SATURDAY 17 MAY 2025

SAT 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tcg5h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 00:06 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 scientist from the UK Space Agency 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


SAT 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tckxm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs1zm4cqds)
Moody's downgrades US credit rating, citing rising debt

The credit rating agency Moody’s has stripped the United States of its triple-A credit rating, warning investors about rising levels of government debt and a widening budget deficit. The agency has shifted the US rating down one notch to AA1, while changing its outlook from negative to stable.

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.

We will be joined throughout the programme by Rahul Tandon is joined by two guests on opposite sides of the world: Lori Ann Larocco, senior editor at CNBC Business News in the US, and Peter Ryan, ABC's senior business correspondent in Australia.


SAT 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tcpnr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7c2p4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf21y4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:32 Stumped (w3ct6zj5)
What is Virat Kohli’s legacy in Test cricket?

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharmu speak to former India Test opener, Abhinav Mukund, about Virat Kohli's impact on Test cricket following his shock retirement.

Abhinav and Kohli made their Test debuts together in 2011. We look at Kohli’s legacy on the longer form of the game and ask what his stepping down means for India and Test cricket as a whole?

We also discuss the return of the IPL and how the new schedule may affect players and series’ going forward.

IMAGE: India's Virat Kohli gestures towards his wife Anushka Sharma in the stands as he celebrates reaching his century (100 runs) during day three of the first Test cricket match between Australia and India at Optus Stadium in Perth on November 24, 2024. (Photo by SAEED KHAN / AFP via Getty Images)


SAT 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tctdw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 03:06 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)


SAT 03:50 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)


SAT 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tcy50)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 04:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 today]


SAT 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3td1x4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7cfxj)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf2f5j)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:32 Trending (w3ct72t9)
Are we dating the same person?

At the start of 2025, a chat appeared on the encrypted messaging app Telegram. It was named Are we dating the same girl? At first, only a few hundred people joined but soon it became thousands, and its content went from details of young women’s dating history, to revenge porn - sexually explicit videos and images.

BBC Trending traces the Telegram group's origins back to Are We Dating the Same Guy? groups on Facebook. But how did they first come about? Why are they seen as an important safety tool for some and something that has ruined lives for others? And how did the idea spread to Telegram, with serious consequences?

Reporter: Megan Lawton
Producer: Sam Gruet
Editor: Flora Carmichael


SAT 05:50 More or Less (w3ct6vyt)
How dead is the internet?

In the early 2020s, a conspiracy theory started circulating online known as the “dead internet theory”.

This suggested that, instead of a vibrant digital super-community where people freely share things like cat videos and conspiracy theories, the internet was instead basically dead - an AI dystopia controlled by the deep state, where almost everything you see and interact with is generated by computers.

The theory that the internet is 100% dead can be easily disproven, but the theory does hint at something real. The internet certainly is full of “bots”, autonomous bits of software that are definitely not alive.

In this episode, we investigate one specific claim about the number of these bots on the internet - the idea that more than half of internet traffic is bots. Where does this claim come from, and is it true?

Presenter/producer: Tom Colls
Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown
Sound mix: Giles Aspen
Editor: Richard Vadon


SAT 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3td5n8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 06:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgmrc7)
Israeli military begins new offensive

The Israeli military says it has begun a new offensive aimed at taking control of areas of Gaza, with the ultimate goal of defeating Hamas. It said it had carried out extensive strikes and was mobilising forces. More than two hundred and fifty Palestinians are reported to have been killed in the last forty-eight hours.

Also in the programme: President Trump accuses a former FBI director of using a social media post to call for his assassination; and Ukraine’s allies have railed around the country after the first direct peace talks with Russia in three years finished in Istanbul.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Jacquelin Magnay, Europe Correspondent for The Australian newspaper; and Chris Michael, US Editor for the Guardian newspaper.

(Photo: Internally displaced Palestinians move along Al Rashid Road in the west of Gaza City on 16 May, 2025. Credit: MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SAT 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3td9dd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 07:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgmw3c)
Israel-Gaza war: New offensive in the north begins

The Israeli military says it has begun a new offensive aimed at taking control of areas of Gaza, with the ultimate goal of defeating Hamas. It said it had carried out extensive strikes and was mobilising forces. More than two hundred and fifty Palestinians are reported to have been killed in the last forty-eight hours.

Also in the programme: The world's leading heart doctors and surgeons are meeting in Geneva this weekend; and we discuss whether the appointment of the first female leader for Australia’s conservative party is an example of what’s known as the “glass cliff” effect.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Jacquelin Magnay, Europe correspondent for The Australian newspaper, and Chris Michael, US editor for the Guardian newspaper.

(Photo: The tent of an internally displaced Palestinians located in the west of Gaza City on 16 May, 2025. Credit: MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SAT 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tdf4j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 08:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgmzvh)
New Israeli offensive begins

A new offensive by the Israeli military has begun. Israeli attacks have killed more than two hundred and fifty people since Thursday. The operation has begun despite Israel coming under pressure even from its closest allies to lift a ten-week blockade of Gaza and allow aid in. The US has expressed concern. The UN said that the blockade together with the continued attacks amounted to ethnic cleansing.

Also in the programme: we look ahead to the main contenders at this year’s Eurovision; and we meet the producer Arthur Baker, the musical brain behind some of the biggest records of the past 50 years.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Jacquelin Magnay, Europe correspondent for The Australian newspaper, and Chris Michael, US editor for the Guardian newspaper.

(Photo: Internally displaced Palestinians move along Al Rashid road in the west of Gaza City on 16 May 2025. Credit: MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SAT 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tdjwn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:06 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


SAT 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf2x51)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4q)
The children with a digital school teacher

The classroom tablet revolution in Malawi with People Fixing the World. Plus, the boy who brought anime to life in Pakistan, what Catholics want from their new pope - and the latest from our video podcast Diddy on Trial.


SAT 09:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv7)
People who love the six tiny dots of Braille

The recent documentary Braille and Me featured personal stories from around the world of highly successful blind people in different fields who continue to celebrate how this very simple invention has transformed lives. Listeners share their views and we talk to presenter Emma Tracey.

Plus, a follow-up grumble about interviewees being cut short in news shows hits our listener inbox.

Presenter Rajan Datar
Producer Howard Shannon
A Whistledown production for the BBC World Service


SAT 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tdnms)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 10:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct7z06)
The magic of the cup

On FA Cup finals weekend, Not by the Playbook’s Katie Smith looks at the “magic of the cup”.

Joe Parkinson goes back 30 years to when he won the 1995 FA Cup with Everton. He reveals why he faced a challenge to get a Manchester United player’s shirt, and he shares his memories of Goodison Park ahead of the final men’s game to be played there.

Cup engraver Colin Mabey takes us behind-the-scenes of the intricate detail required to get sports trophies ready for the winners - and how it led to him being part of a film directed by Madonna.

There’s cups of a different variety too. Canadian rower Jenny Casson opens up about her self-reflection since competing at the 2024 Olympic Games, but how an exciting new venture has given her a lift. She’s a co-founder of Daylilie who create bras for “athletic silhouettes”.

Completing a stacked show is Kit Fox who shares how his father helped popularise sport stacking around the world. How did the craze of stacking cups become a global sport with its own world championship?

Plus, find out about the secrets of keeping the FA Cup trophy safe and hear more about the Vatican’s mini football World Cup.

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.

Image: A detailed view as the FA Cup Trophy is displayed on a plinth prior to the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on May 25, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)


SAT 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tdscx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7d5d9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf34n9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:32 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


SAT 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tdx41)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 12:06 The Documentary (w3ct7yx5)
Women warriors

“We don’t have compulsory conscription for women. All joined voluntarily for different reasons” said Yevheniia Kravchuk, a Ukrainian parliamentarian recently. In the last few decades western militaries have been training more women for combat than ever, yet female recruitment and retention is stalling. But with warfare changing, new technologies and new threats, women soldiers are a vital resource.

Victoria Hollingsworth talks with different women around the world, some on the frontline and others about to go, and explores the motivations and the challenges they face. Many have families and find juggling these two lives very hard and with little support. Away from the frontline many have faced sexism and worse from their own colleagues.

There are some in society and the military that believe there is no place for women in combat. It is a polarising view that is at odds with progressive modern militaries yet one that appears to be gathering momentum in some parts of the world, especially in the US. How will this affect the careers of females currently serving in the US armed forces and future recruitment?

(Photo: Major Jenny Wood is sitting in the back of an army vehicle. Credit: British Army)


SAT 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tf0w5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 13:06 Newshour (w172zss201bk5fs)
Israel launches new offensive in Gaza

The IDF (Israeli Defence Force) has announced they have mobilised troops to defeat Hamas and secure the freedom of the remaining hostages. Bombardment has intensified and troops are gathering near the borders. We get an on-the-ground update and speak to a father whose son is being held hostage in Gaza.

Also on the programme: Romanians return to the polls tomorrow for a defining Presidential election which will shape the country's future, and, we speak to the producer of a Taiwanese TV show which depicts a fictional Chinese invasion on the controversy surrounding the programme.

(Photo: Israeli tanks stand near the Israel-Gaza border, in Israel May 17, 2025. REUTERS/Amir Cohen)


SAT 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tf4m9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:06 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)


SAT 14:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf3hwp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:32 Trending (w3ct72t9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 today]


SAT 14:50 More or Less (w3ct6vyt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 today]


SAT 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tf8cf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 15:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqh9m31wqw)
Live Sporting Action

Photo: Detailed view of The Emirates FA Cup Trophy on display ahead of kick off at Selhurst Park Stadium during the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Crystal Palace and Millwall at Selhurst Park on March 1, 2025 in London, England. (Credit: Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images)


SAT 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tfrby)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:06 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


SAT 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf43mb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:32 Happy News (w3ct6ty6)
The Happy Pod: Climbing a mountain 64 times to inspire others

Listener Tania tells us how stories on The Happy Pod helped her fight for life after a near fatal mountain fall. Now she's determined to inspire others. Also: a park designed in a computer game becomes a reality; why happiness boosts vaccines; and the cheerleading businessmen.

Presenter: Alex Ritson
Music: Iona Hampson

(Photo: Tania on top of mountain holding a bunch of flowers)


SAT 20:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tfw32)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 20:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt6)
Colombian artist Doris Salcedo

Nikki Bedi and cultural critic Hanna Flint discuss Colombian artist Doris Salcedo’s work which gives voice to the victims of conflict and violence.

British actor Florence Pugh talks about taking on her own daring stunts in the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe movie, Thunderbolts.*

The legacy of US singer songwriter Paul Simon’s controversial album Graceland, forty years after its release.

Jamaican poet Lorna Goodison, the country’s first ever female poet laureate, talks about updating Dante’s Inferno.

Legendary, Oscar-winning, American sound editor Walter Murch, reveals the magic behind movie sound design.

Irish Australian actor Genevieve O’Reilly on becoming part of the Star Wars franchise.

And there’s music from singer Olcay Bayir.

Main image: Doris Salcedo
Photo credit: BBC


SAT 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tfzv6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201bl4dt)
Hamas confirms new round of ceasefire talks with Israel

Hamas has confirmed it's started a new round of ceasefire talks with Israel, as the IDF continues its new offensive in Gaza. Newshour hears from Gaza City itself.

