
Global News Podcast
The breaking news you need to hear, as it happens.
Hear the most important global stories from the BBC, the most trusted name in international news.
With reporters on the ground in every country, we’re always where the story is. We bring you unparalleled access and exclusive updates that you won’t get anywhere else. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. From Israel-Iran missile strikes, to news from Trump’s White House and Putin’s Kremlin. From the Ukraine War to the Israel-Gaza conflict. From Damascus to Delhi, from Silicon Valley to Singapore, from Washington DC to Wuhan. 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. Subscribe now and never miss a moment.Also listen to The Happy Pod, every Saturday, for the best global good news.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Latest episodes

43 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 32min
Roof collapse at Dominican Republic nightclub kills scores of people
Tragedy struck in the Dominican Republic as a nightclub roof collapse resulted in significant loss of life and injuries, igniting community outcry and ongoing rescue efforts. Meanwhile, the podcast dives into escalating trade tensions between the US and China, with potential implications for global markets. In a shift towards safety, Meta introduces new restrictions for teens to navigate online risks. Lastly, it highlights the unveiling of a major art exhibition by David Hockney, celebrating his remarkable artistic journey.

64 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 29min
Trump threatens to escalate trade war with China
Tensions rise as the U.S. plans to impose 50% tariffs on Chinese goods, stirring global market volatility. Trump’s trade maneuvers coincide with high-stakes negotiations with Iran. Meanwhile, a controversial legal battle for royal benefits in Belgium sparks discussions on societal views towards privilege. Additionally, a political newcomer takes the helm in Serbia amid skepticism, while piracy issues plague Somalia, tied to economic struggles. Lastly, strong regulations on gossip in China reflect concerns over celebrity culture's impact on youth.

78 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 29min
Global stock markets plunge amid Trump tariff turmoil
Peter Ruddock, a seasoned business reporter, breaks down the recent plunge in Asian and European stock markets due to U.S. tariffs. He delves into the anxieties surrounding a potential global recession and the varied responses by governments to economic instability. The conversation also touches on pressing humanitarian issues, including allegations of torture of Palestinian prisoners, linking financial crises to broader human rights concerns. This insightful discussion highlights the intertwining of politics, economy, and humanitarian matters in today's world.

51 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 32min
Le Pen vows to fight political ban
Christine Ockrent, a seasoned French journalist, shares her insights on Marine Le Pen's contentious political landscape. Le Pen, facing an embezzlement conviction, claims it's a 'witch hunt' as she maintains her presidential ambitions. Ockrent explores her strategy to garner broader support while dissecting the impact of social media on political discourse. The conversation also touches on significant international issues, including a critical incident involving the Israeli military and rising civilian preparedness in response to geopolitical tensions.

130 snips
Apr 5, 2025 • 34min
Anti-Trump protests in all 50 US states
Celia Hatton, the Asia-Pacific editor for the BBC, dives into the nationwide protests against Trump's policies. She discusses the public's discontent linked to economic turmoil and the implications of U.S. tariffs on countries like Cambodia. The conversation also touches on international misinformation, specifically regarding the Gaza conflict, alongside a tribute to the rich legacy of Malian music. Additionally, they explore the growing influence of jazz in film and the fascinating adoption of British slang in American culture.

Apr 5, 2025 • 29min
The Happy Pod: Saving Thailand's street dogs
Discover a remarkable man in Thailand dedicating his life to rescuing stray dogs, highlighting the struggle and care for these animals. Delight in a heartwarming story of childhood sweethearts reuniting after 85 years. Be inspired by Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel, who is breaking barriers in college basketball with just one arm, showcasing resilience and representation. The podcast also touches on sustainable solutions to water scarcity and innovative community ways to process grief through creative gatherings.

60 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 32min
As stock markets tumble again, Trump calls for a cut to interest rates
As stock markets tumble again, Trump calls for interest rate cut, but the head of the US central bank suggests otherwise. Also, fourteen Ukrainians die in a Russian missile attack, and the rat sniffing out landmines.

35 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 40min
The Ukraine War: Your Questions Answered
Vitaly Shevchenko, host of Ukrainecast, offers an insightful Ukrainian perspective on the ongoing conflict. Olga Robinson, a Russia expert at BBC Verify, delves into the complexities of Russian politics affecting the war. Frank Gardner, BBC's security correspondent, assesses the security landscape in Europe. They explore prospects for peace, the dynamics of Russian conscription, and Trump's foreign relations strategy. Additionally, the discussion critiques the role of the Orthodox Church in conflict resolution and the challenges of Ukraine's air defense.

38 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 33min
Trump tariffs trigger steepest US stocks drop since 2020
U.S. tariffs have sent shockwaves through the stock market, hitting tech giants like Apple hard. President Trump insists the economy will flourish despite the turmoil. Meanwhile, the video game world buzzes with the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2, though its hefty price tag raises eyebrows. The podcast also highlights how these tariffs affect global trade dynamics and the struggles faced by countries like Bangladesh and Lesotho. On a somber note, it touches on tragedies in Gaza and Myanmar, reminding us of the human impact behind the headlines.

84 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 26min
World reacts to Trump's sweeping tariffs
Global leaders are gearing up to retaliate against U.S. trade tariffs, calling them unilateral bullying that disrupts global trade. As markets tremble, Trump maintains confidence in America's strength. Meanwhile, a remarkable study links shingles vaccination to a reduced risk of dementia. The discussion also touches on serious humanitarian challenges following a devastating earthquake in Myanmar, and Hungary's controversial exit from the International Criminal Court highlights ethical debates surrounding assisted dying.