The Explanation

John Simpson is in Taiwan for a special episode of Unspun World, where he reflects on the extraordinary rollercoaster of Chinese politics over the last 60 years. With the BBC experts in the region, John examines the growing tensions between Taiwan and China, and explores how China may deal with Trump 2.0 as the US president once again takes office.

Prince Harry has settled his legal battle against Murdoch’s News Group Newspapers, securing a formal apology and substantial damages. Joshua Rozenberg, legal affairs commentator and journalist, explains the allegations, which included claims that private investigators used illegal methods to obtain information. Chris Huhne, former cabinet minister, reflects on his own experience.

The future of TikTok in the US faces uncertainty following remarks by President Trump, who proposed a potential deal involving US entities. Jake Kanter, Investigations Editor at Deadline, assesses the political dynamics behind this issue.

Media ethics are under scrutiny after the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. Freelance journalist Noga Tarnopolsky critiques both the orchestration of the event by Hamas and how the Israeli government reported it and used footage of the hostages reuniting with their families.

Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

The devastation caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles has been profound, with homes and communities left in ruins. Jonathan Hunt, Fox News correspondent, and Emma Vardy of BBC News recount their experience of reporting from the Pacific Palisades. Allison Agsten, director of the Annenberg Centre for Climate Journalism and Communication, shares her concern that media coverage has often overlooked the role of climate change in exacerbating these events. Caroline Frost, columnist for the Radio Times, reflects on the prominence of celebrity involvement in coverage of the disaster.

Artificial intelligence has been used to recreate Sir Michael Parkinson’s voice for a podcast series that explores the boundaries of technology and human storytelling. Benjamin Field, producer of Virtually Parkinson, describes how the system was trained on more than 100 hours of archival material to recreate the legendary broadcaster.

Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

Ahead of President Trump’s return to The White House, Meta is replacing its US fact-checking program with a new “user-driven” approach called Community Notes. Angie Drobnic Holan, Director of the International Fact-Checking Network, explains the implications of this decision and whether decentralising moderation can effectively address misinformation.

Piers Morgan, broadcaster and former host at Rupert Murdoch’s News UK, has announced his decision to leave and focus on his YouTube channel. Julia Angwin, investigative journalist and fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, explains how this reflects the broader rise of independent content creators. Joey Contino, TikTok news influencer, shares how he has built a loyal following through accessible and direct reporting. Alessandra Galloni, Editor-in-Chief of Reuters, considers how traditional media organisations can adapt to these trends.

Grand Theft Auto 6 is shaping up to be a landmark release in gaming history. With its first female protagonist, advanced AI, and immersive gameplay mechanics, the game is expected to push boundaries in both technology and storytelling. Vic Hood, freelance gaming journalist, examines the franchise’s enduring appeal and how this instalment could set new benchmarks in the gaming industry.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

We explore the key media trends shaping 2025. From the rise of AI in journalism to how social platforms are transforming news, challenges in media funding and the future of regulation. With insights from Madhumita Murgia of the Financial Times, Charlotte Tobitt from Press Gazette and Rebecca Jennings from Vox.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

Kyiv’s answer to the Kremlin’s warspeak. In part one of this miniseries, we focused on Russia’s case, trying to see through Moscow’s war propaganda: its purpose and building blocks. In this episode, we turn to the Ukrainian side of this linguistic tug or war. Here we find that language itself is at the heart of this conflict, fuelling Ukraine’s “linguistic decolonisation”.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Advertising executive Sir John Hegarty has created campaigns for some of the world's most famous brands including Levi's, Lynx, and Audi. He was a founding partner of Saatchi and Saatchi before co-founding his own firm, Bartle Bogle Hegarty, in 1982. But he believes that advertising today has lost sight of creativity, in its relentless focus on data and targeted advertising. He joins Ros Atkins to discuss his career, his theory of creativity, and the future of his industry. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Dan Hardoon

Decoding the Kremlin’s warspeak to understand the power of propaganda as a weapon of war. “Let’s cut dill”, “a pop of cotton”, “meat assault”: expressions the average foreigner might struggle to understand. We analyse Moscow’s military jargon; in part two of this mini-series, we’ll explore Kyiv’s answer to it.

Producer: Kriszta Satori, Vitaly Shevchenko Presenter: Krassi Twigg

A report by CNN from inside a Syrian prison has become a flashpoint for media scrutiny after the featured prisoner, initially presented as a victim, was identified as a former member of Assad’s Air Force Intelligence Directorate. David Folkenflik, Media Correspondent for NPR, examines the ethical dilemmas and journalistic standards in such high-stakes reporting.

ABC News reached a $15m settlement with Donald Trump over a defamation claim stemming from false statements made by one of its star presenters. Katie Fallow, Deputy Litigation Director at the Knight First Amendment Institute, explores the legal complexities of defamation cases involving public figures and the implications for media accountability in a polarised landscape.

The Map Men, winners of TikTok’s UK and Ireland video of the year, have turned their passion for maps into viral success. Jay Foreman, one half of the duo, discusses their creative process, the balance between humour and education in their work, and how their unique take on cartography resonates with audiences across platforms.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen

After Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed, Syrian media enters a new chapter. Kholoud Helmi, co-founder of the independent paper Enab Baladi, reflects on her publication’s journey from clandestine reporting during Assad’s era to hopes for unfiltered journalism in today’s Syria. Sednaya prison, long shrouded in secrecy, has become a focal point for journalists and families of the missing. Freelance journalist Edmund Bower, reporting for The Times, recounts his access to the site. The murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has sparked polarising reactions online, including the celebration by some of his alleged killer Luigi Mangione. Mia Sato from The Verge discusses the public’s focus on systemic healthcare failings, while influencer Michael McWhorter notes a striking lack of online detective interest in the case. Ben Strick, director of investigations at the Centre for Information Resilience, shares the principles of open-source investigations in an advent calendar he has created to highlight his work. He explains how tools like reverse image searches and flight trackers have aided investigative journalism, offering examples from global conflicts to everyday reporting. Presenters: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

Reddit bills itself as the “home to endless conversation and authentic human connection”, and it is now one of the fastest growing social networks in the world. For the first time in its 20 years history, it has turned a profit. Journalist James Ball discusses its financial milestones, while Robert H. Peck, associate professor at the University of Iowa, explains its moderation approach and the challenges of maintaining community standards on a rapidly growing platform. Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham has launched a major offensive supported by a sophisticated media campaign. Dr Charlie Winter, associate fellow, International Centre for Counter-Terrorism, examines the use of digital content such as videos, meme, and music, alongside comparisons to other militant groups and counter-efforts by Assad’s regime. Anna Wintour is the legendary editor in chief of Vogue magazine. To coincide with the opening of an immersive exhibition in London entitled Vogue: Inventing the Runway, she granted the BBC a rare interview. Katie Razzall reflects on the experience of sitting down with the journalist who famously provided the inspiration for The Devil Wears Prada. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

Mishal Husain, one of the most recognisable voices on the BBC, is leaving after 26 years to join Bloomberg. Known for presenting Today and high-profile TV bulletins, her departure marks a turning point for the BBC, which is navigating budget cuts and shifting priorities. Alex Farber, media correspondent for The Times, explores the story.

The longstanding feud between rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar has entered the courtroom. Drake alleges that Universal Music manipulated streaming platforms to inflate Kendrick’s diss track Not Like Us – allegations the record label denies. Mark Savage, music correspondent for BBC News, explains the legal filing and what it reveals about the industry.

Christmas advertising has become a hallmark of British culture. Franki Goodwin, Chief Creativity Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi, and Maisie McCabe, UK editor of Campaign, discuss the creative and economic strategies behind festive ads.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the risk of escalation in Russia’s war with Ukraine, analyses the political situation in Germany ahead of a snap general election, and looks at the crisis in the Anglican church in the wake of the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Friday’s Netflix boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson was more than a fight; it was a media moment. Evan Shapiro, media commentator, sees it as evidence of influencer dominance over traditional media. Oliver Brown, Chief Sports Writer of The Daily Telegraph, discusses whether such events mark a shift from genuine sport to spectacle. Crosswords and puzzles are becoming an integral part of newspaper business strategies. Zoe Bell, Executive Producer of Games at The New York Times, explains how games like Wordle and Spelling Bee are driving engagement and subscriptions. Crossword setter John Halpern shares his journey into the world of puzzles and the creative process behind setting crosswords for major newspapers. Bluesky, a social media platform created by Jack Dorsey, is gaining traction as an alternative to Elon Musk's X. With a significant increase in users, Bluesky is being seen as a platform that offers a different experience from traditional social media. Katie Martin from the Financial Times discusses the platform's growth and its potential impact on the media landscape. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

John Simpson explores the implications of a second Trump term for US foreign policy, the role of Saudi Arabia in the search for stability in the Middle East, and the appeal of South Korean culture.