Also in the programme: Voyager 1 reactivates its thrusters; and Eurovision gets underway in Switzerland.

(Picture: A Palestinian makes his way with belongings as he flees his home, after Israeli air strikes, in the northern Gaza Strip. Credit: Reuters)


SAT 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tg3lb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct7z06)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 today]


SAT 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tg7bg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7fmbv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf4llv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:32 This Is Africa (w3ct72cv)
Scotts Maphuma

Scotts Maphuma is a singer-songwriter and producer from South Africa, who with his infectious rhythms and unique dance moves is fast becoming one of Amapiano’s biggest stars.

Tracks like Wishi Wishi and Yebo Lapho have taken social media by storm and his energetic moves have sparked viral dance challenges.

But he’s also caused controversy by saying "cancel me, South Africa", after some fans complained that he is rude for not wanting to take selfies with them.

SUNDAY 18 MAY 2025

SUN 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tgc2l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf4qbz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Saturday]


SUN 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tggtq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:06 on Saturday]


SUN 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf4v33)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:32 Trending (w3ct72t9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 01:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct6ykt)
The 5-19 football riot in China in 1985

In May 1985 Hong Kong inflicted an unexpected footballing defeat on their neighbours and rivals China in a World Cup qualifying game in Beijing.

The disappointed Chinese fans rioted and the Hong Kong team had to flee to the safety of their hotel. They later returned home to a hero's welcome.

In 2017 Ashley Byrne spoke to former Hong Kong manager, Lawrence Yu Kam-kee. A Made in Manchester production.

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.

This programme has been updated since the original broadcast.

(Photo: The Hong Kong team are mobbed by fans on their return. Credit: South China Morning Post via Getty Images)


SUN 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tglkv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7fzl7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf4yv7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:32 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


SUN 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tgq9z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 03:06 The Documentary (w3ct7yx5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tgv23)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trd)
Evacuating Gaza's sick children

Pascale Harter introduces stories from Gaza, Indian-administered Kashmir, Pakistan and Eswatini.

As the Jordanian initiative to evacuate sick and injured children from Gaza continues, Fergal Keane has travelled with some young cancer patients as they crossed the border to seek medical treatment. He reflects on the impact of lasting food shortages, media restrictions, and a week of heavy Israeli bombardment in Gaza.

A recent attack by militants in Indian-administered Kashmir saw tensions escalate between two nuclear-armed countries, India and Pakistan, to their highest level in six years. Although a ceasefire was agreed, local people's nerves have been shattered, as Aamir Peerzada discovered on the Indian-administered side of the Line of Control which divides the region.

From drone war to meme war: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared a ‘Day of the Battle of Truth’ to mark his country’s self-proclaimed victory in the latest confrontation with India. Azadeh Moshiri reports from Pakistan on the military's efforts to regain public confidence, including a social media campaign - using a flood of memes and emojis to inspire love for the armed forces.

The landlocked Kingdom of Eswatini is one of the last remaining absolute monarchies in the world. But critics have accused its King Mswati III of repressing any opposition. In 2021, several dozen people were killed during weeks of pro-democracy protests. Tim Hartley went to a Saturday football match in Manzini to gauge the public mood today.

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

Image: A girl travels with her mother to receive treatment in Jordan Credit: Fergal Keane/BBC


SUN 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf56bh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78bl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tgyt7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7gbtm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf5b2m)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:32 The Documentary (w3ct7yx4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3th2kc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 06:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgqn8b)
Possible ceasefire deal in Gaza

Details have emerged of a possible new ceasefire deal in Gaza. Hamas is reported to be ready to free nine Israeli hostages in return for a sixty-day truce and the resumption of aid. The two sides have been holding indirect talks in Qatar, as Israel continues an offensive that has killed hundreds of Palestinians.

Also in the programme: the inauguration mass for Pope Leo XIV takes place later this morning; and Austria has won this year’s Eurovision song contest.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson and now distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, and H.A. Hellyer, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress in Washington DC.

(Photo: Flames rise from northern Gaza, as seen from the Israeli side of the Israel-Gaza border on May 17, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Amir Cohen)


SUN 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3th69h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 07:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgqs0g)
Pivotal elections taking place in eastern Europe

Romanians are casting their ballots in the second round of what's forecast to be a tight presidential election. Poland is also holding a presidential election that could decide whether the coalition government of Donald Tusk can push through liberal reforms. The results of both elections are crucial amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

Also in the programme: Hungary’s parliament is considering a bill that could restrict organisations that receive foreign funding; and we speak to British race car driver Jamie Chadwick on the rise of women involved in the sport.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson and now distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, and H.A. Hellyer, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress in Washington DC.

(Photo: Presidential candidate Nicusor Dan votes during Romania’s second round of the presidential election on May 18, 2025. Credit: Louisa Gouliamaki/Reuters)


SUN 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3thb1m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 08:06 Weekend (w172zw828cgqwrl)
Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar

Details have emerged of a potential deal for another ceasefire in Gaza but there's been no let-up in Israeli airstrikes. The Hamas authorities said on Sunday at least thirty-three people had been killed overnight. The militants are understood to have offered in talks in Qatar to release nine of the remaining live hostages in exchange for a sixty-day truce, the resumption of aid and the release of some Palestinians from Israeli prisons.

On the programme we hear from a mother who is living in Gaza with her two young daughters. We’ll also speak to a human rights lawyer about the implications it has on international law.

Also in the programme: crowds gather to watch the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV; and we’ll hear from a contender for the International Booker Prize.

Joining Rebecca Kesby to discuss this and more are Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson and now distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, and H.A. Hellyer, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress in Washington DC.

(Photo: Palestinians inspect the damage at the site of an Israeli strike on a tent camp sheltering displaced people in southern Gaza on May 18, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled)


SUN 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3thfsr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 today]


SUN 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf5t24)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:32 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


SUN 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3thkjw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:06 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. 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)


SUN 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf5xt8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70sw)
Ukraine, the war and TikTok

What do Ukrainian soldiers eat on the frontline? And what's the latest meme trending on Ukrainians' TikTok channels? Zhenya Shidlovska from the BBC Ukrainian social media team will talk about the stories they've been covering, and how she adapted her presenting style to connect with a younger audience. Plus, is Brazilian chocolate getting worse? With Mariana Schreiber from BBC Brasil. And the lioness that woke a family up in the middle of the night, with Gopal Kateshiya reporting for BBC Gujarati.

Prestented by Irena Taranyuk
Produced by Caroline Ferguson and Alice Gioia

(Photo: Irena Taranyuk)


SUN 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3thp90)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7h29d)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf61kd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:32 Trending (w3ct72t9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 11:50 More or Less (w3ct6vyt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


SUN 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tht14)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 12:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf659j)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:32 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)


SUN 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3thxs8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 13:06 Newshour (w172zss201bn2bw)
Dozens more killed in Gaza amid ceasefire talks

Health authorities in Gaza say the Israeli military has killed dozens of people in another wave of strikes. They say all public hospitals in the northern Gaza strip are now out of service. The offensive is continuing even as in direct negotiations on a ceasefire are being held between Israel and Hamas in Qatar. We speak to Martin Griffiths, who was up until last year the most senior humanitarian official at the United Nations.

Also in the programme: voters in Romania are voting in a second round run-off in their presidential election; Pope Leo XIV has held his inauguration mass at the Vatican with tens of thousands of people, including world leaders, in attendance; and Elton John criticises the British Government's policy on AI and copyright.

(Picture: Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli strike on a house in the north of the Gaza strip on May 18, 2025. Credit: Mahmoud Issa/REUTERS)


SUN 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tj1jd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqh9m34nwv)
Live Sporting Action

Sportsworld has two commentaries, both with plenty to play for. There'll be second half commentary of the Women’s FA Cup Final at Wembley between Chelsea and Manchester United, while we will stay in London for the Premier League match between Arsenal and Newcastle, with both sides eyeing second place behind champions Liverpool.

There will also be reaction to the day’s three other Premier League games, and former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani joins John Bennett to look back over all the weekend’s action. We will also be keeping an eye on the title races across Europe as the seasons reach their climax.

The team also bring you the latest from the final round of golf’s PGA Championship, Formula 1’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, and the final day of the Italian Open tennis.

Photo: Kai Havertz of Arsenal is challenged by Fabian Schaer of Newcastle United during the Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James' Park on February 05, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Credit: Getty Images)


SUN 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tjn81)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7j18f)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf70jf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:32 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.


SUN 20:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tjs05)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 20:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72vz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 on Saturday]


SUN 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tjwr9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 21:06 Newshour (w172zss201bp19x)
Exit polls suggest pro-EU candidate will win Romanian election

The Romanian presidential election run-off has pitted a hard-right, nationalist candidate - a self-declared fan of Donald Trump and critic of the European Union - against an avowedly PRO-EU, liberal candidate. Despite exit polls projecting a win for pro-EU Nicusor Dan, once polls closed, his opponent George Simeon claimed victory. We speak to a backer of Nicusor.

Also on the programme: Former UN official Martin Griffiths shares his thoughts on the humanitarian situation in Gaza following recent Israeli offensives;
and a look at the London musical that pays homage to rock n’ roll star Sister Rosetta Tharpe.

(Photo: Bucharest mayor and independent presidential candidate delivers speech after first exit poll results are announced in Romania, 18th May 2025. Credit: Bogdan Cristel/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


SUN 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tk0hf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:06 The Climate Question (w3ct701t)
What makes a good climate novel?

A new climate fiction prize has been launched in the UK, with the aim of spreading awareness about climate change and its solutions. But is that a realistic hope? And how should novelists be writing about climate change anyway?

Graihagh Jackson talks to the Nigerian winner of the Climate Fiction Prize, Abi Daré , and the chair of judges, Madeleine Bunting.

Presenter: Graihagh Jackson
Producer: Di Richardson
Sound mix: Hannah Montgomery and Tom Brignell
Editor: Simon Watts

The Climate Fiction Prize is supported by Climate Spring.

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


SUN 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf7crt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


SUN 22:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]


SUN 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tk47k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl1yb7jj7y)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf7hhy)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70sw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 today]

MONDAY 19 MAY 2025

MON 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwlt3tk7zp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 00:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxf7vf7m82)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 00:32 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)


MON 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3p6zz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljnm0c)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qcl8c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 01:32 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 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3pbr3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljnqrh)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qcq0h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 02:32 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: Marnie Chesterton & Caroline Steel
Producer: Emily Knight
Series Producer: Ben Motley


MON 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3pgh7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 03:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qctrm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 03:32 Pick of the World (w3ct7z4q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


MON 03:50 Over to You (w3ct6xv7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]


MON 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3pl7c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljnz7r)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qcyhr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 04:32 The Conversation (w3ct708m)
The next generation of women wrestlers

Ella Al-Shamahi speaks to professional wrestlers Xia Zhao from China and Divya Aale from India about their passion for the sport and what it’s like to be a woman in this industry.

Xia Zhao from China started martial arts at eight years old and later became a professional athlete in Chinese martial arts, known as wushu, including kung fu and kick-boxing. In 2016, she attended wrestling try-outs in Shanghai, which led her to move to the US and become the first Chinese woman to compete in a WWE ring. Her stage name today is Lei Ying Lee, and she was formerly known as Xia Li.

