SATURDAY 24 JANUARY 2026

SAT 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n153m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 00:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72x9)
Banging the science drum

After the leaders of Japan and South Korea ended their summit with the two participating in a drumming duet, we’re marching to the beat of our own drum and exploring some rhythmic science.

First, we look at nature’s drummer, the woodpecker, and why their pecking doesn’t give them a concussion. We also discuss how the rhythm of your brain waves impacts your sense of ownership over your own body.

Then, we’re joined by Daniel Levitin, author of Music as Medicine, who tells us all about using rhythm in the treatment of neurological conditions.

Next, we hear about a new claim to the title of the world’s oldest computer, and how flying affects your body’s natural rhythms.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Anand Jagatia, with Sandy Ong and Edd Gent
Producers: Sophie Ormiston, with Ella Hubber, Lucy Davies and Imy Harper


SAT 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n18vr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb20nw4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7qn44)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct715d)
Will Trump’s Board of Peace actually stop wars?

In Davos on Thursday, Donald Trump officially launched his new Board of Peace. Initially created to oversee the Gaza peace plan, the body has since expanded in scope. Led by Trump himself, the board says it will address global crises and conflicts. The initiative has raised concerns among traditional allies, while several controversial leaders have been invited to take part.

We speak to BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner about whether it could even replace the United Nations.

Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Valerio Esposito

Sound engineer: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump in Davos, Switzerland, January 22, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst


SAT 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n1dlw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb20sm8)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7qrw8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:32 Stumped (w3ct6zkh)
Steve Waugh on investing in a new European T20 Premier League

A new European T20 League has been launched which will be owned by some of the sport's biggest stars. Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma are joined by one of the owners, former Australia captain Steve Waugh who tells us why he has decided to get involved in franchise cricket. Plus, the co-founder of the league, Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan says he hopes it will become 'the largest T20 league in the world".

The men’s T20 World Cup begins on the 7th of February in Sri Lanka and India with the build up being marred by political tensions and injuries. We assess how the tournament is shaping up and debate if India could defend their title with a very different squad to 2024.

Photo: Steve Smith of Australia and Steve Waugh, Former Australian Test Captain and current Australian Team Mentor, pose at stumps after Smith scored his second century for the test during day four of the 1st Specsavers Ashes Test between England and Australia at Edgbaston on August 04, 2019 in Birmingham, England. Steve Smith is the first Australian to score two centuries in the same test in England since Steve Waugh in 1997. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)


SAT 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n1jc0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wj3)
Outlook Mixtape: Treasures in the attic

Four stories of long-forgotten pasts brought to light after rummaging in attics near and far.

In 2014, Debayan Sen was cleaning the family attic in Kolkata, India when he made an unexpected discovery: a dusty, old vinyl record called Disco Jazz. What astonished him was that his mother Rupa was on the cover. She had made the album in 1982 and it had sold only a handful of copies. Following the flop, she decided to abandon her dreams of becoming a singer, and didn't talk about it. So Debayan had no idea his very traditional Indian mother had even had a music career. Not only did that attic discovery reveal Rupa’s secret disco past but also that her music had an underground fanbase of millions worldwide. Debayan and Rupa spoke to Emily Webb in 2021.

Nirvana's Kurt Cobain compared the sound of the British punk band The Raincoats to "the experience of listening in, from an attic." A strange compliment, but he played their record so many times, he wore it out and so, on a trip to London in the early 90s, he visited a vinyl store in search of another copy. No joy there, but he was told one of The Raincoats' founding members, Ana Da Silva, worked in an antiques shop nearby. Kurt paid her a visit and discovered that Ana and her bandmate Gina Birch had been leading separate lives after the band split up. It had been a decade since they played together. But Kurt's enthusiasm united the band for one last chapter.

In an attic in rural France, the diaries of a Nobel Prize-winning author, Annie Ernaux, lay unread for years. As a teenager, she wrote about her feeling of desire and reflections on her sexuality, which felt at odds with strict societal norms of the 1950s. But when her mum found them, she found the content so disturbing, that she burned them. Even though Annie’s diaries didn’t survive, she overcame stigma and shame to turn her experience into proactive, unflinching fiction. Vibeke Venema spoke to Annie in her home in France in 2025. This was a co-production between Nobel Prize Outreach and the BBC.

When Antony Penrose dusted off an old journal in the attic of his family farm in the English countryside, it helped him to heal a difficult relationship with his late mother. She was the American war journalist and photographer Lee Miller, but Anthony saw her as a cruel alcoholic during much of his childhood. Two years after her death, he headed up to the loft in search of family photographs, and stumbled upon his mother's reports from World War Two. The discovery helped him realise what his mother had been through and better understand their strained relationship. Anthony spoke to Jo Fidgen in 2025.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Elena Angelides

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

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


SAT 03:50 Witness History (w3ct7452)
Agatha Christie: best-selling novelist of all time

On 12 January 1976, author Agatha Christie died peacefully, aged 85.

She created the detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple.

By the time of her death, Christie had written more than 80 books. Most of her works were detective novels but she also wrote romances, short stories, poetry and plays.

In 2015, Louise Hidalgo spoke to her grandson, Mathew Prichard.

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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: English detective novelist, Agatha Christie. Credit: Bettman/Getty Images)


SAT 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n1n34)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 04:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72x9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 today]


SAT 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n1rv8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb214vn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7r43n)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:32 The Dark Is Rising (w3ct4lzt)
6. The Opening of the Present

It is Christmas Eve 1875 and Hawkin turns to the Dark. Will hasn’t a moment to lose and goes back to his own time to find the Third Sign. His family sing carols, oblivious to danger, and Will is able to protect them with a spell before The Rider can strike. But at home on Christmas morning there is a knock at the door. Listen on headphones for 3D immersive sound. #TheDarkIsRising

Will Stanton: Noah Alexander
John Smith/Paul Stanton/Mr Beaumont: Thomas Arnold
Bus Conductor/Jamaican Old One/James Stanton: Danny Bailey
Stephen Stanton: Simon Bubb
Mrs Stanton/Mrs Pettigrew/Dr Armstrong: Amanda Hadingue
The Walker/Hawkin: Toby Jones
Narrator: Simon McBurney
The Rider/Mr Mithothin/Mr Stanton/Farmer Dawson: Tim McMullan
Merriman: Paul Rhys
Maggie Barnes/Mary Stanton: Natasha Stone
The Lady/Miss Greythorne: Harriet Walter
Herne: Miles Yekinni
The chorister: Vinay Singh
Radio announcer: Samuel West

Soundscape design: Gareth Fry
Music: Josh Sneesby
Original songs by Johnny Flynn, Luisa Gerstein and Héloïse Tunstall-Behrens

Adapted for audio by Robert Macfarlane and Simon McBurney
Dramaturg: James Yeatman

Director: Simon McBurney
Producers: Catherine Bailey and Tim Bell

A Complicité and Catherine Bailey Production for BBC World Service
Commissioned by Simon Pitts


SAT 05:50 More or Less (w3ct6w04)
Is Greenland as big as Africa?

The vast island of Greenland has found itself at the centre of a geopolitical crisis. But a little bit of geography can help us see the situation in a new light.

YouTuber and map expert Jay Foreman explains how Mercator maps - the maps that the vast majority of us use to understand the world - contain necessary but massive distortions and hugely exaggerate the size of the Arctic island.

So, why is making a flat map of a round globe so difficult? Why did we end up with a problematic map in the first place? And are there any alternatives?

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


SAT 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n1wld)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 06:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c99g9c)
White House doubles down on Trump's Afghanistan comments

The White House has appeared to double down on President Trump’s comments that Nato troops avoided the front lines during the war in Afghanistan. The remarks have sparked outrage among veterans in several Nato countries.

Also in today’s programme: protests and strikes continue in Minneapolis against federal immigration crackdowns; and, we hear how a new album of Yiddish songs about Jewish experiences during the Second World War still resonates today.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Cecilia Rikap, economist and Head of Research at University College London’s Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, and Nelson Abbey, writer and broadcaster based in London.

(Photo Credit: U.S. President Trump meets with NATO Secretary General Rutte in Washington. 22 October 2025/ Reuters)


SAT 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n20bj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 07:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c99l1h)
Russia, Ukraine and US hold talks in Abu Dhabi

Talks to try to resolve the Russia–Ukraine war continue in Abu Dhabi as Russia pounds several Ukrainian cities. We hear from a senior Ukrainian politician.

Also in today’s programme: widespread protests and strikes in Minneapolis against federal immigration crackdowns; and The Voice of Hind Rajab - a film documenting the agonising moments of a six-year-old Palestinian girl killed in Gaza in 2024 - has been nominated for three Academy Awards. Motaz Malhees, a Palestinian actor who plays the main emergency operator, Omar, who first took Hind Rajab’s call, speaks to us.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Cecilia Rikap, economist and Head of Research at University College London’s Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, and Nelson Abbey, writer and broadcaster based in London.

(Photo credit: Aftermath of a Russian drone and missile attack in Kyiv. 24 January 2026/ Reuters)


SAT 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n242n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 08:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c99psm)
Danish PM in Greenland to show support after Trump threats

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has visited Greenland to show her “support” for the autonomous Danish territory. We are joined by Kuno Fencker, a Greenlandic politician.

Also in today’s programme: why we should reassess our views of black holes; and the moment a blind guitarist received the first-ever amplifier designed for people with visual impairments.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Cecilia Rikap, economist and Head of Research at University College London’s Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, and Nelson Abbey, a writer and broadcaster based in London.

(Photo credit: Denmark's Prime Minister Frederiksen and Greenland's Prime Minister Nielsen meet in Nuuk. 23 January 2026/ Reuters)


SAT 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n27ts)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct6rnt)
Living in Greenland

Described by Donald Trump as “a giant piece of ice,” the world’s largest island has found itself at the centre of global attention.

The President’s demands to take over the self-governing Danish territory – potentially even by force – led to a diplomatic crisis and the President threatened economic sanctions against European allies for opposing his plans.

Despite now ruling out military action, US intentions are still uncertain. In our conversations, we bring together young Greenlanders to discuss what they make of President Trump’s proposal to take it over and share their experiences of living in Greenland.

“As a Greenlander, nature is the best feeling you can ever do for yourself,” Minik tells us. “Dog sledding, snowmobiling, sailing, it’s a part of our daily living.”

“If you’re in Greenland and you’re not a nature person, it’s not for you,” Julia adds.

As well as its strategic importance, there has also been increased interest in Greenland's natural resources, including rare earth minerals, which are becoming easier to access as ice recedes due to climate change.

But, right now, Greenland’s economy is largely dependent on fishing and a growing tourism industry. Three people who work in tourism give their insight into the country’s culture, hospitality and natural beauty.

Presenter: James Reynolds
BBC producers: Ben Davis and Isabella Bull
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham
Editors: Arja Haikonen and Harriet Oliver
A Boffin Media production in partnership with BBC OS

(Photo: Naja, who lives in Greenland and features in our programme. Credit: Naja)


SAT 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7rm35)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:32 Americast (w3ct8bz1)
Are ICE immigration agents acting outside the law?

Donald Trump came into power with a promise to carry out the “largest mass deportation programme in history”. One year on, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids in US cities are one of biggest political issues dividing America right now, with questions over how ICE agents are behaving and who they are targeting.
In this episode, Anthony, Marianna and Justin look at whether ICE agents are going beyond their remit, and is public opinion starting to turn against the president?
We focus on Minneapolis after the killing of 37 year old Renee Nicole Good two weeks ago, who was shot dead by an ICE officer. Anti-ICE protests have been ongoing within the city, and this week, the Vice President JD Vance who was visiting Minneapolis called for Democrats to co-operate with the Trump agenda.
Justin talks to John Sandweg, former Acting Director of ICE under President Obama who gives us his insight into how ICE agents are being vetted and recruited, plus the wider impact of diverting billions of dollars into Trump’s enforcement operations.

HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent
• Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent

GUEST:
John Sandweg, former Acting Director of ICE under President Obama

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

This episode was made by Purvee Pattni and Laura Cain. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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

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

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

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

Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p05299nl
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd


SAT 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n2ckx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 10:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct878y)
Far from an average Joe

A record breaking NFL star, the woman who won bronze in only her third ever marathon and the swimmer who took on the drug cheats and won! This week all our guest have outstanding tales to tell, and they all come from the same US state! The great state of Wisconsin

Even before his NFL career was over Joe Thomas had bought up land in his native Wisconsin ready for what came after football. Joe's return came after a record breaking stint with the Cleveland Browns. Over 10 years he never missed a play, becoming the first, and only player to play ten thousand consecutive snaps! Ten Thousand! In a row! Well since retiring about ten years ago Joe has put that kind of dedication into his new career rearing beef.. And considering his status in the game, it's no surprise his business is called Hall of Fame Beef!

Whilst it was common to see runner Molly Siedel in and around the village of Hartland on the banks of the Bark River in Wisconsin, no one expected to see her on the podium at the Olympics in Tokyo. Not least Molly! But that's exactly what happened in 2021 where seemingly out of nowhere she won a bronze medal. it was the culmination of a long journey for Molly after having to seek help for mental health issues and disordered eating.

Coming up against someone you know is cheating, but can't prove it is intensely frustrating. Well that's what faced swimmer Wendy Boglioli at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal. This was a time when some countries invested in state sponsored cheating. In this case the swimmers and athletes of East Germany. So how do you fight on, and win when the odds are not only stacked against you, but they are deliberately designed to see you lose? Well, somehow Wendy and her US team mates did just that and grabbed gold in a relay that no one thought they had a chance of winning

The amazing story of how a wounded Vietnam war veteran became an NFL Super Bowl champion. born and raised in Wisconsin Rocky Bleier was a with the Pittsburgh Steelers when in 1968 he was drafted into the US Army to serve in the Vietnam war. He was injured in combat and his career appeared over. But Rocky fought his way back to become a member of the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers team that won four Super Bowls in the 1970s. Not by the Playbook's Alex Last spoke to Rocky Bleier about his remarkable comeback.