The US election has brought about significant challenges for the mainstream media. Edward Luce of the Financial Times, Megan McArdle of The Washington Post, and Katie Drummond of WIRED discuss the diversification of media sources and the struggle for relevance among traditional news organisations.

Taskmaster has become a standout success in the world of TV comedy. Alex Horne, the creator and co-host of the UK edition, provides insights into the show’s enduring popularity and its international adaptations.

Presenter: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Assistant producer: Lucy Wai Producer: Simon Richardson

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines how the US Presidential campaign has highlighted the deep divisions in the country, analyses the future for Hezbollah in Lebanon in the wake of Israel’s attacks, and looks at how difficult life is now in Afghanistan under the Taliban.

Much of the traditional media were blindsided by Trump’s election victory. To discuss why, Katie is joined by James Harding, Founder, Tortoise Media, Claire Atkinson, The Media Mix newsletter, and Max Tani, Media Editor, Semafor.

Also on the show, a new investigation into the finances of the British Royal family. Alistair Jackson, Investigations Editor, Channel 4, Jennie Bond, former BBC Royal Correspondent and Kinsey Schofield, Host, To Di for Daily ask whether the Royals get an easy ride from the journalists tasked with scrutinising them.

Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Why is the Kremlin worried about population decline? President Putin has made the increase of human capital a national priority. Decision-makers have been competing to offer a solution, from fiscal incentives to encourage women to have more children, to restricting access to abortion, to banning "propaganda" of “childless lifestyle”. Will their plan work?

Producer: Francis Scarr, Veronika Malinboym, Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses how the Iranian regime might respond to Israel’s attack on the country, examines the role of disinformation in the US Presidential election and looks at whether a rape trial in Provence will change French society.

Ros Atkins is in Washington DC and asks what what the upcoming election tells us about the role the media plays in modern America.

The Washington Post finds itself at the heart of a debate on media impartiality after a reported loss of thousands of subscribers following its decision not to endorse a candidate. NPR's media correspondent, David Folkenflik, joins us to unpack the unfolding crisis.

With tech billionaires wielding significant influence, this election has seen figures like Elon Musk openly backing Donald Trump. Critics argue that big tech’s sway over public discourse has become too potent. Jennifer Huddleston, a senior fellow in technology policy at the Cato Institute, and Marietje Schaake, a former MEP now with Stanford’s Cyber Policy Center, debate the issues.

And for over 170 years, the Associated Press has been at the forefront of election coverage, calling winners across the nation. Anna Johnson, AP’s Washington bureau chief, explains how it does what might be "the single largest act of journalism in the world".

Presenter:: Ros Atkins

What’s behind the evolution of President Erdogan’s narrative on LGBT issues, and how did Turkey’s Islamic conservatives find common ground with American Evangelicals? President Erdogan skipped the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris in August after his granddaughter warned him about the “LGBT show”. He berated the French organisers for “debasing humanity to a level below animals”. His anti-LGBT push is relatively recent. We take a look at one battlefield of the global culture war. Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the attitudes of other countries in the Middle East towards Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon, examines the signs of a recovery in the global economy and looks at the Italian Prime Minister’s right-wing domestic agenda.

Andy Cohen is the executive producer behind the Real Housewives TV franchise. He tells Katie how it became a global phenomenon. Also in the programme, after Yulia Navalnaya’s BBC interview, an assessment of Putin’s crackdown on the media which her husband Alexei Navalny used to promote his message. Francis Scarr of BBC Monitoring explains. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's experts around the world, analyses Israel’s long-term strategy in the Middle East, examines whether the US government will force Google to break up and looks at the terrifying ordeal of migrants trying to cross from Africa to Europe.

The ISIS Prisons Museum was established in 2017 when a group of journalists, filmmakers and activists entered deserted Islamic State prisons to collect evidence. We talk to two journalists behind the project as their archive launches to the public. Amer Matar is Director of the ISIS Prisons Museum, Robin Yassin-Kassab is its Chief English Editor, and Yvonne McDermott Rees is Professor of Law at Swansea University. Also on the show, the journalist who received an apology from Anne Hathaway. Kjersti Flaa reveals why the Hollywood actor got in touch after her “cringeworthy” interview went viral. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Ten years on, where do the warring parties stand? And is there a way out of the stalemate? This is not just a civil war - it’s a battle between rival camps in the Middle East, led by Iran on the one hand, and Saudi Arabia on the other. The Houthis are said to be Iran’s proxy, but they sometimes act against Tehran’s interest. We go granular on the complexities in the alliances and the rivalries that shape the conflict.

Producer: Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the prospects for the Middle East on the anniversary of the October 7th attacks on Israel, examines Russia’s recent advances in their war in Ukraine and looks at the state of democracy in Tunisia after its president wins re-election.

What’s it like to report from Gaza? The BBC’s Rushdi Abualouf discusses the editorial and practical challenges, keeping his family safe while reporting in a conflict zone, and how he made the difficult decision to leave Gaza in November and continue his work from abroad. We’re also joined by the Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, Zanny Minton Beddoes, and the Israeli journalist Noga Tarnopolsky, to reflect on how the media has covered the war. Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Content Editor: Richard Hooper Assistant Producers: Martha Owen and Lucy Wai

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what Iran’s strategy will be in the wake of Israel’s assault on Hezbollah, looks at how the attack is being seen inside Israel and examines the disappearance of one of China’s leading economists.

As the Israeli offensive against targets in Lebanon continues, we discuss the challenge for journalists reporting the story with the BBC’s Lyse Doucet and Shayan Sardarizadeh. Also on the show, one of the biggest flops in video game history as Sony pulls its new game Concord just days after launch. Keza MacDonald of The Guardian explains why it failed. And Jordan Schwarzenberger, the manager of the biggest YouTube creators in Europe, The Sidemen, reveals their creative process and business strategy. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Content Editor: Richard Hooper Assistant Producers: Martha Owen and Lucy Wai

Ten years after the start of the civil war in Yemen, Sanaa, Aden and Taiz are stuck in a “no war, no peace” limbo. The three ancient cities are ruled by different warring parties, all vying to expand their reach. We look at life under the Houthis, the “government of hotels”, the separatists and the snipers.

Producer: Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov, Sumaya Bakhsh Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Mohamed Al Fayed was the flamboyant billionaire whose investments once included the luxury department store Harrods and a Premier League football club. He was the father of Dodi, who was killed alongside Princess Diana in 1997. Fayed died last year and this month the BBC has released a new investigation that portrays him in a very different light. Erica Gornall, director of “Al-Fayed: Predator at Harrods”, and Henry Porter, former UK editor of Vanity Fair, discuss the story. The US election is now just week away and the competition for viewers among the TV networks is ferocious. CNN – led by its British boss Mark Thompson - thinks they may have a secret weapon for Saturday nights; a US version of “Have I Got News For You”. Jimmy Mulville of Hat Trick Productions, is the brains behind it. Nayeema Raza, co-host of Semafor's Mixed Signals podcast, gives her verdict. Saad Mohseni co-founded the Moby Group, Afghanistan’s largest media company. Despite the Taliban being back in power, his TV channel, TOLO, still broadcasts news and educational programmes - and uses female anchors. Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Flora McWilliam

Donald Trump’s false claim that migrants are eating pets in Springfield Ohio will go down in history as one of the most memorable political soundbites. Jack Brewster, Enterprise Editor at NewsGuard, has traced its origin. AJ Bauer, Assistant Professor, at the University of Alabama, explains how it became a meme. David Rennie has been The Economist’s correspondent in Beijing for the last 6 years. As his posting comes to an end, he reflects on political and cultural change in China, and what it’s been like reporting from a country with ever increasing media restrictions. Parmy Olson, technology columnist for Bloomberg Opinion, has just written a book about the AI arms race and the battle between Google’s Deep Mind and Open AI. At the heart of it, she says in “Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT, and the Race that Will Change the World”, is the personal rivalry between two men. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

