

The Global Story
BBC World Service
Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC’s international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 7, 2024 • 26min
What Trump's victory means for the world
In this discussion, James Landale, BBC's diplomatic correspondent, analyzes the ripple effects of Donald Trump's election win on global politics. He highlights the astonishment among international leaders, particularly in Europe, and the shifting dynamics in U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding Ukraine and the Middle East. The conversation also touches on trade tensions with China and the implications for Taiwan. Landale emphasizes the unpredictability of Trump's leadership and its potential to reshape alliances and global economic landscapes.

Nov 6, 2024 • 24min
Donald Trump's historic comeback
In a lively discussion, Christian Fraser, BBC chief presenter specializing in US election coverage, sheds light on Donald Trump's claimed 'unprecedented mandate' as he seeks a second term. Will Grant, reporting from Florida, offers insights into the buoyant mood among Trump supporters, while Bernd Debusmann shares perspectives from Pennsylvania regarding Kamala Harris's underperformance. They delve into surprising voter demographics, including Latino support for Trump, and explore the electoral landscape's implications for both parties in the upcoming elections.

Nov 5, 2024 • 28min
Election day: Everything you need to know
Gary O'Donoghue, BBC's Senior North America correspondent, and Ana Faguy, BBC digital reporter from Washington D.C., discuss the critical last moments of the US presidential election. They analyze how candidates are targeting undecided voters in swing states to secure victory. The conversation highlights the evolving voter sentiment and growing interest in third-party candidates. They also touch on how international events can influence voter behaviors and the effects of relentless campaigning on voter fatigue during this intense election cycle.

Nov 4, 2024 • 29min
Election workers on the front line of American democracy
In this engaging discussion, BBC News reporter Mike Wendling, known for his deep insights into American democracy, and election volunteer Chris Burlingame from Wisconsin, share their eye-opening experiences. They discuss the alarming rise in threats and intimidation faced by election workers, particularly after the January 6th riots. Chris reveals the emotional strain and fears of local officials dealing with misinformation, while Mike highlights the urgent need for rebuilding trust in the electoral process as they prepare for the upcoming elections.

Nov 2, 2024 • 26min
Path to the Presidency: What to watch for on election night
As the presidential race nears its climax, crucial indicators emerge for assessing election night success. Young voters are front and center, swayed by issues like abortion rights and economic conditions. The battleground states, particularly Pennsylvania, face challenges amidst growing mistrust in the electoral process. Voter sentiments are being shaped by local concerns, including the Israel-Gaza conflict. Democrats aim for key victories while navigating the influences of national and local issues, with Trump's impact looming large on voter engagement.

Nov 1, 2024 • 27min
Abercrombie ex-CEO faces sex trafficking charges
Rianna Croxford, a BBC Investigations correspondent, discusses her groundbreaking work uncovering serious allegations against former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries. She details how Jeffries has been accused of exploiting aspiring male models through coercive tactics. The conversation delves into the disturbing power dynamics within the fashion industry and the challenging process of gathering evidence. Croxford also shares her experiences navigating this intricate investigation, shedding light on the broader societal implications.

Oct 31, 2024 • 28min
Inside the gangs smuggling people from Vietnam to Europe
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Harding, BBC Paris correspondent, sheds light on the alarming rise of Vietnamese migrants crossing the English Channel to the UK. He reveals the intricate operations of smuggling gangs and the shocking realities of human trafficking. Harding shares stories of migrants like Tang, who navigates the perilous journey fueled by hope and desperation. The conversation also examines the motivations driving this migration wave, including economic challenges and societal pressures, while emphasizing the urgent need for legal migration pathways.

Oct 30, 2024 • 29min
US election: The other races that could shape America
In this discussion, Sam Cabral, a BBC digital reporter covering the U.S. elections, dives into the critical down-ballot races that could reshape the political landscape. Holly Honderich, another BBC digital reporter focused on election ballot measures, sheds light on pivotal abortion-related proposals across multiple states. They explore how these elections can impact both the presidential power dynamics and the future of reproductive rights, emphasizing the complexity of voter sentiments in a highly polarized environment.

Oct 29, 2024 • 27min
America and... the Middle East
Jeremy Bowen, BBC's International Editor stationed in Jerusalem, and Nada Tawfik, BBC's North America Correspondent in New York, dive into the intricate dynamics of the U.S. election and its effect on the Middle East. They discuss how presidential candidates like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump propose to achieve peace amid ongoing violence. The conversation also touches on America’s historical ties to the region, the implications of Trump’s previous policies, and the overall complexities of U.S. foreign policy during this critical electoral period.

Oct 28, 2024 • 24min
The dangers of China’s cyber-nationalism
Fan Wang, a BBC digital journalist based in Singapore, and Kerry Allen, a BBC News China Media Analyst, share insights on the alarming rise of cyber-nationalism in China. They discuss how this trend has escalated violence against foreigners, citing a tragic stabbing incident that heightened tensions with Japan. The conversation explores the historical context of Sino-Japanese relations and the implications of aggressive nationalism fueled by social media and ongoing international conflicts, revealing a concerning shift in public sentiment.