Divya Aale from India has been captivated by American wrestling since she was four years old. In her early twenties, she trained at the Continental Wrestling Entertainment academy in India, founded by former WWE star Dalip Singh Rana - better known as The Great Khali. She was the only woman living at the academy alongside 200 male wrestlers. Today Divya teaches women's wrestling in Singapore.

Produced by Elena Angelides

(Image: (L) Divya Aale credit Najwan Noor. (R) Lei Ying Lee credit Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.)


MON 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ppzh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 05:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjn302)
Joe Biden diagnosed with prostate cancer

Former US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer. Biden and his family are said to be reviewing treatment options. We will speak to a doctor.

Israel says it will allow a 'basic amount' of food into Gaza, ending a ten-week blockade. We'll go live there to get the latest on the situation.

In a unexpected turn, Bucharest's liberal Mayor Nicusor Dan has won Romania's presidential race, beating right-wing nationalist George Simion. We'll bring you reaction from there.

A BBC investigation finds evidence that children as young as fifteen are being trafficked into illegal mines and sexually abused in South Africa.

And the singer-songwriter, Elton John, says he feels betrayed by the UK government's plans to exempt technology firms from copyright laws.

(Photo: Joe Biden, 2 March 2021; Credit: Reuters)


MON 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ptqm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 06:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjn6r6)
Well wishes pour in for Joe Biden

The former US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer. Mr Biden has received support from both sides of the political aisle. We'll speak to a prostate cancer survivor.

Israel says it will allow a 'basic amount' of food into Gaza, ending its ten-week blockade of the territory. We'll go live Gaza to get the latest.

And in a surprising turn, Bucharest's liberal Mayor, Nicosure Dan, has won Romania's presidential race, beating right-wing nationalist George Simion. We'll bring you reactions from there.


(Photo: Joe Biden,11 January 2023; Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)


MON 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3pygr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 07:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjnbhb)
Israel to allow basic amount of food into Gaza

Israel says it will allow 'basic amount' of food into Gaza, ending a ten-week blockade. we go live there to get the latest on the situation

Former US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Biden and his family are said to be reviewing treatment options. We'll hear from a presidential historian.

The EU looks at further sanctions on Russia. Will fertiliser imports be one of them? We'll speak to the CEO of Yara, one of biggest fertiliser companies.

And a BBC investigation finds evidence that children as young as fifteen are being trafficked into illegal mines and sexually abused in South Africa.

(Photo: Palestinians gather to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, Khan Younis, 2 January 2025; Credit:
Reuters)


MON 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3q26w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzk)
Doris Salcedo, Colombian artist - giving voice to victims of violence

In an interview from the BBC’s This Cultural Life, presenter John Wilson speaks to the Colombian artist Doris Salcedo.

Her work is a response to the devastation of war, and tells the stories of its victims - tales of loss, trauma and survival. She is recognised as one of the most important living artists, and her powerful sculptures and installations have been shown across the world.

A childhood growing up amid the political violence of Colombia led to career dedicated to giving voice to the victims of conflict, visiting concentration camps, mass graves and abandoned villages. She says she wants to place herself where there is nothing left but loss.

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: John Wilson
Producers: Lucy Sheppard, Ben Cooper
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

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 (w172zwxfm3qdfh8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rxk)
Nuclear power’s global revival

Dozens of new nuclear power projects are planned across the world, amid efforts to reduce the use of fossil fuels. But why build more reactors when renewable sources of generating electricity, like wind and solar might be cheaper?

We explore why countries are turning - or returning - to nuclear fission, notably Japan, which dealt with a meltdown at its Fukushima plant in 2011. And we look at how Germany’s decision to close all of its reactors has caused problems for the country’s economy.

We also learn how Amazon, Google and Microsoft are investing in nuclear power, with plans to use smaller modular reactors to run data storage centres in the United States, as demand for electricity is expected to surge when artificial intelligence is running at full capacity.

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

Presented and produced by Russell Padmore

(Pictures: A photo taken on November 6, 2024, shows the construction site of Units 7 and 8 of Tianwan Nuclear Power Plant in Lianyungang, China. Credit: Getty Images)


MON 08:50 Witness History (w3ct7461)
Lunch atop a Skyscraper

In 1932, a photo was taken showing 11 New York ironworkers casually eating their lunch while sitting on a steel beam at the top of a skyscraper. No safety harnesses, no helmets. Their legs dangle freely over the death-defying drop.

'Lunch atop a Skyscraper' is now one of the most famous pictures in the world but it's an image surrounded in mystery. For years, the identity of its photographer and the 11 men have been unknown.

Christine Roussel, archivist at the Rockefeller Center, tells Vicky Farncombe about her mission to uncover the photo’s secrets.

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: Lunch atop a Skyscraper. Credit: Getty Images)


MON 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3q5z0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljpkzd)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qdk7d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 09:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3q9q4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 10:06 The History Hour (w3ct71vq)
Sweden’s Vipeholm experiments and the Intervision Song Contest

Max Pearson presents a collection of the week's Witness History interviews from the BBC World Service. Our guest is Dr Elizabeth Abbott, writer, historian and author of the book, "Sugar: A Bittersweet History".

First, we confront the dark history of sugar.

We hear how a researcher in the 1990s uncovered the unethical aspects of Sweden’s Vipeholm experiments in the 1940 which led to new recommendations for children to eat sweets just once a week.

And, how Mexico, a country which had one of the highest rates of fizzy drink consumption in the world, approved a tax on sugary soft drinks in 2013.

Then an event which shaped the second half of the last century - On 14 May 1955, the leader of the Soviet Union and Heads of State from seven European countries met to sign the Warsaw Pact.

Plus, the story of how two rival electricity pioneers, Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison brought electricity to the world.

Finally, we hear from Finnish singer Marion Rung on winning the 1980 Intervision Song Contest, the USSR’s answer to Eurovision.

Contributors:

Dr Elin Bommenel - academic
Dr Simon Barquera - director of health and nutrition research at The Institute for Public Health of Mexico
Dr Elizabeth Abbott - writer and historian
Otto Grotewohl - German politician
Mark Seifer - biographer of Nikola Tesla
William Terbo - relative of Nikola Tesla
Marion Rung - Finnish winner of Intervision song contest 1980

(Photo: sugar cubes and fizzy drinks, Credit: Anthony Devlin/Press Association)


MON 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3qfg8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljptgn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qdsqn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 11:32 The Conversation (w3ct708m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3qk6d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpl)
Chile's ice mermaid and her record-breaking glacial swims

Bárbara Hernández is affectionately known in Chile as the Ice Mermaid, she swims in often glacially cold waters and holds the record for the longest swim in Antarctica. She swam in water that was 2°C for a mind-boggling 2.5 kilometres. She’s also the first South American to have completed the Oceans 7, a marathon swimming challenge consisting of seven open water channel swims: she had an extra incentive for finishing that one as she promised her boyfriend she’d marry him if she succeeded. She tells Outlook reporter Jane Chambers that it’s all an unexpected turn for the little girl who was laughed at for wearing second-hand swimming costumes and never felt good enough in the pool. Barbara is voiced in English by Regina Brandolino.

The list of underwater predators that Amos Nachoum has photographed is long - it includes the Nile crocodile, the great white shark, orcas, anacondas and many other creatures that most of us would hope never to encounter. But for Amos that list was incomplete, his dream, his white whale, was to swim with a polar bear and photograph it. His first attempt went badly wrong, but it did not deter him and in 2015 he made his second attempt. He shares his account of that adventure with Outlook's Saskia Collette. This interview was first broadcast in 2021. To hear the full story search for BBC Outlook Swimming with polar bears - a photographer's 'crazy' dream.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Andrea Kennedy

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

(Photo: Bárbara Hernández swimming in front of an Antarctic glacier. Credit: Ulises Yañez @zvcarias)


MON 12:50 Witness History (w3ct7461)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3qnyj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljq1yx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qf16x)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 13:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3qspn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 14:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9mvy88)
UK and EU strike post-Brexit deal on food, fishing, defence and passports

Britain and the European Union have agreed a series of deals aimed at resetting relations following Brexit, which saw the UK vote to leave the bloc in 2016. The new agreements on issues including trade, fishing rights and defence co-operation were unveiled at a UK-EU summit in London.

Also in the programme: Joe Biden is diagnosed with prostate cancer and; we find out about a special exhibition about John Lennon in London…from his sister.

(Picture: Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. Credit: Getty Images)


MON 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3qxfs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qf8q5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76qg)
UK-EU deal: What impact could it have on businesses?

The UK and the EU have reached a new deal setting out post-Brexit relations on areas including fishing rights, trade and defence.

We look through what has actually been agreed, what it means for businesses and consumers right across Europe and find out what it tells us about global trade more broadly and whether it’s a sign of things to come.

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

(Photo: Sir Keir Starmer and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen at a press conference at the end of the UK-EU Summit at Lancaster House, in central London. Credit: PA)


MON 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3r15x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 16:06 BBC OS (w173067rldhsx9w)
Israel to allow 'minimal' aid into Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip to prevent Hamas from looting aid. His comment came after Israel said it would allow a limited amount of food into Gaza. We speak to aid workers.

We have the latest on the phone conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.

Joe Biden has thanked well wishers for their support after Sunday's announcement that he's been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. We hear from an American man living with prostate cancer and from his daughter, who runs a pharmacy and helps her father cope with his condition. We also speak about the reaction in the US with the BBC's Chief Anchor in North America Sumi Somaskanda, who is currently in London and joins Mark at the desk.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: Palestinians wait to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, May 19, 2025. Credit: Mahmoud Issa/Reuters)


MON 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3r4y1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 17:06 BBC OS (w173067rldht120)
Trump and Putin phone call on Ukraine

Presidents Trump and Putin have been speaking directly on the phone, with US efforts to get Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine expected to dominate the conversation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip to prevent Hamas from looting aid. His comment came after Israel said it would allow a limited amount of food into Gaza. We speak to aid workers.

The UK and the European Union have announced a series of deals to improve post-Brexit relations. We find out what's been agreed.

France will build a new high-security prison in its overseas territory of French Guiana to house drug traffickers and radical Islamists, the country's justice minister announced during a visit to the territory. Our newsroom reporter explains.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: Russia's President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with senior officials to discuss the upcoming peace talks with Ukraine in Moscow, Russia May 14, 2025. Credit: Sputnik/Alexander Kazakov/Pool via REUTERS)


MON 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3r8p5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


MON 18:50 Witness History (w3ct7461)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3rdf9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljqsfp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qfrpp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z4x)
2025/05/19 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 (w172zwwm5d3rj5f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 20:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6trd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qfwft)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 20:32 Discovery (w3ct5rmk)
Unstoppable: Hedy Lamarr

Dr Julia Ravey and Dr Ella Hubber both have a love of science, but it turns out there’s a lot they don’t know about some of the leading women at the front of the inventing game. In Unstoppable, Dr Julia and Dr Ella tell each other the hidden, world-shaping stories of the engineers, innovators and inventors they wish they’d known about when they were starting out as scientists. This week, the story of the Hollywood starlet whose brilliant ideas would go on to revolutionise the way we live.

