SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER 2024

SAT 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqn0yh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 00:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct5q2x)
The science of Santa

As news breaks that archaeologists have found the tomb of St Nick in Turkey, we check in on the North Pole Father Christmas, and fact-check his present giving schedule with advanced level physics and a Gant chart.

Plus, prepare for stories of reindeers high... despite their apparent immunity to their favourite hallucinogenic mushroom treats. And we burrow into Santa’s iconic beard to find any microbial magic that lives there.

And yet more reindeer magic, this time the mysteries of their amazing body clocks, which they seem to be able to switch on and off at will... AND we reveal Rudolf the red nose reindeer’s big secret. You’ll never hear that song in the same way again

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Phillys Mwatee and Camilla Mota
Producers: Emily Knight, Alice Lipscombe-Southwell and William Hornbrook
Sound engineer: Searle Whittney


SAT 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqn4pm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 01:06 Business Matters (w172zbfvl91zdvh)
Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


SAT 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqn8fr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpfgv2)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbbmq4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 02:32 Stumped (w3ct5whr)
Bowling legends R Ashwin and Tim Southee retire from international cricket

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss two international retirements after both Tim Southee and Ravichandran Ashwin hung up their bowling boots and ask how will they be remembered?

Plus, after Ben Stokes suffers a reoccurrence of his hamstring injury, we look at the life of an international physio and how their workload is increasing. The Stumped team are joined on the show by Gloucestershire physiotherapist Kirk Russell, he was with the England team from 1998 until 2011 and also worked with Delhi in the IPL.

Photo: India's Ravichandran Ashwin (C) celebrates after taking five-wicket haul during the third day of the fifth and last Test cricket match between India and England at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on March 9, 2024. (Photo by Sajjad HUSSAIN / AFP via Getty Images)


SAT 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnd5w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 03:06 Outlook (w3ct699v)
Outlook Mixtape: Snowy dreams and wrestling scenes

Cosmo Lombino is a fashion icon, having dressed Nicole Kidman, NSYNC, Britney Spears, Beyoncé and Lana Del Rey. Her chaotic childhood in the 80s was loving, with a deep vein of religion, but cocaine use was common in Cosmo's family. Still her talents and work ethic were undeniable and despite her own drug use, Cosmo opened her shop on Melrose Avenue in LA and started dressing the rich and famous. But when addiction caught up with her, she lost her business and had to fight to get her life and empire back.

Champion wrestler Anthony Robles was always a sporty kid. He was born with one leg but refused a prosthetic as it slowed him down. When he discovered wrestling at high school in America, he saw the chance to compete with the very best. His mother Judy was at every single match and together they tell the story of his extraordinary rise through one of the toughest sports.

As a 16-year-old boy in Togo, Tété-Michel Kpomassie knew he had to escape. It was the late 1950s, and his father had ordered him to train as a priest in a snake cult. But Tété-Michel was terrified of snakes after a close encounter up a coconut tree that had nearly cost him his life. One day, he came across a book about Greenland. He read that there were no reptiles, only ice, and he was intrigued by the Inuit people. So he set out on an eight-year odyssey to reach this mysterious country. (This episode was first broadcast in February 2022)

In 1978, Birgit Hamer was a 21-year-old model visiting Sardinia with her family. On a beautiful summer’s day, she, and her younger brother Dirk were invited on a boat trip with a group of Italian friends. They were headed for the nearby glamorous French island of Cavallo, but what started as a joyful adventure ended in horror. In the middle of the night Birgit awoke to gunshots, she discovered her beloved brother was fatally wounded. The main suspect was Prince Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy, the son of the last King of Italy who had been holidaying on Cavallo. He always denied the charges. When Dirk then died from his injuries, Birgit made a promise that would change the course of her life.

Presenter: India Rakusen
Producer: Laura Thomas

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: Cassette tape. Credit: Getty Images)


SAT 03:50 Witness History (w3ct5yfm)
Australian republic referendum

On 6 November 1999, voters in Australia were asked if they wanted to break ties with the British monarchy and become a republic.

The No campaign won with 55% of the vote.

Rachel Naylor speaks to former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who was chair of the Australian Republican Movement and leader of the Yes campaign, and Prof David Flint, the national convenor of Australians for a Constitutional Monarchy.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Monarchists celebrate the referendum result in Sydney. Credit: Torsten Blackwood/AFP via Getty Images)


SAT 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnhy0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 04:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct5q2x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 today]


SAT 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnmp4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpfv2g)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbbzyj)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 05:32 Amazing Sport Stories (w3ct7hmh)
The Christmas truce

The deafening roar of shells exploding, a cacophony of bullets whizzing past, the air thick with smoke. This is Belgium, 1914 and life in the trenches for British and German soldiers is the definition of misery. But for one beautiful, spontaneous moment, peace and football replaces the fighting with a Christmas Truce. This is the story of what happened that day in no man's land on the Western Front during World War One.


SAT 05:50 More or Less (w3ct5tr7)
Did Mussolini make the trains run on time?

“Say what you like about Mussolini but he did make the trains run on time.” This phrase is the political equivalent of “every cloud has a silver lining” – but does it have any factual basis?

