

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

Sep 21, 2023 • 29min
How a war has changed a Norwegian town
A small Norwegian town near the Russian border has been dramatically affected by the war in Ukraine, with economic decline and restrictions on cross-border trade. Despite being a NATO member, Norway has kept the border open, but increased security measures raise concerns of Russian spying. The town of Kirkenes now houses Ukrainian refugees and Russian journalists escaping media clampdown. The podcast explores the experiences of rangers stationed on the border, potential military use of civilian boats, and the impact of the war on the town's residents.

Sep 19, 2023 • 27min
Cricket and the maidens
The podcast explores the Women's India Premier League, its impact on single women, and broader changes in Indian society. It discusses the rapid growth and impact of the league, challenges faced by single women in India, the power of solidarity and women's groups, and the transformative impact of women's cricket in challenging norms and empowering women.

Sep 18, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Vhils
Vhils, a Portuguese artist known for his bas-relief carving technique, discusses his process of creating striking murals. He talks about engraving a 31 meter mural at UNESCO headquarters, his unique carving technique using unconventional tools, the significance of light and shadows in his work, and the secret of carving hidden images into the wall.

Sep 17, 2023 • 19min
Bonus: The Explanation
Exploring the definition and background of war crimes. Understanding the concept of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. Examining the conviction of Thomas Lubanga and the challenges faced by international courts. Exploring the court rulings, convictions, and aftermath of war crimes during the Bosnian war. Discussing the possibility of holding Vladimir Putin accountable for war crimes and the challenges the International Criminal Court faces.

Sep 17, 2023 • 26min
Remembering Buthelezi
This podcast discusses the life of Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a controversial Zulu leader in South Africa, his opposition to apartheid, and his role in the country's transition to democracy. It explores his ambitions to be a father figure and the voice of the Zulu nation. It also examines his early education, political involvement, and his opposition to the new constitution. The podcast reflects on his legacy and contrasting perspectives on his overall impact.

Sep 16, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: The earthquake in Morocco
The podcast discusses the devastating earthquake in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, including interviews with survivors and rescue workers. It highlights the unity and solidarity displayed by Moroccans in times of crisis, the importance of government assistance and support for affected individuals, and the urgent needs of earthquake survivors such as shelter, food, and water.

Sep 15, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Faith, terrorists and mercy at Guantanamo Bay
The podcast explores Dr Jennifer Bryson's experience as an interrogator at Guantanamo Bay, her Catholic faith, and the role of religion in the lives of the detainees. It delves into her discomfort with certain interrogation methods and the ethical challenges faced in dealing with suspected terrorists. The hosts also reflect on the power of faith, forgiveness, and mercy in relation to the detainees at Guantanamo Bay.

Sep 14, 2023 • 27min
Missing in Syria
A podcast explores the plight of the one hundred thousand missing Syrians, their families' desperate search, and the exploitation they face. It exposes the corrupt Syrian judicial system and the role of bribery. Interviews with families reveal the ongoing search for answers and efforts to establish an independent institution to address the issue.

Sep 13, 2023 • 27min
Building power: India’s new parliament
Controversy and symbolism surround India's new parliament building in Delhi. It highlights the progress of India as a growing democracy and explores the historical context of New Delhi as the capital city. The lack of public consultation and government strategy for development are also discussed. The podcast explores the project of rebuilding and modernizing India's parliament to move away from its colonial history and symbolism.

Sep 11, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Eimer Ni Mhaoldomhnaigh
Eimer Ni Mhaoldomhnaigh, Ireland's leading screen costume designer, discusses her collection of iconic screen costumes available online. Topics include the meticulous photographing of her knitwear for The Banshees of Inisherin, actors keeping costumes, and the exhibition of television series costumes.


