Photo: Palmyra. Credit: PHAS / Universal Images Group via Getty Images)


MON 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sy8vf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6xnvt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdmn3t)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 11:32 The Conversation (w3ct708l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sydlk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpk)
The blind Holocaust survivor who caught a fugitive Nazi

Lothar Hermann’s German-Jewish family perished in the Holocaust, but when he escaped to Argentina, little did he know that within a few years a Nazi fugitive would wind up living at the end of his street.

Lilianna Hermann spent two decades uncovering the story of a hidden family hero - her great uncle Lothar - only to find a shocking truth: it was Lothar who had played a vital role in capturing the notorious SS officer and Nazi fugitive, Adolf Eichmann, the man responsible with carrying out Hitler’s Final Solution. But Lothar was not celebrated in Eichmann’s capture and eventual trial and back home Lothar faced threats and indifference from Nazi sympathisers.

This is the unbelievable true story of how a blind survivor, living off his pension, brought down one of the architects of the Holocaust.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producer: Edgar Maddicott and Zoe Gelber

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

(Photo: Lothar Hermman (left)/ Nazi SS officer Adolf Eichmann(right). Credit: Courtesy of Liliana Hermann/United States Holocaust Memorial Museum)


MON 12:50 Witness History (w3ct7460)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3syjbp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6xxc2)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdmwm2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 13:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3syn2t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 14:06 Newshour (w172zss201b2snf)
China and US agree major tariff cuts

China and the United States have agreed to major tariff cuts during talks in Geneva. US tariffs on most Chinese goods will drop to 30%, while China will charge US products 10%. We hear from economist Alicia Garcia Herrero.

Also in the programme: Kurdish militants PKK to disarm; Afrikaner refugees arrive in the US.

(Picture: US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent speaks during a press conference after two days of closed-door discussions on trade between the United States and China, in Geneva, Switzerland. Credit: Photo by EPA)


MON 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3syrty)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdn43b)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76qf)
Tariffs have fallen....but is the trade war over?

The US and China have agreed a deal that will significantly cut the import tariffs, or taxes, both sides have imposed on one another for a 90-day period.

We hear the reaction from Chinese business owner, the former undersecretary for international trade at the US Department of Commerce and a trade analyst.

You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.


MON 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sywl2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 16:06 BBC OS (w173067r7460rq1)
Kurdish group PKK says it is laying down arms and disbanding

We take a walk around the BBC's headquarters here in London to take you through all of today's top stories. We start with the outlawed Kurdish group the PKK which has announced it is laying down its arms and disbanding. We'll also hear about the latest on the war in Ukraine and the US-China trade war.

We speak to two people - either side of the Pakistan-India controlled border in Kashmir - as discussions continue over a ceasefire.

And we have a conversation with journalists who were at Pope Leo XIV's first press event today.

OS presenter: Andrew Peach.

(Photo: A demonstrator holds a picture of jailed Kurdish militant leader Abdullah Ocalan during a rally in Diyarbakir, Turkey, February 27, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Sertac Kayar/File Photo)


MON 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sz0b6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 17:06 BBC OS (w173067r7460wg5)
Hamas release Israeli-American hostage

Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander has been transferred to Israeli forces in Gaza. We bring you reaction from the region and analysis from our North America reporter.

The trial of the American hip hop star Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is beginning in New York. He denies all the accusations that he run a sex trafficking operation. Our reporter brings us the latest from the courthouse.

Our Africa correspondent tells us about 49 white Afrikaans South Africans who are to be granted refugee status by the US, and we get reaction to the story from people in South Africa.

As India and Pakistan continue to discuss details of a ceasefire, we hear a conversation with two men - Indian and Pakistani - who live either side of the border in Kashmir.

Presenter: Andrew Peach.

(Photo: A person holds a sign with a picture of the Israeli-American hostage, Edan Alexander, who was kidnapped during the deadly October 7 attack. Tel Aviv, Israel May 12, 2025. Credit: Reuters/Ronen Zvulun)


MON 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sz42b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


MON 18:50 Witness History (w3ct7460)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3sz7tg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6ymtv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdnm2v)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z4w)
2025/05/12 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 (w172zwwlt3szckl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 20:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdnqtz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 20:32 Discovery (w3ct6svw)
Unstoppable: Inge Lehmann

From growing up in a progressive Denmark to studying mathematics at a gender-segregated Cambridge University, Inge Lehmann had to power through the shock of cultural change to pursue her love of mathematics. Whilst managing several seismological stations, Inge notices the peculiar readings in the data she was collecting. Was the Earth’s composition actually different to what the experts had thought?

Dr Julia Ravey and Dr Ella Hubber tell the story of Danish seismologist Inge Lehmann who used earthquakes to uncover the truth about the composition of the Earth’s inner core.

Presenters: Ella Hubber and Julia Ravey
Guest Speakers: Dr Lif Lund Jacobsen and Dr Trine Dahl-Jensen
Producers: Ella Hubber and Julia Ravey
Assistant producers: Sophie Ormiston, Anna Charalambou and Josie Hardy
Sound designer: Ella Roberts
Production co-ordinator: Ishmael Soriano
Editor: Holly Squire

(Photo: Inge Lehmann Credit: Neuhaus, Even (6.2.1863-20.4.1946) /Royal Danish Library)


MON 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3szh9q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201b3mwb)
Last living US hostage released by Hamas

The Israeli military says Edan Alexander, the last living hostage in Gaza with US citizenship, has returned to Israel after being released by Hamas. Also on the programme, global stocks have risen after the United States and China agreed to reduce tariffs on each other's goods, pausing a trade war that's caused huge economic disruption; and, how Britain's prime minister is making a risky move on immigration.

(Photo: A woman touches a picture of the Israeli-American hostage, Edan Alexander, who was kidnapped during the deadly October 7 attack, on the day Edan Alexander is expected to be released from captivity by Hamas in Gaza, in Tel Aviv, Israel May 12, 2025. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun)


MON 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3szm1v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 22:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdnzb7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 22:32 The Conversation (w3ct708l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3szqsz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6z3tc)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdp32c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76sp)
US and China pull back from beyond brink

The retaliatory tit-for-tat rise in tariff rates between the US and China has been cancelled, following talks in Switzerland and the so-called "reciprocal" tariff rate of 34% is lowered to 10%. It's a ceasefire on what has become a global trade war as markets are rising again, and container ships can set sail across the Pacific.

Britain's Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer has promised the government's new immigration measures will mean net migration falls "significantly" over the next four years.Keir Starmer unveiled plans to ban recruitment of care workers from overseas, tighten access to skilled worker visas and raise the costs to employers in an effort to curb near record net migration.

TUESDAY 13 MAY 2025

TUE 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3szvk3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 00:06 The History Hour (w3ct71vp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3szz97)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1zm403sd)
China and US agrees tariff cuts

The retaliatory tit-for-tat rise in tariff rates between the US and China has been cancelled, following talks in Switzerland and the so-called "reciprocal" tariff rate of 34% is lowered to 10%. It's a ceasefire on what has become a global trade war as markets are rising again, and container ships can set sail across the Pacific.

But economically, who benefits more from this short-term ceasefire—Washington or Beijing?

Britain's Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer has promised the government's new immigration measures will mean net migration falls "significantly" over the next four years.

Keir Starmer unveiled plans to ban recruitment of care workers from overseas, tighten access to skilled worker visas and raise the costs to employers in an effort to curb near record net migration.


TUE 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t031c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6zh1r)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdpg9r)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:32 Assignment (w3ct6rbg)
Syria: Return to ruins

Thirteen million Syrians - half the population - left their homes during their country's 13-year civil war. Seven million were internally displaced. Six million fled abroad. Bringing them home is perhaps the biggest challenge facing Syria's new rulers. But many cannot return, because their homes are in ruins, and jobs and essential services are lacking.

Tim Whewell follows a variety of returnees back to Homs, Syria’s third city, which saw some of the worst destruction of the war. A private charity organises convoys of families wanting to return from camps in the north of the country. But once returnees like Fatima Hazzoura get back, they are left to cope on their own. Some who came back earlier have managed to repair their homes. But others find their houses are just empty, burnt-out shells.

