

Global News Podcast
BBC World Service
The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 27min
WHO warns of growing cholera crisis
Tom Bateman, a BBC correspondent based in Washington D.C., discusses the alarming rise of cholera in Africa, with over 400,000 cases reported. He highlights the dire healthcare challenges in places like Chad and how conflict and poverty exacerbate the crisis. The conversation also touches on President Trump revoking Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris during her book tour, raising security concerns amid ongoing law enforcement efforts in D.C. Additionally, Bateman discusses cultural shifts in Germany as more people opt for non-alcoholic beer.

Aug 29, 2025 • 33min
Thai court removes prime minister over leaked call
James Copnell, a former Sudan correspondent and current presenter on the BBC World Service, discusses Thailand's political upheaval following the constitutional court's decision to oust the prime minister due to a scandalous phone call. He dives into the implications for Thailand's entrenched dynasties and military balance. Further, James sheds light on escalating crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, alongside the fallout from Italy's response to doctored images of women. He also touches on innovative solutions like holographic police in South Korea.

36 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 31min
America marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina
Reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the podcast covers the unprecedented devastation in New Orleans and the long road to recovery for survivors. It discusses political controversies surrounding public health leadership and innovative solutions to homelessness through direct cash grants. Additionally, listeners learn about a rare New Zealand snail seeking love, the renewed European sanctions on Iran, and the blending of art with social justice through the journeys of refugees. It's a mix of poignant stories and lighthearted moments.

13 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 28min
Russia strikes Ukraine in one of the biggest attacks of the war
A significant escalation in the Ukraine conflict sees Russia unleashing intense missile strikes, prompting global condemnation, particularly from European leaders. Protests erupt in Jakarta against lawmakers' hefty salaries amid rising living costs, showcasing public unrest. Meanwhile, NVIDIA achieves a record revenue milestone in the AI chip market, but faces challenges from trade tensions and competition. The episode also delves into the humanitarian crises caused by war in Sudan and Ukraine, highlighting personal stories, including that of a young refugee.

23 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 30min
Members of UN Security Council, except US, say Gaza famine is man-made
The UN Security Council, minus the US, declared the Gaza famine as man-made and called for immediate aid access. Trump outlined post-war plans for Palestinian governance, excluding Hamas. A tragic school shooting in Minneapolis left two children dead, escalating calls for gun control. The podcast also touches on geopolitical tensions involving Greenland and Syria, alongside a discussion on the success of 'K-pop Demon Hunters' and a fascinating new dinosaur discovery that sheds light on evolution.

24 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 31min
Trump hits India with 50% tariffs
The U.S. has imposed steep tariffs on India, sparking economic tension amid accusations of coercion. Denmark is embroiled in a diplomatic spat with the U.S. over covert operations in Greenland. A disturbing trend of AI-generated Holocaust narratives raises ethical red flags. Efforts to revitalize peat bogs are highlighted as a strategy against climate change. Protests over pigeon feeding restrictions in Mumbai clash with debates on military conscription in Germany, while Bolsonaro faces significant legal challenges in Brazil.

15 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 26min
Israeli report denies targetting journalist in Gaza
The Israeli military claims its strike on a Gaza hospital was aimed at a Hamas camera, not journalists, amidst the tragic loss of 20 lives, including five journalists. The dangers faced by reporters in conflict zones are starkly highlighted. Meanwhile, political intrigue thickens as a Federal Reserve governor prepares to sue Trump over her dismissal. In lighter news, the pop world buzzes with Taylor Swift's engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce, revealing the blend of celebrity and current affairs.

19 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 28min
Trump sacks Federal Reserve Governor
Donald Trump has controversially sacked a Federal Reserve governor, raising questions about the independence of the central bank. Protests are erupting in Israel over hostage negotiations, adding to the region's turmoil. Meanwhile, Africa is seeing a surge in solar panel imports, marking a potential shift towards renewable energy. The music world bids farewell to Zimbabwean legend Thomas Mapfumo, who retires after a storied career. Tensions rise globally, highlighting the intricate dance of politics, energy, and culture.

25 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 33min
UN calls for investigation following deadly Israeli strikes on Nasser hospital in Gaza
David Shazan, Paris correspondent for the British Times, discusses the devastating Israeli airstrikes on the Nasser Hospital in Gaza, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including journalists. He highlights the international outcry and calls for a UN investigation, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability. The conversation also touches on the humanitarian crisis in the region and the complex ethical dilemmas faced by military strategies. Additionally, Shazan comments on the broader implications of such tragic events in global media and politics.

12 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 28min
Gaza: 20 reported dead in Israeli hospital attack
A tragic Israeli strike on a Gaza hospital has left at least 20 dead, including journalists, igniting chaos and fear. Soldiers from Ukraine's Donbass region share harrowing insights on intense fighting and high casualties as the conflict there escalates. In Sudan, paramilitaries face accusations of horrific violence against civilians. Meanwhile, President Trump hints at deploying National Guard troops to combat crime in Baltimore, sparking political tension. These urgent global crises paint a vivid picture of human struggles amidst turmoil.