Known as the ‘most beautiful woman in film’ during the 1940s, Hedy Lamarr was one of the most in demand Hollywood actresses of her time. But she wasn’t just a movie star. From a young age, she also had a knack for inventing – she liked to take her toys apart just to see how they worked. And she carried this passion into her adult life – creating an invention that laid the groundwork for technology many of us couldn’t live without: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.

But it didn’t come without struggle. Dr Julia and Dr Ella take us through Hedy’s remarkable journey, and we get a first-hand look into Hedy’s life from her daughter Denise Loder-DeLuca.

Presenters: Dr Ella Hubber and Dr Julia Ravey
Producers: Ella Hubber and Julia Ravey
Assistant producer: Sophie Ormiston
Production Coordinator: Elisabeth Tuohy
Editor: Holly Squire

(Photo: Hedy Lamarr, Austrian-born American actress and inventor. Credit: Eric Carpenter/John Kobal Foundation/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)


MON 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3rmxk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 21:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9mwsh5)
Trump and Putin hold two-hour phone call on Ukraine

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken by phone to discuss the war in Ukraine and how to end it.

So what's changed? We'll get analysis from Moscow and Washington.

Also on the programme: a very limited re-start of aid to Gaza from Israel, after an eleven-week blockade; and as a new exhibition opens in London, featuring a replica of John Lennon's childhood bedroom, we hear from his sister.

(Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with students and teachers at a concert hall of a music school as he visits the Sirius educational centre for gifted children near Sochi in the Krasnodar region, Russia, May 19, 2025. Credit: Reuters)


MON 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3rrnp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 22:06 The Interview (w3ct7wzk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qg3y2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 22:32 The Conversation (w3ct708m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3rwdt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljr8f6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qg7p6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76sq)
From fishing to food exports: What's the UK's deal with the EU?

The UK and the EU have reached a new deal setting out post-Brexit relations on areas including fishing rights, trade and defence.

We hear from the Irish fishing community, a food exporter in the UK and what a "youth experience scheme" could mean for businesses in France.

Also, Andrew Peach finds out how one of the most important companies in the world is helping shape the future of the global economy.

TUESDAY 20 MAY 2025

TUE 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3s04y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 00:06 The History Hour (w3ct71vq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3s3x2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs2bwfs8d7)
How a secretive Taiwanese company is shaping the future of the global economy

The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, which makes advanced microchips, is helping to shape the future of the global economy. It is at the centre of a chip rivalry raging across the world – one of the key subplots of President Trumps trade war.

The UK and the EU have reached a new deal setting out post-Brexit relations on areas including fishing rights, trade and defence. We hear from the Irish fishing community, a food exporter in the UK and what a "youth experience scheme" could mean for businesses in France.

Andrew Peach is joined by two guests on opposite sides of the world: Jennifer Pak is in Shanghai and Peter Morici in Alexandria, Virginia.


TUE 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3s7n6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljrmnl)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qglxl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:32 Assignment (w3ct6rbh)
Colombia's webcam women

Colombia’s second largest city, Medellín, is booming and one of the biggest industries revolves around the city’s webcam studios which live stream women performing sex acts.  It’s estimated there are hundreds of studios in the city employing thousands of women and turning over millions of pounds as men – primarily in the US and Europe – pay to watch the women. The work is legal with studios running glossy websites to attract models and even hosting their own annual trade show. Crossing Continents meets two women who have contrasting experiences working in the industry. Sofia Bettiza asks if their work is exploitation or a pragmatic way to earn a living in a country where wages for women are often low and opportunities limited.

Presented and produced by Sofia Bettiza
Produced by Bob Howard
Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman
Editor: Penny Murphy and Richard Fenton-Smith

(Image: Webcam model in Medellin. Credit: BBC/ Sofia Bettiza)


TUE 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3scdb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wpl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Monday]


TUE 03:50 Witness History (w3ct7461)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3sh4g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljrw4v)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qgvdv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vtb)
Esben Holmboe Bang: The art of food

Every flavour is a note, the secret is to build those notes into a symphony. Esben Holmboe Bang is a three Michelin-starred chef working in Norway. He only uses local produce and collects some of his ingredients from the local forest. His aim is to tell the story of Norway through food.


TUE 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3slwl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 05:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjqzx5)
UN says Gaza aid 'a drop in the ocean'

United Nations says the aid entering Gaza is a drop in the ocean. Israel says five trucks carrying baby food, medicines and flour have entered Gaza, after an eleven week aid blockade. Four more are due to follow. We'll go live there.

We'll also hear from an Israeli reservist and a settler as Israel continues with its campaign in Gaza.

President Trump says Russia and Ukraine will start immediate talks towards a ceasefire.

We'll also hear why more African business leaders are getting US phone numbers even though they don't live there.

(Photo: Trucks carrying aid make their way into Gaza, 19 May 2025; Credit:
Reuters)


TUE 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3sqmq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 06:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjr3n9)
First aid tracks enter Gaza

The United Nations describes the first delivery of aid supplies into Gaza after eleven weeks as a 'drop in the ocean'. We'll hear from people inside Gaza.

Britain, France and Canada warn they could take 'concrete action' if Israel does not stop its military offensive in the region and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid.

President trumps says Russia and Ukraine will 'immediately' start negotiating towards a ceasefire and an end to the war.

And we'll find out why Gabon and Equatorial Guinea have been locked in a legal battle over three tiny Islands.

(Photo: Trucks carrying aid make their way to Gaza, 19 May 2025; Credit: Reuters)


TUE 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3svcv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 07:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjr7df)
Trump: Ukraine and Russia to start peace talks 'immediately'

President Trump says Russia and Ukraine will start immediate talks towards a ceasefire. So, has the ground shifted after President Trump's two-hour phone call with the Russian president? We speak to the European parliament's special rapporteur on Ukraine.

The United Nations says the aid entering Gaza is a 'drop in the ocean'. Israel says five trucks carrying baby food, medicines and flour have entered Gaza, after an 11-week aid blockade. Four more are due to follow.

(Photo: Ukrainian servicemen in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, 15 May 2025. Credit: EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


TUE 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3sz3z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxj)
Working with our minds

Mindfulness meditation, which involves becoming aware of the breath in the present moment, has been a core part of Eastern contemplative practices for thousands of years. Over recent decades however, it’s ‘exploded’ throughout the West as scientists have sought to prove the physical and mental benefits of regular practice - like feeling calmer, less stressed and feeling better able to manage emotions.

This week we look at some of the more surprising places where these simple techniques are having a big impact.

In Kenya, we learn about the ‘mindfulness revolution’ that took place in a men’s high security prison outside Nairobi after a group of inmates and guards were taught mindfulness techniques in 2015. They soon started teaching each other and ten years later it’s spread to prisons throughout the country and beyond.

And we visit Baltimore in the US, where a non-profit organisation has been teaching mindfulness and yoga in inner city schools for over twenty years, giving children growing up with violence and deprivation the tools to manage their emotions and heal trauma.

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: Zoe Gelber
US reporter: Ben Wyatt
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Gareth Jones

(Image: Students in Baltimore practicing yoga, Holistic Life Foundation)


TUE 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qhbdc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s6l)
A nuclear future for Africa?

Nuclear power is back in favour, as more countries across the world consider ways to cut carbon emissions to combat climate change.

Countries like China and Japan are planning to build more reactors, but should nations in Africa invest in renewable sources of generating electricity, like solar panels, wind turbines and geo-thermal power, instead of nuclear?

We examine how energy generated from nuclear fission has huge advance costs which would mean African governments finding loans from willing investors, but that might cede more economic influence to China or Russia.

We also hear how Amazon, Google and Microsoft are investing in nuclear power, using smaller modular reactors to run data storage centres in the United States, as demand for electricity is expected to surge when artificial intelligence is running at full capacity. Could the developing technology of SMRs prove useful in Africa?

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

Presented and produced by Russell Padmore

(Picture: The Koeberg nuclear power station, Cape Town, South Africa. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74mm)
Nigerian photographer’s iconic 'Hairstyles' series

J. D. 'Okhai Ojeikere, who was known as Nigeria’s top photographer, started documenting women’s hairstyles in 1968. He built up a portfolio of around 2,000 negatives revealing the elaborate ways African women styled their hair through his series of black and white photos.

A selection of his 'Hairstyles' prints was displayed at the Venice Biennale in 2013. Reena Stanton-Sharma speaks to his son Amaize Ojeikere, also a photographer, about his father’s work.

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: 'Hairstyles' by J. D. 'Okhai Ojeikere. Credit: TERESA SUAREZ/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)


TUE 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3t2w3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljsgwh)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qhg4h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:32 Assignment (w3ct6rbh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3t6m7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 10:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


TUE 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3tbcc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljsqcr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qhpmr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vtb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3tg3h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6x48)
Prabal Gurung: The surprising story of a fashion superstar

At 2025's Met Gala, Shakira stepped out in a powder-pink strapless gown. Occasionally she posed for photos with a man who looked even more like a popstar than her. His name is Prabal Gurung and his design is what Shakira chose to wear to the prestigious fashion event. But, the Met Gala is a long way from Prabal's origins. He grew up in Nepal coveting his sister's ruffled dresses, his mother's rouge lipstick and sketching images of glamorous women in the margins of his notebooks.

Prabal's youth was tumultuous. He witnessed his father physically abusing his mother and, when he was sent to a boarding school, was a victim of bullying and a predatory teacher. But Prabal eventually came to the US and realized his American dream. After studying at the Parsons School of Design, he went on to dress some iconic women including Oprah Winfrey, Kate Middleton and Kamala Harris.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Saskia Collette and June Christie

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

(Photo: Prabal Gurung with Shakira at the 2025 Met Gala. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74mm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3tkvm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljsyw0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qhy40)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:32 Discovery (w3ct5rmk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Monday]


TUE 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3tplr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 14:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9myv5c)
UN humanitarian chief warns of baby deaths in Gaza

The United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher has told the BBC that 14,000 babies in Gaza could die within the next two days unless aid can reach them. He said baby food brought into the territory by five trucks on Monday was "a drop in the ocean". Israel has blocked all aid from entering Gaza for the past 11 weeks, saying it was putting pressure on Hamas, which it accuses of stealing aid. The UN says permission has now been given for a further 100 aid trucks to enter Gaza on Tuesday. Medical workers in Gaza say Israeli airstrikes overnight killed at least 60 people. The attacks came just hours after Britain, Canada and France condemned the military operation as "wholly disproportionate".


Also in the programme: The United Kingdom and the European Union are placing more sanctions on Russia. Will that have any effect on Moscow to end the war in Ukraine? And, one ultra-marathoner tells us what he's feeling after running across Australia.

(Photo: Palestinians wait to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, May 19, 2025. Credit: Reuters/Mahmoud Issa)


TUE 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ttbw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qj5m8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct766m)
The Chinese battery maker powering ahead of its competition

China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) supplies major carmakers including Tesla, Volkswagen and Toyota. We ask how it has become one of the world's fastest-growing firms.

Elsewhere, a 50-year land dispute off West Africa is now centred on oil deposits.

And, the flight attendants in Spain who have been asked to give back a pay rise.

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


TUE 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ty30)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 16:06 BBC OS (w173067rldhwt6z)
More aid trucks to arrive in Gaza

The UN says Israel has given permission for around 100 aid lorries to enter Gaza. Israel has blocked all aid from entering the territory for the past 11 weeks, saying it was putting pressure on Hamas, which it accuses of stealing aid. We have the latest from our reporters in the region. Opinion is divided in Israel as to what should happen next. We hear a coversation with two Israelis who have different views on the government's approach.