PHOTO: The uncle of Joe Thomas waits outside before the 2007 NFL Draft on April 28, 2007 at Radio City Music Hall in New York, New York. (CREDIT: Rob Tringali/Sportschrome/Getty Images)


SAT 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n2hb1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb21wbf)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7rvlf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:32 World of Secrets (w3ct8vwx)
The Child Cancer Scam

6. The calls

After never receiving the money raised in their children’s name, mothers are finally confronting the scammers and demanding answers.

Now is the time to ask why. Where is the money?

Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service.

Please note, the image is being used for illustrative purposes only and the child depicted is a model.

World of Secrets will be back with gripping new investigations in 2026.


SAT 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n2m25)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 12:06 The Evidence (w3ct70sd)
Anaesthesia

In this episode of The Evidence, Claudia Hammond is joined by a panel of experts to discuss the science of anaesthesia.

It’s estimated that around the world, more than 250 million people receive surgery requiring anaesthesia each year. But there are still plenty of unknowns. What happens to our brains and our consciousness when we’re put to sleep? Why do so many people around the world still not have access to safe anaesthesia? And could the colour of your hair affect how much anaesthesia you need?

In front of a live audience at Wellcome Collection in London, Claudia is joined on stage by Dr Kevin Fong, a consultant anaesthetist at University College London Hospitals and professor of public engagement and innovation at University College London; Jennifer Hunter, emeritus professor of anaesthesia and senior research fellow at the University of Liverpool; Emmanuel Stamatakis, professor of neuroscience at the University of Cambridge studying the science of consciousness; and Bruce Biccard, professor of anaesthetic science at the University of Oxford and author of the book Safer Surgery for Africa: Challenges and Solutions.

Producer: Dan Welsh
Editor: Martin Smith
Production coordinator: Stuart Laws
Sound engineers: Emma Harth and Steve Greenwood

(Photo: Stock photo of anaesthesia being administered. Credit: STEEX/Getty Images)


SAT 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n2qt9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 13:06 Newshour (w172zssjx156wcx)
Russia's bombardment of Ukrainian urban infrastructure intensifies

Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko has urged people to leave the city if they have somewhere else to go while the freezing conditions last. We hear from a resident of Kharkhiv in eastern Ukraine after overnight strikes on the city.

Also on the programme: Under a severe crackdown, Iran's protesters question if enough international pressure has come to bear on Tehran's government; and the dangers of keeping wild animals as pets.

(Photo: Firefighters work at the site of an apartment building hit by a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Credit: Reuters/Sofiia Gatilova)


SAT 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n2vkf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqz6lxqgxw)
Live Sporting Action

There’s live Premier League commentary of Burnley against Tottenham, where the pressure is still on manager Thomas Frank despite a Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund. Lee James will be joined by former Spurs and Republic of Irelan defender Stephen Kelly and the former Spurs, Liverpool and Sierra Leone defender Steven Caulker.

There’s also coverage of title chasing Manchester City against bottom side Wolves as Pep Guardiola’s side look to bounce back from their Champions League shock defeat to Bodo Glimt, plus we’ll talk Serie A and Bundesliga.

Away from football, we’ll be at the Australian Open for third round action and discuss the NBA’s plan to launch an independent European league under the working title of NBA Europe and what it means for the game in Europe.

Photo: Richarlison of Tottenham Hotspur scores his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 16, 2025 in London, England. (Credit: Getty Images)


SAT 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3bjy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb22qkb)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 18:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7sptb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:32 The Dark Is Rising (w3ct4lzt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 today]


SAT 18:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct7zsw)
India’s 1948 hockey gold medal

In 1948, London hosted the first Olympic Games after World War Two, but when it came to the hockey final, it was newly independent India who won gold, beating Great Britain.

In 2014, Ashley Byrne spoke to one of the stars of the Indian team, Balbir Singh, about the victory at what became known as the ‘Austerity Games’.

Singh died in 2020.

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

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

(Photo: India's centre forward Balbir Singh tries to score a goal during the men's Olympic Games Hockey match. Credit: Associated Press)


SAT 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3g92)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:06 The Inquiry (w3ct723t)
Is history repeating itself in Iran?

Iran has been shaken by protests on a scale not seen since its 1979 revolution.

Demonstrations that began in the country’s capital over the state of the economy have spread to multiple cities, with wider calls for political change.

The government has called the demonstrations "riots" backed by the nation’s enemies.

Thousands have been killed.

For some, the scenes bring back memories of the uprising that toppled the monarchy more than four decades ago.

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last monarch, has emerged as a figure that could challenge the existing order.

This week on The Inquiry, we’re asking ‘Is history repeating itself in Iran?’

Contributors:
Naghmeh Sohrabi, modern Middle East historian, director for research at the Crown Center for Middle East Studies at Brandeis University, United States
Azadeh Kian, author of ‘Rethinking Gender, Ethnicity and Religion in Iran’, emerita professor of sociology and gender studies at the University of Paris Cité, France
Sara Bazoobandi, non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University, Germany
Siavash Ardalan, BBC Persia senior reporter, United Kingdom

Presenter: Daniel Rosney
Producer: Megan Lawton
Technical producer: James Bradshaw
Editor: Tom Bigwood
Production Management: Phoebe Lomas and Liam Morrey

(Photo: Car on fire on a street in Iran. Credit: WANA/Reuters/BBC Images)


SAT 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7stkg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:32 Happy News (w3ct6tzj)
The Happy Pod: Saving lives with the man who saved mine

Mesfin Dollar, who grew up in rural Ethiopia, had to travel to the US for two heart surgeries as a teenager. Twenty-five years later, by chance, he was reunited with the surgeon who saved his life -- when they both volunteered for a charity mission to his home country. Mesfin and Dr Jim Kauten went on to work together, performing hundreds of life-saving operations.

Also, a Paralympic athlete and musician who is blind talks of his joy at being sent a specially designed amplifier. It is thought to be the first to include braille on the controls, giving Anthony Ferraro the freedom to adjust the sound of his guitar himself.

How farmers in rural Malawi are getting help and advice from Articial Intelligence through a new chatbot.

Why a cow in Austria has found fame for using a broom to scratch her back, suggesting cattle are far more intelligent than we think.

Plus, a woman who has entered the male-dominated world of lorry driving in her 50s, and a girl who joined her father's photography business at the age of nine.

Presenter: Ankur Desai
Music: Iona Hampson

(Photo: Mesfin Dollar, cardiovascular perfusionist (L) working with the man who saved his life, Dr Jim Kauten, cardiovascular surgeon (R). Credit Mesfin Dollar)


SAT 20:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3l16)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 20:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zvj)
Actor Wagner Moura and director Kleber Mendonça Filho

Nikki Bedi and critic William Lee Adams discuss the cultural highlights of the week:

Brazilian actor Wagner Moura and director Kleber Mendonça Filho on their film, The Secret Agent

Legendary American photographer Annie Leibovitz on photographing John Lennon just hours before he died

Indian musician and composer A. R. Rahman on working with fellow musical titan Hans Zimmer

British actor Toheeb Jimoh on the TV series, Industry, and the mentoring skills of Ian McKellen

And French pianist Riopy talks about growing up in a cult and the power of singing


SAT 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3psb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 21:06 Newshour (w172zssjx157vby)
Federal immigration agents shoot dead a man in Minneapolis

For the second time this month, there's been a fatal shooting by federal immigration agents in the US city of Minneapolis. Local police said a thirty-seven year old man, who's believed to be an American citizen, had been killed.

Also in the programme: surviving the cold and war in Kharkiv; and why a beautiful Venetian palazzo is failing to sell.

(Picture: A person holds a placard as federal agents use tear gas to disperse people gathered near the scene where federal agents fatally shot a man while trying to detain him, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S., January 24, 2026. Credit: Reuters)


SAT 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3tjg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb236jv)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7t5sv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:32 This Is Africa (w3ct72f5)
GospelOnDeBeatz

GospelOnDeBeatz - born Gospel Chinemeremu Obi – is a Nigerian producer responsible for some of the hits that brought Afrobeats to the world, including Davido’s 2012 banger All of You.

GospelOnDeBeatz has worked with major Nigerian stars like Burna Boy, Patoranking, and Yemi Alade, as well as Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie and AKA – the hugely influential South African rapper and producer who was shot dead in 2023.

He’s also an artist in his own right. Warehouse Gospel Rebirth is the name of his most recent EP.

He shares with DJ Edu his musical journey, his passion for helping aspiring artists – including by writing a book – and breaks down the difference between a beat-maker and a producer.


SAT 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n3y8l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:06 Not by the Playbook (w3ct878y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 today]

SUNDAY 25 JANUARY 2026

SUN 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n420q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct6rnt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7tf93)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:32 The Documentary (w3ct8yt4)
Putin's foreign fighters

Over the past year, BBC Eye has followed the journeys of young men from Syria, Egypt, and Yemen who travelled to Russia in search of work, only to end up on the frontlines in Ukraine. Why are these men risking their lives in a war that is not theirs?

Many, including students, say they were tricked into fighting for the Russian army by a recruiter. BBC Eye investigates their stories, meeting a family grieving the loss of their son and a young Yemeni man now trapped in a prisoner-of-war camp.

Presenter/reporter: Nawal Al-Maghafi
Producers: Ruth Evans and Sheida Kiran
Editor: Rebecca Henschke
Executive producer: Mamdouh Akbiek
Sound engineer: Simon Jarvis
Additional journalism by Ali Ibrahim, Gehad Abbas, and Rayan Maroouf
Voice over by Ali Elhawary, Majd Kilani, Mahmoud Al Sheikh, and Anastasia Uspenskaya


SUN 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n45rv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb23ks7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7tk17)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:32 The Dark Is Rising (w3ct4lzt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 01:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct7zsw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:50 on Saturday]


SUN 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n49hz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb23pjc)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7tnsc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:32 Health Check (w3ct6vkl)
Could the shingles vaccine really slow down the ageing process?

Joined by BBC Brazil reporter Camilla Mota, presenter Claudia Hammond discusses new research from the U.S. that has found that people who have had a vaccine against shingles seem to be aging more slowly.

We hear from James Tibenderana, Chief Executive of Malaria Consortium about research from Brazil that shows that as deforestation expands, mosquitoes are increasingly using humans as a blood source instead of wildlife. What does this mean for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases?

Plus, why does Brazil have a particularly high number of supercentenarians? And could swearing make you stronger?

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producer: Hannah Robins
Assistant Producers: Jonathan Blackwell and Anna Charalambou


SUN 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n4f83)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 03:06 The Evidence (w3ct70sd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n4k07)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6tsq)
Ukraine's power struggle

Pascale Harter introduces stories from Ukraine, Russia, Uganda and Morocco.

Residents of Kyiv are suffering the harshest winter so far since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began - and Russian missile and drone strikes have hit the city's power grid especially hard in recent weeks. Whole blocks are now without electricity, running water or heating, making for barely survivable conditions. Wyre Davies talked to people trying to stay warm - and workers from the country's nuclear power plants who have serious worries about keeping them safe under continued attack.

The international furor over the United States' plans for Greenland abated a little this week after Donald Trump announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he "would not use force" to take over the territory. But there's still great concern over the future of NATO. As Steve Rosenberg explains, the media in Russia have gloried in the signs of disarray in the West.

Uganda has one of the world's youngest populations - the average age is just 21 years old. But it's just returned 81-year-old President Yowerri Museveni to his seventh consecutive term in office. Sammy Awami covered the election in Kampala and heard what the voters were hoping for.

The Africa Cup of Nations was meant to be a showcase for Morocco - showing off its infrastructure and its readiness to hold major sporting events - like co-hosting the 2030 World Cup. The tournament certainly ended dramatically, with a chaotic final in Rabat where Senegal emerged as the champions. Tim Hartley followed the competition and detected some Moroccans' concerns that as new arenas spring up, hospitals and schools are still underfunded.

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


SUN 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7tx8m)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:32 World of Secrets (w3ct8vwx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n4nrc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb241rr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7v10r)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:32 The Documentary (w3ct8yt4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:32 today]


SUN 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n4shh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 06:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c9dc6g)
US citizen and nurse Alex Pretti shot dead by federal agents

There have been renewed protests and widespread anger in Minneapolis following another fatal shooting by federal immigration agents. We are joined by Democratic Congressman Andy Smith, a member of Minnesota’s House of Representatives.

Also on today’s programme: the third and final round of parliamentary elections is taking place in Myanmar; and we hear from the directors of the K-pop film that’s been nominated for two Oscars.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Patricia Cohen, Global Economics Correspondent for The New York Times, and Alan Posener, musician, journalist, and columnist for the German newspaper Die Welt.

(Photo Credit: Protest after federal agents fatally shot a man while trying to detain him, in Minneapolis. 24 January 2026/ Tim Evans, Reuters)


SUN 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n4x7m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 07:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c9dgyl)
Conflicting accounts of second fatal shooting

A man has been shot dead by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, leaving tensions in the city high.

Also in today’s programme: a supporter of Donald Trump defends criticism that he has alienated his allies at Davos this week; and are movies getting too long for cinema-goers?

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Patricia Cohen, Global Economics Correspondent for The New York Times, and Alan Posener, musician, journalist, and columnist for the German newspaper Die Welt.

Photo Credit: Protest after federal agents fatally shot a man while trying to detain him, in Minneapolis. 24 January, 2026. Tim Evans/Reuters


SUN 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n50zr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 08:06 Weekend (w172zw8k5c9dlpq)
No breakthrough in Ukraine peace talks

The first three-way peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States have ended without a breakthrough.

Also in today’s programme: we speak to the President of Kosovo,Vjosa Osmani, one of the world leaders who agreed to join the US president’s Board of Peace; and the Greenlandic band that is determined to sing in its own language.

Presenter Julian Worricker is joined by Patricia Cohen, Global Economics Correspondent for The New York Times, and Alan Posener, musician, journalist, and columnist for the German newspaper Die Welt.

(Photo Credit: UAE president meets US, Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - 23 Jan 2026/ UAE presidential court handout)


SUN 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n54qw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6tsq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 today]


SUN 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7vj08)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70zq)
Dinner unboxed

Meal kits have become a familiar part of food shopping in many countries, offering pre-portioned ingredients and recipes delivered to the door. But how widespread are they, and what do they reveal about how people are eating today?