Mussolini’s dictatorship in Italy was full of atrocities, brutal suppression and propaganda. Did it also create a more efficient railway network?

We speak to Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat about the truth of the claim and why the Mussolini regime wanted us to believe it.


Presenter: Lizzy McNeill
Producer: Lizzy McNeill
Researcher: Esme Winterbotham
Series Producer: Tom Colls
Editor: Richard Vadon
Sound Master: James Beard
Production Co-ordinator: Katie Morrison.

Image: Benito Mussolini in his train studying maps. (Photo by ullstein picture/ullstein picture via Getty Images)


SAT 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnrf8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 06:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbn0b3)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SAT 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnw5d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 07:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbn427)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SAT 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqnzxj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 08:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbn7tc)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SAT 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqp3nn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct5rcp)
Syrian prisoners and their families

It’s been two weeks since the fall of the Assad regime and the horror of the brutal and corrupt system he oversaw has been laid bare. Since the start of the civil war in 2011, it’s estimated that 100,000 people – men, women and children – disappeared without trace into Assad’s prison system.

One of our guests this week, Omar, was 15 years old when he was taken from his home to be starved and tortured in the notorious Saydnaya prison near Damascus. He tells Mark Lowen that he can never forgive his captors.

“I remember my friends who were with me, they died,” he says. “What kind of closure could I have after 14 years? I want to stay angry, and I want to remember every small detail of torture because I want to stay angry at them.”

After rebel forces released prisoners, families across the country have been able to celebrate the return of loved ones. Meanwhile, others try to discover if their loved ones are still alive. Maan in Damascus, whose older brother Muneer was arrested in 2014, and Hiba whose father was arrested in Aleppo in 2011, share their experiences with host Luke Jones.

A warning this episode contains distressing details.

Presenters: Luke Jones and Mark Lowen

BBC producers: Angela Sheeran, Laura Cress and Ben Davis. Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham.

An EcoAudio certified Boffin Media production in partnership with the BBC OS team.

(Photo: Noor in the UK Credit: Noor)


SAT 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbcgy1)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 09:32 Pick of the World (w3ct5v1l)
Which country has the best schools in the world?

More than 400,000 of you watch our education episode of The Global Story on YouTube. Plus, the Indian firm turning cigarette butts into fluffy toys, questions are raided over health advice in the Diary of a CEO - and Sharon Stone's near-death experience.


SAT 09:50 Over to You (w3ct5ttt)
Over to You

Talk back to the BBC and challenge the programme makers.


SAT 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqp7ds)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 10:06 Sportshour (w3ct5qbr)
Running to freedom and rehabilitation

We come full circle on a story we first covered in 2016 when we visited the exercise yard at San Quentin State prison in California. It houses the highest number of death row inmates in America but also has a sport sporty program designed to rehabilitate those who hope one day to be released. Rahsaan Thomas was one of those to benefit from the scheme. Released in 2023 we catch up with him to see how he is getting on after 23 years behind bars and how he has already continued his sporting life by completing the New York marathon

Team GB Hockey player Tess Howard tells us how after scoring the winning goal at the last Commonwealth Games, and that after it and with her “face and body plastered all over the papers” she "felt ashamed of herself". Knowing that she shouldn't be feeling like that, she set about making a significant change to the kit female athletes are allowed to wear in competition in her sport and women’s sport in general

Those players involved in the tournament will have practiced for many years to refine their technique. But at any time, they could be struck down by “Dartitus”. Think of the ‘yips’ in golf but for darts. It’s a condition that means the player is unable to release the dart at the end of their throwing action, and it can happen to anyone. We speak to one Players Championship Winner and World Championship finalist, a former Women's World number one and a coach conducting a 1000-hour experiment to try and crack what causes and how to resolve “Dartitus”

Photo: The yard at San Quentin State Prison in San Quentin, California is occupied by inmates getting their daily exercise in the oldest prison in the state, opened in 1852 (Credit: Mark Boster/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)


SAT 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqpc4x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpgkk7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbcqf9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 11:32 The Documentary (w3ct7hyq)
The Watermelons: Myanmar's military moles

***This program contains distressing content. The voices of all active Watermelons have been changed for security reasons***

The Myanmar military is now riddled with soldiers betraying their colleagues. Military green on the outside, rebel red within. They are known as the Watermelons.

BBC Eye goes inside the Watermelons unit to reveal how these spies are helping the armed pro-democracy resistance achieve the unthinkable.

Nearly four years since seizing power in a coup the Myanmar military now only has full control of less than a quarter of the country.

Producer/presenter: Rebecca Henschke
Producer: Jack Aung, Ko Ko Aung, Charlotte Attwood and Kelvin Brown
Sound engineer: David Crackles

(Image: Composite image of a soldier, tanks and protesters. Credit: BBC Eye)


SAT 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqpgx1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 12:06 The Global Story (w3ct7l62)
BBC Correspondents' Look Ahead to 2025

Azadeh Moshiri talks to some of the BBC’s finest correspondents about what 2025 might have in store.