On a recent trip, President Donald Trump pledged to lift all sanctions against Syria, saying it was now time for the country to move forward with "a chance at greatness". We ask people working in the hospitality sector if this signals a welcome new chapter for the country.

(Photo: A truck loaded with aid is seen at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza,on its Israeli side. Credit: COGAT/Handout via REUTERS)


TUE 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3v1v4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 17:06 BBC OS (w173067rldhwxz3)
UK, France and Canada demand Israel changes course

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the UK, together with their French and Canadian allies are “horrified by the escalation from Israel”. He repeated his government’s demand for a ceasefire and said that humanitarian assistance to Gazans must be scaled up. In response the Israeli government said it would not let external pressure change its course. We speak to our Gaza correspondent and hear a conversation with Israelis who share different views on the conflict.

Inside a laboratory nestled above the mist of the forests of South Dakota, scientists are searching for the answer to one of science's biggest questions: why does our Universe exist? Our science correspondent explains.

Our reporter in Madrid tells us about the Spanish government's call for the removal of 66,000 Airbnb listings just ahead of the summer season

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: Israeli Merkava tanks head towards the southern Gaza Strip. Credit ATEF SAFADI/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


TUE 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3v5l8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6x48)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


TUE 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74mm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3v9bd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljtpbs)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qjnls)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z9f)
2025/05/20 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 (w172zwwm5d3vf2j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:06 Assignment (w3ct6rbh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qjsbx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znq)
Protecting your invention

This week we're learning about patents - what they are, and who wants one. And by analysing the global demand for patents, we can see future trends in tech.

Also in this edition of Tech Life, what are doctors and patients around the world saying about the use of artificial intelligence in hospitals ? And we'll be finding out about Google's latest injection of AI into online search.

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: Zoe Kleinman
Producer: Tom Quinn
Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo of a woman with a lightbulb sticker on her forehead, indicating she's had an idea. Credit: Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)


TUE 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3vjtn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 21:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9mzpd8)
UK suspends trade talks with Israel

The British Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, has announced the suspension of negotiations with Israel on a new trade agreement - due to what he called its "intolerable" and "abominable" recent actions in Gaza. The World Health Organisation says two million people in Gaza are starving. As Israel allows some aid in after an eleven week blockade, the British government says it's nowhere near enough.
Also on the programme: Tanzania detains two prominent human rights activists who had travelled to Dar es Salaam to observe an opposition leader’s treason case. And we'll have an appreciation of a ballet maestro with an iron fist.

(Photo: Britain's Foreign Minister David Lammy delivers a statement on the Israel and Hamas ceasefire deal, at the House of Commons, in London, Britain, January 16, 2025. Credit: House of Commons/Handout via REUTERS)


TUE 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3vnks)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xxj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qk0v5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vtb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3vs9x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljv5b9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qk4l9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76b0)
EU plans fee on cheap Chinese parcels

The EU plans a €2 fee on cheap parcels from China, hitting companies like Temu and Shein. We hear from the Chief Executive of the European Consumer Association.

Syria has a chance to reboot its economy as the EU lifts some sanctions. We hear from Syrian businesses on what this second chance could mean for them.

And Devina Gupta finds out how the world’s largest maker of electric vehicle batteries has had the biggest stock market listing of the year.

WEDNESDAY 21 MAY 2025

WED 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3vx21)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 00:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zt6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


WED 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3w0t5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs2bwfw59b)
The US's largest political donor plans to cut back

Elon Musk, the US’s largest political donor, plans to cut back on political spending after giving more than $250m on Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. What will that mean for his businesses like Tesla, X and SpaceX?

In the EU, there are plans for a €2 fee on cheap parcels from China, hitting companies like Temu and Shein.

Over in Canada, the recently re-elected Liberal government says it won't release a federal budget this year.


WED 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3w4k9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljvjkp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qkhtp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 02:32 The Climate Question (w3ct701t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 22:06 on Sunday]


WED 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3w89f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6x48)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Tuesday]


WED 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74mm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3wd1k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljvs1y)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qkr9y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 04:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y49)
The Six Billion Dollar Gold Scam

The Six Billion Dollar Gold Scam: 9. The exit strategy

A new witness comes forward with important new evidence over the fate of Bre-X geologist Michael de Guzman. The investigation takes a dramatic turn. Could Suzanne finally be close to finding out what really happened? Did de Guzman take his own life to free himself of the scam, was he murdered or did he hatch an elaborate escape?

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 and death. It includes some graphic content.

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


WED 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3whsp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 05:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjtwt8)
UN: Aid still to reach people of Gaza

The United Nations says no aid has yet been distributed in Gaza despite aid lorries starting to cross the border after an 11-week blockade. Israeli officials said 93 trucks entered Gaza on Tuesday, carrying aid including flour, baby food, medical equipment, and pharmaceutical drugs. We'll get an update on the situation.

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of "trying to buy time" to continue its invasion of his country, a day after Donald Trump said progress towards a ceasefire had been made in a call with Vladimir Putin. We'll get a view from Moscow.

And South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the US capital for a highly anticipated meeting with President Donald Trump. We'll speak to a spokesman for the South African President to find out what's on the agenda at the meeting.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: A truck loaded with aid is seen at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza, on its Israeli side in this handout image COGAT/via Reuters).


WED 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3wmjt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 06:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjv0kd)
Aid for Gaza

The United Nations has said that no aid has yet been distributed in Gaza despite some aid lorries starting to cross the border after an 11-week Israeli blockade - we'll hear from a resident on the situation where he is in Gaza City.

The European Union has decided to review its ties with Israel because of the war in Gaza, with the UK taking similar action as well - So is Israel feeling pressure mounting to stop its renewed offensive into the Gaza Strip?

And researchers say wild fires destroyed tropical forests at record levels last year, with the equivalent of nearly twenty football pitches lost every minute.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: Stacks of aid are seen at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza, on its Israeli side in this handout image. Credit: COGAT Handout/Reuters).


WED 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3wr8y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 07:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjv49j)
UN: Gaza aid is yet to reach civilians

The UN says no aid has yet to be distributed in Gaza despite aid lorries starting to cross the border after an 11-week blockade. International pressure is mounting on Israel with the European Union now reviewing its ties with Israel because of the war in Gaza.

President Trump announces plans to build a missile defence system that will shield the entire United States, we'll speak to a former US Admiral for more on the so-called 'Golden Dome.'

And the UK is rolling out a vaccine for the sexually-transmitted disease Gonorrhoea.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo:Trucks carrying aid are seen at the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza. Credit: Amir Cohen/Reuters)


WED 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ww12)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7x6b)
Dovilė Šakalienė, Defence Minister of Lithuania: Uncertain times for Europe

BBC Defence Correspondent Jonathan Beale speaks to Dovilė Šakalienė, Lithuania’s Defence Minister.

The Baltic nation, along with its neighbours Latvia and Estonia, share a border with Russia, and have nervously watched the invasion of Ukraine, fearing they could be next.

All three countries have had turbulent relationships with their much larger neighbour, Russia. They were annexed by the Soviet Union during the Second World War, and were subject to decades of rule from Moscow up until the end of the Cold War.

In 2004, Lithuania joined both the European Union and Nato, and just over a decade later, adopted the Euro as its currency. But despite looking westwards, the country has always kept one eye on developments over its eastern border in Russia.

Russia’s annexation of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014 set off alarm bells in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, and when the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia began in 2022, Lithuania and its neighbours began fearing and preparing for the worst..

Presenter: Jonathan Beale
Producer: Ben Cooper
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith


WED 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3ql79g)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6sc3)
The world’s most dangerous place to be a trade unionist

We're in Colombia where workers have been been shot at, threatened with violence and seen their work colleagues killed – all because of union membership or association.

Why is this happening, what’s being done about it, and what drives people to still sign up for trade union membership?

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

Presented and produced by Gideon Long

(Image: Striking truck drivers in September 2024. Credit: Getty Images)


WED 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74pw)
Martín Chambi: Peru's pioneering documentary photographer

Martín Chambi is regarded as one of the most important indigenous Peruvian photographers of the 20th century. Famous for his black and white images of local Andean people and the surrounding countryside, Chambi’s work challenged preconceptions of Peruvian culture and traditions. In 1924 he was among the first to photograph Machu Picchu – his work helping to shape the way Peru is seen around the world. His photography was declared part of the Cultural Heritage of the Nation by Peru’s government in 2019. Jacqueline Paine speaks to his grandson Roberto Chambi.

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: Martín Chambi self-portrait 1923. Credit: Martín Chambi Archive.)


WED 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3wzs6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljwcsl)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qlc1l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 09:32 The Climate Question (w3ct701t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 22:06 on Sunday]


WED 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3x3jb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 10:06 The Documentary (w3ct7yx5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


WED 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3x78g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljwm8v)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qlljv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 11:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y49)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xc0l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc5)
Why I forgave my daughter Brianna's killers

Esther Ghey's daughter Brianna, who was transgender, was murdered by teenagers she believed were her friends, in 2023. Faced with this unthinkable loss, Esther has chosen to forgive her daughter's killers, but also to hold out the hand of friendship to one of their mothers. She tells Asya Fouks how she has found that strength; why she is campaigning for mindfulness training in schools, and how better protection for children online might have helped Brianna, who prior to her death struggled with an addiction to her smartphone.
Esther's book about Brianna is called Under a Pink Sky.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: June Christie and Laura Thomas

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

(Photo: Esther Ghey, mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey, reads a statement to the media outside of Manchester Crown Court, in Manchester, north-west England on 20 December, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)


WED 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74pw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xgrq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljwvs3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qlv13)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 13:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


WED 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xlhv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 14:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n1r2g)
UN: Aid yet to reach civilians in Gaza

As Gaza residents wait for aid, health officials say more than 40 people have been killed by air strikes overnight, as Israel continues its new offensive. We hear from a man who lives in Gaza City and from Israel's ambassador at the United Nations.

Also in the programme: The Sudanese army says it now controls all of Khartoum state - recaptured from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces; and we talk to the winner of the International Booker prize, Indian writer Banu Mushtaq.

(Photo: Israeli security forces stand near trucks with aid entering Gaza from Israel, near the Kerem Shalom crossing, close to the Israeli border with Gaza. May 21, 2025. Credit: Reuters/Amir Cohen)


WED 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xq7z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7x6b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qm2jc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76ff)
Will the US Congress pass Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'?

With US President Donald Trump's tax cut and spending bill facing opposition from both Democrats and fellow Republicans during a rare overnight session in Congress, is America's economy standing at a crossroads?

It could bring tax reductions, and tighten the availability of healthcare, but increase the United States' debt by $3 trillion.

David Harper speaks to our correspondent in Johannesburg as we examine South Africa's latest attempt to pass a budget, and we look at whether Columbia is possibly the most dangerous place in the world to be a Trade Unionist.