The Department of Justice says it has busted a Russian plot to recruit popular right-wing influencers to convey its messages. Maggie Miller, Cybersecurity Reporter from Politico, and Catherine Belton, International Investigative Reporter for The Washington Post, discuss the case and the evolution of Russian disinformation tactics. Also on the show, as the public inquiry into what happened at the English hospital where Lucy Letby murdered seven babies begins, what impact are conspiracy theories having on the ongoing reporting of the story? Judith Moritz, North of England Correspondent for BBC News and James Coney, News projects editor, at The Sunday Times explain their approach. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

From Squid Game to The Masked Singer, some of the most popular TV formats of recent years have come from South Korea. InSoon Kim, a Korean TV producer, and journalists Lucas Shaw and Regina Kim, discuss why. Also on the show, Catherine Philp, World Affairs Editor at The Times, explains how she went inside the Kursk region of Russia with Ukrainian forces. Francis Scarr from BBC Monitoring, tells us how the offensive is being reported on Russian state media. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Pavel Durov, the CEO of messaging app Telegram, has been arrested in France. For an executive of a big social media company to face a criminal enquiry is highly unusual. Mike Isaac, Tech Correspondent of The New York Times and Steve Rosenberg, Russia Editor for BBC News discuss the case. The Onion, the satirical news website, is relaunching a print edition. Its editor, Chad Nackers, explains the appeal of a traditional newspaper. A Chinese produced video game, Black Myth: Wukong, has become one of the most successful launches ever. Keza McDonald, Games Editor at The Guardian and Frankie Ward, e-sports host and broadcaster discuss this - and other gaming news. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

To many, we're living through a golden age of TV. But behind the rich offerings for consumers lie several growing structural issues, from a market oversupplied by streamers desperate for subscriptions, to the consequences of the US actors and writers strike, to a downturn in the advertising spend that powers the UK industry. Ros talks to Broadcast Editor Chris Curtis; Stephen Lambert, Chief Executive at Studio Lambert, Andy Harries, CEO of Left Bank Pictures and Claire Lundberg, founder of CTL Scouting; at the Edinburgh International TV Festival. And we talk to Nayeema Raza from Semafor at the Democratic National Convention where Kamala Harris is about to accept her party's nomination for President - all at a time when the candidate is refusing to do media interviews.

Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

As one of the smallest Supreme Courts in the world, do nine justices fairly represent the diversity of views in the US? Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC's senior North American reporter Anthony Zurcher about how the ratio of republican to democratic judges has changed over time. The controversy over lifetime tenures of justices is discussed with no set term limits or mandatory retirement ages and we find out why historical court decisions are being overturned.

Produced by Cathy Young for the BBC World Service.

In recent weeks parts of the UK saw violent riots fuelled by misinformation online and anti-immigration sentiment. Some rioters have since been sentenced using evidence from social media. Nazir Afzal, a former Chief Crown Prosecutor, and Lorna Woods, Professor of Internet Law at the University of Essex, explain how it worked. Many of you may have seen Elon Musk’s interview on X with Donald Trump. What impact will his political views and his content moderation policies have on the social media platform? Lara O'Reilly from Business Insider fills us in. And we learn about the art of sports commentary from one of the BBC’s Olympics commentators, Andrew Cotter. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Consisting of 193 member states, the United Nations is a global organisation which strives for peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet. Founded in 1945, it provides a forum for the world's nations to come together, discuss issues and find solutions, which transcend national boundaries. The UN has successfully ended conflicts across the world and has won the Nobel Peace Prize over ten times. However it has been criticized for the alleged abuse of power by nations, inaction and failure to prevent armed conflicts. So in a rapidly changing world – is the UN fit for purpose? Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC North America & UN correspondent Nada Tawfik about the structure, purpose and future of the United Nations.

Produced by Cathy Young for BBC World Service.

The Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan has led to the erasure of women from public life. There’s a UN-led campaign to recognise it as “gender apartheid”, but the international community is divided and lacking leverage. Three years after the group took the capital Kabul, our experts explain what life is like for half of the population and why women have become a proxy for the nation’s image of itself.

Producer: Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg

In parts of the UK, violent protests broke out after the fatal stabbing of three young girls in the English town of Southport – rumours had spread that the suspect was an asylum seeker. Maria Breslin, editor of The Liverpool Echo, Priyanka Raval, reporter at The Bristol Cable and Stephanie Stacey, technology reporter at The Financial Times, have all been reporting the story. Also , a development in the ongoing saga of the Netflix show Baby Reindeer. The alleged subject of the drama is suing the streamer in a huge defamation lawsuit. Now Netflix’s lawyers have fired back - and the court documents are every bit as dramatic as the show itself. Jake Kanter, investigations editor at Deadline, has the details. And what qualities do you need to be a journalist? The National Council for the Training of Journalists say the younger generation lacks confidence when it comes to tasks like cold calling and phone interviews. Presenter: Katie Razzall Assistant producer: Lucy Wai Producer: Simon Richardson

We find out how Big Tech companies may know more about you - than you do.

Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC's cyber correspondent for the BBC World Service Joe Tidy, about how Big Tech companies not only track what you do online – but what your friends do – and what your friends of friends do – to then target you through marketing.

Billions of people access Big Tech companies on a daily basis – to interact on social media sites – but at what cost – your privacy?

Produced by Cathy Young for the BBC World Service.

News emerged last week that Rupert Murdoch is attempting to change his family’s legal trust to preserve the editorial stance of his media outlets after his death. Several of his children are fighting back. Jim Rutenberg, writer at large at The New York Times has been following the family for more than two decades. He got the scoop and he joins us alongside Murdoch biographer Claire Atkinson. The BBC’s David Sillito reflects on Huw Edwards’ guilty plea to making indecent images of children - 41 images that had been shared with him by another man on WhatsApp. We look at how the story broke and the challenges of covering it for journalists inside the BBC. Also on the show, Channel 4 News anchor Krishnan Guru-Murthy reflects on his experience competing on the TV dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson

Which countries supply weapons and which countries buy them? We learn how uncertainty, tension and conflict are leading to increasing military spend across the world. Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC's defence correspondent Jonathan Beale, about the big industry players and their geopolitical ties. Produced by Cathy Young for the BBC World Service.

Do memes hold the key to the White House? Supporters of Kamala Harris hope so. Already online communities have sprung up to boost her campaign and they’re chopping up her speeches and appearances to flood the internet with viral clips. Their aim is to swing the youth vote in Harris’ favour and get other disengaged voters to turn out on election day. Will it work? Also on the show, as the Olympics begin in Paris, how a sports journalist prepares for a gruelling 19 days of events. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

Complex ocean currents keep Europe warm and bring rain to Africa, but could they come to an end?

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a system of ocean currents within the Atlantic Ocean, transporting warm water north towards the Arctic and returning cold water south towards Antarctica. The Gulf Stream is a component of AMOC, which carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico, up along the eastern coastline of the United States. AMOC and the Gulf Stream enable heat to be distributed around our planet, and ensure Europe experiences milder weather compared to Canada, despite being on a similar latitude.

AMOC’s currents are driven by changes in water density due to changes in ocean salinity and temperature. Increasing ocean temperatures and freshwater flows from melting ice sheets due to climate change, have the potential to weaken AMOC. This could lead to cooler temperatures in Europe and a drop in rainfall in key agricultural areas in places like Africa and Asia, in turn affecting millions of people.

Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt. Produced by Cathy Young for the BBC World Service.

The Media Show hears from journalists who were witness to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. Gary O'Donoghue was reporting live on the BBC World Service when the shots were fired, and Hadriana Lowenkron was at the rally for Bloomberg. Anna Moneymaker, a photographer for Getty Images, describes how she managed to capture what has become a defining image of the event.