Meanwhile, some in Homs who stayed throughout the war - members of the Alawite minority, whose neighbourhoods remained intact - are thinking of leaving now, fearful that the new government of former Islamist rebels will not protect them. And Homs people who made new lives abroad are hesitant to return permanently while the situation is so unstable, and the economy still crippled by international sanctions. Can the fabric of an ancient and diverse city be rebuilt?

Producer: Tim Whewell
Researcher/location production/translator: Aref al-Krez
Translation: Maria Mohammad
Security/photography: Rolf Andreason
Sound mixing: James Beard
Production co-ordinator: Gemma Ashman
Editor: Penny Murphy

(Image: Yasir al-Nagdaly has returned to his shattered home in Homs, Syria. Credit: Rolf Andreason)


TUE 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t06sh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Monday]


TUE 03:50 Witness History (w3ct7460)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0bjm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb6zqk0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdppt0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vt9)
Serbian singer-songwriter Luke Black

Luke Black is a Serbian singer-songwriter who represented his country at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023, the world’s largest live music event, with an audience of over 160 million.

Performing his song Samo Mi Se Spava, his set and choreography, with its special effect giant robot, were inspired by the video games he loves.

Now based in London, he is redeveloping those ideas from video games and hero films to create a new collection of songs. He tells the BBC's Andrea Kidd why he is going darker with these new songs and how the recent student protests in Serbia have inspired him to write an unusually lyrical ballad. He also talks about his experiences at the Eurovision Song Contest and readjusting to life and work afterwards.


TUE 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0g8r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 05:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6yv9b)
Donald Trump heading to Middle East

US president Donald Trump is due to touch down in the Saudia Arabian capital of Riyadh. He's touring the gulf region with economic and political deals on his agenda.

One area where there's hope for diplomatic progress is a possible peace deal for Gaza, the release of the Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander has raised expectations of US engagement and progress towards an agreement.

And progress on US-China trade has boosted stock prices.

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump gestures, while he boards Air Force One, as he departs for Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Credit Brian Snyder/ REUTERS)


TUE 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0l0w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 06:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6yz1g)
US President due to arrive in Saudi Arabia

US president Donald Trump begins his 3-day tour of Gulf nations in Saudi Arabia today. He has economic deals on the agenda and wants to tap into the region's capital for investing in the US. He's also hoping for diplomatic deals and looking for the opportunity to push forward talks on a peace deal for Gaza.

This has been given impetus by the release of Israeli American Edan Alexander by Hamas but many hostages remain and Israel is continuing to block aid deliveries to the territory.

In Nepal Buddhists monks, government officials and scientists have held a "funeral ceremony" for a Himalyan glacier. They want to highlight the impact of climate change on the world's ice formations and the environmental impact of their loss.

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: U.S. and Saudi flags flutter along a highway of Riyadh. Credit: Hamad I Mohammed/REUTERS)


TUE 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0ps0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 07:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l6z2sl)
Donald Trump visits Middle East

Donald Trump is due to arrive in Saudi Arabia shortly, at the start of the first major tour since he returned to the White House. The emphasis during his visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates is expected to be on trade.

The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees has warned that Israel’s ongoing blockade along the Gaza Strip is causing "irreparable harm" to the lives of Palestinians within Gaza. Unrwa's Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini has been speaking to our International Editor, Jeremy Bowen and told him
Israeli authorities were denying children their basic right to learn and accused them of a "blatant disregard of international law".

Presenters: Rob Young and Lukwesa Burak

(Photo: A street is decorated with flags of Saudi Arabia and the US ahead of the US President's visit to Riyadh. Credit: Ali Haider/EPA-EFE)


TUE 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0tj4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxh)
Helping Chile’s stolen children

During the 1970s and 80s, thousands of Chilean babies were illegally kidnapped, trafficked and adopted. The practice was widespread during the rule of General Augusto Pinochet, who encouraged overseas adoptions to reduce poverty. A network of adoption brokers, hospital staff, social workers, judges, priests and nuns facilitated this trafficking.

Today many of Chile’s ‘stolen children’ are trying to trace their birth families - and their mothers are also looking for them. Hundreds of them have been successfully reunited with the help of a small Santiago-based NGO called Nos Buscamos. Using DNA testing kits, and a range of other techniques and technologies, they help track down families separated for decades. We meet Constanza del Rio - the founder of the project - and hear from the families they’ve helped to bring back together.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. 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: Jane Chambers
Producer: Viv Jones
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Hal Haines

(Image: Jimmy Thyden-Lippert González embraces his mother Maria Angelica González, credit: Nos Buscamos)


TUE 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdq5sj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s6k)
The US-Gulf relationship

The US president is flying in to Saudi Arabia for a high profile visit to the region.

It's his first official foreign trip in office - apart from a brief visit to Rome.

For Saudi Arabia, Trump's visit is about strengthening ties with their longest-standing Western ally - a relationship that grew strained during the Biden years.

For President Trump, it is about landing investment deals that can be framed as a win for his economic agenda. So can both sides get what they want?

Produced and presented by Sameer Hashmi

(Image: President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pictured in 2019. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74ml)
Tesla and Edison: Electricity rivals

By 1915, the two great rivals, Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison, had brought electricity to the world.

It was reported that they were set to share the Nobel Prize for Physics, but it never happened.

In 2011, Claire Bowes spoke to Tesla’s biographer Mark Seifer and relative William Terbo.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Nikola Tesla in c.1896 and Thomas Edison in 1893. Credit: Bettmann and SSPL/Getty Images)


TUE 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t0y88)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb70b8n)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdq9jn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:32 Assignment (w3ct6rbg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t120d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 10:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


TUE 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t15rj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb70krx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdqk0x)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vt9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t19hn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6x47)
How I discovered the ozone hole and saved millions of lives

Jonathan Shanklin loves data. He's spent over half a century collecting records on everything from comets to rare plants. But there was one dataset that would allow him to quite literally save the world, because it revealed a massive hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica. Jonathan was a junior scientist at the time, so his bosses initially thought he'd made a mistake. But Jonathan knew what the data was telling him. So he persevered. It's now 40 years since the ozone hole first made global headlines, and since politicians and industry came together to ban the use of ozone-destroying chemicals that were widely found in everything from aerosols to refrigerators. Jonathan reflects on how he turned some scrawled numbers into a story that saved countless lives.

In 2001, Canadian Jill Heinerth did something that no other person had ever done before - she dived inside an iceberg. No-one knew at the time what would be inside, but as an expert diver and underwater filmmaker Jill had an inkling an iceberg would have plenty of extraordinary caves and crevasses to explore. She persuaded National Geographic magazine to fund an exploratory dive into an enormous iceberg known as B15, and headed off to the Antarctic. Jill quickly discovered that her hunch about the caves was right. It was an experience of awe and wonder - but one that almost took her life.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Anna Lacey

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

(Photo: Jonathan Shanklin. Credit: Jonathan Shanklin)


TUE 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74ml)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t1f7s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb70t85)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdqsj5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:32 Discovery (w3ct6svw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Monday]


TUE 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t1jzx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 14:06 Newshour (w172zss201b5pkj)
Donald Trump begins tour of Middle East

US president Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia on his first major overseas tour of his second term. He attended a lavish lunch with some of America’s most prominent economic and tech leaders He will then fly on to Qatar - which has controversially gifted him an airliner to replace Air Force One - and then the United Arab Emirates.

Also in the programme: the head of the main UN agency for Palestinians has told the BBC that Israel's blockade of food deliveries to Palestinians in Gaza constitutes a war crime, a claim that Israel denies; and we speak to the British adventurer who climbed Mount Everest to complete the world's longest triathlon.

(Picture: US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman after arriving in Saudi Arabia. Credit: Bandar Algaloud/Courtesy of Saudi Royal Court)


TUE 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t1nr1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdr10f)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct766l)
Why is Trump in the Middle East?

Saudi Arabia and the US have announced a number of economic tie ups during President Trump's trip Riyadh we find out what they've talked about.

