
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 Trump’s White House to 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

8 snips
May 24, 2025 • 28min
The Happy Pod: The unlikely duo getting men talking about mental health
Isabella Joule is an inspiring speaker known for her advocacy in conservation, particularly regarding the Asiatic lion population in India. Richard Irving, a philanthropic businessman, created a salmon smokery to attract young families to the Isle of Colonsay. They discuss a unique traveler encouraging men to discuss mental health through a toy duck named Quack, showcasing personal stories of resilience. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support and breaking the silence around men's mental health struggles.

40 snips
May 23, 2025 • 29min
Trump threatens 50% tariffs on EU and 25% on smartphones
Hugh Schofield, a seasoned reporter in Paris, discusses the high-stakes scenario of President Trump's proposed 50% tariffs on EU goods and its fallout in international markets. He dives into the shocking verdicts for the elderly gang behind the Kim Kardashian jewellery heist, revealing the complexities of justice and forgiveness. Schofield also pays tribute to the late Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado, emphasizing his remarkable legacy in environmental activism and storytelling through photography.

23 snips
May 23, 2025 • 29min
Ukraine and Russia take part in biggest prisoner swap since invasion
Yolande Nell, a correspondent based in Jerusalem, shares insights on the recent unprecedented prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting its potential implications for future peace talks. The conversation also delves into the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, illustrating the dire conditions civilians face amidst conflict. Additionally, a quirky story emerges from Norway, where a local resident discovers a ship unexpectedly situated in their garden, adding a touch of humor to this serious global discussion.

90 snips
May 22, 2025 • 28min
The Trump administration stops Harvard from enrolling foreign students
Jonathan Marcus, a diplomatic analyst, discusses the Trump administration's controversial ban on Harvard enrolling foreign students, highlighting the emotional toll on affected individuals. The conversation delves into the implications for international relations, especially regarding Israel's complex ties with its critics. Marcus also touches on Europe's wind energy competition, illustrating how geopolitical tensions influence renewable resources. The topics provide a compelling look into the intersection of education, diplomacy, and economic challenges.

44 snips
May 22, 2025 • 27min
Two Israeli embassy staff shot dead in Washington DC
The tragic shooting of two Israeli embassy staff in Washington D.C. raises concerns about rising anti-Semitism linked to the Gaza conflict. Local officials express outrage and discuss its impact on community safety. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions in the Arctic region highlight crucial governance issues as nations vie for resources. Advanced imaging techniques show promise in revolutionizing breast cancer detection, while performance-enhancing drugs in sports spark ethical debates against a backdrop of global crises. A remarkable archaeological discovery unveils a Roman goddess relief, adding excitement to historical research.

29 snips
May 22, 2025 • 27min
Trump confronts South African leader with claim of Afrikaners being 'persecuted'
Nomia Iqbal, a Washington correspondent, dives into the heated exchange between President Trump and South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa over claims of persecution of white farmers. Their meeting reveals complexities in U.S.-South Africa relations and trade negotiations amid geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the conversation shifts to innovative malaria treatments and a major police operation against the Ndrangheta mafia. Iqbal also touches on groundbreaking climbing methods using xenon gas, raising questions about ethics and environmental impact in mountaineering.

18 snips
May 21, 2025 • 28min
Paramilitaries pushed out of key state
Sudan's army claims to have secured Khartoum, marking a defining moment in a brutal civil war with staggering human costs. Tensions escalate as air strikes target civilians in Darfur, revealing the conflict's ongoing nature. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation remains dire, particularly in Gaza where aid distribution struggles continue. In a shift to health innovations, a groundbreaking test drastically reduces brain tumor diagnosis time, offering hope for improved care. On a lighter note, the puffin population on Skoma Island is booming, showcasing successful conservation efforts.

57 snips
May 21, 2025 • 28min
UN says no aid yet distributed in Gaza as international pressure on Israel mounts
Join Paul Adams, a seasoned diplomatic correspondent, as he dives into the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He highlights how no aid has reached the civilians despite aid trucks finally crossing the border after an extensive blockade. Adams discusses the mounting international pressure on Israel regarding aid distribution, the geopolitical implications of the conflict, and critiques of perceived manipulation by Hamas. He also sheds light on Israel's new missile defense system amid escalating violence, giving listeners a comprehensive look at this critical situation.

6 snips
May 20, 2025 • 31min
UN says Israel to allow 100 aid trucks into Gaza
The UN has announced that 100 aid trucks will be allowed into Gaza, amidst a growing humanitarian crisis affecting infants and families. Meanwhile, President Trump's real estate plans are under scrutiny as he looks to build in Vietnam, navigating tariff negotiations. The podcast also dives into Ukraine's tense relations with Russia, while highlighting the cultural resilience witnessed through soft ground wrestling in Uganda. Finally, listeners are taken on a journey to explore the mysteries of the universe, with talks about matter and antimatter.

38 snips
May 20, 2025 • 33min
Trump says Russia and Ukraine to 'immediately' start ceasefire talks
Richard Howells, an expert on animal behavior, discusses the astonishing behavior of capuchin monkeys kidnapping howler monkey babies. This segment delves into the surprising dynamics of animal interactions and the implications of such actions. The podcast also touches on political updates, including President Trump's announcement of ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine, all while providing a broader context on global humanitarian issues and international relations.