Some in the US have since accused the media of fostering a hostile environment for politicians, and Ros and Katie discuss the nature of political discourse with Jay Caspian Kang of The New Yorker and Megan McArdle, a columnist at The Washington Post. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

Brokering peace between warring nations, how does it work and what causes failure? We look at Qatar’s role in the Middle East and at insight gained from the Northern Ireland peace process. Host Claire Graham talks to Lyse Doucet – the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent about how the state actors in peace mediation have changed and adapted over time. Plus Lyse tackles the question - can you really be a mediator if you are not neutral? Produced by Cathy Young for the BBC World Service.

Oz Katerji was reporting from outside the children’s hospital in Kyiv that was hit after Russia launched a wave of missiles on Ukraine earlier this week. He explains how he reached the decision to stop being a journalist and - for a few hours – join the rescue effort. Also in the programme, how should newsrooms engage with populist movements, some of which are hostile to the press? After the National Rally faced a surprise defeat in the French elections, did the media get the story wrong? Ros and Katie speak to Dr Ayala Panievsky, presidential fellow at City University and Victor Goury-Laffont, politics reporter at Politico Europe. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

In the aftermath of his halting debate performance, the editorial boards of some major US newspapers have called on Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race. We ask why this issue is only being discussed widely now, and talk to Annie Linskey, White House reporter, The Wall Street Journal, who raised a comprehensive set of concerns about Biden’s health but faced a backlash from others in the media. We also speak to Nayeema Raza, co-host, Semafor’s Mixed Signals podcast and Jill Abramson, former executive editor, The New York Times

Also on the show, we hear from El Hunt, commissioning editor for The Evening Standard, about what it is like reporting from the Glastonbury Festival and hear Ros Atkin's remix of the BBC News' theme tune in his debut DJ set at Glastonbury and how Louis Tomlinson of One Direction bought football home to Worthy Farm. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the key issues for voters in the UK’s imminent general election, explores the plight of women in Afghanistan after almost three years under Taliban rule and looks at the impact of the extreme heat affecting parts of the world this summer.

In the week that Julian Assange walks free, we explore the story of WikiLeaks' unprecedented data releases and how he and his organisation changed the way journalists and newsrooms operate. We also assess if his guilty plea to a US espionage charge will have a chilling effect on national security journalism. Also in the programme, Steven Moffat, the writer behind global TV hits such as Sherlock and Doctor Who. He reveals why he wanted to tackle cancel culture in his new comedy-drama “Douglas is Cancelled”. Presenter: Katie Razzall Guests: James Ball, Political Editor, The New European; Carrie DeCell, senior staff attorney, Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University; Steven Moffat, writer and Executive Producer, Douglas is Cancelled.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines whether Ukraine is now preparing for a deal, assesses what’s at stake as Nato members prepare for their annual summit in Washington next month, and asks who owns the moon as we enter a new era of lunar exploration.

In the space of 20 years, podcasting has gone from hobby to big business. What’s the secret of success for the best in the industry? Also on the show, why there’s trouble at the top of The Washington Post, and new research that shows more and more people are avoiding the news. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Guests: Lewis Goodall, Co-host, The News Agents; Tony Pastor, Co-Founder, Goalhanger Podcasts; Nick Hilton, Co-founder, Podot; Vivian Schiller, Executive Director, Aspen Digital

After a lull in activities, in 2024 the Islamic State Group claimed to be behind several major attacks, showing the world they haven’t gone away. Among them was the storming by gunmen of a Moscow concert hall. Ten years after the Islamist extremists declared the establishment of a caliphate, our Jihadist Media Monitoring Team considers the current capabilities and ambitions of the group that once ruled over a large territory in Iraq and Syria.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines whether the Israeli government will survive the resignations of two leading cabinet members, explores why US economic growth isn’t having a having a greater impact on the presidential election, and assesses why Narendra Modi’s BJP party failed to win an absolute majority in India's critical elections.

The art of interviewing political leaders with a journalist who recently interviewed Rishi Sunak. Also in the programme, as the alleged subject of the Netflix drama Baby Reindeer sues the streamer for defamation, negligence and privacy violations, we weigh the legal arguments. And the future of reality TV as YouTube stars the Sidemen break records for their new show. Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the new threats to peace and security on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day campaign to liberate Western Europe, asks why the African National Congress Party has failed to win a majority in the South African parliament after 30 years in power, and considers why immigration is a key issue in elections this year in many countries.

In the age of social media, how easy is it to get people to pay for news? Editors from some of the world’s biggest news brands explain their strategy for turning a profit. Also in the show, after Google’s use of AI to generate search results went viral for all the wrong reasons, meet the journalist who followed its advice to put glue on her pizza. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Guests: Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief, The Atlantic; Katie Notopoulos, Senior Tech Correspondent, Business Insider; Andrew Neil, Chairman, The Spectator; Caroline Waterston, Editor-in-Chief, The Mirror.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, considers how a snap general election might change the UK’s position in the world, analyses whether Iran’s governing elite can win back popular support after the death of President Raisi, and examines the new shape of the Middle East.

This week we look at Big Tech and its role in a crucial election year around the world. Baroness Martha Lane Fox, who sat on the board of X (formerly Twitter), assesses the platform’s changing attitude towards political content. Also in the programme, as the general election campaign heats up in the UK, will TikTok help the candidates reach younger voters? Presenter: Katie Razzall Guests: Shona Ghosh, Senior Editor, Bloomberg; Martha Lane Fox, former board member, Twitter/X; Sean Topham, Co-Founder, Topham Guerin; Timandra Harkness, author of Technology is Not the Problem; Sam Jeffers, Executive Director, Who Targets Me

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines how the relationship between Russia and China has changed, analyses the state of European politics in the wake of the attempted assassination of Slovakia’s prime minister, and looks at whether the idea of a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians has any future after the Gaza War.

On Saturday, Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury to become boxing's undisputed heavyweight champion. The high-profile match was held in the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of ‘sportswashing’. Alex Pattle from The Independent reveals what it was like reporting from the event, and Simon Chadwick, professor of sport and geopolitical economy at Skema Business school, analyses the Saudi sports investment strategy. The actor Scarlett Johansson has accused OpenAI of deliberately copying her voice for its latest chatbot ‘Sky’. OpenAI said that it would remove the voice, but insisted that it was not meant to be an "imitation" of the star. Lawyer Susan Aslan of ACK Media Law, assesses if the actor has a case, and tech journalist Takara Small gives us the latest updates on the latest AI releases. Plus an update on the furore surrounding the Netflix series Baby Reindeer, as the British MP John Nicolson asks Netflix to substantiate what it told a Parliamentary committee about the woman alleged to have inspired the character Martha. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's range of experts across the world, analyses why Israel’s government is deliberately flouting the wishes of its closest ally, the United States. Plus, the extent of China’s infiltration into western countries, and why there have been mass protests in Georgia over a new law.

Baby Reindeer is the Netflix drama that purports to be a true story – but a woman has come forward to say it’s based on her, and that she’s been totally misrepresented. Meanwhile, Piers Morgan has done an interview with her that itself has been called exploitative. Also in the programme, how AI generated news stories have been passed off as the work of human journalists, and the secret to a hit TV news theme tune.

“China is not buying Africa, it is building Africa” is the view from Beijing. How is this landing with local audiences? There have been hints of a cooling down of Sino-African friendship. For this episode, the team travels to the Kenyan capital Nairobi to get a sense of Chinese influence on the ground, and understand why Beijing has chosen it as a hub for its media operation in Africa.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines what Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan for Gaza is now, looks at the mood on the Ukrainian frontline ahead of the arrival of US military aid, and analyses what is at stake in the South African general election.

US university campuses have been the scene of pro-Palestinian demonstrations over the last month. We assess the challenges of reporting the protests and hear why student journalists have been crucial to our understanding of the story. Also in the programme, Al Jazeera responds to the restrictions imposed on it by the Israeli government, and the experience of one reporter at the Met Gala.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins

The secret club which keeps illegal content hidden, using encryption and anonymisation tools. But can it also be a force for good? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet, giving a cloak to crime. But defenders argue it also keeps activists and whistleblowers safe. Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC technology editor Zoe Kleinman about the origins of the dark web, cyber crime and internet censorship across the world.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Cathy Young Researcher: Joe Schultz

A dive into the narratives surrounding Turkey’s ambitions in Africa, where Ankara is touting itself as a “non-colonising” alternative to Western powers. Turkey has been expanding its influence operations in Africa in recent years: from military muscle and drone diplomacy to education, humanitarian projects, soft power and spiritual bonding. We ask what sets Turkey apart from other foreign powers vying for influence on the continent, and what its distinctive approach has achieved.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Across large parts of the globe, access to impartial news reporting and information has never been more difficult, creating an information iron curtain. To mark World Press Freedom Day, Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall present a special live event from the BBC Radio Theatre, which considers the impact of censorship and technological controls in Russia, Iran and China; how ingrained state disinformation has become and how it has distorted their citizens’ perception of the world.