The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

Producer: Ben Carter

Sound engineer: Ben Andrews

Assistant editors: Sergi Forcada Freixas and Richard Fenton-Smith


SAT 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqpln5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 13:06 Newshour (w172zb98ty8mg44)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


SAT 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqpqd9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 14:06 Sportsworld (w172zbn6ykwf0hr)
Live Sporting Action

Lee James presents live commentary of West Ham United against Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League. Everton goalkeeper Asmir Begovic and the former Nottingham Forest and Brentford manager Mark Warburton will be with us to preview the game at the London Stadium as well as the other games in the Premier League, including Crystal Palace against Arsenal.

Away from football, Sportsworld will be in Riyadh for build-up to the heavyweight boxing world title rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury. We’ll also talk American Football as qualification for the NFL play-offs reaches crunch time and talk about the state of the play in NBA ahead of the Christmas fixtures.

Photo: Alphonse Areola of West Ham United makes a save during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion at London Stadium on January 02, 2024 in London, England. (Credit: West Ham United FC/Getty Images)


SAT 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqq6ct)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rphds4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 18:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbdkn6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 18:32 Amazing Sport Stories (w3ct7hmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 today]


SAT 18:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct5wfh)
Germany’s first black national footballer

In March 1975, West Germany – the newly crowned world champions – came to London’s Wembley Stadium for a friendly against England.

Among the German squad was a 28-year-old striker who’d already attracted a lot of attention from the British media: not because he’d been hailed as the new Gerd Müller, Germany’s legendary goal scorer, but because of the colour of his skin.

Erwin Kostedde was the son of a white German mother and a black US soldier, and he had been on the receiving end of racism for most of his life – even during what he considered to be the best years of his career, at Kickers Offenbach.

He talks to Kristine Pommert about how racist taunts from supporters and even fellow players affected his game – and how he feels about being a trailblazer for young black players today.

A CTVC production for the BBC World Service.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You’ll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.

Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women’s World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football’s biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who’ve had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.


SAT 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqb3y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 19:06 The Reith Lectures (w3ct7hq1)
Can we change violent minds?

In her final 2024 BBC Reith lecture, forensic psychiatrist Dr Gwen Adshead, assesses how we deal with violent offenders and asks is it time for a rethink?

Dr Adshead assesses the effectiveness and impact of therapeutic interventions with offenders in prisons. And she asks if the public needs to change their minds about violent perpetrators.

The programme is recorded in front of an audience in Bergen, Norway, a country which has a long tradition of rehabilitating violent offenders.

(Photo: Dr Gwen Adshead. Credit: Andy Vox)


SAT 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqfw2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 20:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct5qkj)
Tyler Perry, and Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao

Nikki has 2 big interviews with 2 of the biggest names of international cinema.

She speaks with American director/writer/actor/playwright/studio boss and modern day renaissance man, Tyler Perry. His latest film The Six Triple Eight, tells the amazing true story of the only division of the US Army made up entirely of women of colour who served in Europe during the Second World War. Perry’s continual sustained success over decades at the top has made him one of the richest people in the entertainment industry but he’s still keen to invest in new talent in front of camera and facilities and crew behind it

And with Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, Indian film star and director. They talk to Nikki about Laapataa Ladies (Lost Ladies) their light satirical film about two newly-wed young women who manage to accidentally become separated from their husbands and who have to work out how to get back to them. It is comic but also has important messages about feminism, corruption, independence and – above all – love. It was selected as India’s entry to the Oscars.

(Photo: Tyler Perry at the premiere of "The Six Triple Eight" on 3 December 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Credit: Maya Dehlin Spach / WireImage / Getty)


SAT 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqkm6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 21:06 Newshour (w172zb98ty8nf35)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


SAT 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqpcb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rphwrn)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SAT 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbf1mq)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 22:32 This Is Africa (w3ct5y60)
Magic System: The Premier Gaou story

It’s 25 years since Ivorian band Magic System recorded their monster hit Premier Gaou. The song dominated French charts for weeks, and it has remained a favourite in clubs and parties across Africa and beyond ever since. It has frequently been sampled and remixed. Francis Mercier’s 2023 version has been streamed more than 48 million times on Spotify.

Premier Gaou has transformed the lives of the band members of Magic System, but this single song has also had a much wider impact, thanks to the band’s commitment to investing in their community.

This programme tells the story of Premier Gaou, and includes the voices of musicians and young fans who love it, recorded at the music festival Magic System have established in Abidjan. We also meet A’Salfo, the lead singer of Magic System, accompanying him to one of the several schools he has built, and hear about his passion for education. One of the first things he did with the proceeds of his music was to put himself through university.


SAT 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqt3g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:06 The Documentary (w3ct7hy6)
Srebrenica’s forgotten refugees

Thirty years after the war in Bosnia, survivors and their descendants find themselves permanently displaced in their own country. BBC reporter Lauren Tavriger visits the Tuzla region where families fleeing atrocities, including the Srebrenica massacre, have been living for decades in makeshift settlements originally designed as temporary. She talks to families about their experience, discovering why traumatised people are still living in a state of internal exile and reports on controversial efforts by the Bosnian authorities to clear camps and rehouse their inhabitants.


SAT 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbf5cv)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SAT 23:32 Assignment (w3ct5mtt)
Argentina - Milei's Chainsaw

It has been a year since chainsaw-wielding Javier Milei won the Presidency in Argentina. During his campaign, his chainsaw became a symbol of how quickly and drastically he wanted to cut the Argentine state. And he has slashed government budgets and sliced subsidies on power, food and transport. He stopped printing money to try and halt inflation which was running at 211.4% annually when he was sworn in.