Ruth Alexander hears from Philip Doran, CEO of HelloFresh UK and Ireland, and Sarah Hewitt, CEO of South African meal kit company UCOOK, about how these services operate in very different markets.

She also speaks to Dr Rebecca Bennett, a food systems researcher, about what meal kits say about changing cooking habits and online food platforms, and to market analyst Nandini Roy on how big the global meal kit industry is and where future growth may come from.

Producer: Izzy Greenfield
Sound engineer: Hal Haines

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

Image: A woman unpacks a box full of food (credit: Getty Images)


SUN 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n58h0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xyt)
Wild horses in the American West

Wild horses have been roaming public lands in the American West for over a century but their population numbers are far greater than what is considered an appropriate management level. This is causing ecological damage and strains on natural resources, in addition to concerns about the horses' health.

This has become a deeply contentious and emotive issue. We drive hundreds of miles across the mountains and plains of Nevada and California, to witness first hand how different stakeholders are putting their differences aside and coming together to find innovative solutions.

(Photo: Wild bronze stallion, Black Rock Desert, California, USA. Credit: Bernard Friel/Universal Images Group/
Getty Images)


SUN 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7vmrd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70v6)
Protest in the age of the 'Kill Switch'

In the face of widespread protests, the Iranian government ‘switched off’ the country’s access to the internet on 8th January. In Uganda, prior to recent elections, the government of president Yoweri Museveni prevented its citizens from accessing the internet. Worldwide, Afghanistan, Myanmar, India and Bangladesh – to name only a few - have all taken the decision to severely restrict internet access at times of perceived political crisis or challenge. Yet it was only fifteen years ago, during the Arab Spring, that internet access and digital media were seen as game-changing communications tools for democratisation. Now, how vulnerable is protest and political opposition to being taken offline?

This episode of The Documentary comes to you from The Fifth Floor, the show at the heart of global storytelling, with BBC journalists from all around the world.

Presented by Faranak Amidi.

Produced by Laura Thomas, Caroline Ferguson and Hannah Dean.


SUN 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n5d74)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb24s7j)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7vrhj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:32 The Dark Is Rising (w3ct4lzt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 11:50 More or Less (w3ct6w04)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


SUN 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n5hz8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct6rnt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 12:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7vw7n)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:32 Assignment (w3ct6rcs)
Greece: Rescuers on trial

In a case with profound implications for European migration policy, 24 former volunteer aid workers have been on trial on the Greek island of Lesbos. Seven years ago, they were arrested after rescuing thousands of migrants from the sea. Now, after many delays, the case involving charges of facilitating illegal entry of foreigners, membership of a criminal organisation and money laundering has gone ahead. Among the defendants facing a possible 20 years in jail have been the Syrian refugee and former competitive swimmer Sara Mardini - and Irish human rights activist and lawyer Sean Binder. They've denied the charges - and said the prosecution was an attempt by the Greek authorities to criminalise help to asylum seekers.

Tim Whewell reports on the trial, its outcome - and the consequences for Lesbos. In in 2015, when about 600,000 migrants arrived on the island after crossing the narrow strait from Turkey. In 2015, local people were proud of their efforts to rescue and support refugees. But later, attitudes changed. And NGOs stopped their rescue work - for fear more aid workers might be prosecuted. Now, far fewer migrants attempt the crossing to Greece. But those who do sometimes die in shipwrecks. And there are allegations, denied by Greece, that its police are illegally pushing asylum seekers back - putting them back on boats and abandoning them at sea.

What will the verdicts in this trial mean for Greece, for other European states that have been tightening their immigration policies - and for the defendants whose lives have been on hold for the last seven years?

Producer/presenter: Tim Whewell.
Translation/field production: Hibai Arbide Aza, Sophia Koufopoulou, Anthi Pazianou
Actors: Jason Barnett & Sam Swann
Editor: Penny Murphy

(Image courtesy of Sean Binder)


SUN 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n5mqd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 13:06 Newshour (w172zssjx159s90)
Minnesota: Government account of protester killing conflicts with witness testimony

There's been renewed protests and anger in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of a man by federal immigration agents; the second such incident in the US city in three weeks. Also on the programme, a third and final stage of voting is taking place in Myanmar in what are widely viewed as sham elections; and, a new record for sailing round the world.

(Photo: A federal agent fires a munition toward demonstrators near the site where a man identified as Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal agents trying to detain him, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S., January 24, 2026.REUTERS/Tim Evans)


SUN 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n5rgj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:06 The Climate Question (w3ct7034)
How hot could the planet get?

We know the planet is getting hotter because of human-induced climate change. But just how hot could it get?

In this show, Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar chat to Nasa scientist, Kate Marvel, about the world of climate modelling. Kate has spent decades trying to work out what will happen to the Earth as emissions of carbon dioxide increase.

Although the basic facts of climate change are settled, climate modellers are trying to understand how photosynthesis by plants will change in a warmer world. And they’re also puzzling over the crucial role played by clouds!

Recently, Kate has written Human Nature, a book about how climate change affects our emotions - from grief and anger to hope and love. She says the wide range of feelings prompted by global warming are compatible with getting the science right.

Presenter: Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar
Production Team: Nik Sindle, Diane Richardson, Brenda Brown
Sound engineer: Phil Bull and Tom Brignell
Editor: Simon Watts

If you have a question for the team, email: TheClimateQuestion@BBC.com or WhatsApp: +44 8000 321 721

(Image: Wildfires in California. Credit: Reuters)


SUN 14:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7w3qx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:32 Happy News (w3ct6tzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:32 on Saturday]


SUN 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n5w6n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 15:06 Sportsworld (w172ztqz6lxthl3)
Live Sporting Action

Michael Carrick’s interim reign as Manchester United manager started with a derby win last weekend, and he faces another huge challenge on Sunday against Premier League leaders Arsenal. Sportsworld has full commentary from the Emirates Stadium, as well as updates and reaction from the day’s three other games.

The EuroStars team discuss the return of the Champions League group stage and also look at all the other big football stories across Europe.

We'll have a roundup of all the day’s action at the Australian Open tennis, plus we look ahead to the NFL's Championship games, as the remaining four teams play for a place at Super Bowl LX.

Photo: Matheus Cunha of Manchester United runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Declan Rice of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Credit: Getty Images).


SUN 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n6c65)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb25r6k)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7wqgk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vvm)
Black Girlhood in photos and writing

Black girls performing in a parade on the streets of Chicago and playing in the surf at Martha's Vineyard offer a glimpse of what it's like, growing up in the United States today. Sisters Salamishah and Scheherazade Tillet are using photographs and words to capture the lives of girls from two very different communities.


SUN 20:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n6gy9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 20:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72x9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 on Saturday]


SUN 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n6lpf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 21:06 Newshour (w172zssjx15br81)
Minneapolis crowds gather after death of Alex Pretti

Crowds gather in Minneapolis at the site where US federal immigration agents shot dead 37-year-old Alex Pretti. We'll hear from a friend and colleague.

Also on the programme: the weirdness of election day in Myanmar from our correspondent there; and has Saudi Arabia's hugely ambitious mega city project run into the sand?

(Photo: A woman chants 'peace' at a makeshift memorial for Alex Pretti in south Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, 25 January 2026. Credit: EPA/Shutterstock)


SUN 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n6qfk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwljvb263fy)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7x2py)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70v6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 today]


SUN 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx2q3n6v5p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:06 The Climate Question (w3ct7034)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 today]


SUN 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxx4v7x6g2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:32 Assignment (w3ct6rcs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:32 today]

MONDAY 26 JANUARY 2026

MON 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cybt5z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 00:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6tsq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k15gc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 00:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct8txw)
How is air travel returning to supersonic speeds?

It’s exactly half a century since two Concorde jets took off from Paris and London respectively. The supersonic jet would come to define top end luxury travel. But Concorde has also been retired for nearly half that time, famously making its final flight to Bristol, UK where it was built, in 2003.

What is Concorde’s engineering legacy? And will supersonic speeds ever be a reality for air travellers again?

Tom Whipple is at Aerospace Bristol, back on-board Concorde which these days is stowed safely in its hangar. He meets Concorde’s former Chief Engineer John Britton. He also hears what it will take to overcome the engineering challenges of supersonic flight from Dr Kshitij Sabnis, lecturer in Aerospace Engineering at Queen Mary University of London. And speaks to founder and CEO of US start up Boom Supersonic Blake Scholl who wants to make supersonic air travel accessible to all.

To discover more fascinating science content, head to bbc.co.uk, search for BBC Inside Science and follow the links to The Open University.

Presenter: Tom Whipple
Producer: Tim Dodd, Kate White, Clare Salisbury
Editor: Martin Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth


MON 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cybxy3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcb9yh)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k196h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 01:32 Discovery (w3ct6sx6)
Frontiers of Earth Science

The very latest developments in the world of Earth science with Roland Pease, recorded at the American Geophysical Union (AGU) meeting in New Orleans, where thousands of Earth, atmospheric, glacial, ocean and hydrologic scientists come together to promote discovery in Earth science for the benefit of humanity.

Twenty years on, we discuss the enduring lessons from the Hurricane Katrina disaster of 2005, hearing from Lieutenant General Russel Honoré who led the military relief effort, and Roland speaks to Jill Trepanier, hurricane climatologist from Louisiana State University.

We also hear about the mouth of the Mississippi River, known as the Bird's Foot Delta, south of New Orleans. Carol Wilson, assistant professor in the Department of Geology and Geophysics at Louisiana State University, tells us how important these wetlands are as storm protections, yet they’re under threat from sea level rise and lack of sediment.

Roland takes a look at fifty-thousand-year-old Antarctic ice whilst speaking to Ed Brook, Professor at Oregon State University and director of COLDEX (Center for Oldest Ice Exploration), whose team is searching for ice which is potentially ten million years old. And he speaks to Allison Chartrand, assistant research scientist at the University of Maryland and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, who has been working to reveal the hidden landscapes of Greenland under the ice.

And Bob Hazen, scientist at the Carnegie Science Earth & Planets Laboratory, takes us back to the origins of life on Earth. He is investigating rocks which could be over four billion years old and may contain molecular fragments of ancient life.

Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Jonathan Blackwell


MON 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyc1p7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcbfpm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k1dym)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 02:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6sty)
Do fish know what they look like?

There’s something fishy going on in the Czech Republic, where CrowdScience listener Ian lives. He keeps tropical fish, and he’s noticed that when he adds new ones to his tank, they swim with others of the same breed. He wants to know how they recognise each other. Do they know what they look like, and recognise others that look the same, or is there something else going on?



Presenter Anand Jagatia takes a deep breath and dives into the science. At the Blue Reef Aquarium in Portsmouth, Dr Lauren Nadler from the University of Southampton introduces us to some Blue Green Chromis fish to look for clues about how and why they form their large social groups. And we explore the smelly world of fish olfaction with Professor Culum Brown from Macquarie University in Sydney Australia.



The mirror test is a classic way of trying to understand whether an animal can recognise itself or not. Professor Alex Jordan from the Max Plank institute in Konstanz, Germany explains how scientists place a visible mark on an animal, show it a mirror, and if the animal tries to rub it off, it suggests that the animal knows it’s seeing itself. A variety of apes, elephants and dolphins have passed with flying colours, but has a fish been able to take on the test? And are there really self-aware shoals drifting through our oceans?

Presenter: Anand Jagatia

Producer: Emily Bird

Editor: Ben Motley

(Photo:Familiarity of the two fish. Portrait of a Hemichromis lifalili. Macro- Credit: kozorog via Getty Images)


MON 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyc5fc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 03:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xyt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k1jpr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 03:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct70v6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 on Sunday]


MON 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyc95h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcbp5w)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k1nfw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 04:32 The Conversation (w3ct709y)
Taking a fresh look at women’s designer shoes

Datshiane Navanayagam talks to two women who changed paths to design and manufacture their own shoes in their own countries. A former environmental engineer in India and former interior designer from Egypt explain how they found their passion.

Anita Soundar was a chemical engineer before deciding to follow her need for self-expression and footwear design. While working at her father’s small factory in Chenai she studied footwear design from Italy to the Netherlands to China, learning about design to pattern making, hand crafting to mass production. In 2023 she won a global footwear award for natural material vegan footwear and an International Design Award in 2025. Her quirky designs for her company The Disobedience are made from natural materials like cotton, tomato and banana skins, have featured in high-fashion magazines like Elle India.

Reem Hamed is Egyptian. She trained as an architect and set up an interior design company before turning to shoe design and manufacture. Her shoes are handcrafted and embroidered by artisanal Egyptian women. She says “comfort is not just about the way they make your feet feel… Comfort is a state of mind.” She’s wants to ensure the craftswomen that make shoes for her company, Ramla, are valued, working in good conditions and passionate about what they do.

Produced by Jane Thurlow

(Image: (L) Reem Hamed, credit Malak Hammouda. (R) Anita Soundar credit Team Disobedience.)


MON 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cycdxm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 05:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvc9sy6)
Outrage grows in Minneapolis over the fatal shooting of a nurse

A US federal judge has ordered the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to preserve evidence of related to the fatal shooting of nurse, Alex Pretti. Pretti, a US citizen and nurse, has been described as a "kind-hearted soul" by his parents; they have called for the "truth" about their son.

We'll hear from the city and how people there fear for their country's very future.

In Myanmar the military authorities have conducted the third stage of a month-long election which has been widely dismissed as a sham.

(Photo: Protesters gather at the Henry Whipple Federal Building, which houses ICE offices; Credit: Craig Lassig/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cycjnr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 06:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvc9xpb)
Trump indicates agents will leave Minneapolis at some point

Outrage grows in Minneapolis over the fatal shooting of a nurse, Alex Pretti, by federal agents on Saturday. A growing number of politicians from Mr Trump's Republican party are joining calls for a full investigation.

At least 67 bodies have now been recovered from a shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan which burned down last week. We'll speak to the relative of some of those who died in the fire.

We'll also hear about the impact wars are having on the aviation industry because of airspace closures.

(Photo: Demonstrators shout at vehicles outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building;Credit: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters)


MON 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cycndw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 07:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcb1fg)
Minnesota governor calls on Trump to remove ICE agents

Former US President Bill Clinton has described events in Minneapolis as "horrible scenes" that "I never thought would take place in America." A US federal judge has ordered the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to preserve evidence related to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by an ICE agent.