Also today As African business leaders meet in Cote D'Ivoire How do they see the United States when it comes to trade and economic development? We'll hear from the CEO forum in Abidjan.

And if the international airline hoping AI can help cut flight delays.

You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.


TUE 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t1sh5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 16:06 BBC OS (w173067r7463nm4)
US and Saudi Arabia sign $142bn arms deal

US President Donald Trump is meeting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his first major diplomatic trip of his second term. The White House says Saudi Arabia has made a "$600bn commitment to invest in the United States." We speak to our correspondents to explain the significance of this meeting. Trump has also angrily rejected criticism of his decision to accept the gift of an airliner from Qatar to temporarily replace Air Force One, we'll speak to BBC Verify to fact check the story.

Kim Kardashian is testifying in the trial of 10 people accused of robbing her at gunpoint in a Paris hotel suite in 2016. We speak to our correspondent.

And we discuss Cannes Film Festival's ban on nudity and “excessively voluminous” clothing on the red carpet.

OS presenter: Joe Inwood.

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman during a welcoming ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2025. Credit: Bandar Algaloud/Courtesy of Saudi Royal Court/Handout via REUTERS)


TUE 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t1x79)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 17:06 BBC OS (w173067r7463sc8)
UN: Israel denying food to Gaza is 'weapon of war'

The head of the main UN agency for Palestinians has told the BBC that Israel's blockade of food deliveries to Palestinians in Gaza constitutes a war crime. Philippe Lazzarini of UNRWA told the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen the Israeli government had weaponised food by stopping supplies for more than two months. Jeremy Bowen will give us the latest.

Eurovision kicks off today, so we speak to our reporters there about what we can expect from the international song contest this year.

And the Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti will leave the Spanish club at the end of the season to become the new national team coach of Brazil. We have a conversation with Brazilians about their hopes for his time in charge.

OS presenter: Joe Inwood.

(Photo: An internally displaced Palestinian boy walks between destroyed buildings in the streets of Al Shejaeya neighbourhood in the east of Gaza City on, 12 May 2025. Credit: Photo by MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


TUE 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t20zf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6x47)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


TUE 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74ml)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t24qk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb71jqy)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdrhzy)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z9d)
2025/05/13 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 (w172zwwlt3t28gp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:06 Assignment (w3ct6rbg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdrmr2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znp)
The impact of online abuse

An international study looks at the online experiences of young people from marginalised groups, including sex workers, gay and transgender people, and people living with HIV. It concludes they are facing a surge in online abuse. We speak to Phong from Vietnam about his experience, then hear about the study from the lead researcher.

Also on Tech Life this week, find out how a drone company in Ghana has benefited from US foreign aid cuts. And how could catching the bus help improve your posture ?

We enjoy reading the messages being sent in about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones
Producer: Tom Quinn
Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo of a woman who has received online abuse. Credit: OcusFocus/Getty Images)


TUE 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2d6t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201b6jsf)
Trump touts $142bn arms deal on Saudi visit

The US and Saudi Arabia say they have signed commercial deals worth $142bn during Donald Trump's ongoing trip in the Middle East. Also on the programme, the head of the UN agency for Palestinians has told the BBC that Israel's blockade of food deliveries to Palestinians inside Gaza constitutes a war crime; and, a self-declared "king" of Germany and three of his senior "subjects" have been arrested and their group banned for attempting to overthrow the state.

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman exchange a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a ceremony at the Royal Court in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Brian Snyder)


TUE 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2hyy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdrw7b)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vt9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2mq2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb720qg)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdrzzg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct769z)
US & Saudi Arabia announce huge investment deals

The US and Saudi Arabia announce a wave of AI and defence deals. Sam Fenwick finds out who benefits and what businesses in the Middle East make of it.

Plus China lifts its ban on Boeing aircraft deliveries and what went wrong at Nissan?

WEDNESDAY 14 MAY 2025

WED 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2rg6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 00:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


WED 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2w6b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1zm430ph)
AI and arms: Inside the Saudi-US investment deal

Sam Fenwick looks at the world's biggest business stories with guests Kimberly Adams in the US and David Kuo in Singapore.

They'll find out how AI and arms are at the heart of the flurry of deals being made between the US and Saudi Arabia.

Why is car maker Nissan cutting 20,000 jobs?

And how British Airways says AI is helping the airline cut delays.


WED 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t2zyg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb72cyv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdsc6v)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 02:32 The Climate Question (w3ct703v)
Will the new Pope be a climate campaigner?

Will Pope Leo continue the Catholic Church's work on fighting global warming? And how influential might he be? Graihagh Jackson investigates.

Guests:
Christiana Zenner, Associate Professor of Theology, Science and Ethics in the Department of Theology at Fordham University. Author of the forthcoming "Beyond Laudato Si"
Dr Adil Najam, President of WWF International, and Professor of International Relations and of Earth and Environment at the Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University

Producer: Beth Timmins
Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown
Sounds Engineers: Dave O'Neil and David Crackles
Editor: Simon Watts

If you have a question, email us at theclimatequestion@bbc.com or leave a WhatsApp message at + 44 8000 321 721


WED 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t33pl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6x47)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Tuesday]


WED 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74ml)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t37fq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb72mg3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdslq3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 04:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y48)
The Six Billion Dollar Gold Scam

The Six Billion Dollar Gold Scam: 8. The fall guy

Did geologist Michael de Guzman really jump to his death from a helicopter? New information on his last day alive comes to light. And Suzanne tracks down details of his autopsy. Were there other forces at work? Was de Guzman’s death collateral in a larger cover up?

Since this episode was recorded, John McBeth has sadly passed away. We are very grateful for his contribution to this story.

Please note, this episode contains difficult subject matter, including references to suicide, death and descriptions of serious injury, including some graphic content.

The Six Billion Dollar Gold Scam was first published in May 2024.


WED 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3c5v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 05:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l71r6f)
United States and Saudi Arabia sign big commercial deals

President Trump and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, have signed commercial agreements worth more than six hundred billion dollars which includes an arms deal of $142 billion dollars. President Trump is due to arrive in Qatar today as he continues his three day tour to the region.

President Trump has also announced the lifting of all US sanctions against Syria. It comes after Bashar al Assad was overthrown in December, following decades of authoritarian rule by the Assad family.

And officials in Gaza say at least 28 people have been killed and many wounded in an Israeli airstrike on the European Hospital in Khan Younis. The rockets landed in the car park where parents had been asked to gather to prepare for the evacuation of their sick children from Gaza. The israelis say they were targetting Hamas. We have a report by our special correspondent Fergal Keane.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: US President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed in Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at Saudi US Investment Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arablia. Credit: Ali Haider/EPA-EFE)


WED 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3gxz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 06:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l71vyk)
President Trump says US will lift sanctions on Syria

US President Donald Trump has pledged to lift all sanctions against Syria saying it was now time for the country to move forward. Today he is due to meet Syria's transitional President, Ahmed al Sharaa. In Damascus there have been scenes of wild celebrations as people there greeted the news.

Mr Trump continues his visit to the gulf nations, after signing multi billion dollar deals in Saudi Arabia, today he's in Qatar.

And we have a report from Poland, Ukrainian refugees who settled in the country following a full scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia say abuse and hostility towards them is on the rise.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: Syrians celebrate on the street after the US announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria, in Idlib, Syria. Credit: Ahmad Fallah/EPA-EFE)


WED 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3lp3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 07:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l71zpp)
US sanctions lifted on Syria

The US President Donald Trump has said he will lift all sanctions on Syria to give the country "a chance at greatness." He's due to meet Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa. The decision was met enthusiastically by Syria, with people spilling into the streets of major cities to celebrate.

Israeli forces have intensified their attacks on northern Gaza overnight, Doctors say children are among those killed in raids on the Jabalia refugee camp.

We look at the commercial deals worth hundreds of billions of dollars struck between the United States and Saudi Arabia.

And as the trial process continues for the man accused of killing a top healthcare executive in the United States, we hear how Luigi Mangione has become a hero for some...