How have his actions changed life for ordinary Argentines? Buenos Aires based reporter, Charlotte Pritchard, talks to Argentines about how they're feeling now. From the gauchos at the annual event to show off their herds of horses, to those taking advantage of a scheme to 'whiten' black-market money they have hidden under their mattress - is there hope or despair?

Produced and presented by Charlotte Pritchard
Studio Manager: Donald McDonald
Production Coordinator: Gemma Ashman
Editor: Penny Murphy

(Image: Argentine gauchos riding their horses and kicking up dust, at the Day of Tradition festival in San Antonio de Areco, Argentina. Credit: Macarena Gagliardi/BBC)

SUNDAY 22 DECEMBER 2024

SUN 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqqxvl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct5rcp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:06 on Saturday]


SUN 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbf93z)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 00:32 Amazing Sport Stories (w3ct7hmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:32 on Saturday]


SUN 00:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct5wfh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:50 on Saturday]


SUN 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqr1lq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:06 The Inquiry (w3ct5xjc)
Can Nato protect the Baltic Sea?

Accusations of sabotage have been made after a Chinese merchant ship cut through two important undersea cables in the Baltic Sea. Eight of the nine states in the Baltic are members of Nato but Russia has access to the sea from St Petersburg and for its Kaliningrad exclave.

With previous incidents of damage to underwater pipelines and cables, there is concern that the security of critical underwater infrastructure is at risk from ‘grey zone’ activities - damaging but deniable incidents below the level of outright war.

David Baker hears how countries’ security is threatened by incidents like these. The pipelines that were cut ran between Finland and Germany and Sweden and Lithuania. He asks who can intervene to protect these assets in the Baltic. Can Nato respond?

Our experts this week are: Elizabeth Braw, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council Scowcroft Centre for Strategy and Security, and the author of an upcoming book called The Undersea War; Helga Kalm, director of the Lennart Meri Conference in Tallinn, Estonia; Marion Messmer, senior research fellow in the International Security Programme at Chatham House; Tormod Heier, professor at the National Defence University College in Oslo, Norway and a former officer in the Norwegian Intelligence Service.

Presenter: David Baker
Producer: Philip Reevell
Researcher: Katie Morgan
Editor: Tara McDermott
Sound engineer: Craig Boardman

Image Credit - Rex/Shutterstock via BBC Images


SUN 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbfdw3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 01:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct69jm)
K-drama craze

K-dramas are taking the world by storm. What's the secret of their success? BBC journalists Faith Oshoko, Julie Yoonnyung Lee and Samantha Haque discuss all things K-drama and offer their recommendations for series to get stuck into during the holiday period. Plus, a day in the life of a woman bee-keeper in Nigeria with Tunde Ososanya from BBC Pidgin.

Produced by Hannah Dean and Alice Gioia.

(Photo: Faranak Amidi. Credit: Tricia Yourkevich.)


SUN 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqr5bv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpjcr5)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbfjm7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 02:32 Health Check (w3ct5t9p)
2024 in global health: a review

Claudia Hammond is joined by journalist Andrew Green to check-in on their 2024 health predictions and review just how accurate they were. Together, they explore the stories that we didn’t see coming and the game-changing medical innovations that shaped global health this year. Plus, the unusual Ig Nobel medicine prize, and a healthy dose of competition in the form of the ultimate health fact-off.


SUN 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqr92z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 03:06 The Global Story (w3ct7l62)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqrdv3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct5sjt)
Searching for Syria's missing

Pascale Harter introduces correspondents' and writers' dispatches on Syria, Myanmar, the Russian Orthodox Church and a global Morse code contest held in Tunisia.

The number of Syrians estimated to have been imprisoned, tortured and killed during the Assad dictatorship is staggering - well into the tens of thousands. Following the fall of the regime, families have flocked to the sites of prisons, hospitals and alleged mass graves to look for any trace of their missing relatives. Yogita Limaye heard grief, anger and continued anguish in the voices of those she met at a hospital morgue in Damascus.

They're nicknamed 'watermelons': the green of a military uniform on the outside, but rebel red within. Myanmar's pro-democracy rebel groups have a network of moles like these inside the country's armed forces, passing information on troop movements to their enemies. Rebecca Henschke talked to the wife of one such double agent - and to a former major in Myanmar's army who now works against the regime he used to serve.

Russia's Orthodox Church has its internal dissidents, too - a number of priests who've balked at the increasingly bellicose rhetoric they're expected to preach in support of Moscow's war on Ukraine. Some have been suspended or expelled from the Church - and others have left Russia altogether. Lucy Ash met one who now serves a different Patriarchate in the Netherlands.

Morse code is not just a binary language of dots and dashes. For those who love and practise it, it's a world unto itself - and the language which binds an international friendship group together. Monica Whitlock describes the scene at the world high-speed telegraphy competition recently held in Tunis - where everyone brings their own Morse key, the code flies thick and fast, and contestants build relationships beyond global borders.