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


WED 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xv03)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 16:06 BBC OS (w173067rldhzq42)
Gazans wait for aid

Palestinians in Gaza are still waiting for aid to arrive after Israel eased an 11-week blockade on Sunday. The UN's Palestinian refugee agency says supplies "sit waiting" in a warehouse just a few hours' drive from Gaza. Michael Kleiner, a member of the Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, has told the BBC Israel is trying to ensure Hamas does not steal aid and blames the group for preventing peace. As international pressure on Israel mounts, we hear two different views on Israel's offensive in Gaza and speak to our World Affairs correspondent Paul Adams.

Japan is facing an unprecedented domestic shortage of rice, which has seen supermarket shelves empty and prices double. We speak to two people in the country about the impact on their daily lives.

Sudan's army says it has liberated all of Khartoum state from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in what is being seen a significant shift in the conflict.

We hear a conversation with two Mexican women about gender-based violence in their country. Last week a young social media influencer was shot dead while live streaming on TikTok.

We speak to our South East Asia correspondent who has visited the tiny island of Pagasa, the focus of an international dispute in the South China Sea.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: Gazans face hunger as charity kitchens run out of stock, Gaza City - 21 May 2025. Credit: HAITHAM IMAD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


WED 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3xyr7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 17:06 BBC OS (w173067rldhztw6)
Trump hosting South African president

The meeting between Donald Trump and Cyril Ramaphosa in front of the world's media descended into an awkward confrontation over discredited allegations that white South Africans are facing a genocide. We bring live the press conference and speak to our correspondents in Washington and Johannesburg.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa visits US President Trump at the White House, Washington, USA - 21 May 2025. Credit: JIM LO SCALZO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


WED 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3y2hc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


WED 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74pw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3y67h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljxl7w)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qmkhw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6zcp)
2025/05/21 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 (w172zwwm5d3y9zm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 20:06 The Climate Question (w3ct701t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 22:06 on Sunday]


WED 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qmp80)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 20:32 Health Check (w3ct6vj9)
A promising new antimalarial

A new anti-malarial compound has been designed to target disease-causing parasites responsible for up to 90% of malaria cases in humans.

Stephanie Tam reports on a new online training programme designed to help address the mental health care gap in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq that is heavily impacted by conflict.

Donald Trump has signed a new executive order aimed at lowering the price the US pays for medicines. We look at what is included in the order, why drug prices vary around the world, and what impact this motion could have on US and global prices paid for medicines.

Dr Cecilia Kanyama and Professor Thomas Harrison share their decades-long effort to improve treatment options for cryptococcal meningitis. The refined treatment regimen, discovered alongside Joe Jarvis and their team, gives hope to the hundreds of thousands of HIV-positive patients who are diagnosed with this fungal infection each year.

Finally, ‘scorpionism’ - or the medical condition caused by a scorpion sting, is rapidly on the rise in Brazil, we look at what is driving this increasing health threat.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producers: Hannah Robins & Katie Tomsett
Studio Managers: Gavin Wong & Steve Greenwood


WED 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3yfqr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 21:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n2l9c)
Trump ambushes South African president with 'white persecution' claims

In an extraordinary Oval Office meeting, President Trump ambushes the South African president with claims of white farmers being persecuted.

We hear a response from Mzwanele Nyhontso, the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development for South Africa.

Also on the programme: how the Italian authorities dealt a blow to a powerful international arm of the mafia – the 'Ndrangheta; and a conservation success story from India, saving the Asiatic Lion.

(Photo: US President Donald Trump shows a copy of an article that he said it’s about white South Africans who had been killed in the Oval Office. Credit: Reuters)


WED 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ykgw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 22:06 The Interview (w3ct7x6b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qmxr8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 22:32 World Of Secrets (w3ct7y49)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3yp70)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljy27d)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qn1hd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76hp)
US and South Africa trade talks turn tense

A trade talks meeting turned tense at the White House, when President Trump clashed with South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa over discredited claims of white genocide in South Africa. We hear from a key voice in the president Ramaphosa's advisory council.

It's a big week for cryptocurrency - Bitcoin hit an all time high, the stablecoin legislation advance and President Trump get's ready to host his crypto dinner.

And will the US Congress pass Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'?

THURSDAY 22 MAY 2025

THU 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3ysz4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 00:06 The Documentary (w3ct7yx5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


THU 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3yxq8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs2bwfz26f)
US and South Africa trade talks turn tense

A trade talks meeting turned tense at the White House, when President Trump clashed with South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa over discredited claims of white genocide in South Africa. We hear from a key voice in the president Ramaphosa's advisory council.

It's a big week for cryptocurrency - Bitcoin hit an all time high, the stablecoin legislation advance and President Trump get's ready to host his crypto dinner.

And will the US Congress pass Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'?

In Japan, we hear why the agriculture minister has stepped down after making a joke about rice.


THU 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3z1gd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljyfgs)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qndqs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 02:32 The Documentary (w3ct7y7s)
TikTok and the digital pimps: Eye Investigates

With its dancing challenges and comedy sketches, it’s no surprise why Tiktok is popular with young Kenyans. It’s also a way for them to make money through the app’s gifting service. But there’s a darker side, where young women – and girls as young as 15 – are selling sexual content on livestreams, with some being recruited and exploited by “digital pimps”. Africa Eye’s Debula Kemoli investigates who is profiting.

A spokesperson for Tiktok said in a statement that they have zero tolerance for exploitation. And they enforce strict safety policies, including robust live content rules and moderation in 70 languages, including Swahili.

Producers: Nalini Sivathasan and Patrick Clahane
Editors: Pete Murimi and Rebecca Henschke
Sound engineer: Neil Churchill


THU 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3z56j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6xc5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Wednesday]


THU 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74pw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Wednesday]


THU 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3z8yn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljynz1)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qnn71)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 04:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yf)
Let food do the talking

Does food have the power to send messages when words aren’t enough? This week Ruth Alexander finds out how food can sometimes speak much louder than words.

Lecturer in Chinese Cultural Studies Dr Zhaokun Xi explains why gifting a pear in China can quietly suggest separation — and how it still carries weight today. Chef Beejhy Barhany reflects on the role of Ethiopian food in expressing care and welcome through gursha, the act of feeding people with your hands.

We find out how food can be used as a signal of protest from historian and food researcher Aylin Oney Tan. From the Janissaries tipping their cauldrons of soup to signal unrest, to black pepper in a wedding dish to symbolise the role of the mother in law. And we learn about the power of food in mourning; Greek food writer Aglaia Kremezi tell us about koliva, a sweet dish served at funerals in Greece — and how it attempts to soften the bitterness of loss.

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

Presenter: Ruth Alexander
Producer: Izzy Greenfield


THU 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3zdps)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 05:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjxsqc)
Donald Trump confronts South Africa's Ramaphosa

The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa travelled to the US hoping for a reset in relations with President Donald Trump. Instead, in an extraordinary, televised meeting at the White House. Mr Trump repeated his discredited claims that a genocide against white farmers was happening in South Africa. We hear from somebody who was in the room.

The United Nations says it's been able to dispatch ninety trucks carrying vitally needed food aid into the Gaza strip from a holding position just across the southern border of the enclave. The food supplies - a tiny proportion of what the UN says is needed after Israel's eleven week blockade - have reached their distribution locations. We'll speak to a representative of the United Nations.

And we look at the detention of East African activists in Tanzania, the Kenyan Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan Agather Atuhaire. It's led to widespread concern both in the outside the country about civil rights and political freedoms.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump hands over to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa copies of articles that he said showed white South Africans who had been killed, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. Credit: Kevin Lmarque/Reuters).


THU 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3zjfx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 06:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjxxgh)
Two Israeli embassy staff killed in Washington

Two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed in front of the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington on Wednesday night. Police officials announced that suspect shouted "Free Palestine" while being arrested.

An extraordinary confrontation at the White House: President Trump played a video to his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa, pushing his discredited claim that a genocide was taking place against White farmers. We'll hear how Mr Ramaphosa responded.

We have a special report from the Arctic - a battleground for resources and shipping - for the world's major powers.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo: Police officers work at the site where, according to the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, two Israeli embassy staff were shot dead near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)


THU 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3zn61)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 07:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvjy16m)
Two Israeli embassy staff shot dead in Washington

In Washington DC , two Israeli embassy staff have been shot dead after leaving an event at the city's Jewish Museum. Police officials announced that the suspect shouted "Free Palestine while being arrested. We'll bring you the latest and reaction to that shooting.

An extraordinary confrontation at the White House: President Trump played a video to his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa, pushing his discredited claim that a genocide was taking place against White farmers. We'll speak to somebody who was in the room.

And we hear from Nigerian musician Davido. He talks to us about the direction his music is taking and the personal heartbreak of losing his son.

Presenters: James Copnall and Catherine Byaruhanga

(Photo:Emergency personnel work at the site where, according to the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, two Israeli embassy staff were shot dead near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington. Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)


THU 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3zry5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 08:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722j)
What does Japan’s rice crisis say about its economy?

A domestic rice shortage in Japan has caused supermarket shelves to empty and prices to double. Rice is more than a staple food in Japan—it carries deep cultural, historical and even spiritual significance.

The rice crisis highlights broader weaknesses in Japan’s economy. Japan imports over half of its food and has experienced persistent inflation. The country’s economic resilience is being tested by supply chain pressures, demographic shifts, and increased trade tensions.

Efforts to address the shortage have focused on auctioning rice reserves, but underlying economic challenges persist.

Contributors:
• Yi-Chun Ko, Professor, Asian Growth Research Institute, Fukuoka, Japan
• Emiko Ohnuki-Tierney, William F. Vilas Research Professor, University of Wisconsin–Madison, US
• Stefan Angrick, Senior Economist, Moody’s Analytics, Tokyo, Japan
• Norihiro Yamaguchi, Lead Economist, Oxford Economics, Tokyo, Japan

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Louise Clarke
Researcher: Katie Morgan
Editor: Tara McDermott
Technical producer: Richard Hannaford
Production Management Assistant: Liam Morrey

Photo was supplied by Yukari Sakamoto, author of Food Sake Tokyo


THU 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qp46k)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s22)
Valencia: Recovering from the floods

Six months on, we head back to the Spanish city to hear from residents and businesses.

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

Presented and produced by Ashish Sharma

(Image: Floodwaters on the streets of Valencia, Spain, in October 2024. Homes, businesses, and public spaces were severely affected. Credit: Getty Images)


THU 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74j6)
The founding of Magnum Photos

In the aftermath of World War Two, a group of famous photographers brought their individual styles into one powerful collaboration, over a celebratory bottle of champagne.

On 22 May 1947 the agency, Magnum Photos was founded, going on to represent some of the world’s best photographers.

In 2017, Louise Hidalgo spoke to Jinx Rodger, the widow of one of the founders, and Inge Bondi one of the very first staff members.