The first three-way peace talks between Russia, Ukraine and the US have ended in Abu Dhabi with no apparent breakthrough, as fighting rages. Thousands of homes are without electricity as Russia targets the energy sector. We go live to Kyiv.

And a historic clean energy pact in the North Sea will become a reality later today.

(Photo: A copy of the 'Final Salute' placed at a makeshift memorial for Alex Pretti in south Minneapolis; Credit: Craig Lassig/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cycs50)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7x0w)
Nicholas Opiyo, human rights lawyer: Ugandans want change

‘All they have seen is a 40-year rule that has resulted in high unemployment rates, poor services, and an increased violation of human rights. This young population is yearning to see a different president, a different kind of Uganda.’

Catherine Byaruhanga speaks to human rights lawyer and activist Nicholas Opiyo about Ugandan politics, the rule of law, and the impact of 40 years of one leader on the nation.

He’s taken on multiple cases of national significance, including successfully overturning the country’s anti-LGBTQ legislation back in 2014 - although this has since been re-instated, and represented a former rebel commander of the Lord’s Resistance Army.

Opiyo has also represented Ugandan opposition politician Bobi Wine, who, despite previously being arrested and charged with treason in 2018, challenged the 81-year-old incumbent President Yoweri Museveni in January’s disputed elections.

These elections were watched from afar by Opiyo, who was recently forced to flee his home country for his own safety, but still continues his human rights work.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, Botswana’s President Duma Boko, and Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Foreign Minister of Egypt. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Catherine Byaruhanga
Producers: Clare Williamson, Ben Cooper and Farhana Haider
Editor: Justine Lang

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

(Image: Nicholas Opiyo. Credit: Reuters)


MON 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k24fd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6ryw)
How global conflict is changing air travel

One of the world’s largest airline groups has told Business Daily that airspace closures, due to war zones, are now forcing substantial rerouting of flights.

Lufthansa says the ban on using Russian and Ukrainian airspace is having a measurable cost impact on its long haul network, with typical detours of one to two hours.

A recent Conflict Intensity index report shows that areas affected by armed fighting have grown by 89% over the past five years, that is one and a half times the size of the European Union.

We examine the cost to consumers, and the environmental impacts of these changes.

If you'd like to get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

Producer/presenter: Rick Kelsey

(Photo: Planes landing and taking off against a coloured sky. Credit: Getty Images)


MON 08:50 Witness History (w3ct747c)
John Logie Baird invents television

On 26 January 1926, John Logie Baird first demonstrated his 'televisor' in public. It was the prototype for television.

Many people couldn't believe what they were seeing whilst others thought it was a pointless invention.

In 2010, Iain Logie Baird, the inventor's grandson, spoke to Claire Bowes.

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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: Inventor John Logie Baird. Credit: Topical PressAgency/Getty Images)


MON 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cycwx4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcc8xj)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k285j)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 09:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6sty)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyd0n8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 10:06 The History Hour (w3ct71x1)
The priest behind a new airport and Agatha Christie

Max Pearson presents a collection of the week's Witness History interviews from the BBC World Service.

Our guest Sugandhi Jayaraman, lecturer in air transport management at the University of Westminster, discusses the changes in airports over time. We hear about the Irish priest whose dream of air travel in a remote part of West Ireland became a reality.

And we travel back to 1943 to one of the most audacious hoaxes of World War Two. Plus the Challenger Shuttle disaster where a member of the public had been chosen to join the experienced astronaut crew.

We also commemorate Agatha Christie and we go back to 1979 when Ayatollah Khomeini flew back to Tehran from Paris after being exiled.

Contributors:

Pearce Concannon - firefighter at Knock airport

Sugandhi Jayaraman - lecturer

Roger Morgan - amateur historian

Barbera Morgan - trained alongside the Challenger team

Mathew Prichard- Agatha Christie's grandson

Mohsen Sazegara - worked for the Ayatollah

(Picture: Cabin crew with Monsignor James Horan at Knock Airport. Credit: Independent News And Media/Getty Images)


MON 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyd4dd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lccjds)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k2hns)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct717p)
Is Cuba next?

The US and Cuba have for decades had a troubled relationship, with the former imposing sanctions and travel restrictions on its close Caribbean neighbour. Now, in its attack on Venezuela, and the capture of president Nicolas Maduro, the US has dealt Cuba a blow so significant that President Trump has warned the socialist state is, “ready to fall”.

Today, BBC Central America and Cuba correspondent Will Grant explains the deeply intertwined relationship between Venezuela and Cuba, and how Havana’s government plans to stand up to Trump.

Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin

Executive producer: James Shield

Mix: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel speaks during an event in support of Venezuela in Havana. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock.


MON 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyd84j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wqx)
My dad’s video tape connected me to his lost life

Alisa Smajlović was a small child living with her parents in Srebrenica, then part of the former Yugoslavia, when the Bosnian war began in 1992.

As fighting moved closer to their hometown, it was decided she would leave Srebrenica to live with her grandparents just 16 kilometres away, across the border in Lubrovija Serbia. For the next three years, her parents remained trapped in the war zone, their only contact with Alisa occasional letters delivered by the Red Cross.

In July 1995, Bosnian Serb forces overran Srebrenica, murdering more than 8,000 Muslim men and attempting to hide evidence of the mass killings. One of the objects that survived is a four-hour VHS tape filmed by Alisa’s father, Sejfo who captured everyday life before the massacre.

Six months after the war, Alisa’s father was still missing. Then the tape arrived addressed: To Alisa, from Dad. Decades later, using footage from the tape, Alisa rediscovered the lost world of her childhood and began to confront one of Europe’s darkest chapters.

Alisa has produced a documentary film on what she found The Srebrenica Tape – From Dad, for Alisa. Messages of Love from the War.

Presenter Asya Fouks
Producer Eric Mugaju

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

(Photo: Alisa around the age of three together with her mother Dana and father Sejfo, before the Bosnian war. Credit : Alisa Smajlović)


MON 12:50 Witness History (w3ct747c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydcwn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lccrx1)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k2r51)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 13:32 The Conversation (w3ct709y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydhms)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 14:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gjn6d)
Trump says he is 'reviewing everything; about Minneapolis killing

US President Donald Trump says his administration is now “reviewing” Saturday’s shooting in Minneapolis, where 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti was shot dead by ICE agents during a protest. Speaking to the Wall Street Journal, Mr Trump also indicated he would eventually remove the agents from the Minnesotan city, but no timeline was given. BBC Verify takes us through the shooting of Mr Pretti step-by-step.

Also on the programme: China’s top general has been accused of bribery and leaking nuclear secrets to the US, and a lost portrait of the Scottish poet Robert Burns has been found after 200 years.

(Photo: President Donald Trump climbs a staircase during the 56th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. Credit: Laurent Gillieron/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydmcx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7x0w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k2zn9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct6ryw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


MON 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct886p)
North Sea nations bet big on wind power

Ten European countries bordering or close to the North Sea, including Germany, France, the UK and Norway, have pledged $11.3 billion to expand offshore wind capacity by 2030. They describe it as a historic deal that will wean Europe off dependency on Russian energy.

Plus, France starts debating a ban on social media for under-15s in the wake of a similar move in Australia.

And India and the EU are poised to conclude a trade deal.


MON 16:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydr41)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 16:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbgm80)
Calls grow for full inquiry into Minnesota shooting

President Trump's administration is facing a growing backlash over the killing of Alex Pretti, a US citizen, by federal immigration agents on Saturday. It is the second fatal shooting there in a month. We speak to our correspondent and hear a conversation with four people in Minnesota about what they’ve been experiencing and witnessing on the streets over the past few weeks.

The Israeli military says it has retrieved the remains of the last hostage from Gaza, a key condition of the agreement to end the war with Hamas. We speak to our correspondent and hear from hostage families.

We also hear from our correspondent who has been following the voting in Myanmar, in what are widely viewed as sham elections.

Presenter: Pria Rai

(Photo: Police tape hangs in front of a makeshift memorial at the site where Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal immigration agents trying to detain him, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, 26 January, 2026. Credit: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters)


MON 17:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydvw5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 17:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbgr04)
Trump to send top border offical to Minnesota

President Trump is sending his border tsar amid a growing backlash over the killing of a nurse, Alex Pretti, by federal immigration agents on Saturday, the second fatal shooting there in a month.

We hear a conversation with four people in Minnesota about what they’ve been experiencing and witnessing on the streets over the past few weeks.

We also speak to our BBC Verify reporter who has analysed footage of the Minnesota shooting from multiple angles.

And we have details of a BBC investigation that has found Russia is repeatedly breaking Interpol rules when requesting arrests abroad — leaving people stranded in legal limbo as they wait for their cases to be overturned.

A video of two parents singing Happy Birthday via sign language to their two-year old deaf daughter, Ayanna, has gone viral on social media. We speak to the parents of Ayanna and to another family with similar experiences.

Presenter: Pria Rai.

(Photo: White House Border Czar Tom Homan prepares to speak to reporters at the White House in Washington, DC, USA, 14 January 2026. Credit: Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA/Shutterstock)


MON 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cydzm9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wqx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


MON 18:50 Witness History (w3ct747c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyf3cf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcdhct)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k3gmt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z67)
2026/01/26 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 (w172zwx32cyf73k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 20:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct6tsq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k3lcy)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 20:32 Discovery (w3ct6sx7)
The Life Scientific: Peter Knight

There are problems and tasks so hard and complicated that it would take today’s most powerful supercomputers millions of years to crack them. But in the next decade, we may well have quantum computers which could solve such problems in seconds.

Professor Sir Peter Knight is a British pioneer in the realms of quantum optics and quantum information science. During his three decades as a researcher at Imperial College London, he has advanced our understanding of the physics which underpins how quantum computers work.

Quantum optics was a new field of physics at the start of Peter Knight’s career in the early 1970s and he tells Jim Al-Khalili about the excitement and opportunities for a young scientist at the birth of a new scientific discipline. He also talks about the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme. Since his retirement in 2010, Peter Knight has been the driving force behind this £1 billion government-funded endeavour which has positioned the UK as a world leader in the development and commercialisation of quantum computing and other revolutionary quantum inventions.


MON 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyfbvp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 21:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gkhf9)
Israel: remains of final Gaza hostage returned

The Israeli military says it has retrieved the body of the last hostage in Gaza, paving the way for the next phase of US President Donald Trump's peace plan to get under way. Ran Gvili, a policeman, was one of 251 hostages taken in the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 in which about 1,200 people were killed.

Also on the programme: The White House has sharply criticised what it called "hostile" Democrats for the unrest in Minneapolis ; and scientists have gained a new insight into a mind-bending part of the universe- dark matter.

(Photo: Israeli women hold a cutout picture of Israeli police officer, Ran Gvili, in Tel Aviv on the 26th of January, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Moti Milrod)


MON 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyfglt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcdvm6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k3tw6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct76v1)
How are businesses impacted by protests in Minneapolis?

The Trump administration ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement to step up the removal of undocumented migrants more than six weeks ago, triggering large scale protests across the US. Rahul Tandon speaks to business owners who say staff are too frightened to come into work.

In France, the government moves a step closer to banning social media for children under 15s.

And as a deadly winter storm batters the US and Canada, a farmer explains how he keeps his animals safe in extreme conditions.

[Photo: Protests in Minneapolis. Credit:CRAIG LASSIG/EPA/Shutterstock]


MON 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyflby)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 23:06 The Interview (w3ct7x0w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k3ymb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 23:32 The Conversation (w3ct709y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

TUESDAY 27 JANUARY 2026

TUE 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyfq32)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 00:06 The History Hour (w3ct71x1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyftv6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcf6vl)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k463l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct717p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Monday]


TUE 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyfylb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcfblq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k49vq)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:32 Assignment (w3ct6rct)
Nigeria: Killings, land and cattle

On Christmas Day 2025, the US carried out missile strikes on suspected Islamist militants in Nigeria. They came after President Trump said he would intervene to protect Christians amid controversial claims of a “Christian genocide” in the country. The Nigerian government rejects such claims, saying both Muslim and Christian communities have been affected by insecurity in the country.

Alex Last visits Plateau state in central Nigeria one area where ethnic and sectarian violence that has been the focus of US concern, to hear from both sides and meet those trying to bring peace.

Producer/presenter: Alex Last
Sound engineer: James Beard
Production co-ordinator: Katie Morrison
Editor: Penny Murphy

(Photo: A local man herding cows. Credit: Alex Last)


TUE 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyg2bg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wqx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Monday]


TUE 03:50 Witness History (w3ct747c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyg62l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcfl2z)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k4kbz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vvn)
Mrinalini Mukherjee and her circle of artists

Art from the circle of friends, family and teachers of artist Mrinalini Mukherjee is now on show at London's Royal Academy - alongside her giant hemp sculptures. Sheetal Parmar hears about the planning behind transporting such delicate works and about the influences behind the creation of her natural forms.

(Image: Mrinalini Mukherjee with her work 'Earth Bloom', 'In the Garden' Exhibition, Vadehra Art Gallery, New Delhi, 1997)


TUE 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyg9tq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 05:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcdpv9)
Minneapolis mayor asks for an end to ICE local operations

President Trump has signalled a shifting position on his hugely controversial immigration crackdown.

It is widely reported that the figurehead of the mass deportation drive, Gregory Bovino, who vilified the nurse Alex Pretti after his agents shot him dead on Saturday, is about to be removed from Minneapolis.

The US president has praised Hamas for its role in helping locate the body of the last remaining Israeli hostage held in Gaza.

(Photo: Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey speaks at a press conference; Credit: Tim Evans/Reuters)


TUE 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cygfkv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 06:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcdtlf)
Immigration chief likely to depart Minneapolis

In Minneapolis, tension and frustration over the presence of federal officials remained high, despite the news that Immigration Chief, Bovino and some agents would be leaving.

A human rights organisation says the death toll from protests in Iran is at least six thousand and it's examining another 17,000 potential cases.

The leaders of India and the European Union will announce the "mother of all deals" later today when they meet in New Delhi.

