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
Dec 12, 2023 • 27min
Stories from the New Silk Road: Iceland
The podcast explores Iceland's geothermal activity and its collaboration with China in the Arctic. It discusses the success of Arctic Green Energy in China and the impact of geothermal energy on Iceland-China relations. The China-Iceland Arctic Observatory, surveillance balloon controversy, and data security concerns are also discussed. The importance of collaboration, China's growing presence in Iceland, and the impact of the free trade agreement between Iceland and China are highlighted.
Dec 11, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Kengo Kuma
Kengo Kuma, a renowned architect inspired by traditional Japanese design and critic of the global dominance of concrete, discusses his unique philosophy and approach to architecture. He emphasizes building a connection between nature and buildings, using local natural materials, and creating designs that reflect the mystery of Japanese history. The podcast explores Kuma's notable projects around the world, including China's Folk Art Museum and Japan's National Stadium. Additionally, it delves into the design of a monument dedicated to a legendary cow and examines the significance of atmosphere and contrasts in architecture. Kuma also reflects on the impact of COVID and the potential for architectural monuments to symbolize the future.
Dec 10, 2023 • 50min
Taiwan's balancing act
Former BBC correspondent Cindy Sui meets young Taiwanese voters with contrasting views on Taiwan's future and its relationship with China. One is a peace campaigner, the other a citizen's army trainee. They discuss tensions, elections, perceptions, interactions with China, possibilities of war, frustrations with politics, and reflections on war and peace in Taiwan.
Dec 9, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Climate change and the young
Young individuals in India, Uganda, and Bangladesh discuss the challenges they face due to air pollution. Three women from the US, India, and the UK explain why they chose not to have children to help save the planet. The podcast explores the impact of air quality on young people and the decisions and concerns of young women regarding climate change.
Dec 8, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The Sarajevo Haggadah
Exploring Sarajevo's multicultural history and the 700-year-old Sarajevo Haggadah, a symbol of living together. Saved from destruction by Muslims and Catholics, it represents coexistence and caring for each other's treasures.
Dec 7, 2023 • 29min
Assignment: Cyprus and the battle over songbird slaughter
Illegal songbird trapping in Cyprus has become a multi-million dollar business, attracting organised criminal gangs. The methods used by trappers are illegal under both Cypriot and EU law. Efforts to reduce the number of trapped birds have been made, but the practice remains controversial due to tradition. The podcast explores the evolution of trapping methods and the unintended consequences. The relevance of tradition in modern times is also discussed, along with the impact on bird populations and abuse of natural resources.
Dec 6, 2023 • 28min
The Children of Paradise: Without hope you're dead
Three decades after the transition from Apartheid, Fergal Keane and Milton Nkosi return to South Africa to explore the hopes and promises of a better nation. They visit a school in Khayelitsha township and the university in Stellenbosch. With high crime rates, lack of jobs, violence, and corruption, can South Africans still hold onto hope?
Dec 6, 2023 • 28min
The Children of Paradise: A deadly mixture
30 years after the transition from Apartheid, Fergal Keane returns to South Africa to explore the hopes and promises of a better nation. He investigates the ongoing political violence, corruption, and dissatisfaction in the community. The podcast also highlights the significance of faith and churches in South Africa, the impact of unemployment on mental health, and the concept of Imbogort - strong women in South Africa.
Dec 6, 2023 • 28min
The Children of Paradise: The future must change
Returning to post-apartheid South Africa, Fergal Keane and Milton Nkosi explore the broken dreams and enduring struggles of the country. They delve into the poverty, discrimination, lack of basic amenities, corruption, and high unemployment rates. The podcast also highlights the personal stories of individuals, their hopes for a better life, and the ongoing suffering and corruption in South Africa.
Dec 5, 2023 • 28min
Stories from the New Silk Road: Norway
Explore the booming king crab industry, China's Arctic ambitions, and the advantages of the Northern Sea Route. Discover China's interests in the Arctic region, including climate change, shipping routes, and governance. Uncover China's ambitions and activities in the Arctic, including their plans for the Polar Silk Road.