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: Syrians celebrate on the street after the US announced the lifting of sacntions on Syria, in Idlib. Credit: Ahmad Fallah/EPA-EFE)


WED 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3qf7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7x69)
Radosław Sikorski, Foreign Minister of Poland: dealing with the growing threat from Russia

Kasia Madera speaks to Radosław Sikorski, the Foreign Minister of Poland.

As a key, long-term ally to Ukraine, Poland has played a pivotal role in supporting its neighbour following the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022.

Mr Sikorski talks about the growing threat Poland, as well as Europe, faces from Russia, and follows his country’s decision to close the Russian consulate in Krakow.

The move was made in response to a shopping centre fire in Warsaw last year, that Poland blames on Moscow. The Kremlin has dismissed the accusation as completely without foundation - it accuses Poland of hostility, and describes relations between the countries as deplorable.

Mr Sikorski also gives his take on the prospect of a lasting ceasefire in Ukraine, the involvement of the US President Donald Trump, and the future of NATO.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Kasia Madera
Producers: Lucy Sheppard, Ben Cooper
Editor: Emma Rippon

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


WED 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdt2pm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6sc2)
Is dollar dominance coming to an end?

The value of the US dollar has fallen in recent months.

Currencies rise and fall all the time, but since US President Donald Trump announced a raft of tariffs in early April, the drops have been sharp and dramatic.

The greenback, as the US dollar is known, has been the world’s main reserve currency since the end of World War Two.

But is this changing?

Produced and presented by Ijeoma Ndukwe

(Image: A hand holding US dollars. Credit: Getty Images)


WED 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74pv)
The founding of the Warsaw Pact

On 14 May 1955, the leader of the Soviet Union and leaders from seven European countries met to sign the Warsaw Pact.

In the years following World War Two, the Soviet Union and the United States started the worldwide Cold War. While Western powers feared the spread of communism, the Soviets worried about US atomic bombs.

What resulted was the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in 1949.

The Warsaw Pact was signed six years later in response to West Germany joining NATO.

Natasha Fernandes uses archive of East Germany’s leader Otto Grotewohl to tell the story.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Soviet Premier, Nikolai Bulganin (centre) addresses Soviet leaders at the Warsaw Conference on 14 May 1955. From left to right: Marshal Ivan Koniev, Minister Vyacheslav Molotov, Bulganin and Marshal Gregori Zhukov. Credit: Bettmann via Getty images)


WED 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3v5c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7375r)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdt6fr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 09:32 The Climate Question (w3ct703v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


WED 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t3yxh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 10:06 The Documentary (w3ct7gjn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


WED 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t42nm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb73gp0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdtfy0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 11:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y48)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t46dr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc4)
Bringing the Muppets to Moscow

In the early 1990s, American journalist Natasha Lance Rogoff was covering the collapse of the Soviet Union – until the Muppets came calling, and she was tasked with bringing Sesame Street to Moscow. After decades of communism a new Russia was emerging, but could it embrace a US TV show?

Creating Ulitsa Sezam was a daunting challenge for Natasha. She would have to overcome a huge culture clash and, along the way, face mobsters with shark tanks, bankruptcy, and the kidnapping of Elmo. Natasha has written a book called Muppets in Moscow: The unexpected crazy true story of making Sesame Street in Russia. (This episode was first broadcast in 2023)

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Maryam Maruf

Ulitsa Sezam archive is courtesy of Sesame Workshop

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

(Photo: Natasha Lance Rogoff with the Russian Muppet, Businka. Credit: Courtesy of Irina Borisova)


WED 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74pv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4b4w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb73q58)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdtpf8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 13:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


WED 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4fx0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 14:06 Newshour (w172zss201b8lgm)
Donald Trump meets Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa

Donald Trump has met the interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa -- a day after Washington announced it would lift all US sanctions placed on Syria. The meeting, which took place in Saudi Arabia, is seen as a significant moment for the new Syrian leader, who is a former jihadist, once linked to al-Qaeda. Newshour hears from US businessman Jonathan Bass, who led a US delegation earlier this month to Damascus, and from Syria's minister for social affairs and labour, Hind Kabawat.

Also in the programme: chimps using first aid; and an interview with author Isabel Allende.

(Picture: Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa meets with U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Credit: Saudi Press Agency)


WED 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4kn4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7x69)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdtxxj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76fd)
US unchains Syrian's businesses

The US has lifted sanctions on the country after 14 years of restrictions on almost any ort of trade. We hear the reaction from the business owner in Damascus.

Also, we hear from one Chinese exporter over the reduced tariffs agreed betweem Beijing and Washington.

Plus - fears about conditions for foreign workers as Saudi Arabia build facilities for the 2034 World Cup.

And the strange tale of the missing texts between the head of the European Commission and the boss of one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms...


WED 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4pd8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 16:06 BBC OS (w173067r7466kj7)
Medics say dozens killed in Gaza airstrikes

Health officials in Gaza say that intense Israeli air strikes have killed at least 80 people, including women and children, since dawn on Wednesday. We answer audience questions about the situation in Gaza and hear from residents there.

Diplomatic efforts are continuing ahead of possible face-to-face talks in Turkey on Thursday between Presidents Zelensky of Ukraine and Putin of Russia. Our Europe editor has the latest.

The Nigerian international footballer Taiwo Awoniyi is in an induced coma after undergoing surgery on a serious abdominal injury he sustained during an English Premier League match on Sunday. We explain what happened.

We speak to dermatologists about Tik Tok’s viral “caveman” skin care method.

Presenter: Joe Inwood.

(Photo: Several homes in the northern Jabalia area were reportedly destroyed in the overnight strikes. Credit: Reuters)


WED 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4t4d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 17:06 BBC OS (w173067r7466p8c)
Syrians react to US decision to lift sanctions

Syria has described a meeting of its new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, with President Trump as historic. During their brief talks, Mr Trump urged the Syrian president to normalise ties with Israel. It came a day after Mr Trump announced that the US was lifting sanctions on Syria, in a major boost to Mr al-Sharaa's efforts to stabilise the country after overthrowing Bashar al-Assad five months ago. We speak to people who work in the tourism and hospitality sector about the impact.

Israeli airstrikes have intensified in Gaza, with Palestinian health officials saying that at least 80 have been killed since dawn on Wednesday. We have the latest.

The Nigerian international footballer Taiwo Awoniyi is in an induced coma after undergoing surgery on a serious abdominal injury he sustained during an English Premier League match on Sunday. Our sports reporter explains.

The story of Oliver Widger, a blogger who is sailing across the Pacific Ocean with only one companion - his cat, Phoenix - has gone viral on TikTok. We speak to a couple who post stories on Instagram about travelling with their dog.

Presenter: Joe Inwood.

(Photo: A man sells coffee along a street, on the day U.S. President Donald Trump announces that he would order the lifting of sanctions on Syria, in Latakia, Syria May 14, 2025. Credit: Karam Al-Masri/Reuters)


WED 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t4xwj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


WED 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74pv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t51mn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb74fn1)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdvdx1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6zcn)
2025/05/14 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 (w172zwwlt3t55cs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 20:06 The Climate Question (w3ct703v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


WED 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdvjn5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 20:32 Health Check (w3ct6vj8)
Listening to your body's signals

Claudia is joined by Caroline Williams to learn about the cutting-edge science of interoception – that’s how the brain interprets signals that come from inside our body. We find out how honing this skill can sometimes be helpful and why at other times it can have a negative impact on us.

Tuberculosis remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases worldwide but in Malawi a stage 3 trial is under way to develop a new vaccine. Our reporter Carrim Mpaweni checks-in on the trial’s progress.

Also on the show, Claudia speaks to psychotherapist Sophie Scott about how to persuade a loved one to get professional help when they don't want to.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producers: Katie Tomsett & Helena Selby
Studio Manager: Giles Aspen


WED 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t593x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201b9fpj)
Israeli strikes on Gaza kill eighty Palestinians

Health officials in Gaza say Israel has killed more than eighty people on Wednesday as its bombardment of Gaza intensifies. We hear from Tomo Potokar, a surgeon at a hospital that's come under fire. The former head of Mossad, Danny Yatom, tells us why Israeli reservists are speaking out against the war in Gaza.