(Photo: A woman blows a whistle in front of Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino; Credit: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters)


TUE 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cygk9z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 07:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcdybk)
The figurehead of the mass deportation, Bovino, to leave Minneapolis

President Trump says he is sending his "border tsar", Tom Homan, to Minneapolis, a man seen as more measured than Mr Bovino or the Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. We speak to an emergency management director there.

The mayor of Minneapolis says he has asked President Trump to put an end to the current drive against irregular immigrants in his city by federal agents.

A Greenland politician tells the BBC they will need time to build trust with the US.

(Photo: Protesters confront police outside the hotel where top Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino is believed to be staying; Credit: Craig Lassig/EPA/Shutterstock)


TUE 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cygp23)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xyv)
Helping prisoners become better parents

An innovative scheme in Scotland is helping dads in prison become better parents. Myra Anubi visits Barlinnie jail in Glasgow to meet the prisoners taking part. First they are taught parenting skills and then their children are brought into the jail for sessions of active physical play. Supporters of the programme say it is not just about benefits for prisoners - it is helping to create strong family bonds which might then reduce rates of reoffending.

It is based on a successful scheme in Australia called Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids. This was set up to get people fit and tackle high levels of obesity in the wider population. We talk to the founder who explains how it has improved the lives of hundreds of fathers and their families.

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

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Producer: Richard Kenny
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Annie Gardiner

(Image: Prisoners and their children at Barlinnie prison in Scotland, Scottish Prison Service)


TUE 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k51bh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s7x)
How country music became cool

Country music is in the midst of a grand renaissance. The genre - whose popularity was previously confined to the American South - is now climbing the charts, grabbing the attention of Gen Z audiences, and changing the perception of what it means to be a country listener.

Streaming of the genre in the US rose by nearly 110% in the five years to 2024. And it’s taking over markets all around the world. In the UK, the genre more than doubled its share of the singles market in two years. And Australia is now the third largest country music market globally.

From ‘music city’ - Nashville, Tennessee - we speak to artists and industry leaders to better understand where the country music boom came from, and where it’s headed this year. How did country become so cool?

To get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

Presented and produced by Ellie House

(Picture: Neon lights spelling 'Music City Tonight' at Robert's Honky Tonk, Nashville. Credit: BBC)


TUE 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74ny)
The liberation of Auschwitz

On 27 January 1945, prisoners at the Nazis’ largest death camp were freed by the Soviet Union’s Red Army.

General Vasily Petrenko commanded one of the four units that liberated Auschwitz.

The Nazis murdered 1.1 million people at Auschwitz-Birkenau between 1941 and 1945. Almost a million were Jews, 70,000 were Polish prisoners, 21,000 Roma, 15,000 Soviet prisoners of war and an unknown number of gay men.

It was one of six death camps the Nazis built in occupied Poland in 1942, and it was by far the biggest.

Vicky Farncombe produced this episode using an interview General Vasily Petrenko gave to the BBC’s Russian Service in 2001. He died in 2003.

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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: Auschwitz survivors watch the arrival of Soviet troops come to free them. Credit: Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images)


TUE 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cygst7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcg5tm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k552m)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:32 Assignment (w3ct6rct)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cygxkc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 10:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zvj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


TUE 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyh19h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcgf9w)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k5dkw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct71d6)
The mystery of Putin and the apartment bombs

In September 1999, just weeks into Vladimir Putin’s first premiership, four bombs blew up four apartment buildings, over a period of twelve days, killing hundreds and plunging the entire nation into fear.
The government blamed Chechen militants, a conclusion corroborated by many journalists at the time. But whispers of a darker conspiracy persist to this day.
A new BBC podcast, The History Bureau: Putin and the Apartment Bombs, tells the story of those bombings and re-examines how these tragic events helped propel Vladimir Putin to power. Asma talks to the host of the series, Helena Merriman.
Producers: Viv Jones
Executive producer: Bridget Harney
Mix: Travis Evans
Senior news editor: China Collins
Photo: Moscow apartment buildings in the 1990s. Credit: BBC.


TUE 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyh51m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6x5l)
The man trying to protect rice from extinction

Debal Deb had never thought much about rice. It was simply a humble food for over half the world's population. But when he discovered that over 90% of the rice varieties grown in India had been lost – and that most of the world ate just a handful of commercially-owned varieties – he started to worry about the very survival of the species. A single disease or environmental catastrophe could potentially wipe out rice for good. Seeing that no-one else seemed to be concerned, Debal took it upon himself to travel to remote corners of India to collect rare types of rice with important traits – such as drought tolerance, unique flavours and the ability to grow in salt water. He now grows 1492 varieties on his farm in eastern India in order to conserve them in a so-called living seedbank, and shares seeds for free with any farmers who wish to grow them. It's hard, relentless work but Debal takes joy from reviving the ancient cultural practice of seed exchange. The only question now is who will continue his work into the future.


Candida Meyrick took a leap of faith and adopted a baby Harris hawk after her son became obsessed with birds of prey. Instantly Candida's life changed – she was suddenly training a powerful bird and out with it everyday in the Welsh countryside. Falconry, hunting with a bird of prey, requires careful daily handling. But the hawk also opened her life in ways she couldn't imagine, teaching her life lessons she had no idea were coming. Candida has written a book about her life alongside her hawk, it's called Be more Bird: Life Lessons from a Hawk.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Anna Lacey and May Cameron

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

(Photo: Debal Deb is standing in a rice field in eastern India, with plants coming to shoulder height. He is speaking to a crowd of men and women in brightly-coloured clothes. Credit: Debal Deb)


TUE 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74ny)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyh8sr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcgnt4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k5n24)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyhdjw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 14:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gmk3h)
India and EU announce the 'mother of all trade deals'

The European Commission president Ursula Von Der Leyen has celebrated the signing of a trade agreement with India, saying it sent a message that international cooperation could still work. The remarks have been taken as a dig at President Trump - with the agreement itself partially the result of Europe seeking trade partners beyond the United States. Tariffs will gradually be eliminated, raising expectations of an increase in volumes traded. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the deal would strengthen stability in the international system.

Also in the programme: News from Iran in the wake of the state's violent crackdown on demonstrations there- doctors and nurses who cared for injured protesters are now being arrested. We also look at The Planets by the English composer Gustav Holst. It was first heard a century ago and is being reworked to address what is happening with the planet now.

(Photo: President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen +President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa pose for photographs with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi New Delhi - 27 Jan 2026. Credit: Rajat Gupta /EPA/Shutterstock)


TUE 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyhj90)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xyv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k5wkd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s7x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


TUE 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct888r)
India and EU agree game-changing trade deal

The European Union and India have announced a landmark trade deal as both sides aim to deepen ties amid tensions with the US.

It will allow free trade of goods between the bloc of 27 European states and the world's most populous country, which together make up nearly 25% of global gross domestic product and a market of two billion people.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump threatens South Korea with more tariffs, and a big shift in the global sportswear business as France’s billionaire Pinault family sells a big chunk of its Puma holding to China’s Anta Sports


TUE 16:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyhn14)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 16:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbkj53)
Minnesota: Border patrol commander to leave the city

Police say they arrested several people during protests outside a hotel where Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino was believed to be staying last night. Bovino and some immigration agents are leaving Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, making way for Trump's border tsar Tom Homan to take over on-the-ground operations. We speak to local journalists about what's been happening over the past few weeks.

Pop star Gary Barlow has spoken out about his struggles with eating disorders in a new documentary. We speak to men who have had them in the past to hear their experiences.

We hear from people in the US who are experiencing a deadly winter storm.

Presenter: James Reynolds

Photo: U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino trips and falls into snow while detaining a rapid response observer as immigration enforcement action continues in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S., January 8, 2026. Photo credit: Reuters/Tim Evans


TUE 17:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyhrs8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 17:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbkmx7)
Nipah virus outbreak in India triggers airport screenings

An outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in India's West Bengal state has sparked concern in parts of Asia, with some tightening screening measures at airports. Five healthcare workers in West Bengal were infected by the virus early this month, one of whom is in a critical condition. Some 110 people who were in contact with them have been quarantined. We speak to a doctor in India to hear more about the virus.

Verified videos emerging from Iran show bodies piled up in a hospital, snipers stationed on buildings and CCTV cameras being destroyed, following the unprecedented crackdown on protests earlier this month. We speak to our correspondent from BBC Verify.

Pop star Gary Barlow has spoken out about his struggles with eating disorders in a new documentary. We speak to men who have had them in the past to hear their experiences.

Presenter: James Reynolds

Photo: Health screening implemented at Suvarnabhumi Airport to monitor Nipah virus, Samut Prakan, Thailand - 25 Jan 2026. Credit:
EPA/Shutterstock


TUE 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyhwjd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6x5l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


TUE 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74ny)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyj08j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lchd8x)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k6cjx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6zbr)
2026/01/27 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 (w172zwx32cyj40n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:06 Assignment (w3ct6rct)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k6h91)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:32 Tech Life (w3ct6zq1)
China's AI progress

The launch of China's DeepSeek AI tool a year ago sent shockwaves through US markets and Silicon Valley. But now Chinese AI tech is being used by more and more US companies. Our North America Technology Correspondent, Lily Jamali, tells us about it.

Also this week: shoppers in Denmark are using mobile phone apps to boycott some goods from overseas. And we road-test an exoskeleton taking the physical effort out of long outdoor walks.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum
Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: An image of a mobile phone displaying the DeepSeek name and logo on the screen. In the background are flags of China and the United States of America. Credit: Reuters.)


TUE 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyj7rs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 21:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gndbd)
Trump 'border tsar' arrives in Minnesota

The new head of the immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, Tom Homan, has met the state governor as the White House attempts to address the criticism following the fatal shootings of Alex Pretti and Renée Good by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

Also in the programme: Spain has approved a plan to grant legal status to an estimated 500,000 migrants; and tennis star Coco Gauff calls for privacy after being filmed smashing her racket.

(Photo: Tom Homan, the new head of the immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjchx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lchrj9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k6qs9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct76cb)
India and EU announce 'mother of all trade deals'

A free trade agreement dubbed the mother of all trade deals has finally been announced between the European Union and India after two decades of negotiations. What do businesses make of it?

Across the globe then to hear why Canadians are boycotting ski resorts in America.

In the US, a landmark social media addiction case has tech giants settling before reaching court.

And country music is popular (according the Gen-Z).

[Photo:President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa shake hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, India. Credit: RAJAT GUPTA/EPA/Shutterstock]


TUE 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjh81)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct6xyv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k6vjf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:32 In the Studio (w3ct6vvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY 2026

WED 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjm05)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 00:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct6zvj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


WED 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjqr9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcj3rp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k730p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct71d6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Tuesday]


WED 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjvhf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcj7ht)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k76rt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 02:32 The Climate Question (w3ct7034)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyjz7k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6x5l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Tuesday]


WED 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74ny)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyk2zp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcjh02)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k7g82)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 04:32 The Bomb (w3ct8vc6)
Kennedy and Khrushchev

9. Black Saturday

Soviet anti-aircraft fire takes down an American spy plane over Cuba, as the crisis spirals. The pilot is killed. With nuclear missiles almost ready for launch in Cuba, how can the two superpower leaders pull back from the brink of war? This is the personal and political history of the Cuban Missile Crisis, told by Nina Khrushcheva and Max Kennedy.


WED 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyk6qt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 05:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvchlrd)
Trump says he will 'de-escalate' in Minnesota

President Trump says his administration is going to, in his words, "de-escalate a little bit" in Minneapolis following the deaths of two protesters at the hands of federal agents this month. We speak to Janet Napolitano, America's longest serving Secretary of Homeland Security under the Obama administration.

As Donald Trump warns that a US armada is 'floating' towards Iran, we speak to a prominent Iranian historian to get his view after that brutal crackdown that saw thousands killed.

And after the remains of the last Israeli hostage held in the Gaza Strip were returned home, we speak to Ran Gvili's aunt as the family prepares for his funeral later today.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: Donald Trump walks upon arrival on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington. Credit:Annabelle Gordon/Reuters).


WED 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cykbgy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 06:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvchqhj)
Trump says authorities will 'de-escalate' in Minneapolis

President Trump says his administration is going to, in his words, "de-escalate a little bit" in Minneapolis, following the deaths of two protesters at the hands of federal agents this month. We get an update from our correspondent in Minneapolis.

The U.S. President says there's another U.S. "armada" was floating towards Iran in light of a brutal crackdown against anti-government protests in Iran. We hear the account of one of those who had protested.

And the Spanish government has outlined a plan to legalise the status of some illegal immigrants, a move which could see half a million people see their status legitimised.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: A person holds a sign of Alex Pretti during a protest outside the office of Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. Credit:Adam Gray/AP).


WED 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cykg72)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 07:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvchv7n)
Trump says he'll 'de-escalate' federal immigration operations in Minneapolis

Donald Trump has said his administration will "de-escalate" a little bit its immigration crackdown in Minnesota. He has described the killing of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol officers as an unfortunate incident. We get the view of Janet Napolitano, America's longest serving Secretary of Homeland Security.

Donald Trump has warned that a second armada is "floating" towards Iran. We hear from an Iranian demonstrator and her thoughts on President Trump's promise to help protesters.

And after the remains of the last Israeli hostage held in the Gaza Strip were returned home, we speak to Ran Gvili's aunt as the family prepares for his funeral later today.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy

(Photo: People hold vigil for Alex Pretti in New York. Credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)


WED 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cykkz6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 08:06 The Interview (w3ct7x7n)
Helen Thompson, professor of political economy: A new era of global power politics

“Regardless of whether it's Trump or anybody else in the White House, we should expect something quite significant to be going on in terms of the United States’ relationship with the rest of the world.”

Amol Rajan speaks to Helen Thompson, professor of political economy at Cambridge University, about a new era of global power play.

In this conversation, she traces the roots of the re-birth of US expansionism back to the 19th century, and America’s early presidents. She also explains how the dynamics of geopolitics are tied to the control of resources, in particular oil.

Professor Thompson is an expert on the history of globalisation who has taught at Britain’s Cambridge University for more than 30 years. Her current research looks at the geopolitics of energy, and the long history of this century’s global disruptions.