Our panel also looks at attempts to circumvent internet blocking and state restrictions on free media, from the use of VPNs by those on the inside, to the innovative tactics adopted by outsiders who are trying to deliver truthful news to an often indoctrinated audience.

It was a triumph of international collaboration - a laboratory for hundreds of astronauts - but was the 120 billion dollar investment worth it? Considered as one of humanity’s greatest achievements, it was built by the USA, Russia, Canada, Europe and Japan. Since it launched into space in 1998, over 270 astronauts from around the world have conducted research in the orbiting laboratory, but it is due to be retired in 2030. So how significant has it been and what will replace it? Host Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s Science Correspondent Pallab Ghosh. We also examine the economic opportunities offered by the moon and ask if China is the emerging space power.

Iran's loose coalition of allies and proxies, sworn against Israeli and US influence, that has been shaping events in the Middle East for decades. Its ability to disrupt has been highlighted in the context of the current Gaza war. In this episode, we take you to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Gaza to untangle the web of Tehran’s influence operations and explore its potential to thrive in times of crisis.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Decca Aitkenhead is the Chief Interviewer of The Sunday Times and has interviewed countless big names, from Hillary Clinton to Madonna. As she wins yet another award for her writing, she reveals how she does it – and why body language is the key to getting the rich and famous to say things they might later regret. Also in the programme, we meet the creators of two TV formats that have been sold around the world. And can you teach creativity? The creative genius behind some of the world’s most celebrated adverts says you can. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Guests: Decca Aitkenhead, Chief Interviewer, The Sunday Times; Matt Bennett, Senior Executive Producer, Shine TV; Dean Nabarro, Co-founder, Magnum Media; Sir John Hegarty, Advertising Executive, The Garage Soho.

We look at the nuclear powers and those who want to join their club. Are nuclear weapons a deterrent or a strategic show of strength? We examine what treaties are in place to control the use of nuclear weapons and how they work in practice. Are there enough checks and balances to stop escalation? Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner.

Drones have reshaped the battlefield in Ukraine - and created new challenges, raising concerns about the nature of future warfare. Drone technology has many iterations from Iran’s Shaheds and Turkey’s Bayraktars to the home-made war drone. We look into the history, the geopolitics and the worrying prospect of this tech teaming up with AI.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Taylor Swift is a media phenomenon. News outlets now have dedicated “Swift Correspondents”, Disney paid a record sum to stream her Eras tour, and she has a level of control over her music that other artists just don’t. We speak to two journalists who have the job of reporting on “Swiftonomics”” Also in the programme, a development in Hugh Grant’s legal fight with one of Rupert Murdoch’s newspaper groups. The actor accused The Sun of bugging his car and burgling his flat. Now he says he’s settled the allegations – which have been denied - for “an enormous sum”. And how to report the polarising topic of gender identity. In the UK a review has been published into what care children and young people who were questioning their gender were getting from health services. It makes recommendations for clinicians – but what lessons are there for journalists who want to report on the issue? Presenter: Katie Razzall Guests: Laura Snapes, Deputy Music Editor, The Guardian; Augusta Saraiva, Economics Reporter, Bloomberg; Jake Kanter, Investigations Editor, Deadline; Hannah Barnes, Associate Editor, New Statesman; Rebecca Coombes, Head of Journalism, The BMJ

The New York Stock Exchange is the largest in the world, valued today at over $25 trillion - but does it spread wealth or increase inequality? And what market forces are at play? Claire Graham asks the BBC’s North America business correspondent Erin Delmore the big questions. We also find out what stock market indexes like the Dow Jones actually measure, and which stocks are dubbed the ‘Magnificent Seven’.

As it marks a year of war with no end in sight, Sudan faces the largest humanitarian and displacement crisis in the world. There are fears that if not stopped, the conflict could further destabilise an already volatile region. We try to piece together the picture from the few trusted sources that are left on the ground - journalists working in hiding and in constant danger. And a warning - there are distressing details.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Technical producer: Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Donald Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, continues to make headlines with its public listing. Billy Boozer, its former Chief Product Officer, reveals what it was like setting up the company with Trump. We're also joined by Prof Joshua Tucker and Prof Yini Zhang who has investigated how Trump has used Truth Social and X to drive news media attention.

The Executive Chairman of the Sky News Group, David Rhodes shares his plans for Sky News – and on his years as a senior TV news exec in New York.

Elon Musk has predicted that AI will surpass human intelligence within a year. OpenAI and Meta have also said that they're on the brink of releasing new AI models that will be capable of reason and planning. What will be the impact of these advanced AI models on the news media? We're joined by Madhumita Murgia, the AI Editor at the Financial Times, and author of a new book, Code Dependent, to discuss.

The origins of the Iran-cultivated alliance of like-minded states and groups taking aim at Israel and the US. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Quds, or Jerusalem, force and the Basij militias regularly feature in the news; what are they, how do they operate and how have they become so influential? In this episode, we look at the branding and the ideological blueprint of the Tehran-led influence network that has been shaping events in the Middle East for decades.

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Have US diplomats been targeted by Russian sonic weaponry? Unexplained symptoms such as dizziness reported by personnel working around the globe have been dubbed "Havana Syndrome". Now a joint report between The Insider, Der Spiegel and CBS's 60 Minutes, alleges it’s the result of their brains being targeted by "directed energy" weapons operated by a secretive Russian military unit. The Media Show meets one of the journalists involved in the story. Moscow has denied the accusations. US officials have previously said it was unlikely a foreign power was to blame. British counter terrorism officers are investigating the stabbing last Friday of an Iranian TV host outside his home in London. Iran International presenter Pouria Zeraati was hospitalised, before being discharged and moving to a safe place under the supervision of the Metropolitan Police. The channel says it provides independent coverage of events in Iran and that it has faced a "significant escalation in state-backed threats". Iran's charge d'affaires in the UK said "we deny any link" to the latest incident. And as Gmail celebrates its 20th anniversary, how useful is email today as a form of communication? Or has it been overtaken by messaging apps like WhatsApp?

Who is behind the Crocus City Hall attack? Within an hour of last week’s deadly attack on a concert hall outside Moscow, a campaign was gathering momentum to blame Kyiv for the atrocity while a parallel storyline claimed it was a Russian false flag operation. We track the blame game: the narratives and the counter-narratives underpinned by generous doses of disinformation. Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

The water dispute driving the turbulent relationship between Afghanistan and Iran is in an area faced with worsening climate change. The waters of the Helmand river are a lifeline for border communities, and a live wire that has at times nearly sparked wars. We follow the twists and turns of the row between Kabul and Tehran, and the shifting role of the Taliban within it.

Presenter: Krassi Twigg Producer: Kriszta Satori

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines what’s next for Vladimir Putin after winning re-election, analyses the possibility of civic unrest in the United States as Joe Biden and Donald Trump compete for the Presidency, and looks at the battle between miners and environmentalists over extracting rare metals from the bottom of our deepest oceans.

How water is used as a weapon of war following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. An irrigation system, once created at Stalin’s order as a project of grand Soviet social engineering, is now running dry. We dig into the history of the Crimean water dispute - the surprising twists and turns and the narratives constructed by both Russia and Ukraine.

Presenter: Krassi Twigg Producer: Kriszta Satori

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Russia has turned the tide in its war in Ukraine, looks at the situation in Haiti in the wake of the gang violence sweeping the country, and examines whether in the future oceans will be navigated by unmanned ships.

Gang violence has turned the small Caribbean nation into a “living nightmare”, with rapes, kidnappings and killings a daily occurrence. More than a decade after a devastating earthquake - and billions of dollars spent on recovery - Haiti is back on its knees. Plans for a new Kenya-led, UN-approved security deployment have stalled amid a debate about how much of a help or hindrance foreign assistance is. We check-in with the reality on the ground and take stock of the arguments.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the humanitarian situation in Gaza, analyses what it would take to bring peace to the conflicts there and in Ukraine, and explores the significance of the meeting of the National People’s Congress in China.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza, examines Donald Trump’s legal problems, and looks at the issues behind the widespread protests by European farmers.

Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at Vladimir Putin’s position after the death of Alexei Navalny, examines the situation in Ukraine two years after the Russian invasion, and analyses the possibility of a new war in Europe.

John Simpson, talks to Jeremy Bowen, the BBC's international editor, who analyses whether Israel can win its war in Gaza. He examines what is really happening to the Chinese economy with BBC Asia Pacific editor Celia Hatton and looks at what the outcome of Indonesia’s elections might mean for the world’s third largest democracy with Jonathan Head, the BBC's South East Asia correspondent.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses how the Russian economy has thrived despite Western sanctions, examines the American military’s role in the Middle East, and looks at the developing food crisis in Ethiopia.

Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt

This week John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Ukraine can win its war with Russia without the wholehearted support of the West, examines what effect the International Court of Justice’s ruling on Israel might have on the war in Gaza, and looks at the challenges ahead following an expected general election in Britain this year.

Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, asks whether the war in Gaza is beginning to slip away from Israel, examines the implications of Iran’s missile strike on Pakistan, and considers what the inauguration of a temple in India means for the forthcoming elections there.

Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the strategy behind the US and UK attacks on the Houthis in Yemen, analyses whether the elections in Taiwan have made an invasion by China more likely, and looks at the implications of Donald Trump’s dominant victory in Iowa.

Produced by Max Horberry and Benedick Watt

The World Bank was originally established after World War Two with the goal of eradicating poverty and establishing shared prosperity. With new challenges such as health crises, climate change and the establishment of the Asian Development bank, the World Bank’s purpose is under greater scrutiny than ever before, but has its core mission changed? Michelle Fleury, the BBC’s North America business correspondent, talks to Claire Graham about the origins and purpose of the World Bank, and the current challenges it faces as it tries to support sustainable development throughout the world.

In recent years, many sports have received huge investment from oil-rich petrostates, and while the term ‘sportswashing’ is relatively new, the idea of using sport as a way to deflect negative publicity has been around for years. The impact of recent huge investment has changed the landscape for football, golf, F1, cricket and boxing and many believe this to be a new form of soft power for those involved. Dan Roan, sports editor at BBC News, talks to Claire Graham about the accusation that countries are investing in sport and high-profile events to improve their international reputation.

Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa make up what is currently called BRICS, a group of emerging economies which is challenging the Western-dominated order and institutions through its collective power. Its New Development Bank is seen as a rival to the World Bank and IMF. Its political and financial strength looks set to grow, with a soar in applications from other nations to join. Its latest expansion will see the bloc at least double in size in 2024. But what are its aims? And how does it plan to achieve them? BBC correspondent Emir Nader talks to Claire Graham about this growing club of nations and its potential influence around the world.

Many global health experts believe we should brace ourselves for more epidemics and pandemics in the future. But deadly diseases are not exactly new. Since 1948, the World Health Organization’s aim has been "the attainment by all people of the highest possible level of health". Many would say its greatest achievement has been the eradication of smallpox; in more recent years, some were critical of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Tulip Mazumdar, the global health correspondent for BBC News, speaks to Claire Graham about the organisation’s successes, failures and future.

Can anything break the stalemate in the Ukraine war? Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, tells the BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, about growing tensions for President Zelensky as so little progress is made on the frontline. As the UN exits countries in Africa, diplomatic correspondent, James Landale, asks if the organisation meant to promote peace, security, and cooperation around the world is still fit for purpose. Plus, science editor, Rebecca Morelle, shares the latest extraordinary discoveries in space.

A secret intelligence pact between the UK and US began during the Second World War, focused on intercepting communications and breaking codes. Expanding to what is now known as Five Eyes, with the addition of Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the secrecy around the alliance continued for decades. It wasn’t until 2013, when the ex-NSA contractor Edward Snowden leaked classified documents, that the extent of its operations came into the public spotlight. Gordon Corera, the BBC’s security correspondent, talks to Claire Graham about the origins of this spy network and how relevant it is in a modern digital world.

Wilders’ Dutch victory sends tremors around Europe so why is migration now top of the European political agenda? Europe editor, Katya Adler, gives world affairs editor, John Simpson, her analysis. Also, once the ceasefires end, we ask Jeremy Bowen what does the future hold for Israel? And as COP28 opens with the head of the state oil company, Sultan al-Jaber, as its president, a BBC documentary, Breathless, exposes how oil giants are risking the health of millions in the Gulf with toxic air pollution.

A ceasefire in Gaza but BBC world affairs editor John Simpson, asks Yogita Limaye - who has been gathering material from the area - what it is like for those living there? Also Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, on why Vladimir Putin might welcome unrest in the Middle East. We also turn to Argentina and ask South American correspondent, Katy Watson, what the new president - a former tantric sex guru and admirer of Donald Trump - might do for the economy. Plus, COP28 is on the horizon but its president this year is UAE oil boss Sultan al-Jaber. Why?

The Israel Gaza conflict has commanded attention in every corner of the globe and has created what media present as unprecedented polarisation. Leaders seeking a bigger role on the world stage have used this as an “ideological purity test” and an opportunity to promote their own vision of a multi-polar world.

Get in touch: [email protected]

Producers: Kriszta Satori, Elchin Suleymanov Presenter: Krassi Twigg

China and the US make deals on the military and fentanyl trafficking. The BBC's World Service's Asia Pacific editor, Celia Hatton, explains why the two superpowers need each other now more than ever. Plus, how long can Israel continue to count on the West’s support in the conflict in Gaza? BBC reporter Guy Hedgecoe finds out if the Spanish Prime Minister can stave off Catalan independence and Moe Myint Myint reveals why the Myanmar military's days might be numbered.

The war of narratives reflecting power tilts in the Middle East. Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on 7 October, which is said to have killed an estimated 1,300 people, triggered a war in Gaza that has so far claimed more than 10,000 lives. A “Ground Zero” moment for Israel, “a golden opportunity” for Jihadists, a window for those opposing normalisation with Israel. We explore the narratives, and the driving forces behind them, to understand how this war could change the region.

Security correspondent, Frank Gardener, gives his take on the future of the region. The BBC's World Affairs editor, John Simpson, also asks Mini Al-Lami from BBC Monitoring what jihadi groups make of the conflict. He has over 100 charges against him but might Donald Trump be on his way back to the White House? North America editor, Sarah Smith, looks ahead to the US elections next year. Plus - pressures on Germany as immigration keeps growing. Is the country reaching a tipping point? Berlin correspondent, Jessica Parker, gives her view.

BBC World Affairs editor, John Simpson, is in Lebanon - a country deeply nervous it might get sucked into yet another war with Israel. So what are the chances it will? Analysis from Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega. Lebanon has been politically and economically unstable for years. It is also hugely diverse. Jim Muir- a stalwart of the BBC’s reporting in Lebanon for nearly 50 years - shares his view on the nation today.

Will Israel launch a ground assault in Gaza and, if they do, what is at stake? BBC World Affairs editor John Simpson gets the latest from Middle East correspondent Tom Bateman.

Plus, World Service Middle East editor, Sebastian Usher, examines the position of other Arab countries in the region - is there a chance they will get dragged into the conflict?

Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine rages on but, as the winter draws in, is Ukraine any closer to victory?

After a shock primary win, far-right libertarian economist Javier Milei is leading polls ahead of Argentina's presidential election. He's vowing to upend the status quo. With poverty rising, inflation into triple digits and recession looming, Argentinians are divided over who to trust to lead them out of the crisis. The intensifying virulence of the debate in the already polarised political landscape makes that choice even harder.

Israel starts 'a prolonged and powerful campaign' in Gaza. What might be the consequences? BBC World Affairs editor John Simpson analyses the fallout.

Also in the programme: diplomatic correspondent James Landale examines why European leaders are changing the way they tackle mass migration; senior North America reporter Anthony Zurcher explores why the United States has become increasingly ungovernable; and a BBC Eye Investigations team uncovers deadly loan apps in India and beyond. Reporter Poonam Agarwal reveals the trap ensnaring some of the world's poorest people.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

Short-term politics gets in the way of dealing with an ever-warming planet. The BBC's climate editor, Justin Rowlatt, discusses the problems with how democracies tackle climate change with the BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson.