Also, evidence from Uganda that chimps practice first aid with medicinal herbs.

And the changing mood in Poland towards refugees from neighbouring Ukraine.

(Photo: Gazans inspect the site of an Israeli strike on a house in the north of the Gaza strip on May 14, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa)


WED 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t5dw1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 22:06 The Interview (w3ct7x69)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdvs4f)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 22:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y48)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t5jm5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb74xmk)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdvwwk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76hn)
Touring for new trade partners

The Presidents of the World's two leading economies are meeting leaders from the Middle East and Latin America in order to gain new trade partners, with Qatar signing one of the largest ever aircraft deals with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing, while Brazil has signed 36 commercial agreements with China.

Rahul Tandon finds out who is getting the bigger deals, and why running a global shipping line is as complex as ever.

Meanwhile, how will the Federal Reserve in the United States deal with its contradictory mandate of pursuing maximum employment alongside price stability?

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.

THURSDAY 15 MAY 2025

THU 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t5nc9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 00:06 The Documentary (w3ct7gjn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


THU 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t5s3f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1zm45xll)
What hopes are there for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia?

With the conflict in Ukraine continuing to have a huge impact on the global economy, what hopes are there for a ceasefire when Russia's president Vladimir Putin seems unwilling to participate in the peace talks in Turkey?

We hear what the lifting of sanctions could mean for Syria's economy, and Rahul Tandon finds out why the challenges caused by US president Donald Trump's tariffs could be a big opportunity for Puerto Rico.

Elsewhere, will a new government-led scheme in Argentina be able to change millions of peoples preference for saving money in secret stashes rather than at a bank?

Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


THU 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t5wvk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb758vy)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdw83y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 02:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx4)
Autism, empathy and psychopaths

Autistic people have been thought to all lack empathy by both science and society for decades. But after receiving an extremely low empathy score as part of a recent autism assessment, science journalist Sue Nelson refused to accept its implications and decided to confront these damaging stereotypes and question the experts who work in this area.

Sue’s investigation reveals how the science around empathy is evolving and proving both surprising and more complex than previously thought. Instead of the majority of autistic people having low to no empathy, a trait commonly associated with psychopaths, many autistic people have been shown to have heightened empathy for others.

Guests include Prof Simon Baron-Cohen, a pioneer in the field who originated the EQ (Empathy Quotient) test widely used in autism assessments, and a team of autistic researchers investigating the newly recognised phenomenon of autistic ‘hyper-empathy’. She also visits a laboratory where highly sensitive electrodes on her facial muscles reveal the workings of Sue’s unconscious mind in response to the emotions of others. Empathy for autistic people is often experienced but not seen via their expressions.

Presenter/writer: Sue Nelson
Producer: Anne McNaught

(Photo: Professor Chakrabarti places the electrodes on Sue's face to monitor activity in her smile or frown muscles as she watched short videos of other people displaying either happiness or anger)


THU 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t60lp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Wednesday]


THU 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74pv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Wednesday]


THU 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t64bt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb75jc6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdwhm6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 04:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yd)
Snackification: Our love affair with snacks

Ruth Alexander looks at the world of snacks. Have we always snacked or is it a more modern phenomenon that started with formal meal patterns? What snacks have been popular through the ages, what’s the industry doing now and what could we be eating in the future?

We talk to food historians Dr Annie Gray and Professor Janis Thiessen, the former CEO of Unilever Paul Polman - who remembers the rise of some of the biggest brands - and Christine Cochran from the international trade association SNAC International.

We also hear from snack fans across the world.

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


THU 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t682y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 05:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l74n3j)
Putin not listed for peace talks on Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not on the list of names by the Kremlin as one of those attending peace talks on the war in Ukraine in Istanbul today. Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky had called for him to attend, saying he would only negotiate with the Russian President. So where does this leave the talks? We'll get a view from Turkey.

At least twenty-six people have been killed in Israeli airstrikes in and around Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza. A medical source in Nasser hospital told the BBC the victims included children. Israel has yet to comment on this, or on reports that 80 people were killed, many of them women and children, in an Israeli bombardment yesterday. We'll go live to Gaza.

We'll speak to the Secretary General of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society and discuss continued fighting in the country and the plight of those caught in the middle of it all.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda.

(Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a joint media statement with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow. Credit: Alexander Nemenov/Reuters).


THU 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6cv2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 06:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l74rvn)
Major evacuation orders for Gaza City

Israel has issued major evacuation orders for Palestinians sheltering in Gaza City. This comes after at least twenty-six Palestinians were killed in and around Khan Younis in southern Gaza, in the latest Israeli air strikes. We will be speaking to an aid worker in Gaza City.

President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the high stakes peace talks with his Ukrainian counterpart President Zelensky in Turkey today. Mr Zelensky had said he'd only attend the negotionations of Mr Putin showed up. So what happens now?

We will be hearing from the most intense frontline in eastern Ukraine and from a mother whose son died fighting for his country.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: Gaza City. Credit EPA)


THU 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6hl6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 07:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l74wls)
People struggling to eat in Gaza

Israel issues one of the most sweeping evacuation orders for civilians in Gaza City. We go to Gaza City to find out how people are coping with the new Israeli military campaign. We hear from a mother stuggling to feed and protect her children, who tells us "I've failed." She also says she's worried about her children starving to death - we'll speak to the head of the World Food Programme in the territory.

We'll look at how people in Syria are reacting to news that the United States is to lift all sanctions on the country. We'll speak to the President of the International Chamber of Commerce in Syria and look at what this means for the country.

And President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the high stakes peace talks with his Ukrainian counterpart President Zelensky in Turkey today. Mr Zelensky had said he'd only attend the negotionations of Mr Putin showed up. So what happens now?

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: Palestinians wait to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip. Credit: Mahmoud Issa/Reuters)


THU 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6mbb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 08:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722h)
Why are global cases of measles rising?

“Measles is back, and it’s a wake-up call,” proclaimed one regional director from the World Health Organisation who went on to add, “without high vaccination rates, there is no health security.”

Measles is a childhood disease which can be deadly. We’ve been successfully vaccinating against it for decades. So much so that many younger physicians have never seen a child with the disease. But recently, the recorded number of cases has been rising - and this is a global trend.

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to man. In an unvaccinated population it will spread like wildfire. So what’s behind the rapid rise of measles cases around the world? According to one of our expert witnesses it comes down to three Cs: complacency, convenience and confidence.

In this edition of the Inquiry, Sandra Kanthal looks into what’s causing the rise in measles cases around the world and asks how this trend can be reversed.


Contributors:

Doctor Claudia Cojocaru – Romanian physician and neonatologist

Robb Butler - Director of the Division of Communicable Diseases, Environment and Health: World Health Organisation

Dr Benjamin Kasstan-Dabush -Assistant Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

Fatima Cengic, Regional Immunization Specialist, Europe and Central Asia: UNICEF

Presenter: Sandra Kanthal
Production: Katie Morgan
Production Management Assistant: Liam Morrey
Technical Producer: James Beard
Editor: Tara McDermott


THU 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdwzlq)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s21)
How airline fees turned baggage into billions

From extra bags to choosing a seat, airline passengers are faced with an array of extras, for a fee.

And stricter limits for luggage in particular have turned 'compatible' suitcases and bags into big business.

From bag manufacturers, racing to design the next travel bag innovation, to the travel influencers building audiences by sharing money-saving packing hacks.

But what do passengers think about it all?

Presenter: Sam Gruet

Producer: Megan Lawton

(Image: A woman packing a suitcase. Credit: Getty Images)


THU 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74j5)
Mexico’s soda tax: Confronting soft drink giants

In 2013, Mexico’s government approved a tax on sugary soft drinks. The country has one of the highest rates of fizzy drink consumption in the world.

Some rural homes do not have access to safe drinking water and a third of schools do not have drinking water. Consequently, carbonated drinks would be sold in schools across the country.