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: French photographer Raymond Depardon who become a partner at Magnum Photos. Credit: Raph GATTI / AFP via Getty Images)


THU 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d3zwp9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljz8pp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qp7yp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 09:32 The Documentary (w3ct7y7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d400ff)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 10:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yrz)
The Media Show: Full-time for Lineker at the BBC

Gary Lineker, a former England football captain and longtime presenter of the BBC’s football highlights programme Match of the Day, has left the corporation after sharing a controversial post on social media. His exit followed years of internal debate over his political commentary online and the BBC’s impartiality rules. Steve Ryder, former BBC sports presenter, reflects on Lineker’s elevated status within the BBC and why many saw his departure as long overdue. Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor at The Sunday Times, and football writer Henry Winter reflect on events and the evolving expectations of presenters in the social media era.
Family courts in England and Wales have historically operated in secrecy, with strict limits on what journalists can report. BBC reporter Sanchia Berg describes her investigation into the case of a newborn baby found abandoned in a London park. Her courtroom reporting eventually revealed that the baby had two siblings also abandoned in previous incidents.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Producers: Lisa Jenkinson and Lucy Wai
Assistant producer: Emily Channon


THU 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qpcpt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 10:32 Happy News (w3ct6ty6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:32 on Saturday]


THU 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d4045k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljzj5y)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qphfy)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 11:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d407xp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxc)
Leaving faith, finding fiction: The preacher turned satirist

Nussaibah Younis grew up in a very politically Islamic household in the UK. Both her parents had strong views on what it should mean to practice the Muslim faith. Her mother was a preacher and Nussaibah has developed the same ability to command a room. She was giving school assemblies at the age of 11 - these turned into persuasive speeches at Oxford university, and since then she's convened diplomats in Washington and tribal leaders in Iraq. Along the way Nussaibah has totally reassessed what her faith means to her.

Her job in policy took her to Iraq, working on reconciliation projects in the wake of the Islamic State group. There, tasked with designing a deradicalisation programme for women who married fighters from the Islamic State group. When meeting these IS brides, Nussaibah was surprised to find herself reflecting on her teenage years. "It could have happened to me" she says, recounting her admiration for a cleric who later joined al-Qaeda.

In Iraq Nussaibah developed an unlikely coping mechanism, stand-up comedy. It eventually led her to write Fundamentally, a satirical novel inspired by her past and now shortlisted for the 2025 Women's Prize for Fiction. In this deeply personal and often funny conversation, Nussaibah reflects on the pressures of being a model Muslim woman, the terror of stepping away from it, and the liberating power of fiction.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producer: Helen Fitzhenry

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

(Photo: Nussaibah Younis at the Oxford Literary Festival. Credit: David Levenson/Getty Images)


THU 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74j6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40cnt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29ljzrp6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qpqy6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 13:32 Health Check (w3ct6vj9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Wednesday]


THU 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40hdy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 14:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n4mzk)
Jewish couple murdered in Washington DC

A young Jewish couple who worked for the Israeli Embassy have been shot dead leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in downtown Washington DC. The gunman was arrested at the scene. We hear the latest from DC, plus reaction from Israel.

Also in the programme: the Republican-controlled US House of Representatives passes a mammoth piece of legislation to deliver President Trump's domestic agenda; and Germany stations a military brigade abroad for the first time since World War Two.


THU 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40m52)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 15:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qpzfg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct75vb)
US House passes Trump's mega tax-cut bill

A massive tax and spending bill has just been passed by the US House of Representatives. The so-called mega-bill would extend tax cuts from President Donald Trump's first term, end taxes on tips, and increase military and border spending.

The sportwear giant Nike is raising prices - but how much of it is down to the global tariff situation, and how much is down to other difficulties in the company?

And we look at the Japan's economy - why the price of rice is increasing and how it is affecting Japanese businesses?

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


THU 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40qx6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 16:06 BBC OS (w173067rldj2m15)
Two Israeli embassy staff killed in Washington DC shooting

Two Israeli embassy staff have been shot dead after an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC. Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky were a couple and "in the prime of their lives" before they were killed, Israel's embassy in the US says.

We also hear from Palestinians in the UK, Canada and France, after all three countries threatened concrete steps in response to Israel's offensive in Gaza.

And we fact check the extraordinary White House meeting between President Trump and President Ramaphosa with colleagues in South Africa and BBC Verify.

(Photo: A man with an Israeli flag draped on his shoulders near the scene where two people were shot and killed near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. Credit: WILL OLIVER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)


THU 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40vnb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 17:06 BBC OS (w173067rldj2qs9)
Suspect in custody after Washington DC shooting

Two Israeli embassy staff have been shot dead after an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC. Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky were a couple and "in the prime of their lives" before they were killed, Israel's embassy in the US says. We'll speak to our correspondents in the US and Israel about what happened and hear a conversation with Israelis around the world.

After the extraordinary White House meeting between US President Donald Trump and South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, we speak to we have a conversation with South African journalists to get their reaction.

And we speak to our Europe Editor Katya Adler who has been to a secret military headquarters inside a mountain in Norway where any potential war against Russia would be co-ordinated with Nato allies.

(Photo: Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim who were shot and killed as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, pose for a picture at an unknown location, in this handout image released by Embassy of Israel to the US. Credit: Embassy of Israel to the USA)


THU 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d40zdg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


THU 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74j6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d4134l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk0h4z)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qqgdz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z75)
2025/05/22 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 (w172zwwm5d416wq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 20:06 The Documentary (w3ct7y7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qql53)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 20:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yfb)
WHO Pandemic Agreement reached

This week, 124 countries agreed at the World Health Assembly in Geneva on measures aimed at preventing a future pandemic. The agreement very strongly favours a “One Health” approach, appreciating how so many potential pathogens originate in human-animal interactions. Still to agree on the terms of how to share pathogens and information with global science and vaccine researchers, eventually the treaty will need to be signed by at least 60 countries. But can the inequity between countries of the global south and north, and issues of intellectual property, be bridged?

A new study on origins of the Nigerian mpox epidemic points strongly to zoonotic crossovers and mobility of wildlife in West Africa. Edyth Parker of Redeemer’s University in Nigeria describes their phylogenetic tree.

Can the bovine form of H5N1 flu infect pigs, and could domestic pig populations then provide a crucible for further variants to develop? Jürgen Richt of Kansas State University and colleagues have been investigating. We need to keep up vigilance.

Lucy van Dorp of University College London, working with a consortium including London’s Crick Institute, has been looking at a moment in the past when human activity provided an opportunity for a bacterial human pathogen to change its lifestyle. According to their phylogenetic tree, the bacterium Borrelia recurrentis (which causes louse-borne relapsing fever in humans) adapted and moved from ticks to human body lice around about the same time as humans started using woollen clothing.

And Susan Lieberman, VP for International Policy at the Wildlife Conservation Society, was in the trenches of the Pandemic Agreement negotiations, and shares some of her hopes for its success.

Image: World Health Assembly formally adopts by consensus world's first Pandemic Agreement, Geneva, Switzerland - 20 May 2025
Image Credit: Magali Girardin via EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Alex Mansfield


THU 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41bmv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 21:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n5h6g)
US House passes 'big beautiful' tax and spending bill

President Trump has welcomed a vote in the US House of Representatives approving a bill which extends huge tax cuts, and spending increases. It will be funded by government debt.

Also in the programme: A gunman kills two Israeli embassy staff in Washington; and competition for resources on the Svalbard archipelago.

(Picture: President Donald Trump with Speaker of the House Mike Johnson at the U.S. Capitol. Photo: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)


THU 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41gcz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 22:06 The Inquiry (w3ct722j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qqtnc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 22:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70yf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41l43)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk0z4h)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qqydh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct75xl)
US Business body reacts to Donald Trump's "beautiful" bill

Business body in the United States gives reaction to Donald Trump's " big beautiful" bill. It contains tax cuts as well as money for defence spending and funds for his deportation programme.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has dropped a case which attempted to block Microsoft's $69-billion purchase of "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard. It has said the case against the long-closed deal was not in the public interest.

Presenter Rahul Tandon examines these stories as well as looking at the fallout from Manchester United's defeat in the Europa League final. He looks at what impact this could have on their future finances.

FRIDAY 23 MAY 2025

FRI 00:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41pw7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yrz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Thursday]


FRI 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qr24m)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78bm)
Can the UK-EU reset deal move Britain on from Brexit?

James Landale, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the UK’s new deal with the EU, looks at the possible impacts of the lifting of US sanctions on Syria, and examines scientists’ attempts to discover the origin of life itself.

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


FRI 01:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41tmc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:06 Business Matters (w172zrs2bwg1z3j)
Trump stops Harvard from enrolling International students

Donald Trump blocks Harvard from enrolling International students to root out anti-Americanism and antisemitism on campus. Harvard has called the move unlawful.

A Business body in the United States has been giving reaction to Donald Trump's " big beautiful" bill. It contains tax cuts as well as money for defence spending and funds for his deportation programme.

Presenter Rahul Tandon also looks at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission decision to drop a case which attempted to block Microsoft's $69-billion purchase of "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard. It has said the case against the long-closed deal was not in the public interest.


FRI 02:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d41ych)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk1bcw)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qr9mw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:32 Tech Life (w3ct6znq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


FRI 03:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d4223m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wxc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Thursday]


FRI 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74j6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Thursday]


FRI 04:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d425vr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk1kw4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qrk44)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vnt)
Musambwa: Snake Island

Musambwa Island in Lake Victoria, Uganda, a five-acre rocky outcrop of land five miles from land, is the biggest breeding ground in the world for grey gulls and home to hundreds of other bird species and cobra. Amid the birds, snakes and lizards lives a male-only community of fisherman who live by a code of cultural and spiritual practices.

Reporter Zawadi Mudibo travels to live among the men of Musambwa to explore their sacred relationship with nature. Although the men have lived this way for generations there is the creeping influence of modernity. Through personal stories and reflections, the documentary highlights the deep-seated beliefs that shape the lives of the island's inhabitants.

Producer/presenter: Zawadi Mudibo
Executive producer: Pearse Lynch

(Photo: Emmanuel Katongole spiritual leader of the community. Credit Africa Digital Audio)


FRI 05:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d429lw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 05:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvk0pmg)
Trump administration bars Harvard from enrolling international students

The Trump administration has told Harvard University that is has to stop enrolling international students. Currently around a quarter of the student body of the oldest university in the US is made up of students from other countries. We'll get a view from the University.

A suspect accused of gunning down two Israeli embassy staff members outside a Jewish museum in Washington DC has been charged with first degree murder of foreign offiicals and related firearm charges.

We speak to the head of Congress of South African Trade Unions. She was part of the delegation visiting President Donald Trump in the White House two days ago.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: A view of the Business School campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Credit: Faith Ninivaggi/Reuters)


FRI 06:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d42fc0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 06:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvk0tcl)
Israeli PM says allies are "on the wrong side of humanity"

The Israeli prime minister has accused some of his country’s closest allies of "siding with rapists and baby killers" after they criticised Israel's conduct in Gaza. He said leaders of Britain, France and Canada had "bought into Hamas propaganda" and were on the wrong side of justice. Meanwhile Charities have started to distribute some aid in Gaza for the first time in weeks. We'll go live to Khan Younis.

A man has been charged with two counts of murder after two Israeli embassy staff were shot dead in Washington on Wednesday night. Prosecutors say they're investigating the shooting of Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky as a hate crime and act of terrorism, and that further charges are expected.

And we look at the Sudanese football team, Al Hilal Omdurman, forced to flee from Khartoum because of the war they spent months looking for a new home and now play competitively in the Mauritanian league.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Photo: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference. Ronen Zvulun/Reuters)


FRI 07:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d42k34)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 07:06 Newsday (w172zsplnvk0y3q)
Israel's PM lashes out at his allies

The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has accused some of his allies of being on the wrong side of humanity and buying into Hamas propaganda. This follows criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. But the campaign is also being questioned within Israel. We'll take a look at opinion there.