With no victory in sight, are some leaders in Europe growing weary of supporting Ukraine? The BBC's Europe editor, Katya Adler, outlines the growing tensions inside the EU.

What next for Niger now the military is in charge, and what might it mean for the region? West Africa correspondent Mayeni Jones explains what she learnt from those on the ground after gaining rare access to the country. And Armenians have fled Nogorno-Karabakh. Kian Sharifi from BBC Monitoring analyses what's at stake for neighbouring countries.

Photo: Fridays for Future climate rally in Italy, Naples - 06 Oct 2023. Credit: Photo by CESARE ABBATE/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

Now Yevgeny Prigozhin is dead, can anyone in Russia challenge President Putin’s power? BBC Russian news editor Famil Ismailov gives us his vision of the future for Ukraine.

Machismo in Mexico is alive and kicking, but it looks like the country’s heading for its first female president. South America correspondent Katy Watson analyses what this might mean for women’s rights and society as a whole. Plus, after more than a decade in South Africa, BBC correspondent Andrew Harding reflects on the highs and lows and his hopes for the nation’s future.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Ben Watt

What next for the notorious Wagner group after the plane crash that wiped out its leadership? The Russian private military group that’s left boot prints in Europe, the Middle East and Africa is facing an uncertain future. We look at official movements and narratives - in Russia and abroad - to lift the deliberate veil of murkiness and find the clues.

Get in touch: [email protected]

Producer: Kriszta Satori Presenter: Krassi Twigg

Iranian women are still fighting for freedom, despite government crackdowns. World Service correspondent Faranak Amidi speaks to the BBC’s world affairs editor, John Simpson, about the fight for equality. They also discuss what has changed since Mahsa Amini's death in police custody.

We also ask BBC Ukrainian editor Marta Shokalo what life is like now in Ukraine, with the war showing no sign of ending anytime soon. And how much of a threat are Chinese spies to the West? The BBC’s security correspondent, Gordon Corera, reveals how today’s espionage works.

Russia and Turkey failed to reach an agreement to bring Ukrainian grain to countries that desperately need it, at a meeting in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. What are the obstacles - and the implications for global food security? The Global Jigsaw team brings together Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Middle East and Africa experts to assess what could happen next.

As a US territory, Puerto Rico uses the dollar, its people are US citizens and they can move freely back and forth. However, it isn’t a US state, and its residents can’t vote in presidential elections or for members of Congress.

The country has a deep debt crisis, high unemployment and has experienced devastating hurricanes and earthquakes. As a result, migration to the US is common, with almost a million more Puerto Ricans in the US than on the island. In 2020, a non-binding referendum resulted in Puerto Rico voting again to become a US state. But will it ever happen?

BBC Mundo’s Ronald Avila-Claudio tells us more about his homeland and what the future might hold.

Presented by Claire Graham and produced by Owen McFadden for the BBC World Service.

After unilaterally declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo has been recognised by many countries, but not Serbia, which still claims it as one of its provinces. After the break-up of the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Serbia cracked down on Kosovo separatists, resulting in a NATO military intervention in 1999. Tensions have remained high and have begun to flare up again in recent years.

The majority Albanian population mostly supports independence, but in the northern areas of Kosovo, Serbs are the majority, and many refuse to recognise Kosovan institutions. BBC Serbian reporter Aleksandar Miladinović explains these divisions, and considers if relations between the two countries can ever be normalised.

Nato members agree to support each other if they come under attack. That’s the fundamental purpose of Nato, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, formed in the wake of World War II. But how has its remit changed in the seven decades since its foundation? Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, more states have sought to join Nato, but its expansion is perceived as a threat by President Putin.

James Landale, the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent, explains how Nato works and what challenges lie ahead for the organisation.

How has Venezuela, home to the world's largest oil reserves, become crippled with food and medicine shortages, hyper-inflation, violence and corruption? Hugo Chavez promised a socialist revolution in the 1990s, using high oil prices to fund his economic developments. However, during his time in power, he became increasingly autocratic and the economy slumped. Following Chavez’s death, Nicolas Maduro, also from the socialist PSUV party, became President but global oil prices began to plummet. The economy went into freefall and controversial elections in 2018 have led to ongoing political unrest. Jorge Pérez, a BBC Mundo journalist, explains how Venezuela descended into chaos.

With its foundations in the ashes of World War II, the European Union was initially formed to avoid further wars and remove trade barriers. It grew from a six-nation club as the ECC in 1957, to today’s 27 members that covers much of the continent and has evolved to tackle contemporary issues such as mass migration, a global pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

In recent years, it survived a wave of Euroscepticism that led to Britain leaving (Brexit), but other member states have looked to reform from within, preferring to stay part of the larger bloc during uncertain times.

Katya Adler, the BBC’s Europe Editor, shares insights into the EU from its foundation to its contemporary challenges.

In 2017, a deadly crackdown by Myanmar's army resulted in the mass exodus of Rohingya Muslims across the border into Bangladesh. Years later, many of those who fled are still in refugee camps.

But why have the Rohingya people become stateless? And will they ever return to Myanmar, which is now run by a military junta after a coup ousted Aung San Suu Kyi and her government in 2021.

The BBC’s Burmese Editor, Soe Win Than, explains how tensions grew in the Rakhine State and explores if the Rohingya Muslims and Rakhine Buddhists could ever live side by side again.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

What is the difference between a war crime, a crime against humanity and genocide? And who holds those responsible to account?

Anna Holligan, the BBC's correspondent in The Hague, gives an insight into how the International Criminal Court works. She shares some of the cases of those who have been charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community, from Congolese warlord Thomas Lubang to Bosnian Croat war criminal Slobodan Praljak.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

What should we done with stolen treasures? The BBC's culture editor, Katie Razzall, confronts colonialism's legacy with world affairs editor John Simpson. John also finds out if victory is finally in sight for the Ukrainians. Security correspondent Frank Gardner thinks it might be if they can push past the Russians' strong defences - but not all Ukrainians are up for fighting. Eastern Europe correspondent Nick Thorpe has been on the trail of those who risk life and limb to escape the front line. Plus, who might fill the vacuum left by first French and now UN troops leaving Mali - Wagner or jihadis? Beverly Ochieng from BBC Monitoring reveals a precarious state of affairs.

Since Haiti’s devastating earthquake in 2010, the country has been in turmoil. Some 200 gangs have taken control in the absence of a functioning state, with murder, kidnapping and rape becoming commonplace. President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in 2021 and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight to the violence.

Harold Isaac, a Port-au-Prince based journalist, explains how Haiti has descended to this point, and if there’s any hope of a more stable future for the country.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

President Putin's days might well be numbered, BBC Russian service editor Famil Ismailov tells world affairs editor John Simpson. John also hears from Ukrainian journalist Olga Malchevska about how united Ukrainians are as the war drags on, and finds out why President Biden rolled out the red carpet for India’s prime minister - and what it says about China - with BBC Hindi reporter Zubair Ahmed. Plus, is populism in politics finally on the way out? Diplomatic correspondent James Landale gives his take on some of the world's most memorable leaders.

Protests, power cuts and bank hold-ups – Lebanon was already struggling before the 2020 port explosion that devasted its capital, Beirut, but now it’s in a desperate economic collapse. The Lebanese people are struggling to buy basic food and medicine. And the country also hosts the highest number of refugees per capita worldwide. BBC correspondent in Beirut, Carine Torbey, tells us how Lebanon got here and how it might recover. Presenter: Claire Graham. Producer: Owen McFadden.

Chinese service editor Howard Zhang speaks to world affairs editor John Simpson about Xi Jinping's growing ambition and what it means for China - and the rest of us. We also speak to Olga Ivshina, BBC News Russian correspondent, to find out how many Russian soldiers have really died so far in the war - a figure that's a lot higher than the Kremlin will admit - and we find out why the Saudis are so keen to get their hands on major sports tournaments with sports editor Dan Roan. Plus, the seas around the UK and Ireland are hotter than ever before. We ask environment correspondent Matt McGrath how worried we should be.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

The Wagner group has been linked to military conflicts around the world, but who are they?

