The Interview
BBC World Service
Conversations with people shaping our world, from all around the globe. Listen to The Interview for the best conversations from the BBC, the world's most trusted international news provider.
We hear from titans of business, politics, finance, sport and culture. Global leaders, decision-makers and cultural icons. Politicians, activists and CEOs.
Each interview is around 20-minutes, packed full of insight and analysis, covering some of the biggest issues of our time.
How does it work? Well, at the BBC, our journalists interview amazing people every single day. And on The Interview, we bring them to you.
It’s your one-stop-shop to the best conversations coming out of the BBC, with the people shaping our world, from all over the world.
Get in touch with us on emailTheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.
We hear from titans of business, politics, finance, sport and culture. Global leaders, decision-makers and cultural icons. Politicians, activists and CEOs.
Each interview is around 20-minutes, packed full of insight and analysis, covering some of the biggest issues of our time.
How does it work? Well, at the BBC, our journalists interview amazing people every single day. And on The Interview, we bring them to you.
It’s your one-stop-shop to the best conversations coming out of the BBC, with the people shaping our world, from all over the world.
Get in touch with us on emailTheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 23min
Friedrich Merz: Europe was free-riding on US
Friedrich Merz, the newly elected German Chancellor and leader of the Christian Democrat party, dives deep into Europe's defense dynamics and his vision for Germany's military future. He argues against Europe's historic reliance on the US, emphasizing the necessity for a strong German army amid rising threats from Russia. Merz also discusses diplomatic ties with President Trump, the challenges of far-right politics in Germany, and a groundbreaking friendship treaty with the UK that covers various pressing issues, including migration and defense.
7 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 23min
President Trump: I’m disappointed with Putin
In a candid conversation, Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States, discusses his feelings about Putin, expressing disappointment but not closing the door on dialogue. He shares insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for military support. Trump also reflects on a recent assassination attempt and contemplates his political legacy while addressing U.S. immigration policy and the complexities of global leadership. His thoughts on NATO's evolving role add depth to the wide-ranging discussion.
Jul 13, 2025 • 23min
Catherine Corless, Irish historian: I’m going to be a voice for these children
Catherine Corless, an Irish historian noted for her groundbreaking investigation into the Tuam mother and baby home, shares her harrowing journey of unveiling the buried tragedies of over nine thousand children. She details the initial resistance she faced from her community and the emotional turmoil of discovering unmarked mass graves. Corless reflects on her role as an advocate for forgotten children, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging historical neglect and securing justice for victims long overshadowed by societal stigma.
7 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 23min
Released Israeli hostage Keith Siegel: I pray for peace
Keith Siegel, an American-Israeli who endured 484 days as a hostage of Hamas, shares his harrowing journey of captivity. He recounts the extreme violence and dire conditions he faced in Gaza, shedding light on the psychological toll of his experience. Siegel emphasizes the urgent need for the remaining hostages to be freed and advocates for a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. Despite the trauma, he expresses a hopeful vision for peace, drawing from his own painful ordeal and the complexities surrounding the ongoing conflict.
Jul 6, 2025 • 23min
Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister: The UK needs strong international relationships
In this engaging conversation, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister elected in 2024, discusses his first year in office and the critical need for strong international relationships. He addresses accusations of neglecting domestic issues while defending his alliances with world leaders. Starmer shares personal reflections on navigating political challenges amidst global conflicts, balancing family life with public service, and the emotional toll of personal tragedy. He also sheds light on his pragmatic approach to policy changes and the ongoing journey of leading the Labour party.
Jul 1, 2025 • 23min
Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister: Regime change is a futile exercise
In this insightful discussion, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister and seasoned diplomat, dives into the current state of Iran’s nuclear program amidst recent conflicts with Israel. He argues that attempts at regime change are futile and emphasizes the necessity for genuine diplomatic engagement with the U.S. Takht-Ravanchi also addresses Iran's uranium enrichment activities, framing them within a context of rights and realities under international treaties. With a focus on rebuilding trust, he reflects on the fragile ceasefire and the hope for future negotiations.
Jun 29, 2025 • 23min
Philippe Kehren, CEO of multinational Solvay: Reducing reliance on China’s rare earth metals
Philippe Kehren, CEO of Solvay, leads the charge to decrease Europe's reliance on Chinese rare earth metals critical for technology. He discusses Solvay's role in enhancing local mining and recycling efforts, aiming for sustainable supply chains. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for EU regulations that incentivize local sourcing and production. Kehren also highlights the environmental advantages of recycling these materials. As Europe sets ambitious sustainability goals for 2030, his insights shed light on the path forward in securing a reliable supply.
Jun 24, 2025 • 23min
Andrius Kubilius, EU Commissioner for Defence and Space: A new era of defence readiness
In a revealing discussion, Andrius Kubilius, the EU Commissioner for Defence and Space and former Prime Minister of Lithuania, emphasizes the urgent need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities amid rising security threats, particularly from Russia. He stresses that Europe can no longer solely rely on the U.S. for military backing. With NATO's spending targets under scrutiny, he points out that some nations are already increasing defense budgets significantly. Kubilius advocates for a unified European strategy to ensure peace and readiness against potential aggression.
8 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 23min
Martina Navratilova: 'Women are still judged by a different metric than men'
Martina Navratilova, a tennis legend and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, shares her incredible journey from Czechoslovakia to the top of the tennis world. She reflects on her defection to the U.S. at 18 and the challenges of being one of the first openly gay athletes. Martina discusses her battles with cancer, offering insights on resilience and living fully. The conversation also addresses the complexities of fairness in women's sports, especially regarding transgender athletes, and highlights the ongoing gender biases women face in athletics.
Jun 17, 2025 • 23min
Muhammad Yunus: We dream of creating a new Bangladesh
In a compelling conversation, Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh and Nobel Prize-winning economist, shares insights on his mission to unite a nation after political upheaval. He discusses the pivotal role of youth in driving change and the urgent need to address corruption and humanitarian crises, particularly regarding Rohingya refugees. Yunus also reflects on navigating reduced foreign aid and the complex political landscape as the country prepares for upcoming elections, all while facing significant challenges.