Producer: Polly Hope
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Katie Morrison

Image: Syrians attempt to identify their relatives' bodies after fall of Assad regime. Credit: Hasan Belal/Anadolu via Getty Images


SUN 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbfs3h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 04:32 The Global Jigsaw (w3ct6r7s)
The language of war: Russia

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


SUN 04:50 Sporting Witness (w3ct5wfh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:50 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqrjl7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpjqzk)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 05:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbfwvm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 05:32 The Documentary (w3ct7hy6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 23:06 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqrnbc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 06:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbqx76)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SUN 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqrs2h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 07:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbr0zb)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SUN 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqrwtm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 08:06 Weekend (w172zcxc6pbr4qg)
A review of the week with the latest news.


SUN 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqs0kr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct5sjt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 today]


SUN 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbgcv4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 09:32 The Food Chain (w3ct5xnw)
Has Christmas food gone mad?

Prosecco flavoured crisps? Eggnog chicken? Sticky toffee pudding trifle?

The innovation for novelty Christmas products seems endless, but is there the appetite?

Ruth Alexander lifts the lid on an industry churning out festive food hits, and flops, in the race for Christmas tastebuds.

She visits the Good Housekeeping Institute in London to take part in an opulent dessert testing event, deciding which puddings are the best on the shelves this year.

Eric Nummelin and Mike Vahabi from Hela Spice in Toronto, Canada, reveal the wacky inventions they have come up with for this year, and how inspiration can strike at any time.

A former buyer for a large European supermarket chain talks about how to “win” Christmas with headline-grabbing products, and what happens when shoppers try things once and don’t go back for more.

If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: thefoodchain@bbc.co.uk

Presenter: Ruth Alexander

Producer: Hannah Bewley

(Image: Colourful Christmas treats and biscuits. Credit: Getty Images/BBC)


SUN 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqs49w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct5tx2)
The cows fighting wildfires

This summer, deadly wildfires raged in countries like Spain, Canada, and Greece. And as the earth warms up, they’re becoming increasingly common and harder to deal with. Today, we will hear about a special herd of cows which are helping to keep some of the flames under control. And we find out how cutting edge space technology could be used to quickly detect forest fires when they break out.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporter/producer: Craig Langran
Sound mix: Annie Gardiner
Editor: Jon Bithrey


SUN 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbghl8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 10:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct69jm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 01:32 today]


SUN 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqs820)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rpkggb)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbgmbd)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 11:32 The Global Jigsaw (w3ct6r7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


SUN 11:50 More or Less (w3ct5tr7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


SUN 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqsct4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 12:06 The Reith Lectures (w3ct7hq1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:06 on Saturday]


SUN 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqshk8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 13:06 Newshour (w172zb98ty8qc17)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


SUN 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqsm9d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:06 The Climate Question (w3ct5wss)
Quiz Of The Year 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, join Graihagh Jackson as she hosts The Climate Question’s inaugural Quiz of the Year. Two teams battle it out – with questions, games, and challenges looking back at the past year in climate change. Can you beat them?

Got a climate question you’d like answered? Email: TheClimateQuestion@BBC.com or WhatsApp: +44 8000 321 721

Presenter: Graihagh Jackson
Competitors: Jordan Dunbar, Dr Rose Mutiso, Jacqui Wakefield, and Dr Akshat Rathi
Producer: Ellie House
Sound Mix: James Beard
Editor: Simon Watts


SUN 14:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbgzks)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 14:32 Happy News (w3ct5sqm)
Happy News

Positive news stories


SUN 15:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqsr1j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 15:06 Sportsworld (w172zbn6ykwj14z)
Live Sporting Action

Sportsworld will have full commentary of Liverpool’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur, as well as updates from Chelsea’s match at Everton and the day’s three other games. Former Cameroon defender Sébastien Bassong joins the show to review of all the weekend’s action.

Italy’s Serie A is the focus on this week’s EuroStars, and the team will also look back at the top-two clash in Spain’s La Liga between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. There will also be reaction and analysis from the heavyweight title fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, plus we’ll be live at the PDC World Darts Championship in London.

Photo: Liverpool's Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah reacts after failing to score during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on May 5, 2024. (Credit: AFP)


SUN 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqt711)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rplffc)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbhl9f)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 19:32 The Documentary (w3ct7hz2)
Footprints: How did human feet get washed up on the west coast of Canada and the US?

In August 2007, on an island off Canada’s west coast, the remains of a human foot were found washed up on a beach.

Six days later, on another beach 50 miles away, a second foot was found. But, strangely, it does not match the first - they are from different people.

The BBC’s Celia Hatton travels to Vancouver to hear how more than 20 feet have been found in the area since then, and to speak to the investigators and scientists who worked to unravel the mystery of why they started appearing.