Grace Livingstone speaks to Dr Simon Barquera, director of health and nutrition research at Mexico’s Institute of public health. He faced intimidation and spying attempts for advocating the tax.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Sugary drinks. Credit: PA)


THU 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6r2g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7642v)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdx3bv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 09:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6vtl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 10:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yry)
The Media Show: Misinformation and the India-Pakistan Standoff

Tensions between India and Pakistan have reignited an information war, not just on social media but also in mainstream outlets. Shayan Sardarizadeh from BBC Verify explains how false reports of military actions, such as attacks on Karachi or high-level casualties, have circulated with little evidence.

An Australian court case involving Erin Patterson, accused of murdering three relatives and attempting to murder a fourth with a poisonous lunch, has drawn intense media attention. Nino Bucci from Guardian Australia describes the challenges of reporting responsibly as global audiences fuel interest in the story.

Weather forecasts are changing in format and medium. Max Velocity, a US-based YouTube meteorologist with over a million subscribers, and ITV’s Laura Tobin discuss their approach and the role of personality in engaging audiences.

Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Assistant producer: Lucy Wai
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson


THU 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdx72z)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 10:32 Happy News (w3ct6ty5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:32 on Sunday]


THU 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t6zkq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb76cl3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdxbv3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 11:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t739v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxb)
My Golden Mile: a British Asian’s picture of home

As a kid in 1970s England, Kavi Pujara was attacked and beaten up for his Indian heritage. His family were living in Leicester and were amongst the tens of thousands of people expelled from East Africa during a wave of anti-Asian discrimination. Starting a new life wasn't easy and Kavi faced constant racial prejudice and violence. He became introverted and rejected his heritage. But Kavi found an escape - photography and a move to London where he met Bjork and Afrika Bambaataa on the dance floor at an Indian club night. It was a world that celebrated his South Asian culture, helping Kavi embrace his dual identity. Years later, when he started hearing echoes of the racist and anti-immigrant views that shaped his childhood, Kavi wanted to shine a light on migrant voices - and faces. So he returned to Leicester with his camera and a mission to document the Asian community living and working along the city's most famous street, the Golden Mile, and challenge what it really means to be British.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Tommy Dixon

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

Photo: Kavi Pujara. Credit: Kavi Pujara


THU 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74j5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t771z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb76m2c)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdxlbc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 13:32 Health Check (w3ct6vj8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Wednesday]


THU 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7bt3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 14:06 Newshour (w172zss201bchcq)
Putin skips peace talks with Zelensky

President Zelensky has arrived in Turkey for peace talks with Russia but Vladimir Putin isn't there - and the Ukrainian leader has accused the Kremlin of sending “stand-in props” instead.

Also on the programme: how the expansion of renewable energy sources is now driving down China's emissions of greenhouse gases; and the surprise discovery of an original version of one of the earliest and most important bills of rights in history – the Magna Carta.

(Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a joint media statement with Malaysia's prime minister following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, 14 May 2025. Credit: EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


THU 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7gk7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 15:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdxttm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct75v9)
US is about to make a nuclear deal with Iran

As US-Iran nuclear program talks gained traction, we look how the new deal can affect Iranian economy.

Meanwhile in India, traders are jittery after President Donald Trump claimed that India might drop all tariffs on U.S. goods. India, for now, has pushed back.

And, the new research shows China’s carbon emissions have dropped — even as energy demand continues to rise.

You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.


THU 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7l9c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 16:06 BBC OS (w173067r7469gfb)
Zelensky: Russia 'not serious' about talks

The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, says he's still ready for talks with Vladimir Putin, but added the Russian leader was not serious about negotiations. He said he was sending a Ukrainian delegation to negotiations in Istanbul out of respect for the US and Turkish presidents, trying to make the first steps towards de-escalation. We hear from Ukrainians and get the latest from Turkey.

Health officials in Gaza say Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 100 people since midnight, many of them in tents. We hear from medics in Gaza and get the latest from our regional expert.

Presenter: Andrew Peach.

(Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy talks during a press conference at the Ukrainian embassy in Ankara, Turkey, May 15, 2025. Credit: Cagla Gurdogan/Reuters)


THU 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7q1h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 17:06 BBC OS (w173067r7469l5g)
Uncertainty over Russia-Ukraine talks

The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, says he's still ready for talks with Vladimir Putin, but added the Russian leader was not serious about negotiations. He said he was sending a Ukrainian delegation to negotiations in Istanbul out of respect for the US and Turkish presidents, trying to make the first steps towards de-escalation. We hear from Russians and Ukrainians and get the latest from our regional editor.

Our correspondent has been reporting from the frontlines in Eastern Ukraine and tells us about the mood among Ukraine's soldiers.

A 23-year-old Mexican social media influencer has been shot dead while live streaming on TikTok. We speak to our reporter from the BBC's Spanish language service.

Presenter: Andrew Peach.


(Photo: Russia's presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky as part of the delegation in Turkey - 15 May 2025. Credit: TOLGA BOZOGLU/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


THU 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7tsm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


THU 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74j5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t7yjr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb77bk4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdy9t4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z74)
2025/05/15 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 (w172zwwlt3t828w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 20:06 The Documentary (w3ct7yx4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdyfk8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 20:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yf9)
Vaccinating rabies’ reservoir dogs

In 2015, the World Health Organisation set the goal of eradicating rabies deaths from dog-bites to “Zero by 2030”. A team at the University of Glasgow and colleagues in Tanzania have been assessing the efficacy of dog vaccination schemes for reducing the numbers of human infections over the last 20 years. As Prof Katie Hampson tells Science in Action, in rural areas especially, vaccinating dog populations does work, but you need to keep at it, and not leave patches untouched. It should be funded as a public health measure, rather than a veterinary issue.

Last weekend, the remains of a failed 1972 Soviet mission to Venus landed harmlessly somewhere back on earth. As the BBC’s Maddie Molloy explains, the fears were that the robust lander craft would survive re-entry into earth’s atmosphere as it was originally engineered to withstand the harsh pressures and chemistry of Venus.

How and why then would sketches be emerging of Chinese plans to launch a sample-return mission to Venus in the next decade? Science Journalist Andrew Jones describes some of the challenges they will face collecting droplets of the highly acidic atmosphere somewhere 60km above the surface and turning round to head back to earth.


Why? William Bains of Cardiff University is one of a growing number of scientists interested in exploring some of the more exotic possibilities for complex organic biology in the otherwise destructive sulphuric, hot, dense, low pH clouds they will find. Could a different sort of information-encoding molecular chemistry enable life, though not as we know it?

Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Alex Mansfield
Production Coordinator: Jasmine Cerys George and Josie Hardy


Photo: A domestic dog receives a rabies vaccine during a mass vaccination in Bunda, Tanzania, October 8, 2012. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)


THU 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8610)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201bdblm)
Ukraine attends peace talks, Russia sends a junior team

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he's still ready for talks with Russia's President Putin, but that Moscow is not serious about negotiations. He was speaking in Turkey, where he's met President Erdogan. Mr Zelensky accused Russia of disrespecting Turkey and the United States by sending a comparatively low- level delegation to Istanbul for talks, after Mr Putin decided not to attend. Mr Zelensky said he'd nevertheless send a delegation there, led by his defence minister.

Also in the programme: More deadly Israeli airstrikes in Gaza - more than 100 people killed; and President Trump's plan to end birthright citizenship is heard in the US Supreme Court.

(Photo: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Credit: Getty)


THU 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t89s4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 22:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdyp1j)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 22:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8fj8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb77tjn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdyssn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct75xk)
IMF terminates a $175 million loan for Malawi

The International Monetary Fund has terminated a $175 million loan programme with Malawi, citing poor economic management. The IMF said Malawi, one of the poorest countries in the world, had failed to fully restructure its unsustainable debt, but the country’s government argues that it has decided to suspend this until after the elections in September this year. Rahul Tandon heard from Malawi Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola Banda and the IMF Mission Chief.

And we will look at President Trump saying that India offered to drop all tariffs on US goods, something India swiftly denied.

Total airline revenue for ancillary services like baggage and seat selection is set to reach 145 billion according to the International Air Transport Association.

FRIDAY 16 MAY 2025

FRI 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8k8d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yry)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Thursday]


FRI 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdyxjs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78bl)
What’s next for Gaza?

