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
5 snips
Feb 23, 2024 • 29min
Three Million: 1. War
The podcast delves into the overlooked history of the Bengal Famine during World War II, where three million lives were lost. It explores contrasting lives in British India in 1942, wartime transformation in Calcutta, cultural contrasts amidst social elite and troops, and the horrifying impact of the famine on the impoverished. The stories of survivors shed light on the societal divisions exacerbated by British colonial rule.
Feb 23, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Ladino - Saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language
Exploring the endangered Ladino language in Thessaloniki, Greece, and efforts to preserve it. Delving into the Sephardic Jewish community's history and resilience in Salonica. Highlighting the challenges and initiatives of preserving Ladino in the face of extinction.
Feb 22, 2024 • 26min
Assignment: Pakistan - journalists under fire
Journalists in Pakistan face threats of abduction and death when criticizing authorities. Press freedom advocates report 140 journalists attacked in one year. Stories of captivity, legal battles, and seeking justice for targeted killings shed light on the challenges and risks journalists endure in Pakistan.
Feb 21, 2024 • 18min
Trending: The new fight for land rights
Indigenous people in Malaysia Borneo are using new mapping technology to fight for their land rights against timber and palm oil companies. The podcast explores the challenges they face, the role of social media in their advocacy, the tactics used by companies, and the importance of community strength in protecting their traditional lands.
Feb 20, 2024 • 27min
Two Years of War: Voices from Russia
Exploring the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on ordinary Russians, including economic and social challenges. Stories of missing soldiers' wives, propaganda's influence on beliefs, activism against the Russian government, and personal struggles with war and patriotism. Uncertainty and emotions surrounding the ongoing conflict are highlighted.
Feb 19, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Vik Muniz
Brazilian artist Vik Muniz shares how being shot led him to move to New York and kick-start his successful art career. He creates art using unconventional materials like sugar and chocolate. The podcast explores his unique creative process and inspiration, including working in a sunlit studio filled with quirky objects.
Feb 18, 2024 • 50min
World Wide Waves '24
Women around the world use radio to make a difference: from empowering Afghan women under Taliban rule, amplifying voices in Fiji, to advocating for farmworkers in Yakima Valley and protecting indigenous rights in Ecuador.
Feb 17, 2024 • 36min
Bonus: The Global Jigsaw - Does Russia’s election matter?
Explore the upcoming Russian presidential election, Putin's dominance, soldier casualties in Ukraine, women protesting military mobilization, theory of Putin's body doubles, and the secrecy of the Kremlin.
Feb 17, 2024 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: The earthquake in Turkey and Syria – one year on
Survivors of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria share their experiences and struggles, including loss of family and friends. A family who fled from the war in Syria speaks about their new life in Turkey. The podcast also features messages from BBC listeners in Turkey and explores the challenges of finding work after the earthquake. Reflections on the past year and volunteer efforts to support children and women are discussed.
Feb 16, 2024 • 25min
Bonus: HARDtalk - Alexey Navalny: The interview
Alexey Navalny, a prominent critic of President Putin, discusses the risks involved in being an opposition leader in Russia. They talk about their experience with the opposition movement, the complex issue of Crimea and international law, their determination to challenge Putin, and their unwavering commitment to their cause despite adversity.