(Photo: A discarded trainer shoe washed up on the rocks by the shore. Credit: Dan Welsh)


SUN 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqtbs5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 20:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct5q2x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:06 on Saturday]


SUN 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqtgj9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 21:06 Newshour (w172zb98ty8rb08)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


SUN 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqtl8f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqp8rplsnr)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


SUN 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbhyjt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 22:32 The Fifth Floor (w3ct69jm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 01:32 today]


SUN 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhcpqtq0k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:06 The Climate Question (w3ct5wss)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 today]


SUN 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zgg9tfbj28y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


SUN 23:32 Pick of the World (w3ct5v1l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


SUN 23:50 Over to You (w3ct5ttt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]

MONDAY 23 DECEMBER 2024

MON 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0yp0v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 00:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct5sjt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmn197)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 00:32 The Global Jigsaw (w3ct6r7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 on Sunday]


MON 00:50 More or Less (w3ct5tr7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:50 on Saturday]


MON 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0ysrz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 01:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zr059)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 01:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmn51c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 01:32 Discovery (w3ct5rnq)
Inside Health: How can we age well?

From the Hay Festival, James and a panel of experts explain what we can all do to help ourselves age well.

We discover what’s going on in our bodies when we age, the difference between biological and chronological age, as well as getting the audience moving for a physical test.

James is joined by gerontologist Sarah Harper from the University of Oxford, biomedical scientist Georgina Ellison-Hughes from King’s College London, and doctor Norman Lazarus to understand how exercise, diet, and mental health all have a part to play in how we age.


MON 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0yxj3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zr3xf)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmn8sh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 02:32 CrowdScience (w3ct5rj6)
Will the Earth ever lose its Moon?

The Moon has always sparked human curiosity. It governs the tides and biological rhythms. It’s inspired myths and stories. It’s inspired us to reach out and explore it. And it's certainly inspired CrowdScience listeners, who have sent us a host of questions about it. And in a special lunar-themed episode we’ve brought together a panel of astronomers and planetary scientists to help answer them.

What would life be like if there was no Moon? Would there even be life? Or what if we had two moons? Are the Moon and Earth equally battered by meteors? What would happen if an asteroid collided with the Moon? And could the Moon ever escape Earth’s gravity?

Anand Jagatia is joined by Prof Sara Russell, Head of the Planetary Materials Group at the Natural History Museum in London; Prof Neil Comins from the University of Maine, author of the book What if the Moon didn’t Exist?; and Prof Katarina Miljkovic from Curtin University in Perth, Australia.

Presenter: Anand Jagatia
Producer: Jeremy Grange
Editor: Cathy Edwards
Production Co-ordinator: Ishmael Soriano
Studio Manager: Andrew Garratt

(Photo: Landscape with the rising of the full moon during the golden hour Credit: Jose A. Bernat Bacete via Getty Images)


MON 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0z187)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 03:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct5tx2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmndjm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 03:32 Pick of the World (w3ct5v1l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:32 on Saturday]


MON 03:50 Over to You (w3ct5ttt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:50 on Saturday]


MON 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0z50c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zrcdp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmnj8r)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 04:32 The Conversation (w3ct5x0l)
Women in love with romance

Datshiane Navanayagam talks to two writers of romantic fiction about their passion for creating stories that end happily ever after.

Kiru Taye wanted to read stories about Africans falling in love. When she couldn’t find those books, she decided to write the stories herself. The books in her Essien series about millionaire banker brothers are international bestsellers, she also writes about crime gangs and tribal rivalry. Kiru founded the publishing firm Love Africa Press and is a co-founder of Romance Writers of Wonderful Africa, a support organisation for African romance writers.

US writer Nisha Sharma’s books have been included in 'best-of' lists by The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, Cosmopolitan, The Washington Post, Time Magazine and more. Growing up in a South Asian home she enjoyed the romantic storylines of Bollywood movies and traditional folktales like the epic Rama and Sita. Nisha joined the corporate world but quickly turned to writing Romantic Fiction and Young Adult novels too. Her books feature business mergers and re-imagine Shakespearean comedy with a South Asian twist.


MON 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0z8rh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 05:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7sdf2)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


MON 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0zdhm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 06:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7sj56)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


MON 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0zj7r)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 07:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7smxb)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


MON 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0zmzw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 08:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t0p)
HARDtalk - 2024 Review

HARDtalk’s Stephen Sackur looks back on some of the most powerful moments from 2024 in his end of year review.


MON 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmp088)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct5zhv)
Have Swiss scientists made a chocolate breakthrough?

Chocolate is very important to Switzerland’s economy: with more than 200,000 metric tonnes produced each year, sales are worth almost $2 billion.

But there are challenges – not just over sustainability, but over exploitation. And the volatile price of cacao.

We meet the researchers who are coming up with solutions – including new, and potentially healthier, types of a favourite indulgence.

And ask: Is this enough to secure the future of chocolate?

Produced and presented by Imogen Foulkes

(Image: A scientist developing a new chocolate product)


MON 08:50 Witness History (w3ct5yhx)
'I created Masterchef'

In 1990, a cookery programme launched on BBC TV that would become a global phenomenon.

Today, Masterchef airs in 70 countries around the world and has an estimated audience of one billion people.

British film director Franc Roddam tells Vicky Farncombe how the idea for Masterchef came to him after he heard Hollywood bigwigs - including Mel Brooks - mocking British food.

He wanted to prove that the UK was a nation of talented home cooks - like his mum who was feted for her stew and dumplings.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Franc Roddam. Credit: Getty Images)


MON 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0zrr0)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zrz4b)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmp40d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 09:32 CrowdScience (w3ct5rj6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


MON 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz0zwh4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 10:06 The History Hour (w3ct5n2t)
Referendums and cannibalism

Max Pearson presents a collection of the week's Witness History interviews from the BBC World Service. Our guest is Professor Chandrika Kaul, a specialist on modern British and Imperial history at the University of St Andrews in the UK.