JC: The administration of Donald Trump has blocked Harvard University from enrolling foreign students. We'll hear how foreign students currently enrolled are facing uncertainty.

VU: And we go to Australia where the country has once again been hit with heavy rains and extensive flooding. In New South Wales they've declared a natural disaster as the region claims four deaths. We'll find out how people in the area are coping.

Presenters: James Copnall and Victoria Uwonkunda

(Credit: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference, in Jerusalem. Ronen Zvulun/Reuters)


FRI 08:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d42nv8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:06 Americast (w3ct7t5d)
Americast

Join Americast for insights and analysis on what's happening inside Trump's White House.


FRI 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qs13n)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rs1)
How marriage equality changed the wedding industry

It’s been 10 years since Ireland made history by becoming the first country to legalise same-sex marriage through a public vote.

While other countries had legalised it, it was the first time a referendum had been held.

We hear from wedding planners, photographers and venues about how things have changed for them since the 2015 referendum.

As the overall number of marriages in Ireland decreases, the number of same-sex marriages is still increasing. We hear from same-sex couples who are now seen as prospective clients for this sector.

Produced and presented by Leanna Byrne

(Image: Alan Hatton and Darren Lawlor)


FRI 08:50 Witness History (w3ct743s)
Vivian Maier: Secret street photographer

It is only since Vivian Maier's death in 2009 that the 150,000 photographs she rarely showed to anyone have come to light.

Working as a nanny in the suburbs of Chicago in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, she captured extraordinary street scenes on a Rolleiflex camera. But she did not always develop the photos. With no permanent home of her own, she paid for storage units where her life’s work was kept. The archives were auctioned when she died and she is now considered one of the best street photographers of the 20th century.

Josephine McDermott presents accounts from the BBC archive from the people who found themselves in Vivian Maier’s orbit.

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.

This programme has been updated since the original broadcast.

(Photo: Vivian Maier self-portrait. Credit: Vivian Maier/ Alamy)


FRI 09:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d42sld)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk25ls)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qs4vs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 10:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d42xbj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 10:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72w0)
Story time

Much ado was made about a cancelled auction of an ultra-rare set of Shakespeare’s folios, which could have fetched millions of dollars.

This headline – along with Shakespeare being one of the world’s most well-known playwrights – inspired the Unexpected Elements team to delve into the science of stories.

First up, we find out why your brain loves a tale. We then discover that some people can’t see images in their mind when they read, and reveal the impact this could have.

Shakespeare’s folios are almost 400 years old, but how have they survived that long? We get on the line with Kathryn Kenney, a book and paper conservator, to find out how she keeps precious books safe.

We also find out about a disappearing island, whether climate change needs a new narrative and if you could eat books to survive.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements. 
  
Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Camilla Mota and Tristan Ahtone
Producer: Margaret Sessa Hawkins, with Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, Imaan Moin and Minnie Harrop
Studio Manager: Rhys Morris


FRI 11:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d4312n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk2f31)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qsdc1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vnt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 12:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d434ts)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wgt)
Outlook Mixtape: When daddy kept his cool

The story of three defiant daughters and the adventures sparked by their fathers.

Sulome Anderson was born in 1985 three months after her father, the American reporter Terry Anderson, was taken hostage while working in Beirut. He wouldn't be released until she was six. Now a journalist herself, Sulome experienced a remarkable coincidence when a seemingly routine interview turned out to be the start of a surprising relationship with her father's captor.

Native American Navajo poet Laura Tohe went to a school for indigenous kids, who faced punishment if they spoke their native language. For years Laura didn't know how the forbidden language of Navajo had actually shaped her father Benson's life. When he was just 16 years old, Benson had enlisted as a marine and joined the ranks of the Navajo Code Talkers. The Code Talkers was a group created by the US military as part of a World War Two wartime strategy where the Navajo language formed the basis of an unbreakable code, credited with having saved countless lives. It was key to America's success in the South Pacific. It would take Laura years to piece together fragments of her father's life and uncover his role as a Navajo Code Talker.

In 2014, Swedish-Iranian artist Nadia Tehran recorded an attitude-packed, punk-laden illegal music video in Tehran. Born in Sweden, Nadia's parents were born and bred in Iran. In 2010 when an anti-immigration group rose to prominence in Sweden, Nadia turned to music, writing a song called Refugee. Nadia wanted the video for their protest anthem recorded on the streets of Tehran, where performing music in public is forbidden for women. Nadia's father, Toomaj, said he would come along for protection and support and brought them even closer together. The video received international acclaim but the success had its challenges, and in the heady aftermath, Nadia experienced a mental health breakdown. After coming out as non-binary, with their dad's unwavering support, Nadia began to recover.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producer: Sarah Kendal

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


FRI 12:50 Witness History (w3ct743s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 13:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d438kx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk2nl9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qsmv9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:32 Science In Action (w3ct6yfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 14:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d43db1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 14:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n7jwn)
Israeli military says it's struck more than 75 'terror targets'

The Israeli military says it's struck more than seventy-five sites that it described as 'terror targets'. Medics in Gaza say at least 22 people have been killed. Newshour hears from Moshe Lavee, a professor at Haifa University on how his opposition to the war reached a wider audience.

Also in the programme: programming language Java turns 30; and a tanker's near miss in Norway.

(Picture: The remains of a destroyed car sit among the rubble of a building following an Israeli airstrike west of Gaza City, in Gaza Strip, 23 May 2025. Credit: EPA)


FRI 15:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d43j25)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:06 Americast (w3ct7t5d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qswbk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct76ky)
Trump threatens tariffs on EU goods and Apple iPhones

US President Donald Trump has said he is recommending a 50% tariff on all goods from the European Union being imported to the United States. We hear reactions from the European parliament and businesses.

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


FRI 16:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d43mt9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 16:06 BBC OS (w173067rldj5hy8)
Trump threatens tariffs on EU goods

US President Donald Trump has said he is "recommending" a 50% tariff on all goods from the European Union being imported to the United States. We have the latest from our correspondents in Europe and the US.

Ukrainian media are reporting that the first part of a large-scale prisoner exchange with Russia is under way. Our Europe editor explains.

Following former president Joe Biden’s announcement that he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer, we hear from a 46-year old black man who was diagnosed with the disease. He discusses why black men are at higher risk from the disease with an oncology specialist from Nairobi, Kenya.

The music streaming service Spotify, has released a list of global songs they predict will become summer anthems in 2025, although there doesn't seem to be a clear winner. We ask listeners what is on their list.

Sweden has banned the purchase of sexual performances for viewing online, including those on platforms like OnlyFans. We speak to two people who make a living on OnlyFans.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump raises a fist as he departs the White House to attend a private dinner at the Trump National Golf Club, in Washington, U.S., May 22, 2025. Credit: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters)


FRI 17:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d43rkf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 17:06 BBC OS (w173067rldj5mpd)
Harvard sues Trump administration

Harvard is suing the Trump administration after it revoked the university's ability to enrol international students, escalating a dispute between the White House and one of America's most prestigious institutions. We get reaction from students.

Denmark is planning to raise the retirement age to 70, the highest in Europe. We hear from people around the world who still work in their late 60s and 70s.

We talk to a local reporter about the devastating flood in eastern Australia.

Presenter: Mark Lowen.


(Photo: A view of the Business School campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., April 15, 2025. Credit: Faith Ninivaggi/File Photo/Reuters)


FRI 18:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d43w9k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


FRI 18:50 Witness History (w3ct743s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 19:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d4401p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk3d22)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qtcb2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z2n)
2025/05/23 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 (w172zwwm5d443st)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct6rmj)
Living with prostate cancer

It’s called the silent killer and it is the second most common form of cancer among males in the world. Yet, despite the fact that it only affects men, many are reluctant to talk about it.

Following former president Joe Biden’s announcement that he has an aggressive form of the disease, we hear from two men about their diagnosis, their fears, the stigma and the reality of dealing with side effects like erectile dysfunction and incontinence after surgery.

“Sometimes I’m a bit nervous when I’m going out, especially if I’d had a lot of water to drink in the day,” said Leslie, a 46-year old DJ in Britain. “So I’m always calculating how much to drink, depending on where I’m going to, which is quite frustrating. Also if I’ve had coffee or if I’ve had alcohol, then I notice that I’m more concerned.”

Leslie is black and he discusses why black men are at higher risk from the disease with an oncology specialist from Nairobi, Kenya. We also hear from a 65-year old Guy Jenkins in Biden’s home state of Pennsylvania. He also has prostate cancer and his daughter, a pharmacist, is helping her father cope with the condition.

Hosted by Mark Lowen.

A Boffin Media production with producer Sue Nelson in partnership with the BBC OS team and producers Virginia Kelly, Akwasi Sarpong, Laura Cress.

(Photo: Leslie in the UK. Credit: Leslie)


FRI 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qth26)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6ssn)
Can eating honey help save bees?

CrowdScience listener Saoirse is vegan and doesn’t eat honey. But she’s been wondering - might honey actually have environmental benefits, by giving bee populations a boost?

To find out, presenter Anand Jagatia dons a bee suit and opens up some hives with biologist Dave Goulson, who reveals that there are over 20,000 bee species on earth – and not all of them need saving. Honeybee researcher Alison Mcafee talks about the importance of beekeeping for crop pollination, and why honeybee colonies around the world are collapsing. Although, as she explains, in some places beekeeping might actually be bad for endangered wild bees. We travel to Kenya to meet Loise Njeru and Lucy King, who show how the humble honeybee can be a powerful tool for conservation – helping to protect the mighty elephant. And, on a rooftop in London, former beekeeper Alison Benjamin explains how we can support the wild bee species that need our help.

Producer and presenter: Anand Jagatia
Location recording: Sophie Ormiston
Series Producer: Ben Motley
Production Co-ordinator: Ishmael Soriano


FRI 21:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d447jy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 21:06 Newshour (w172zss2c9n8d3k)
Trump threatens 50% tariffs on EU and 25% on iPhones

The warning against the EU came just hours before the two sides were set to have trade talks. Trump last month announced a 20% tariff on most EU goods, but had halved it to 10% until 8 July to allow time for talks.

Also on the programme: A US judge has suspended the Trump administration's decision to block Harvard University from enrolling foreign students; and Sebastião Salgado, regarded as one of the world's greatest documentary photographers, has died at the age of 81.

(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump reacts as he is expected to sign executive orders at the White House in Washington, D.C on the 23 May, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Kent Nishimura)


FRI 22:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d44c92)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:06 Americast (w3ct7t5d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qtqkg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vnt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 23:00 BBC News (w172zwwm5d44h16)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:06 The Newsroom (w172zwl29lk3w1l)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxfm3qtv9l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:32 World Business Report (w3ct76n6)
EU vows to defend interests after US tariff threat

The European trade commissioner says the EU will defend its interests in trade talks with the United States. President Trump has threatened the bloc with fifty percent tariffs.

Boeing is to avoid prosecution in a deal with the US Justice Department over a number of crashes. The deal includes the company admitting to obstructing federal aviation officials and paying $1.1 billion in fines.

Presenter Rahul Tandon examines these stories and also hears how same-sex couples are contributing significantly to the wedding industry in Ireland.