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the Israeli government’s plans for Gaza, assesses China’s efforts to lessen its reliance on the United States for trade, and looks at attacks against critics of the Iranian regime on foreign soil.

Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive Producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski


FRI 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8p0j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1zm48thp)
Walmart: US largest retailer set to increase prices

Walmart is preparing to raise prices in the US as soon as this month, as its own costs increase as a result of the new tariffs on imports imposed by President Donald Trump.

And we will look at President Trump saying that India offered to drop all tariffs on US goods, something India swiftly denied.

Total airline revenue is expected to top 1 trillion US dollars for the first time ever this year, according to the International Air Transport Association.

We will be joined throughout the programme by two guests on opposite sides of the world: Shoeb Kagda, an Indonesian journalist and businessman, and Alison Van Diggelen, host of Fresh Dialogues based in Silicon Valley, the US.


FRI 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8srn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb785s1)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdz511)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


FRI 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t8xhs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Thursday]


FRI 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74j5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Thursday]


FRI 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t917x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb78f89)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdzdj9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vns)
Malcolm X: Letter from Hajj

Marking the 100th anniversary of his birth Malcolm X’s daughter, Ilyasah Shabazz, explores a phase in his life that is often overshadowed by his earlier, more controversial years. While typically remembered for his fiery rhetoric as a leader of the Nation of Islam and an advocate for Black separatism, Malcolm X's pilgrimage to Mecca in 1964 profoundly reshaped his worldview, dramatically shifting in his beliefs, transforming him into a global advocate for unity, racial equality and human rights. His letter from Hajj is a testament to the possibility of change, not just for one man, but for the world. It captures a moment of deep spiritual reflection that echoed through the final months of Malcolm X’s life, and reveals a man who was not fixed, but evolving, someone for whom seeking truth and spiritual clarity was an ongoing journey.

Presenter: Ilyasah Shabazz
Producer: Marcus Smith

(Photo: Ilyasah Shabazz stands in front of a mural depicting Malcolm X. Credit: Marcus Smith)


FRI 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9501)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 05:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l77k0m)
US 'troubled' by humanitarian situation in Gaza

America's top diplomat says the US is troubled by the humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling on Hamas to release the remaining hostages. Israel's blockade of the Gaza strip continues, as do the deadly airstrikes.

We will speak live to a doctor in one of Gaza's main hospitals, and we also have an interview with a major American businessmen who was arrested as he protested at the US Senate over military aid to Israel and the humanitarian conditions in Gaza

We will also hear from one of the fifty-nine white South Africans who have been resettled to the US as refugees, to the fury of the South African government.
(Photo: Internally displaced Palestinians, Al Yarmouk stadium, Gaza, 5 May 2025; Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)


FRI 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t98r5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 06:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l77nrr)
Israel launches new offensive in northern Gaza

Israel has launched a new, major offensive in northern Gaza reportedly from air, sea and land.

The Trump administration is said to be 'troubled' by the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said America was in no way immune to the suffering of Gazans. His comments came as more than a hundred Palestinians - many of them women and children - were killed on Thursday...

Hospitals haven't been spared in the recent strikes and Gaza has been under Israeli blockade of all food and other humanitarian aid for ten weeks. We'll speak to the head of the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières in Gaza.

Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are set to go ahead. They'll be the first between the two sides since the war started three years ago. But hopes of any breakthrough are limited.

(Photo: Israeli soldiers near the Israel-Gaza border, 15 May 2025; Credit: Reuters)


FRI 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9dh9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 07:06 Newsday (w172zspl9l77shw)
Israel launches major military operation in northern Gaza

Israel has launched a new major offensive in the north of Gaza. We’ll speak to a high school student in Jabalia.

We’ll also hear from an American who was arrested during a protest in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday over military aid to Israel and humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are set to go ahead. They'll be the first between the two sides since the war started three years ago. But hopes of any breakthrough are limited. We’ll speak to a Crimean member of Ukraine’s parliament.

(Photo: Israeli military vehicles near the Israel-Gaza border, 15 May 2025; Credit: Reuters)


FRI 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9j7f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:06 Americast (w3ct7t5c)
Americast

Join Americast for insights and analysis on what's happening inside Trump's White House.


FRI 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vdzwht)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rs0)
Portugal's immigration dilemma

As Portugal heads into its third general election in four years, immigration is proving to be a key issue.

The famously welcoming country is facing a backlash from residents who are experiencing rising living costs and a lack of housing.

Now the country is tightening its immigration rules – so what could the economic impact be?

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

Presented and produced by Antonio Fernandes

(Image: A Portuguese flag flying over the capital, Lisbon. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 08:50 Witness History (w3ct743r)
Sweden’s shocking sugar experiment

In the 1940s, some vulnerable Swedish hospital patients were fed large amounts of sugary sweets as part of an experiment to see what it would do to their teeth.

Researchers considered the study a success as it led to new recommendations for children to eat sweets just once a week.

In the 1990s, the unethical aspects of the experiment emerged when Elin Bommenel became the first researcher to gain access to the original documents from the experiments. Sweden's government has never formally apologised for what happened, although it has greatly improved care for vulnerable children and adults.

Elin tells Frida Anund about the revelations.

A PodLit production.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: A sugar cube. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9mzk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb790zy)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf007y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yf9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9rqp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 10:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vz)
Enduring it all

This month will see thousands of people take to streets around the world to test their feats of endurance. It’s marathon season. And this week, we’re looking at the science behind what keeps you running.

We’ll learn about the psychological preparation that goes into undertaking mammoth challenges, like marathons and expeditions. And meet a science who’s endured the Antarctic winter, and is now training to be an astronaut.

We’ll find out just how genetic our ability to cope with endurance exercise is. How air pollution could be affecting your running times. And find out how evolution has gifted our animal friends with some unique ways of getting ahead.

As well as all that, there’s the science of what makes something ugly. And an exciting innovation that could see us using cow dung to fuel our cars.

All that and more in this week’s Unexpected Elements.
   
Presenter: Alex Lathbridge, Chhavi Sachdev and Candice Bailey
Producers: Robbie Wojciechowski with Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, Imaan Moin, and Minnie Harrop


FRI 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3t9wgt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb798h6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf07r6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vns)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tb06y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wgs)
Outlook Mixtape: The colliding lives of four strangers

On Amina Anna Sotaeva's sixth birthday her favourite uncle gifted her a toy tiger called Tigrou. Amina grew up on the border of Chechnya during a time of conflict and after her uncle was kidnapped the family fled for a new life in France. Amina's tiger came with her and quickly became her most treasured possession. But when she was 27 and studying for important law exams, Amina realised with horror that her little tiger had fallen out of her bag. She went on a desperate quest across Paris to find him. Days later, Amina would learn who had found her tiger – a woman called Fanta Keïta.

Fanta Keïta has collected lost and discarded objects ever since her mother left her when she was a small child growing up in Guinea. Fanta was brought up by a loving grandmother but felt the trauma of early maternal separation never left her. Fanta moved to Paris in her mid-20s and feared that her own separation from her two young sons was history repeating itself. But settling into life in France, Fanta made sure her sons never felt the sense of abandonment she experienced. She also began an extraordinary process to feel whole again after undergoing FGM as a child.

This episode contains a brief description of female genital mutilation which some listeners might find difficult to hear.

Dr Sarah Abramowicz is the gynaecological surgeon who operated on Fanta. She is based in a hospital in Montreuil to the east of Paris and leads a multidisciplinary team that aims to support women in France who decide they want reconstructive surgery. She is president of the organisation, Reparons l'excision (Let's repair the cut). Outside of her work Sarah has another passion – food. It was her journalist neighbour who introduced her to the flavours of Beninese chef Georgiana Viou.

Georgiana Viou grew up in a matriarchal household in Benin, immersed in the mouth-watering flavours of West Africa. Food was an important part of everyday life but Georgiana dreamed of becoming an interpreter. When she was 22 she moved to Paris to study, but after she became unexpectedly pregnant she quit university and began working in kitchens instead. She had a new dream – to open her own kitchen. After taking part in the cooking television show MasterChef, Georgiana's career went from strength to strength. She’s since been awarded a Michelin star for her restaurant in Nimes.