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

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with the Colombian president Gustavo Petro, New Zealand’s former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Amol Rajan
Producers: Anna Budd, Lucy Sheppard
Editor: Justine Lang

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

(Image: Helen Thompson Credit: Anna Budd/BBC)


WED 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k7y7l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6sdf)
Copper theft: A growing economic problem

Demand has been surging for copper around the world - from renewable energy projects, to AI data centres, to infrastructure networks.

Production, however, has struggled to keep pace, pushing prices close to record highs in late 2025 and early 2026.

As the value of the metal has risen, criminals have increasingly targeted copper for theft - stripping it from telephone cables, railway power lines and solar panels. The resulting damage and disruption is costing economies billions.

If you'd like to get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

Presented and produced by Russell Padmore

Picture: Train passengers look at a train information board at Zwolle station in Zwolle on the first of December 2025 after an extensive track damage caused by an attempted copper theft disrupted train services. Credit: Getty Images)


WED 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74r6)
Chile's 'Penguin Revolution'

In 2006, hundreds of thousands of school children in Chile took over their schools and marched in the streets, in a protest about inequality in education.

It was known as the "Penguin Revolution" because of their black and white school uniforms.

The students were demanding good quality education for all children, regardless of whether they were rich or poor.

Grace Livingstone speaks to Karina Delfino, who was a 16-year-old school girl and one of the leaders of the movement.

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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: Riot police block an avenue in Santiago during clashes with students, 5 June 2006. Credit: David Lillo/AFP via Getty Images)


WED 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cykpqb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lck2qq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k81zq)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 09:32 The Climate Question (w3ct7034)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyktgg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 10:06 The Evidence (w3ct70sd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


WED 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyky6l)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lckb6z)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k89gz)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct71gg)
What next for Venezuelans?

When US Special Forces captured Venezuela’s former president Nicolás Maduro several weeks ago, many wondered whether his ouster would bring about further changes to the country. So, what has changed in Venezuela?

And while President Trump has made it clear he sees oil as a very important priority for the United States’s future relationship with Venezuela and increased American involvement in the country’s oil operations, how do Venezuelans feel about this prospect?

Our guest today, reporting from inside Venezuela, is BBC correspondent Norberto Paredes. How do Venezuelans feel about their country since Maduro’s departure?

Producers: Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak and Hannah Moore

Executive producer: Bridget Harney

Sound engineer: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

(Photo: People walk past a painting of an oil pump on Venezuela's national flag, in Caracas. Credit: Gaby Oráa/Reuters)


WED 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyl1yq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6xdh)
The couple who secretly lived in a shopping mall

Adriana Valdez Young and Michael Townsend were part of a rag-tag group of artists who built a secret apartment inside a shopping mall in the early 2000s. Their story is now told in the Netflix documentary, Secret Mall Apartment. Frustrated by the redevelopment sweeping through Providence, Rhode Island, the evictions of artists and displacement of friends, they saw the mall as a symbol of everything wrong with their changing city. When they discovered a large disused space inside the mall, they decided to secretly occupy it – an act of protest that became a home, complete with waffle maker and a TV. But what started as a wild and creative adventure began to take over Adriana and Michael’s lives – and their marriage.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Louise Morris and Maryam Maruf

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

(Photo: Michael Townsend and Adriana Valdez Young in the early 2000s sitting next to each other in a restaurant, he is kissing her cheek. Credit: Michael Townsend)


WED 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74r6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyl5pv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lckkq7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k8jz7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 13:32 The Bomb (w3ct8vc6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyl9fz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 14:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gqg0l)
UK prime minister lands in China on trade mission

The UK's prime minister Keir Starmer has arrived in China for a three-day visit - the first by a British prime minister in eight years.

Sir Keir is seeking to strengthen trading and cultural ties between the two nations after years of acrimony.

Also in the programme: We'll hear from people inside Iran as families and friends try to count the number of dead during the recent crackdown; and new research into the late novelist Terry Pratchett suggests a person's use of words could help diagnose dementia much earlier.

(Photo shows UK prime minister Keir Starmer arriving in Beijing, China on 28 January 2026. Credit: Carl Court/PA)


WED 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cylf63)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 15:06 The Interview (w3ct7x7n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k8sgh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct6sdf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


WED 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct88bt)
The Swiss franc flies high

The Swiss franc soars to its highest level against the dollar in more than a decade as investors flee the US currency and look for a safe haven elsewhere. We look at what that means for Swiss exporters and the central bank.

Plus, why have several big global companies announced big job cuts, even though they appear to be doing well financially?

And the boss of Cisco warns of "carnage" if an AI-driven bubble on stock markets bursts.


WED 16:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyljy7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 16:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbnf26)
Trump accuses mayor of Minneapolis of 'playing with fire'

President Trump has accused the mayor of Minneapolis of "playing with fire". In a post, Jacob Frey said the city "does not and will not enforce federal immigration laws". We speak to our reporter in the city.

Some Republican lawmakers have started to criticize the shootings in Minnesota involving ICE officers. We hear from a resident outside Minneapolis who generally supports the ICE operations.

We also hear the experiences of migrants living in Minneapolis about how the situation has affected them.

Two more European leaders have urged the continent to increase its military power to reduce its dependancy on the US. We speak to our global affairs reporter.

And we continue to hear from graduates around the world struggling to land their first job. Three young people share how they have found new and bit more unconventional ways to make a living.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey attends a press conference after an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S., January 12, 2026. Credit: Tim Evans/Reuters)


WED 17:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cylnpc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 17:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbnjtb)
Trump warns Iran 'time is running out' for nuclear deal

President Trump has said time is running out for Iran to negotiate a deal on nuclear weapons. If it fails to do so, he has warned his next attack on the regime would be ''far worse'' than the strikes last June. Meanwhile, the full extent of casualties in Iran following the government’s violent crackdown on protesters remains unknown, but the BBC has spoken to several young Iranians who described what they saw. We hear from some of them and bring more details from the BBC investigation.

The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has made a robust defence of the Trump administration's Venezuela policy, weeks after US special forces seized President Nicolas Maduro. Our Washington correspondent has more details.

President Trump has accused the mayor of Minneapolis of "playing with fire". In a post, Jacob Frey said the city "does not and will not enforce federal immigration laws". We hear from a resident outside Minneapolis who supports the ICE operations. We also hear the experiences of migrants living in Minneapolis about how the situation has affected them.

Presenter: James Reynolds

(Photo: Iranians walk next to an anti-US mural in a street in Tehran, Iran, 24 January 2026. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA)


WED 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cylsfh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6xdh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


WED 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74r6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cylx5m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcl960)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k98g0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6zf0)
2026/01/28 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 (w172zwx32cym0xr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 20:06 The Climate Question (w3ct7034)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k9d64)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 20:32 Health Check (w3ct6vkm)
South African coming-of-age initiations

For some communities in South Africa coming-of-age initiations are a hugely significant moment, but there have been rising concerns over the safety of the circumcisions at the heart of this ritual. Forty-eight young men died last year and the government are now introducing measures to tackle the issue. BBC’s southern Africa correspondent Pumza Fihlani reports on the latest.

Research suggests our hair does not grow by pushing up and out but by being pulled by a coordinated network of moving cells. Our studio guest Graham Easton, professor of clinical communication skills and former family doctor discusses the significance.

What is the best way to encourage more people to give blood? New research from China evaluates system where donors were offered incentives such as free access to public bus services. Professor of Health Psychology Eamonn Ferguson puts this in the context of different approaches used worldwide.

And should doctors use emojis in communications with patients? A new paper analyses how many are used and which ones by clinicians and patients in Michigan, USA. We discuss the pros and cons of their use.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producer: Hannah Robins
Assistant producer: Jonathan Blackwell
Researcher: Anna Charalambou


WED 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cym4nw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 21:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gr97h)
Trump : Iran 'needs' to sign nuclear deal

Is the United States about to launch a larger attack on Iran, than last June, when 'Operation Midnight Hammer' targeted its nuclear programme? Earlier this month President Trump told protesters that "help was on the way," and now thousands are dead. We hear from a former US envoy to Iran.

Also on the programme: Tensions over ICE agents persist in Minnesota - we get a view from the Democrats; and we hear the extraordinary story of mathematician Dr Gladys West, who has died at the age of 95.

(Photo: The USS Abraham Lincoln shown in 2019; Credit : US Navy via Reuters)


WED 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cym8f0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lclnfd)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k9mpd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct76k0)
Amazon cuts 16,000 jobs as it pushes AI and efficiency

US technology giant Amazon has confirmed it will cut 16,000 jobs around the world. Andrew Peach hears from former Amazon workers and an AI expert. Also, why German authorities have searched Deutsche Bank buildings in Berlin and Frankfurt. And how Harry Styles will overtake Taylor Swift by adding more London gigs this summer. (PHOTO: An Amazon employee delivers packages in downtown San Francisco, California, U.S., January 26, 2026. REUTERS/Carlos Barria)


WED 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymd54)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 23:06 The Interview (w3ct7x7n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k9rfj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 23:32 The Bomb (w3ct8vc6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

THURSDAY 29 JANUARY 2026

THU 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymhx8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 00:06 The Evidence (w3ct70sd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


THU 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymmnd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcm0ns)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3k9zxs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct71gg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Wednesday]


THU 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymrdj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcm4dx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kb3nx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 02:32 The Documentary (w3ct8xsz)
Hungary: The alternative to Orban

In April 2026, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces fresh parliamentary elections. He has been in power since 2010, and his party's grip on the Hungarian media and civil society means many felt his place in office was permanently secure. However, discontent over allegations of corruption and his brand of "illiberal democracy" has been growing, led by a new challenger, Peter Magyar. His growing party, Tisza, has shown signs of being able to unite wide swathes of Hungary's disjointed opposition, and Orban is suddenly well behind in the polls.

Magyar himself is a former member member of Orban's party, Fidesz. He has promised to root out corruption and bring in term limits for future leaders. But questions remain over whether he can stably maintain a wide anti-Orban coalition, and about what a Magyar government would really look like.

Nick Thorpe travels across Hungary meeting activists and voters mobilising for the contest.

Producer: Artemis Irvine
A Whistledown production for the BBC World Service

(Photo: Peter Magyar, Tisza Party leader. Credit: Noemi Bruzak/EPA/Shutterstock)


THU 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymw4n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6xdh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Wednesday]


THU 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74r6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Wednesday]


THU 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cymzws)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcmcx5)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kbc55)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 04:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70zr)
Fermented foods: A beginner's guide

Fermented foods are fashionable – kimchi, kefir, kombucha – they're all having a moment, many thousands of years on from where they were first produced. But how much do you know about how they're made? Do you know your SCOBY from your kefir grain?

In this episode, fermenting novice Ruth Alexander goes on a quest to find out more about this ancient way of preserving food; how to do it yourself, why you might want to, and what it's doing for our guts.

Follow along as she experiments with making her own kefir, and talks to fermentation guru Sandor Katz about how to get started and whether there's anything that can't be fermented.

Scientist Professor Gabriel Vinderola explains what's known about the microbes behind it all and how they affect our health while Kheedim Oh and his mum Myung Oh talk about how they've brought the family recipe for kimchi to a US audience via their business, Mama O's Kimchi. (Kimchi on pizza anyone?)

And with the help of Adam Goldwater from UK based Loving Foods Fermented, Ruth discovers how kombucha is made, and the alien like SCOBY powering the process.

Produced by Lexy O'Connor. The sound engineer was Andrew Mills.

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

Image: A woman in an apron is holding a jar of brightly coloured fermenting vegetables, with orange carrots and purple cabbage tightly packed in. Credit Getty/Migrogen


THU 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyn3mx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 05:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvclhnh)
Trump warns Iran to negotiate a nuclear deal

President Donald Trump has warned Iran that an “armada” is heading toward the country and that it should “make a deal” with the U.S. on its contested nuclear program or face a large-scale U.S. military attack. We assess the threat of military action.

We look at the visit of the UK Prime Minister to China. Keir Starmer has said the UK is seeking a 'more sophisticated relationship' with China.

And we go to Minneapolis where two federal agents involved in the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on Saturday have been placed on administrative leave. The Customs and Border Protection officials have said the decision is standard procedure and went on to say they are investigating the killing.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: USS Abraham Lincoln. Credit: Clint Davis/US Navy via Reuters).


THU 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyn7d1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 06:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvclmdm)
US puts pressure on Iran

President Donald Trump has warned Iran that an “armada” is heading toward the country and that it should “make a deal” with the U.S. on its contested nuclear program or face a large-scale U.S. military attack. We assess the threat of military action.

The UK's prime minister Sir Keir Starmer is the latest western leader to visit China. He's been meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping where the British leader said Beijing stood ready to develop a long-term strategic partnership with the UK. We get a view from Beijing.

And we speak to a Palestinian mother who crossed into Egypt during the conflict in Gaza and is waiting is waiting to go back home.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. Credit: Cati Cladera/European Pressphoto agency).


THU 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cync45)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 07:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvclr4r)
Donald Trump's warning to Iran

President Donald Trump has warned Iran that an “armada” is heading toward the country and that it should “make a deal” with the U.S. on its contested nuclear program or face a large-scale U.S. military attack. We assess the threat of military action.

The UK's prime minister Sir Keir Starmer is the latest western leader to visit China. He's been meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping where the British leader said Beijing stood ready to develop a long-term strategic partnership with the UK. We get a view from Beijing.

And China says it has executed eleven people suspected of running scam centres in Myanmar.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: USS Abraham Lincoln. Credit: Kenneth Abbate/US Navy via Reuters).


THU 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyngw9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 08:06 The Inquiry (w3ct723v)
What's behind the rise in shoplifting?

Boosting, swiping or the five finger discount - many countries around the world are seeing a rise in retail theft.

From Japan to the UK, the USA to Germany, retailers are struggling to tackle shoplifting - but the factors fueling this trend are as varied as the people carrying out these crimes. Poverty, opportunism, thrill-seeking - and technology - are some of the factors experts say are to blame.

But a more costly problem is the rise in organised crime, as gangs of thieves strategically target shops and steal to order, turn to online marketplaces to anonymously sell on stolen goods for big profits.

Charmaine Cozier reveals how the justice system and surveillance technology are being used to combat this rising crime wave, as The Inquiry asks what’s behind the rise in shoplifting?