We start by hearing from both sides of Australia's 1999 referendum on becoming a republic.

Then, a survivor recounts the horrific 1972 Andes plane crash and the extraordinary things he had to do to survive.

We hear how the BBC put text on our television screens for the first time.

Plus, a grieving mother recounts the Taliban's horrific 2014 attack on a military school in Pakistan.

Finally, we hear how the communist authorities enforced martial law in Poland over Christmas in 1981.

Contributors:

Malcolm Turnbull - former Australian Prime Minister and leader of republican campaign.
Professor David Flint - leader of Australians for Constitutional Monarchy.
Nando Parrado - Andes plane crash survivor.
Angus McIntyre - son of Colin McIntyre, Ceefax's first editor.
Andaleeb Aftab - survivor of Pakistani military school attack.
Maciek Romejko - Polish Solidarity member and activist

(Photo: Malcolm Turnbull, leader of the Australian Republican Movement, 1999. Credit: Torsten Blackwood/AFP via Getty Images)


MON 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10078)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zs6ml)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmpchn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct6dt7)
Divorce: The art of breaking up

Divorce rates have been in decline across the West for decades. Experts put this down to a variety of factors, from fewer marriages to a widening dating pool, but cultural differences mean it is difficult to draw broad conclusions on the trends around splitting up. So how can we judge how attitudes to divorce have changed?

On today's episode Lucy Hockings is joined by divorce mediator and former BBC presenter Joanna Gosling, as well as Marina Adshade, a professor at the University of British Columbia who focusses on the economics of sex and relationships. They interrogate some of the stats on divorce, and discuss how the process of dissolving marriage is portrayed in popular culture.

The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

Producer: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Emilia Jansson
Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery and Phil Bull
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Editor is Richard Fenton-Smith


MON 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz103zd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 12:06 Outlook (w3ct5nr5)
Memory Box: The toy tiger

Outlook's Memory Box is a place to keep treasured objects that connect us to our pasts. Each day our guest will tell us the story of how the item came to be special, even though it might look perfectly ordinary to the rest of us.

This toy tiger 'Tigrou' fits in the palm of your hand and belongs to Amina Anna Sotaeva who grew up on the border of Chechnya. The tiger was a gift from her favourite uncle on her sixth birthday. Not long afterwards he was kidnapped for ransom and, faced with an increasingly lawless situation in Chechnya, the family fled their home for a new life in Paris. Amina took her little tiger with her and it became her most treasured possession. But then, when she was 27 and studying for important law exams, Amina realised with horror that her little tiger had fallen out of the pocket of her bag. She went on a desperate quest across Paris to find him.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Jo Impey

If you have a story for our memory box about an object with great personal significance, please get in touch! Email outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: Tigrou, the toy tiger; Credit: Albert Facelly)


MON 12:50 Witness History (w3ct5yhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz107qj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zsg3v)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmplzx)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 13:32 The Conversation (w3ct5x0l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


MON 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10cgn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 14:06 Newshour (w172zb9966ky6ym)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


MON 15:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10h6s)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 15:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t0p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmpvh5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct5zz3)
First broadcast 23/12/2024 15:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


MON 16:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10lyx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 16:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3n818)
2024/12/23 16:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


MON 17:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10qq1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 17:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3ncsd)
2024/12/23 17:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


MON 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10vg5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 18:06 Outlook (w3ct5nr5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


MON 18:50 Witness History (w3ct5yhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


MON 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz10z69)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zt5lm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmqbgp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct5w4h)
2024/12/23 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


MON 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz112yf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 20:06 From Our Own Correspondent (w3ct5sjt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:06 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmqg6t)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 20:32 Discovery (w3ct5rnr)
Hay Festival Special

Dr Chris van Tulleken shares stories from the making of his chart-topping podcast, Fed. In conversation with Leyla Kazim, at Hay Festival 2024.

In Fed, Dr Chris van Tulleken, investigated the entangled web of forces that shape what ends up on our plates. And he focused his investigation around one foodstuff in particular. The most widely eaten meat on our planet, a staple of nearly every diet and a global food production phenomenon: the humble chicken, Chris dug into the history of our relationship with this extraordinary animal, to try to get to the truth of why we eat so much of it, and what that means for the birds, for us, and for the planet.

In this lively conversation, recorded live at Hay festival 2024, Chris talks to Leyla Kazim about the hidden stories behind the globalised food networks of today. From industrial-scale farming, to food labelling, to ethical dilemmas, environmental quandaries, and the complexities of the world of fast food. Plus tales from the adventure that ran through the whole series: raising his own tiny flock of broiler chickens, in his back garden.


