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
Jul 10, 2024 • 19min
Trending: The scammers who make you kidnap yourself
Explore the disturbing trend of scammers in China tricking students abroad into faking their own kidnappings for ransom. Learn about the psychological manipulation tactics used and the dark world of criminal networks. Discover how technology like deepfake videos and AI are used in these elaborate scams.
Jul 9, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Wendy Sharpe
Award-winning artist Wendy Sharpe is breaking conventions by painting directly onto walls and installing herself in the gallery for her new exhibition. The podcast explores her diverse artistic experiences, creative process, collaborative projects, and the transformation of an art gallery into a unique studio space. Sharpe's upcoming exhibition features an imaginative labyrinth theme where real and imagined elements converge, offering visitors an immersive experience.
Jul 8, 2024 • 26min
Assignment: Cry witch - take my land, take my life
Investigative journalist Njeri Nwangi delves into the brutal attacks on alleged witches in Kenya, shedding light on the underlying motives and impunity. The podcast explores the tragic consequences of false accusations, land disputes, and escalating violence targeting elderly individuals. It highlights the intertwining realities of witchcraft beliefs, unemployment, and lack of land documentation in a chilling narrative of fear, sacrifice, and uncertainty.
Jul 7, 2024 • 50min
Three Million: 7. Live show
Kavita Puri, Srimanjari, and Sailen Sarkar discuss the legacy of the Bengal Famine of 1943. They explore rare testimonies, personal stories, and the emotional impact of recalling historical tragedies. The episode sheds light on the suppressed broadcast by the BBC, the importance of acknowledgment, and the need to learn from past events to prevent future tragedies.
Jul 6, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Can climate change stories be cool?
BBC journalists discuss creative ways to make climate change stories captivating, from a Brazilian gully survivor to Maasai radio programs. They also explore the impact of climate change on squid catch decline in South Korea.
Jul 6, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Kenya’s Gen Z protesters
Kenya's Gen Z protesters took to the streets against tax increases, leading to violence and arrests. President Ruto eventually backed down, but protests continue. The youth demand government accountability and representation. Challenges of unemployment and lack of opportunities drive their activism for a brighter future.
Jul 5, 2024 • 28min
Bonus: The Global Story - Keir Starmer: Who is the UK's new prime minister
Keir Starmer, the new UK Prime Minister, discusses the Labour Party's surprising victory, his background in law, and his leadership style. The episode covers the impact of the election outcome, economic stagnation, and challenges facing the Labour Party.
Jul 5, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Journey to Sepharad
Explore the rich history of Sephardic Jews from Spain, the cultural diversity in Cordoba, the coded language of Kabbalah, and the discovery of hidden Jewish ancestry. Dive into the tradition of romances in Sephardic music, the impact of Israeli-Arab conflicts on Moroccan Jews, and the preservation efforts of synagogue artifacts.
Jul 4, 2024 • 27min
Suicide's silent survivors
Journalist Ashley Byrne investigates suicide criminalization laws in countries like Malawi, Bangladesh, and Kenya. She highlights the challenges faced by survivors, stigma, and lack of support. The podcast also explores efforts to decriminalize suicide in countries like Singapore and Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health and reducing stigma.
Jul 3, 2024 • 19min
Trending: Scammed by the fake Chinese police
Helen, a British Chinese woman, shares her experience of falling victim to a scam where conmen posed as Chinese police and tricked her into sending her life savings as 'bail' money to avoid extradition. The podcast explores the alarming trend of scammers impersonating Chinese police officers, targeting Chinese individuals worldwide and using fear and urgency to extort money.
