The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
A window into our world, through in-depth storytelling from the BBC. Investigating, reporting and uncovering true stories from everywhere. Award-winning journalism, unheard voices, amazing culture and global issues. From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the frontline of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.Every week, we take you into the minds of the world's most creative people and explore personal approaches to spirituality. And we bring together people from around the globe to discuss how news stories are affecting their lives. A new episode most days, all year round. From our BBC World Service teams at: Assignment, Heart and Soul, In the Studio, OS Conversations and The Fifth Floor.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 10, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Gen Z and power change in Bangladesh
Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate renowned for his impact in social business and microfinance, discusses the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh. Following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, Yunus emphasizes the vital role of Generation Z in advocating for change. The youth express their hopes for a democratic future and their determination to rebuild the nation amidst challenges. Personal stories highlight their resilience, identity, and aspirations for safety and representation in politics, capturing a moment of transition and hope.
Aug 9, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Digital grief
Nkem Ifejika, who faced the profound loss of his mother three years ago, explores innovative grief technologies. He meets Stephen Smith, the creator of StoryFile, allowing interactions with the deceased through AI. They discuss how technology transforms grieving, including a Japanese artist's robot that mimics a lost loved one and a father's quest to preserve his mother's essence. Unpacking the emotional complexities of 'grief tech,' they highlight how digital tools reshape remembrance, challenging traditional mourning and personal connections.
Aug 8, 2024 • 37min
The Global Jigsaw: The Taliban’s war on women
The return of the Taliban drastically erased women from public life in Afghanistan. Personal narratives reveal their struggles for rights and the harsh reality of lost freedoms. Educational initiatives like the DARS project offer hope amid limitations. The historical rise of the Taliban and their oppressive policies reflect an ideological commitment to traditional roles for women. Media's transformation under the regime highlights censorship and gender segregation, amplifying the urgent need for global awareness and support for Afghan women's rights.
Aug 8, 2024 • 49min
Bonus: The Engineers - Intelligent Machines
Dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence with leading engineers who are reshaping healthcare and technology. Explore how AI is not just detecting early-stage breast cancer but also pioneering new antibiotics. Hear personal stories connecting robotics with child development, highlighting the emotional bonds between machines and children. Delve into the regulatory challenges of AI while considering its promise in gaming and health predictions. Join the discussion on the future of AGI and its potential to elevate human capabilities.
Aug 7, 2024 • 23min
Solutions Journalism: Going bananas
A killer fungus called TR4 is wreaking havoc on Cavendish banana plantations worldwide, threatening the livelihoods of thousands, especially in Colombia. Scientists are racing against time, employing gene-editing and microbial injections to save this beloved fruit. Meanwhile, discussions on the importance of solutions journalism highlight innovative approaches in agriculture, including the intriguing relationship between nuclear science and plant breeding. The future of bananas hangs in the balance as we explore resilient alternatives and the broader implications of this agricultural crisis.
Aug 6, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: The Italian town where praying is a political issue
Anna Maria Cisint, the far-right mayor of Monfalcone, talks about her controversial attempt to ban collective prayer for the town's Bangladeshi community. With over 6,000 Bangladeshis working in local shipyards, she claims to defend Christian values while critics argue she's fostering division. The discussion touches on the challenges of cultural integration, tensions arising from labor shortages, and the economic reliance on migrant workers. Personal narratives highlight the struggles for identity and belonging amid changing demographics.
Aug 5, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: B-girl Ray Gun
Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Ray Gun, is an Australian competitor who is gearing up for her first appearance at the Paris Olympics in breaking. She shares her journey from being a university lecturer to embracing the thrilling world of competitive breakdancing. The conversation dives into the emotional and physical challenges of training, the vibrant culture of breaking, and the blend of artistry and athleticism required for Olympic success. Rachael also reflects on the significance of community support and the exhilarating atmosphere of Paris as she prepares for this historic event.
Aug 4, 2024 • 33min
Erasing Hong Kong
The podcast dives deep into the memory wars ravaging Hong Kong, showcasing how government censorship is rewriting the city’s history. Ordinary items like umbrellas and plush toys morph into potent symbols of protest and resistance. As libraries are raided and memorials banned, citizens creatively fight to preserve their stories amidst harsh repression. The emotional struggle for identity and remembrance in these turbulent times highlights the resilience of the human spirit against authoritarian control.
Aug 3, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Three years of Taliban rule
Shekiba Habib and Shoaib Sharifi, BBC journalists, share their firsthand experiences of the tumultuous life in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover. They discuss the harrowing events of August 15, 2021, capturing the fear and chaos that ensued, especially for women and journalists. The duo delves into their struggles as journalists in exile, drawing stark contrasts between their lives and those of Afghan citizens under Taliban rule. They also touch on the geopolitical challenges and the resilient spirit of Afghan communities, highlighting hope amidst adversity.
Aug 3, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Protests in Bangladesh
Explore the shocking escalation from peaceful student protests to violent clashes in Bangladesh, leading to over 200 lives lost. Hear personal stories that capture the deep emotional and psychological impact of the unrest on citizens and their families. Delve into the anguish of those living abroad, unable to support loved ones facing daily threats. Witness the struggles of individuals fighting for safety and justice, illustrating the urgent need for solidarity in these turbulent times.
