

The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
Hear the voices at the heart of global stories. Where curious minds can uncover hidden truths and make sense of the world. The best of documentary storytelling from the BBC World Service.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 16, 2020 • 24min
Don't log off - part six
In this podcast, Maria Ester from Ecuador shares her concerns about her family's heavy machinery business and her elderly mother's safety during the pandemic. Meanwhile, Rohan, a young farmer in Jamaica, discusses the challenges of running the family farm amidst drought and Covid-19. The podcast also touches on the impact of lockdown on businesses in Iraq and features a segment on life in Antarctica without the virus.

May 14, 2020 • 26min
Boris Johnson and Britain’s Covid-19 crisis
Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson discusses his battle with Covid-19 and how it affected his leadership style. The podcast explores skepticism of Johnson's decision-making during the crisis and highlights key moments in the handling of the pandemic. It also mentions the impact of foreign-born nurses on his recovery and his shift towards state intervention in response to the crisis.

May 12, 2020 • 28min
Wuhan: The beginning of coronavirus Covid-19
Dr Li, Head of the ICU in Wuhan, shares his experiences during the early days of Covid-19 outbreak. The podcast explores the challenges faced by medical professionals, government's response, and debates on virus contagiousness. It sheds light on the importance of free speech, balancing privacy and safety, and the emotional toll of lockdown in Wuhan.

May 10, 2020 • 51min
One hundred days of Brexit
Newly elected MPs from Northern England share their experiences transitioning from Brexit discourse to focusing on the pandemic. They discuss surprising Conservative wins in Labour strongholds, handling COVID-19 challenges, managing constituents' concerns, and the impact of Brexit on neglected towns.

May 10, 2020 • 28min
Coronavirus Global Conversations: Haircuts after lockdown
Three hairdressers from Jerusalem, Berlin, and Johannesburg discuss reopening their salons post-lockdown. Marcel and Marion can cut hair with restrictions, while Tamsyn can only sell products. They talk about the future of hair cutting during Covid-19 and the challenges they face.

May 9, 2020 • 51min
Coronavirus and Asia
The impact of Covid-19 on Asia is explored with a panel of leading public health experts, politicians and analysts from across the region. What can be done to slow down the spread of the virus? And how should countries balance the needs of their economies with the need to save lives?

May 8, 2020 • 24min
Don't log off - part five
Explore the shifting lives of individuals worldwide under the pandemic, from Maasai pastoralists in Kenya to a couple in a motorhome in Turkey. Listen to the struggles of domestic workers in Singapore and parents in South Africa, highlighting the challenges faced during lockdown. Dive into personal narratives from various corners of the world, reflecting on diverse experiences and hopes for the future amidst the global standstill.

May 7, 2020 • 27min
Hanging by a thread: Bangladesh’s garment workers
Exploring the challenges faced by garment workers in Bangladesh due to the pandemic, including factory shutdowns and economic uncertainty. The struggles of garment workers and factory owners in Bangladesh due to canceled orders during the pandemic, revealing the human and financial toll on the industry. The harsh realities of exploitation and desperation among workers in Bangladesh. The challenges faced by garment workers in receiving full wages during the pandemic, with delays causing financial hardships. The struggles and resilience of Bangladesh’s government workers amidst protests, ending on a note of hope.

May 5, 2020 • 28min
The Response: Coronavirus - Lockdown tales from Brazil, Germany and Australia
Listeners from Brazil, Germany, Australia, and Rwanda share their lockdown tales, reflecting on the impact of COVID-19. From Brazil's controversial response to changing shopping dynamics in Vienna, and struggles faced by genocide survivors in Rwanda. Personal stories from around the world highlight the diverse effects on education, separation, and musical reflections during lockdown.

May 3, 2020 • 28min
Coronavirus Global Conversations: Remembering medics who have died from Covid-19
Nurse Sophie Fagan, Dr. J Ronald Verrier, and GP Vicenzo Leone are remembered for their sacrifices to Covid-19. Hospital chaplains provide spiritual support to patients and families. Mothers in Spain discuss the emotional toll of lockdown on children. Tributes highlight the dedication and compassion of healthcare heroes lost to the pandemic.


