

Newshour
BBC World Service
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 20, 2026 • 47min
Europe grapples with transatlantic crisis at Davos
At the World Economic Forum, European leaders face an unprecedented challenge from a US president with a bold approach. Ursula von der Leyen calls for a new vision for Europe amid rising global tensions. Emmanuel Macron warns of an emerging rules-free world, highlighting the need for international cooperation. Meanwhile, Ugandan singer Bobi Wine, speaking from hiding, details the dangers following a controversial election. In a lighter moment, scientists marvel at a cow using tools, hinting at surprising cognitive capabilities in animals.

Jan 19, 2026 • 47min
European allies rebuff Donald Trump's latest threats over Greenland
Randy Fine, a Florida Republican congressman, passionately advocates for U.S. acquisition of Greenland, arguing it’s vital for national security. Guy Hedgecoe shares heartbreaking details from the Córdoba train crash scene, detailing local heroism amid tragedy. Fergus Walsh presents groundbreaking insights into a blood biomarker trial aimed at early Alzheimer's detection, highlighting its potential impact on the future of dementia care. The podcast navigates issues of international diplomacy, health innovation, and human resilience.

Jan 19, 2026 • 47min
European countries harden response to Trump's Greenland threats
Karin Carlsbru, a Swedish MEP and Vice-chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade, discusses the EU's potential 'trade bazooka' response to President Trump's Greenland threats. She advocates for unified EU action against US tariffs, emphasizing international law and sovereignty. Meanwhile, Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, critiques the erosion of international law and advocates for renewed multilateralism to tackle global crises, highlighting the challenges of unilateralism in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Jan 18, 2026 • 47min
Danish PM: "Europe won't be blackmailed"
Matthew Kroenig, a foreign policy expert at the Atlantic Council, dives into the ongoing tensions between Europe and the US over Greenland. He discusses the EU's strategic response to Trump's tariff threats and the potential for trade retaliation. Kroenig examines the US's motives behind its ambitions for Greenland, as well as the geopolitical implications. The conversation also touches on a ceasefire deal in Syria and innovative CAR-T therapy for leukemia, bringing attention to global healthcare advancements.

Jan 18, 2026 • 44min
EU holds emergency meeting over US tariff threats
Annalena Baerbock, the Former German foreign minister and current UN General Assembly President, discusses the implications of Trump's territorial ambitions and the violation of international law. Gabriel Gavin, a diplomatic reporter from Politico, analyzes the EU's emergency response to tariff threats and the unity among member states despite differing views. They explore how these tensions could jeopardize a future US-EU trade deal and highlight the necessity of standing firm on multilateral rules.

Jan 17, 2026 • 47min
US to impose tariffs on European countries
Peter Ogwang, Uganda's Minister of Sport, passionately defends President Museveni's re-election while addressing concerns over security measures and media constraints in Uganda. He highlights the government's priorities and asserts achievement under Museveni's leadership. The conversation dovetails with Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on European allies regarding Greenland, prompting discussions on geopolitical ramifications and economic impacts. Overall, the dialogue offers a blend of sports, politics, and international relations.

Jan 17, 2026 • 47min
Yoweri Museveni declared winner of Uganda election
Dennis Ross, a former US diplomat, discusses the newly announced Board of Peace for Gaza and emphasizes the critical need for regional pressure on Hamas. Asma Khalil, a renowned Professor, reveals findings from a significant study on paracetamol use in pregnancy, dispelling fears of links to autism. Additionally, Tom Bateman reports from Minneapolis on intense protests against ICE operations, capturing the heightened tensions and demands of demonstrators. Each guest brings vital insights into complex global issues.

Jan 16, 2026 • 47min
'The Islamic Republic will fall', says exiled crown prince
Cameron Kansarinya, an Iranian opposition campaigner and vice president of the National Union for Democracy in Iran, dives into pivotal discussions about Reza Pahlavi's vision for Iran. He emphasizes signs of regime weakness, citing security force absenteeism and violent suppression. Kansarinya advocates for a referendum between monarchy and democracy, outlining a balanced interim government structure. He also speculates on Pahlavi's return and the expected U.S. intervention, painting a picture of hope amidst turmoil in Iran.

Jan 16, 2026 • 47min
China-Canada trade deal announced
Ervand Abrahamian, a historian specializing in modern Iran, delves into the recent protests shaking the country, exploring their unique economic drivers and unprecedented involvement from the bazaar. He argues the regime's survival is bolstered by loyalty from the Revolutionary Guards and the pervasive fear of foreign-led changes. Meanwhile, Canadian PM Mark Carney's strategic trade partnership with China highlights a pivot from US reliance, detailing tariffs and the geopolitical ripple effects. Abrahamian concludes with cautious optimism for potential internal reforms.

14 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 47min
Nato soldiers arrive in Greenland
NATO soldiers are landing in Greenland amidst tensions over the island, with insights from a former French official. The strategic importance of European deployments and defense realities are discussed, contrasting symbolic gestures with actual defense needs. In the realm of global politics, Venezuela’s opposition leader meets Trump, while turmoil in Iran is detailed by an eyewitness. Rome's new speed limit aims to boost pedestrian safety, and Wikipedia's 25th anniversary highlights issues of growth and censorship challenges.