If you have been affected by FGM there are a number of organisations working internationally to support you including Unicef, UN Women and the World Health Organisation.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producers: May Cameron and Jo Impey

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

(Photo: Cassette tape. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 12:50 Witness History (w3ct743r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tb3z2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb79hzg)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf0h7g)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yf9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tb7q6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 14:06 Newshour (w172zss201bgd8t)
Israel continues intense offensive in north of Gaza

The civil defence agency in Gaza says the Israeli military has killed almost one-hundred people in the past twelve hours in another intense wave of strikes in the north. The Israeli military said it had hit scores of "terror targets" and was trying to dismantle their infrastructure. We will hear why the medical charity MSF rejects a new plan to deliver some aid to Gaza by the US-backed organisation the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

Also in the programme: the first direct Russian-Ukrainian talks in more than three years have led to an agreement to swap 1,000 prisoners of war, and the American composer, Charles Strouse, who wrote the hit Broadway musical Annie has died aged 96.

(Picture: Displaced Palestinians flee their homes in the town of Beit Lahia, north of Gaza City. Credit: HAITHAM IMAD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


FRI 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tbcgb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:06 Americast (w3ct7t5c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf0qqq)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76kx)
Indians boycott Turkey and cancel travels

Indian tourists and companies start to threaten boycotts of Turkey and Azerbaijan - we'll explain why and what kind of impact it could have.

As Portugal gets set for elections we hear Antonio Fernandes reports from Lisbon.

And the businessman who travels a lot, and therefore needs a very important employee to take care of his office cat...

You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.


FRI 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tbh6g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 16:06 BBC OS (w173067r746dcbf)
Another wave of Israeli strikes on Gaza

Gaza's civil defence agency says the Israeli military has killed almost 100 people on Friday in another intense wave of strikes in the north. Footage from the Indonesian hospital in Beit Lahia showed the dead and wounded lying on the blood-stained floor, and bodies wrapped in blankets. The Israeli military said it had hit scores of "terror targets".

Russian and Ukrainian delegations have been holding direct talks in Istanbul -- the first such bilateral meeting in over three years.

The grand finale of this year's Eurovision Song Contest will take place on Saturday. We speak to podcasters who are in Switzerland to cover the event.

President Donald Trump has given members of South Africa's white Afrikaner community refugee status, alleging that a genocide is taking place in the country. We hear from one of them and speak to our reporter in South Africa.

A young Kazakh boy has gone viral for sharing Kazakh culture with the world on TikTok. We speak to him and his friend about how they are fighting misconceptions about Central Asia.

Presenter: Andrew Peach.

(Photo: Palestinians make their way with belongings as they fled their homes, after Israeli air strikes, in the northern Gaza Strip May 16, 2025. Credit: Mahmoud Issa/Reuters)


FRI 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tblyl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 17:06 BBC OS (w173067r746dh2k)
Ukraine and Russia agree prisoner exchange

Ukrainian and Russian delegations - not including the countries' leaders - have been meeting in Turkey for the first face-to-face talks in three years.. Both countries have agreed to swap 1,000 prisoners of war. However Ukraine's president Zelensky, has accused Russia of staging an empty process, telling a gathering of European leaders that if the Istanbul talks did not deliver results, the world had to respond strongly. We get reaction and analysis from our regional expert.

We go to Nigeria, where the body which runs the university-entrance exams has admitted to a "technical glitch" which compromised some results of this year's tests, after nearly 80% of students got low grades.

18-year-old Sayat is from Kazakhstan, but he moved to Texas when he was 5 years old. Following his recent viral TikTok video, titled "misconceptions about central Asians", we hear a conversation with Sayat and other central Asians.

We look ahead to this weekend's Eurovision Song Contest which is being held in Basel, the Swiss city that hosted and won the first Eurovision in 1956.

Presenter: Andrew Peach.

(Photo: A drone view shows the ruins of a church and buildings in the abandoned town of Marinka (Maryinka), which was destroyed in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Donetsk region, a Russian-controlled area of Ukraine, May 15, 2025. REUTERS/Alexander Ermochenko)


FRI 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tbqpq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wgs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


FRI 18:50 Witness History (w3ct743r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tbvfv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7b7g7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf16q7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z2m)
2025/05/16 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 (w172zwwlt3tbz5z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmh)
Living in Kashmir

What’s it like to grow up and live in one of the most disputed regions on Earth?

After 26 tourists were killed by militants in Indian-administered Kashmir last month, many feared that the series of cross-border clashes between India and Pakistan that followed would lead to a wider conflict…something that has happened all too often in the region.

In our conversations, we hear from three Kashmiri women who now live abroad but still have family and close connections with Kashmir. They share their feelings about the area’s people, culture and landscape.

“Whenever I go back, I'm always shocked by how beautiful everything is,” Binish tells us. “I feel like there are so many shades of green in the trees and the mountains…it’s insanely beautiful.”

Kashmir borders India, Pakistan and China…with areas controlled by the three countries. We bring together two people living either side of the de facto border – known as the line of control – who find common ground in their conversation.

Presenter: Andrew Peach
BBC producers: Virginia Kelly, Isabella Bull, Laura Cress and Ben Davis
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham

An EcoAudio certified Boffin Media production in partnership with the OS team.

Photo: People inspect a house that was damaged in cross-border shelling before the India-Pakistan ceasefire came into effect. Credit: AMIRUDDIN MUGHAL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock


FRI 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf1bgc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssm)
Is my yoghurt really alive?

Bulgaria is famous for its yoghurt, a fermented milk food full of ‘good’ bacteria that has kept hungry Bulgarians healthy for over 4000 years.

Inspired by that, and a question from a CrowdScience listener in California USA, Marnie Chesterton and Caroline Steel are immersing themselves in Bulgarian culture with a programme about Bulgarian cultures, recorded at the 2025 Sofia Science Festival.

So, are the ‘live’ cultures in fermented foods actually alive by the time you eat them, and how can you tell? If you can eat the mould in blue cheese, can you eat the mould on cheese that isn’t supposed to be mouldy? Is traditional food really better for you? And if you put a drop of vanilla into a litre of milk, how come it all tastes of vanilla?

Marnie and Caroline are joined by a chemist who was a member of Sofia University’s ‘Rapid Explosion Force’, a food technologist with a PhD in sponge cakes and a Professor of molecular biology who says that we contain so much bacteria that we’re only 10% human.

With questions on food from around the world and from the audience in Sofia, Marnie and Caroline will be digesting the answers, as well as some local delicacies.

Presenter: Anand Jagatia
Producer: Ella Hubber
Series Producer: Ben Motley


FRI 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tc2y3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201bh7hq)
Escalating bombardments of Gaza

The UN's human rights chief Volker Turk has condemned Israel for its escalating bombardments of Gaza, saying it's apparently seeking to permanently displace the population and that this amounts to ethnic cleansing. We speak to a young mother and aid worker in Gaza and a politician from Israel's ruling party.

Also in the programme: A breakthrough in gene editing therapy, after a promising treatment of a baby in the US; and how just appearing on the Eurovision Song Contest can be enough to help new talent taste success.

(Photo: Palestinians make their way with belongings as they flee their homes, after Israeli air strikes in the northern Gaza Strip May 16, 2025. Reuters/Mahmoud Issa)


FRI 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tc6p7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:06 Americast (w3ct7t5c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf1kym)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vns)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tcbfc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7bqfr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf1ppr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76n5)
Wegovy firm unexpectedly forces boss to step down

Novo Nordisk, the company that makes the weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, is abruptly ousting its chief executive, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, over concerns the firm is losing ground in the popular weight-loss drug market.

Consumer boycotts of countries and companies are on the rise, with the latest being an Indian tourism boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan. This comes as some Canadians boycott the US, while others refuse to buy from some specific companies over their policies.

And Rahul Tandon hears about why some private companies in the USA see an opportunity in this rail sector, as there are concerns over the US federal government looking to pull back from supporting rail.