Contributors:
Dr Nicole Bögelein, sociologist at the University of Cologne, Germany
Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss, national lead for retail crime at the UK National Police Chiefs Council
Tony Sheppard. Vice President of Retail Risk Solutions at Think LP, USA
Khris Hamlin, Retail Industry Leaders Association in the USA

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Phoebe Keane
Researcher: Evie Yabsley
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Technical Producer: Cameron Ward
Production Management Assistant: Liam Morrey

(Photo: A warning sign in Canada. Credit: NurPhoto/Getty Images)


THU 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kbv4p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s3d)
Why you buy what you buy

We lift the curtain on how everyone from toothpaste brands to the United Nations is using science to influence your choices in ways you’re probably not aware of. Behavioural science has even made its way into TV drama.

How does it work? And why is it so effective?

If you'd like to get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

Presented and produced by Rowan Bridge

Business Daily is the home of in-depth audio journalism devoted to the world of money and work. From small startup stories to big corporate takeovers, global economic shifts to trends in technology, we look at the key figures, ideas and events shaping business.

Each episode is a 17-minute deep dive into a single topic, featuring expert analysis and the people at the heart of the story.

Recent episodes explore the weight-loss drug revolution, the growth in AI, the cost of living, why bond markets are so powerful, China's property bubble, and Gen Z's experience of the current job market.

We also speak to some of the world's most influential business leaders. These interviews include the CEO of Google Sundar Pichai, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, and the billionaire founder of Epic Systems, one of the world's largest medical record software providers, Judy Faulkner.

(Picture: The hand of a woman about to cause a chain reaction by pushing over a domino. Credit: Getty Images)


THU 08:50 Witness History (w3ct74kj)
The Kaohsiung Incident

On 10 December 1979, pro-democracy activists clashed with police in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

The incident, which happened during Taiwan's martial law period, paved the way for the transition to democracy.

Rachel Naylor speaks to Yao Chia-wen, who was jailed for 12 years for his involvement.

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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: The Kaohsiung Incident on 10 December 1979. Credit: AP Photo / Yueh-Kang Pan)


THU 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cynlmf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcmzmt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kbywt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 09:32 The Documentary (w3ct8xsz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cynqck)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 10:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yt9)
The Media Show: Netflix’s skyscraper live stunt

The fatal shooting of Alex Pretti during ICE operations in Minneapolis has intensified scrutiny of how events are recorded and reported, as video filmed by members of the public becomes central to news coverage. Meg Anderson, correspondent at NPR, outlines the challenge for reporters on the ground.

Algorithms are in the news. Elon Musk says he will "open-source" the algorithms that power X. Instagram has recently started giving some users more control over what its algorithm recommends. And “the secret sauce” that powers TikTok has been part of the discussion this month as the company sells its US operations. James Ball, political editor at The New World, explains their fascination.

Netflix’s live broadcast of free solo climber Alex Honnold scaling a skyscraper in Taiwan has raised ethical questions about risk. Vicky Jessop, commissioning editor and culture writer at The Evening Standard, considers what the event tells us about the future of television.

Presenter: Ros Atkins
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
Content producer: Laura Cain
Researcher: Phil Hawkins
Technical co-ordinator: Akik Rahman
Sound engineer: Robin Schroder


THU 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kc2my)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 10:32 Happy News (w3ct6tzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:32 on Saturday]


THU 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cynv3p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcn742)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kc6d2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct719y)
How the Minnesota shooting set off a TikTok censorship debate

Over the weekend, some TikTok users in the United States claimed the social media platform was censoring content critical of the Trump administration. Users reported that they couldn’t upload or view videos related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, otherwise known as ICE. But TikTok disputes that functionality issues were political, attributing them instead to data center outages.

The criticism has come to a head after federal agents shot and killed intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, a US citizen in Minnesota. The Department of Homeland Security says the agents fired in self-defence.

Though the facts remain muddy, the controversy has exposed how a divided America is reacting to the shooting. For the latest, we speak to BBC Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent Marianna Spring.

Producers: Xandra Ellin, Samantha Chantarasak, and Viv Jones

Executive producer: China Collins

Mix: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: Teenagers holding smartphones in front of a TikTok logo. September 11, 2025. Credit:Dado Ruvic/Reuters


THU 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cynyvt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wyp)
I was acting in a Shakespeare play and got stabbed on stage

When Olly Hawes was studying drama at university in the UK he played the part of Cassius in a production of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. For added authenticity, a decision was made that Cassius and his opponent would use real knives in a fight scene instead of fake knives. But during one particular performance, the well-rehearsed choreography went wrong and Olly was accidentally stabbed on stage. After physically recovering, Olly got back on stage and tried to shrug off the whole affair – but the incident severely affected his mental health. Olly joined Outlook's Mobeen Azhar to talk about dealing with the emotional fallout caused by this most unexpected of plot twists.

Radu Păltineanu was living a normal life when he decided to sell everything he owned to pursue his ultimate dream: cycling the length of the Americas. With no training, minimal gear and little money, Radu set off to become the first Romanian to achieve such a feat. Irina Repede followed his journey on social media and admired him from afar, before they met and fell in love – and continued their adventures together. Radu and Irina spoke to Outlook's Emily Naylor.

Presenter: Mobeen Azhar
Producer: May Cameron and Emily Naylor

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

(Photo: Olly Hawes faces the camera and looks to his right. He has a focused look on his face and his mouth rests slightly open. He has short curly hair and wears glasses, a T-shirt and open shirt. A spotlight shines on Olly while he stands in front of another person obscured by shadow. Credit: Olly Hawes)


THU 12:50 Witness History (w3ct74kj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyp2ly)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcngmb)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kcfwb)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 13:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70zr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyp6c2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 14:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gtbxp)
UK’s Starmer meets Xi Jinping as relations warm

The British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer says "good progress" was made in his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping of China. Our China correspondent will give us her assessment.

Also on the programme: as President Trump steps up the rhetoric on Iran, what could happen if the US strikes it? And the musical director who stood in for Puccini’s challenging Turandot when the star tenor suddenly fell ill.

(Photo: UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer shakes hands with President Xi Jinping of China ahead of a bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing during his visit to China. Credit: PA)


THU 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cypb36)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 15:06 The Inquiry (w3ct723v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kcpcl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct6s3d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


THU 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct88r6)
Dollar sinks to four year low

The dollar is normally seen as the ultimate safe haven, it's the currency most other currencies benchmark themselves against – so why is it taking a downward spiral?

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been in Beijing meeting President Xi and says steps have been taken to improve trade with China.

And Germany is experiencing a potato glut, we find out why.


THU 16:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cypfvb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 16:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbr9z9)
What could happen if the US strikes Iran?

Amid US military movements in the Gulf and wider Middle East speculation of an impending American attack on Iran, our security correspondent outlines the most likely military and geopolitical scenarios.

We also bring together exiled Iranian journalists to share what they’re hearing from their contacts inside the country and how people there are preparing for what may come next.

President Trump's ''border tsar'' has insisted the immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis will continue, amid tensions sparked by weeks of raids and the killing of two protesters by federal agents. We hear from Republicans in the city on the killings that have unsettled their community and what they want to see happen now.

There's been a big reaction on social media to the punishments handed out today for the chaotic scenes during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco earlier this month. Our sports reporter explains.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: An Iranian woman walks next to an anti-US mural in Tehran, Iran, 29 January 2026. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA)


THU 17:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cypklg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 17:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbrfqf)
China to relax travel rules for British visitors

China has agreed to allow British citizens to travel to the country for up to 30 days without a visa. The announcement came after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met President Xi Jinping in Beijing, as he became the first British leader to visit the country in eight years.

President Trump's ''border tsar'' has insisted the immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis will continue, amid tensions sparked by weeks of raids and the killing of two protesters by federal agents. We hear from Republicans in the city on the killings that have unsettled their community and what they want to see happen now.

The Amazon-produced documentary about Melania Trump comes out on Friday but what does the $75 million-dollar production tell us about media, politics, and how we see the first lady? We speak to media commentators in the US.

And we hear from India, where fans are devastated after renowned singer Arijit Singh announced his retirement from playback singing in the film industry.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of a bilateral meeting during his visit to China, in Beijing, China, January 29, 2026. Credit: Carl Court/Reuters)


THU 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyppbl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wyp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


THU 18:50 Witness History (w3ct74kj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cypt2q)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcp633)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kd5c3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z8h)
2026/01/29 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 (w172zwx32cypxtv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 20:06 The Documentary (w3ct8xsz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kd937)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 20:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct8txx)
Should we rethink navigating by GPS?

This week 14 European countries warned that “maritime safety and security” was being put in jeopardy by Russian interference. The Royal Institute of Navigation says GPS is so vulnerable to so called ‘spoofing’ and ‘jamming’ that we need to rethink the navigation systems on which shipping relies. Tom Whipple speaks to Ramsey Faragher, CEO of the Institute.

Something else with the potential to affect navigation systems are solar storms. Tom visits Professor Tim Horbury and Helen O’Brien at Imperial College London whose instrument strapped to the Solar Orbiter probe, and speeding through space, is giving us more warning about solar activity which could affect us here on earth.

And science journalist Caroline Steel brings you the latest scientific research.

To discover more fascinating science content, head to bbc.co.uk, search for BBC Inside Science and follow the links to The Open University.


THU 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyq1kz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 21:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gv64l)
Trump's border tsar suggests possible drawdown in Minneapolis if officials 'co-operate'

Donald Trump's "border tsar" Tom Homan says he is working on making ICE operations in Minneapolis "safer, more efficient, by the book". Also on the programme, the bodies of 15 Palestinians have been returned as the Gaza ceasefire moves into its next stage; and, the hidden, subconscious forces behind our everyday choices.

(Photo: US Border Czar Tom Homan speaks at his first news conference after replacing Greg Bovino as the lead of ICE operations at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, 29 January 2026. CRAIG LASSIG/EPA/Shutterstock)


THU 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyq5b3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcpkbh)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kdjlh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct75yx)
Toyota sets record sales in 2025

The Japanese auto giant Toyota says its global sales set a new record last year, despite trade tensions. What did Toyota do differently to others? Also, in a week where gold hit another record high, Rahul Tandon hears about what a gold boom means for Ghana. And, strong iPhone demand boosts Apple's profits, as Microsoft faces pressure over spending on data centres.

(Photo: Members of the media inspect a Toyota Yaris car displayed during a media preview at the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show 2025 automobile showcase in Nonthaburi, on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand, 24 March 2025. Credit: by RUNGROJ YONGRIT/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)


THU 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyq927)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 23:06 The Inquiry (w3ct723v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kdnbm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 23:32 The Food Chain (w3ct70zr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

FRIDAY 30 JANUARY 2026

FRI 00:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyqdtc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:06 The Explanation (w3ct7yt9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Thursday]


FRI 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kds2r)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:32 Unspun World with John Simpson (w3ct78c5)
Is Europe toughening its stance on Trump?

This week John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the relationship between the EU and the United States after the row over Greenland, explores how the UK is trying to improve ties with China, and looks at the challenges facing the first female head of the Anglican Church.

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


FRI 01:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyqjkh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcpxkw)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kdwtw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:32 The Global Story (w3ct719y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:32 on Thursday]


FRI 02:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyqn9m)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcq1b0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kf0l0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:32 Tech Life (w3ct6zq1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


FRI 03:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyqs1r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 03:06 Outlook (w3ct6wyp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Thursday]


FRI 03:50 Witness History (w3ct74kj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Thursday]


FRI 04:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyqwsw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcq8t8)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kf828)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vq4)
Jesus in a shop doorway

Mick Fleming turned to drugs to numb the trauma of a childhood shaped by violence and fear. What followed was a life of escalating crime — one that pulled him further from himself and those around him.

Then, in the midst of committing a serious offence, Mick experienced something he still struggles to explain: a sudden, overwhelming light that stopped him in his tracks. That moment marked the beginning of a profound turning point. What followed was not an instant transformation, but a long and difficult journey — one that eventually led him to faith and offered a way through a past he had never been able to face.

In this edition of Heart and Soul, BBC World Service reporter Shiroma Silva travels to Burnley in the north of England to meet a man whose extraordinary life story challenges easy assumptions about redemption and belief. She joins Mick on the road as he reflects on the faith journey that took him from addiction and crime to the priesthood — and later to becoming a bishop.

Despite his senior position, Mick has rejected many of the privileges that come with high office. Instead, he has chosen to work closely with people on the margins — addicts, the homeless, and those society often overlooks. He draws inspiration from his own lowest point, when the kindness that sustained him did not come from within the church, but from a homeless man sleeping in a shop doorway.
It was there, Mick says, that he first encountered Jesus — not in a pew, but on the street.

[Photo description: Mick Fleming outside Church on the Street. Photo Credit: Shiroma Silva]

Presented by Shiroma Silva
Executive Producer Rajeev Gupta
Editor: Chloe Walker
Production Coordinator: Mica Nepomuceno


FRI 05:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyr0k0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 05:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcpdkl)
Venezuela opens oil industry to private investors

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has signed a law that opens the country's oil industry to private investors. This reverses decades of tight state control. The move was demanded by the United States after it captured President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month. We have a report from Venezuela's decaying oil heartland.

Donald Trump is weighing options for military action against Iran. It comes after widespread protests against the country's government. Human rights groups estimate thousands of protesters were killed by security forces, including Irans Revolutionary Guards, during weeks of unrest in December and January. We hear from one of the groups documenting what happened during the period of unrest.

Senate Democrats have struck a deal with Republicans and the White House to pass spending bills for the remainder of the financial year. This includes an interim provision to fund the Department of Homeland Security while negotiations over the actions of immigration agents continue.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: Venezuelan oil pump. Credit: BBC).


FRI 06:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyr494)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 06:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcpj9q)
Oil industry in Venezuela opens to private investors

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has signed a law that opens the country's oil industry to private investors -- reversing decades of tight state control. The move was demanded by the United States after it captured President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month. We have a report from Venezuela's decaying oil heartland.

The Trump administration has suggested it is planning to 'draw down' federal forces in Minnesota if there is cooperation from officials after the fatal shooting of two US citizens in the state. Meanwhile action is being planned to protest against an immigration clampdown. We look at planned protests in California.

