

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

39 snips
Sep 14, 2025 • 31min
Hostages' families call Netanyahu 'obstacle to peace'
John Sudworth, a seasoned BBC correspondent, sheds light on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the frustrations voiced by hostages' families regarding Netanyahu's actions. They argue his decisions hinder peace negotiations. Sudworth also dives into the emotional impact of military actions on Palestinians and the rising protests in the UK concerning immigration issues. In a brighter note, he discusses Finland’s groundbreaking same-sex ice dancing pair, Emma Alto and Millie Koenig, celebrating inclusion in sports.

5 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 27min
The Happy Pod: Escaping death on a glacier
A hiker shares his life-changing survival story after being stranded on a glacier for six days, emphasizing the importance of valuing family. Discoveries of fresh water underneath the Atlantic offer hope amidst global shortages. Koalas in Australia get a vaccine to fight disease, while innovative farming methods in Malawi transform food production. Romance flourishes at an Irish matchmaking festival, and an iguana astonishingly gives birth without a mate, showcasing the wonders of nature. Uplifting and inspiring news rounds out the heartfelt discussion.

95 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 28min
Charlie Kirk murder suspect arrested
A 22-year-old suspect was arrested for the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following a shocking confession. The podcast also delves into the political violence gripping the U.S., with a call for bipartisan responses. Meanwhile, Nepal saw a historic change with its first female interim leader amid youth-led protests. Listeners are taken to the frontlines of Ukraine, where humanitarian crises unfold, and encounter a comical wedding mix-up that leads to unexpected reunions.

24 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 28min
Trump on Charlie Kirk shooter: 'I think we have him'
Donald Trump believes authorities have caught the shooter involved in a recent incident. Meanwhile, Jair Bolsonaro faces a 27-year prison sentence. In Israel, military operations in Gaza intensify, and South Korean workers return home after detention. Malawi gears up for elections with a focus on female political representation. In Pakistan, devastating floods displace millions, highlighting climate crisis challenges. Tensions rise in Eastern Europe with military exercises, while Albania appoints the world’s first AI government minister. A call goes out to hunt for meteorites following a stunning fireball in Scotland.

18 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 29min
FBI releases photos of 'person of interest' in hunt for Charlie Kirk's killer
The FBI seeks a person of interest in the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who's still at large. Brazil's ex-president Jair Bolsonaro faces a hefty 27-year prison sentence after a coup attempt. In Nepal, violent protests over political corruption lead to military involvement. Meanwhile, Ireland threatens to boycott Eurovision due to Israel's participation, raising international tensions. Amidst this, America's polarization deepens following Kirk's assassination, reflecting on missed opportunities for unity and the role of social media in amplifying conflict.

26 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 30min
Huge manhunt underway for Charlie Kirk's killer
Rob Watson is a UK political correspondent, while Mayeni Jones serves as an Africa correspondent based in Johannesburg. They delve into the shocking shooting of prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk, exploring community reactions and the ongoing manhunt for the suspect. The discussion also highlights Britain's political turmoil with the sacking of the UK ambassador over Epstein ties. Furthermore, there's a somber investigation into the systematic disappearance of children in Syria during the Assad regime, intertwined with personal stories of conflict and resilience.

64 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 27min
Trump ally Charlie Kirk shot dead in Utah
Tragedy struck as conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot during a debate in Utah, raising alarms about political violence. The incident ignited national outrage and highlighted deep divisions. Meanwhile, fascinating developments in space science hint at potential life on Mars, alongside compelling studies revealing the emotional perks of hugging. From geopolitical tensions in the Middle East to the dynamics of physical touch across cultures, a wide range of thought-provoking topics unfolds.

17 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 30min
Poland says Russian drones shot down over its territory
Tensions escalate as Polish pilots take action against Russian drones intruding on their airspace, raising NATO concerns about regional safety. Meanwhile, skepticism grows in Israel regarding recent strikes on Hamas leaders amidst a tense ceasefire proposal. The global obesity crisis among children overtakes underweight statistics for the first time, highlighting urgent health issues. In Ukraine, heartbreaking stories emerge of children deported to Russia, while in Australia, a viral influencer’s crocodile wrestling sparks fierce debates on animal conservation.

53 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 31min
Hamas claims leadership survived Israeli attack in Doha
In this discussion, Paul Adams, a seasoned diplomatic correspondent in Jerusalem, delves into the fallout of Israel's airstrike on Hamas leaders in Doha. He highlights the Qatari Prime Minister's condemnation of the attack as detrimental to ceasefire negotiations. Adams also reflects on the strategic implications for the Abraham Accords amidst rising regional tensions. Additionally, he touches on the ICC's war crimes case against Joseph Kony, linking it to broader global justice challenges.

38 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 31min
Nepal's prime minister resigns as protests grow
Andrew Neil, a renowned British journalist and former editor of the Sunday Times, delves into the political crisis unfolding in Nepal as Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigns following violent anti-corruption protests. He discusses public outrage over the government's recent social media ban and examines Ethiopia's ambitious new hydroelectric dam, which promises to boost electricity access but raises concerns for neighboring countries. The conversation captures regional tensions and the hope for political change amidst infrastructure development.