Intelligence Squared Up in the Air: The Future of BBC World Service and Britain's Soft Power
Feb 6, 2023
Emma Robertson, a historian and co-author of a comprehensive BBC World Service history, joins former BBC Arabic head Hosam El Sokkari and BBC anchor Mahmoud Al-Mossallami, who shares reflections on his final broadcast. They discuss the significant shift in BBC World Service history, emphasizing the emotional ties audiences have with the BBC Arabic service. The conversation touches on the service's evolution, its role in international broadcasting, and the challenges it faces in a digital age. The implications for Britain's soft power and global influence are also explored.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Days of BBC Empire Service
- The BBC Empire Service launched in 1932, aiming to unite British expats overseas.
- It initially targeted white colonial men, reflecting an imperial mission.
Evolving Audience and Propaganda Concerns
- The BBC Empire Service's audience expanded beyond British expats, including women and diverse listeners within the empire.
- Growing concerns about propaganda from Germany and Italy before World War II also influenced this shift.
Propaganda and Language
- In the 1930s, the BBC grappled with the concept of propaganda, viewing foreign-language broadcasts as such while considering English broadcasts different.
- This reveals how the BBC navigated its role in international broadcasting during a politically charged era.