US President Donald Trump has said it's 'very dangerous' for long-standing ally Britain to do deals with China. It comes as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is currently in the country for official talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. We speak to a former economic advisor to President Trump.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: Old oil infrastructure in and around Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela. Credit: BBC).


FRI 07:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyr818)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 07:06 Newsday (w172zsq2kvcpn1v)
Venezuela: New law opens market to foreign investment

Venezuela's interim president has signed into law a bill governing the country's oil industry. It opens the way to foreign investment. We have a special report from Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela.

The remains of the final Israeli hostage in Gaza earlier this week has opened hope that the crucial Rafah crossing could be opened to allow vital aid into the territory. We hear from a resident in Gaza.

And Democrats in the United States agree to continue funding for the Department of Homeland Security temporarily but with a promise to continue negotiating restrictions on immigration officials.

Presenters: James Copnall and Anne Soy.

(Photo: An oil extraction beam in Lake Maracaibo, in Maracaibo, Venezuela. Credit: Henry Chirinos/EPA)


FRI 08:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrcsd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:06 The Interview (w3ct8c4c)
Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv: We're fighting to survive

‘We're fighting to survive in our home town, in our country, and at the same time we're fighting for our future, for our independence’

Nick Robinson speaks to Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv, about Ukraine’s war with Russia as it approaches its fourth year.

Born behind the Iron Curtain in 1971, he’s arguably best-known as a former heavyweight boxing world champion who made his name in the ring during the 1990s and 2000s.

Having hung up his gloves following a series of injuries, when his native Ukraine endured political upheaval through the Orange Revolution, Vitali’s attentions turned to the political arena. Following a short stint in the Ukrainian Parliament, where he aligned with pro-Europeans, Vitali was elected mayor of Ukraine’s capital Kyiv in 2014 after heavily campaigning against corruption.

But his greatest challenge in politics, and indeed even greater than becoming a world champion boxer, came when Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Thank you to the Political Thinking with Nick Robinson team for their help in making this programme.

The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with Artificial Intelligence pioneer Mustafa Suleyman, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, and fantasy author Sir Philip Pullman. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Nick Robinson
Producers: Daniel Kraemer and Ben Cooper
Editor: Justine Lang

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

(Image: Vitali Klitschko Credit: Sergei GAPON / AFP via Getty Images)


FRI 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kfr1s)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rtc)
The man who built Africa's largest AI firm

From the deserts of Tunisia to the boardrooms of global tech giants, we meet Karim Beguir, the mathematician who turned two laptops and 2000 dollars into Africa’s biggest AI firm.

We hear how his company, Instadeep, caught the attention of Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, and how it helped to track dangerous new variants in the Covid pandemic using large language models.

If you'd like to get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.uk

Presenter: Ed Butler
Producers: Niamh McDermott and Hannah Mullane

Business Daily is the home of in-depth audio journalism devoted to the world of money and work. From small startup stories to big corporate takeovers, global economic shifts to trends in technology, we look at the key figures, ideas and events shaping business.

Each episode is a 17-minute deep dive into a single topic, featuring expert analysis and the people at the heart of the story.

Recent episodes explore the weight-loss drug revolution, the growth in AI, the cost of living, why bond markets are so powerful, China's property bubble, and Gen Z's experience of the current job market.

We also feature in-depth interviews with company founders and some of the world's most prominent CEOs. These include the CEO of Google Sundar Pichai, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, and the billionaire founder of Epic Systems, one of the world's largest medical record software providers, Judy Faulkner.

(Picture: CEO of Instadeep, Karim Beguir, at a photoshoot in Paris in 2024. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 08:50 Witness History (w3ct7453)
Ötzi: The Iceman of Bolzano

In September 1991, two German hikers found a dead body while walking through Europe’s Ötzal Alps. It turned out to be a perfectly preserved 5,000-year-old mummy.

The archaeologist Konrad Spindler inspected the body along with the assemblage of items recovered from the gravesite.

A person of this age had never been found before in such exceptional condition.

They’d lived during the transition between the stone and copper ages, and provided a snapshot into early human culture, medicine and genetics.

Hunter Charlton tells the story through archive interviews with the archaeologist Konrad Spindler and forensic pathologist Rainer Henn who were involved in recovering, analysing and preserving the mummy. An Ember 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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.

We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher.

You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.

(Photo: The hikers with the mummy they discovered in September 1991. Credit: Paul Hanny/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)


FRI 09:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrhjj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcqwjx)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kfvsx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:32 BBC Inside Science (w3ct8txx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 10:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrm8n)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 10:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct72xb)
Are you still with us?

Are You Dead?

That’s the name of an app that’s gone massively viral in China. Every two days, you click a green button to confirm you’re alive and well – but if you miss it, an emergency contact is alerted.

The app is aimed towards those who live alone, so it’s got us contemplating the science of connection and loneliness. First, we take a look at the most isolated trees on Earth and how they act as important recorders of history. We also discuss NASA’s space probe Voyager 1, and how we can connect with a device that’s 25 billion kilometres away from us.

We’re joined by glaciologist Liz Morris, who shares what it was like to do research far from civilisation, in Antarctica.

Then we reunite with a species that we thought was lost for ever, and answer an important question: just how big can spiders get?

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Candice Bailey and Ogechi Ekeanyanwu
Producers: Ella Hubber, with Lucy Davies, Imy Harper, Tim Dodd, Sophie Ormiston and Margaret Sessa-Hawkins


FRI 11:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrr0s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcr415)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kg395)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct715f)
How Palantir became indispensable

Palantir isn’t just another tech firm - it’s reach cuts across almost every aspect of modern life, from AI to healthcare to Formula 1 racing.

Founded in 2003 to support US counter-terrorism efforts, the company has since grown into a global powerhouse and is central to the Trump administration's policies, from its military to immigration enforcement.

At the centre of it all is billionaire co-founder Alex Karp – the philosopher turned tech-CEO who built the company from the ground up.

So how did this software company built for bad times become indispensable to governments across the globe, and what does its rise reveal about the future of politics?

We speak to journalist Michael Steinberger whose book The Philosopher in the Valley charts Karp’s life and Palantir’s rise.

Producer: Aron Keller

Mix: Travis Evans

Executive producer: China Collins

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: Palantir co-founder & CEO Alex Karp. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters.


FRI 12:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrvrx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 12:06 Outlook (w3ct6wj4)
Outlook Mixtape: Master keys

Archaeologists Dariusz Polinski and Magdalena Zagrodska are drawn to a remote hill in Poland. Dariusz is searching for a medieval castle and Magda is searching for the bones of a bird associated with mythical powers. But instead, a series of strange events leads them to discover an unmarked grave containing the body of a young woman held down by a padlock and a sickle. This leads them to investigate the life of a supposed 350-year-old ‘vampire’, and the padlock becomes an important emblem of their experience. They spoke to Asya Fouks in January 2025.

Pianist Chloe Flower went from playing Bach to performing with Cardi B, one of rap music's biggest stars. She told Outlook's Nawal Al-Maghafi in April 2019 about their show-stopping performance at the 61st Grammy Awards that year.

Humberto Restrepo from Medellin in Colombia was a locksmith by day but outside his working hours he played Cupid by writing love letters for other couples. As Outlook's Clayton Conn heard in November 2018, Humberto has saved many relationships in trouble.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Hetal Bapodra
Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

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


FRI 12:50 Witness History (w3ct7453)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 13:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyrzj1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcrcjf)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kgbsf)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vq4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 14:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cys385)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 14:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gx7ts)
Iran says it's ready for talks

The Iranian foreign minister has again said Tehran is ready for talks with Washington on the basis of mutual respect -- as the US continues to threaten military action over Iran's nuclear programme. Newshour speaks to former US national security advisor Nate Swanson.

Also in the programme: Inside the Roj prison camp in Syria; and forty years of Poems on the Underground.

(Picture: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visits Turkey, Istanbul. Credit: EPA)


FRI 15:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cys709)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:06 The Interview (w3ct8c4c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kgl8p)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:32 Business Daily (w3ct6rtc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:32 today]


FRI 15:50 World Business Express (w3ct88gy)
Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Fed Chair

The former Federal Reserve governor has deep ties to Wall Street, was previously interviewed for the job in 2017, and has been an outspoken critic of America's central bank. We’ll ask how financial markets have responded to the news.

Also, Venezuelan MPs have approved a bill to open up its oil sector to private firms.

And, Panama's Supreme Court has voided a Hong-Kong based company's canal port contracts.


FRI 16:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cysbrf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 16:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbv6wd)
Iran's foreign minister in Turkey for talks

The Iranian foreign minister has again said his country is ready for talks with the United States -- based on mutual respect. But he warned that if the US attacked his country, Iran's response might surpass the boundaries of a bilateral war. Abbas Araghchi was speaking in Turkey, which has been offering to mediate. We speak to our Turkey, Iran and US experts.

We have the latest on a new batch of documents related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein released by the justice department.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has said there were no attacks overnight on the country's energy infrastructure by Russian forces. Russia said it had agreed to stop shelling the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, until Sunday because of the cold weather -- at the request of President Trump. We speak to our correspondent in Kyiv about how the residents are coping.

Novak Djokovic will face the top seed Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's Australian Open final after both players endured five set semi-final epics. We speak to tennis journalists.

According to CBS News, The FBI is now leading the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis and the Department of Homeland Security is supporting that investigation. We speak to former ICE agents about their work and how they view the developments in Minneapolis.

Presenter: James Reynolds.


FRI 17:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cysghk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 17:06 Outside Source (w1730687hdbvbmj)
More than three million pages of Epstein files released

The US justice department is releasing more than three million pages of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. We get the latest from our correspondent.

Kurdish forces in Syria say they've agreed a comprehensive ceasefire with the government in Damascus that will see a phased integration with the Syrian army. Meanwhile, Syrian government says it aims to permanently close displacement camps holding thousands of civilians linked to the Islamic State group. We speak our correspondent about the details.

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has signed a law that opens the country's oil industry to private investors. We speak BBC Mundo’s Norberto Paredes who is the first international journalist to report from Venezuela's decaying oil heartland since the removal of President Nicolas Maduro,

Novak Djokovic will face the top seed Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's Australian Open final after both players endured five set semi-final epics. We speak to tennis journalists.

Presenter: James Reynolds.

(Photo: Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche speaks during a press conference at the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 30, 2026. Credit: Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters)


FRI 18:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cysl7p)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 18:06 Outlook (w3ct6wj4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


FRI 18:50 Witness History (w3ct7453)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 19:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyspzt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcs306)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kh286)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct6z3z)
2026/01/30 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 (w172zwx32cystqy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:06 BBC Conversations (w3ct6rnv)
ICE in Minnesota

Over the past year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have become a visible force on American streets. Accused of using aggressive tactics, they often cover their faces and have cast a shadow of fear over migrant communities.

In the city of Minneapolis, some 3000 agents have made hundreds of arrests, and two US citizens have been shot dead. In our conversations, we hear from migrants in the city – including a man arrested by ICE agents – and bring together people in the local community.

“It feels like we’re under siege from our own federal government here in Minnesota,” says Ann, the head of a local preschool.

“I felt like I was in the Middle East – tear gas, hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of ICE officers and border patrol all clad out,” says Jeff, who runs a pub in the city. “It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”

President Trump was elected on a platform of cutting illegal immigration and, with efforts in recent days to reduce tensions in the State, we also get the perspective from Republican party supporters.

Presenter: James Reynolds
BBC producers: Lindsay Brown, Shea Conduct, Ben Davis and Ash Mohamed
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham
Editors: Arja Haikonen and Harriet Oliver
A Boffin Media production in partnership with BBC OS.

(Photo: Federal officers load an injured protester onto a pickup truck during a confrontation with police in Minneapolis. Credit: Craig Lassig/EPA/Shutterstock)


FRI 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3kh60b)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:32 CrowdScience (w3ct6stz)
Why do I tan more in the US?

CrowdScience listener Namrata and presenter Chhavi Sachdev have something in common. They both get more tanned in the summer in the United States than back home in India. Namrata wants to know why she came back from her run in Boston with such a deep tan and doesn’t have the same experience in India. She’s got quite a few theories herself and wonders if it’s to do with the angle of the sun, pollution or humidity.

Chhavi talks to dermatologist Neelam Vashi, who’s based in Boston, to find out how we tan and what protects us from the sun.

She meets Julian Groebner at the World Radiation Centre in Switzerland who compares the data in India and the United States for CrowdScience and comes up with a surprising answer.

She also talks to Indians in Mumbai who share their attitudes to tanning and what steps they take to protect themselves from the heat of the sun.

Presenter Chhavi Sachdev

Producer Jo Glanville

Editor Ben Motley

(Photo: Woman sunbathing on sun lounger by swimming pool. Credit: IndiaPix/Getty Images)


FRI 21:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cysyh2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 21:06 Newshour (w172zssk89gy31p)
Epstein files: US Justice Department releases 3 million pages

The United States Department of Justice has released 3 million pages of documents as part of its investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The latest release is the largest to date and includes emails, 2,000 videos, and over 180,000 images. What do we know so far?

Also in the programme: who is Kevin Warsh, the man appointed by Donald Trump as next chair of the Federal Reserve? And Nigerian musician Fela Kuti becomes the first African artist to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys.

(Photo: Jeffrey Epstein in a photograph taken for the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services' sex offender registry in 2017, Credit:
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services sex offender registry)


FRI 22:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyt276)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zwlk6lcsg7l)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3khfhl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct76pj)
Trump nominates next US Federal Reserve chair

US President Donald Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh to lead the US central bank, the Federal Reserve, when the four-year-term of current chairman Jerome Powell's ends in May. Rahul Tandon hears from people who worked closely with Warsh.

Also, the BBC visits Maracaibo, once the heart of Venezuela's booming oil industry.

And silver and gold prices plummet after their recent rise.

(Photo: Kevin Warsh, speaking during the Sohn Investment Conference in New York City, U.S., May 8, 2017. REUTERS/Brendan Mcdermid/File Photo).


FRI 23:00 BBC News (w172zwx32cyt5zb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:06 The Interview (w3ct8c4c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zwxxj3khk7q)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vq4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]