The Russian mercenary organisation is believed to have been founded nearly 10 years ago, but ramped up recruitment in recent years, particularly since the beginning of Russia's war in Ukraine. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, it now commands 50,000 fighters in Ukraine alone, but is said to have links to other parts of the world, particularly in many African nations.

BBC Russia’s Andrei Goryanov has been based in Riga, Latvia since the BBC Russian Bureau relocated after the invasion of Ukraine. He explains who the Wagner Group are, where they have been and how aligned they are with President Putin and his government.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

The BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, asks defence correspondent Jonny Beale where the war in Ukraine is heading and what victory might look like; finds out from North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher if any of the Republican presidential candidates will give Donald Trump a run for his money; analyses a new era in relations in the Middle East with Baran Abbasi from BBC Persian; and explores why South Africa is in so much trouble, and what can be done about it, with South Africa correspondent Nomsa Maseko.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt.

The BBC's world affairs editor, John Simpson, asks Russia editor Steve Rosenberg what the mood is like in Russia as the war gets closer to home; finds out from South Asia editor Rebecca Henschke why no one is taking any notice of the brutal civil war in Myanmar; and asks Balkans correspondent Guy Delauney why tensions are flaring up again in Kosovo. John also speaks to former Beijing correspondent John Sudworth, to find out if Covid really originated from a lab in Wuhan after all.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

Can the US transform the world's economy? We get the detail - and why it matters for the rest of us - from economics editor Faisal Islam. And our host, the BBC’s world affairs editor John Simpson, asks Olga Robinson from BBC Verify how the new team goes about sorting fact from fiction in Russia's war with Ukraine. BBC Urdu's Farhat Javad examines what's next for cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan in Pakistan. And environment correspondent Helen Briggs marvels at thousands of newly discovered ocean creatures already at risk from deep sea mining.

Produced by Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

Unspun World provides an unvarnished version of the week's major global news stories with the BBC's world affairs editor John Simpson and the BBC's unparalleled range of experts.

This week, John finds out what it's like to report from the battlefield with Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse; Asia Pacific editor Celia Hatton on President Xi's gameplan; how worried should we be about artificial intelligence, with technology editor, Zoe Kleinman, and what is fuelling the political, economic and social turmoil in Ecuador, with BBC's Mundo's Ana Maria Roura.

Unspun World provides an unvarnished version of the week's major global news stories, with the BBC's world affairs editor John Simpson and the BBC's unparalleled range of experts.

This week John explores the ongoing war effort in Ukraine with BBC Monitoring's Vitaliy Shevchenko; the future of Turkey with international correspondent Orla Guerin; what President Assad of Syria's rehabilitation will mean for Syrians, with Middle-East correspondent Lina Sinjab, and he speaks to the BBC's science correspondent, Pallab Ghosh, about the pangenome. What is it, and how can it help humanity?

Producers: Pandita Lorenz and Benedick Watt

On a mission to make sense of the world. A new podcast, with hosts John Simpson and Claire Graham. Episodes released weekly from 20 May 2023.

This year marks 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement, signed by politicians from Northern Ireland and the British and Irish governments in an attempt to bring peace to Northern Ireland. Over his 26 years at the BBC, Denis Murray reported extensively on the peace process, including this pivotal moment. He explains to Claire Graham how it came about, its legacy and how it's still discussed in today's political battles.

Producer: Owen McFadden Presenter: Claire Graham

Relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia have historically been difficult. Eritrea won independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a 30-year war. A bitter border war between the two countries began a few years later. But by 2020, Eritrea sent troops to fight alongside the Ethiopian government against rebel forces in its northern Tigray region.

Kalkidan Yibeltal is a BBC correspondent in Addis Ababa. He explains the complex history between the two countries, and looks at the tentative peace now emerging in Tigray.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

A military coup in 1989 brought Omar al-Bashir to power, until being overthrown by the military in the face of mass protests in 2019. During this time, war has raged in Darfur, South Sudan has gained independence and the Sudanese people demanded a return to civil government.

BBC journalist Mohanad Hashim grew up in Khartoum and has reported extensively on the Middle East and Africa. He speaks to Claire Graham about Sudan’s journey from independence to revolution.

Producer: Owen McFadden Presenter: Claire Graham

After almost a decade of fighting, civil war in Yemen has caused one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Nawal Al-Maghafi is a Special Correspondent with the BBC who has been reporting on the Middle East since 2012. She explains to Claire Graham how this complex war began between government backed forces and the Houthi rebels.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

China has been accused of the mistreatment of the Uyghur people in the north-western region of Xinjiang for a number of years. This Muslim ethnic group are distinct with different culture, language and history to China's ethnic majority, Han Chinese. But why did the government start this crackdown? And what’s really going on?

Senior correspondent John Sudworth was based in China for nine years, and reported on the treatment of the Uyghur people. He speaks to Claire Graham to help us understand the region and how Xinjiang became a surveillance state.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

Cuba and the United States share a long, complex history. From the Spanish-American War of 1898 to Fidel Castro's Cuba, these neighbours have often had an uneasy relationship. Claire Graham speaks with BBC World Service journalist Ana Maria Roura to understand the history between the two nations.

Fifty years ago, Jane Roe found herself at the centre of a ruling that would fuel US politics for the following decades. The Roe V Wade case gave women the constitutional right to abortion, until 2022 when it was overturned by the US Supreme Court.

Claire Graham speaks with Katty Kay about the 1973 legal case, the legacy of that ruling and how abortion became such a central issue in contemporary American politics.

Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

Inspired by the Arab Spring, peaceful protests began in Syria in early 2011. However, a complex civil war followed which has lasted over a decade and involved many other countries. Lina Sinjab, a BBC Middle East correspondent, explains how the conflict in her native country began. From the arrest and torture of protesting teenagers in Daraa to the rise of the Islamic State (IS), the last 12 years have devastated the country and inflicted immense suffering on the Syrian people. Is there an end to war in sight? Presenter: Claire Graham Producer: Owen McFadden

Claire Graham talks to former BBC foreign correspondent Kevin Connolly about what has historically bound Russia and Ukraine together, and what has pulled them apart.

Claire Graham talks to the former BBC News Africa Bureaux Chief, Milton Nkosi, to get a better understanding of why the post-apartheid dream of a ‘Rainbow Nation’ has still not materialised.

The Explanation is a snackable audio guide giving you the backstory behind the headlines. Unpacking complex chains of events, The Explanation will make the stories in question much easier to understand.

Claire Graham and guests explain the important, long-running stories that are in the newsClaire Graham talks to the BBC’s Middle East correspondent, Anna Foster, to get a better understanding of how the Saudi Royal family has maintained a strong global influence in spite of events which have drawn worldwide criticism.

Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s Taiwan correspondent, Cindy Sui, to get a better understanding of China’s reluctance to accept Taiwan’s strengthening independence, and why reunification is so important to China.

Audio for this episode was updated on 30 March 2022.

Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s West Africa correspondent, Mayeni Jones, to get a better understanding of how Boko Haram, the militant Islamic group, took hold in northern Nigeria.

Claire Graham talks to the BBC’s Correspondent in Seoul, Laura Bicker, to get a better understanding of North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries.

Anu Anand talks to Quentin Sommerville about the rise, fall and potential re-emergence of the Islamic State group.

Anu Anand talks to Sarah Rainsford about how everyday life in Russia has changed under Vladimir Putin.

Anu Anand talks to Yogita Limaye about the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan. They reveal how a turbulent history dictates the ever-shifting attitudes towards women and girls in the country.

Presented by Anu Anand

Anu Anand talks to Rana Rahimpour about how decades of turbulence have shaped Iran, and why religion, democracy and ideals all combine to explain Iran today.

How did the relationship between Israelis and Palestinians reach its current point? Jeremy Bowen talked to Anu Anand in 2021 about the backstory behind the headlines.

Why are there democracy protests in Hong Kong? Anu Anand talks to Stephen McDonell.

The Explanation is a snackable audio guide giving you the backstory behind the headlines. In each episode, presenter Anu Anand meets a BBC News correspondent who has lived and breathed these stories. She’ll hear clear analysis along with powerful archive. The Explanation will go back in time to unpack complex chains of events and will make the stories in question much easier to understand.