MON 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz116pk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 21:06 Newshour (w172zb9966kz25j)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


MON 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11bfp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0ztjv0)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


MON 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmqpq2)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct601c)
First broadcast 23/12/2024 22:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


MON 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11g5t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


MON 23:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t0p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


MON 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmqtg6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


MON 23:32 The Conversation (w3ct5x0l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER 2024

TUE 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11kxy)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 00:06 The History Hour (w3ct5n2t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11pp2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 01:06 Business Matters (w172zbfvykccyty)
Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


TUE 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11tf6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zv0tj)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmr5pl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 02:32 Assignment (w3ct5mtv)
Poland's Ghosts, Ukraine's Heroes

Ukraine and Poland are neighbours and close allies in today’s conflict with Russia. But the ghosts of victims of an earlier war have returned to divide them. Tens of thousands of Poles were murdered by Ukrainians in Volhynia, in what's now western Ukraine, in 1943. Most of the victims still lie in unmarked graves, and Ukraine has only just lifted a ban on exhuming the bodies.

That followed heavy diplomatic pressure by Poland, about to take over the presidency of the European Union. It threatened to block moves towards Ukrainian integration with the EU unless the ban were lifted.

But Poland’s demand has stirred a controversy inside Ukraine about one of the darkest periods of its history. Ukrainian nationalists who were involved in the massacre - and their leader Stepan Bandera - are regarded by many Ukrainians as heroes.

Reporter Tim Whewell travels through Poland and western Ukraine to try to find out what really happened in 1943, and ask whether Poland and Ukraine can ever lay a fiercely-contested history to rest. And can the record of Ukraine's Second World War nationalists be openly discussed without giving a propaganda victory to Russia, which has tried to use the subject to vilify Ukraine?

Produced and presented by Tim Whewell
Sound mix: Rod Farquhar
Research by Grzegorz Sokół, Taras Shumeiko and Serhiy Solodko
Translation by Eugenia Maresch, Grzegorz Sokół and Serhiy Solodko
Production co-ordinator: Gemma Ashman
Editor: Penny Murphy

Wild bird recordings by Izabela Dłużyk
"Lecieli Żurawie" (Cranes Were Flying) sung by Franciszka Bydychaj
"Ave Maria" from "Kres Kresów" oratorium, composer Krzesimir Dębski
"Siadła Hanula Na Posażeńku" (Hanula Sat on her Dowry) sung by Olga Kozieł and Anna Jurkiewicz, of the "Wołyń w Pieśniach" ("Volhynia in Song") project

(Image: Lyudmila Hirska, aged 86, at the ruins of the Catholic church in Kysylyn (formerly known as Kisielin), Ukraine, where Poles were massacred in 1943. Credit: Tim Whewell/BBC)


TUE 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz11y5b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 03:06 Outlook (w3ct5nr5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Monday]


TUE 03:50 Witness History (w3ct5yhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz121xg)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zv89s)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmrf5v)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 04:32 In the Studio (w3ct5tlr)
International Film School

Mark Reid visits a school in Bulgaria where they are teaching their pupils how to make movies. The school is in a small village called Dermantsi, which is 200 kilometres from the capital Sofia. Mark meets their inspirational teacher, Daniel Simeonov and film-maker Maria Dacheva. She is there to help the children make a short film for a project called Le Cinema Cent Ans De Jeunesse, which has been going for almost 30 years. Children from all around the world take part in this programme, from countries as disparate as Japan, Argentina, the United Kingdom and France. Thousands of films have been made by tens of thousands of students.

At the end of the school year, pupils from around the world gather to watch each other’s films. And to comment upon them. This year they are meeting in Lisbon. The pupils from Dermantsi have to decide which of their films to show there: their film about the local tattoo parlour, the weekly market, the sewing factory, the school bus ride, or a short documentary about their local horse market, which features a dancing horse.

Presenter: Mark Reid
Producer: Stephen Hughes


TUE 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz125nl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 05:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7w9b5)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


TUE 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz129dq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 06:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7wf29)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


TUE 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz12f4v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 07:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7wjtf)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


TUE 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz12jwz)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct5tx3)
Our favourite solutions

Presenter Myra Anubi and the team chat about some of their favourite projects that have been covered on People Fixing The World over the last twelve months.

We’ll be returning to Thailand and the school run by kids; checking in with a family of beavers which are part of an urban rewilding project in the UK and hear more about saving kelp forests in California and healthcare solutions that are really making a difference in Kenya.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporters: Claire Bates, Claire Bowes, Craig Langran, William Kremer
Producer: Katie Solleveld
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Gareth Jones

(Image: A festive Myra in the studio, BBC)


TUE 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmrx5c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct5zjc)
The wine industry's biggest challenge

Climate change is changing the way winemakers plan, harvest and make their product.

On the Greek island of Santorini we find out how new techniques of vine planting are helping to preserve water amid more frequent drought conditions.

Investors in England have realised areas in the south of country have similar weather conditions to Champagne in France, 30 years ago.

Plus we hear from experts in France and Australia to discover different methods the industry is using, and find out how new businesses are advising the global wine industry to ensure its survival in a changing world.

Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney

(Image: A picker throws the collected grapes from the vine in a tank at the Gusbourne Estate, Appledore near Ashford, England on October 28, 2022. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 08:50 Witness History (w3ct5ynf)
When instant noodles came to India

The arrival of instant noodles in India was a turning point in culinary history.

In 1983, before Maggi 2-Minute Noodles launched, the country’s food culture centred around chapati, lentils and rice and the Indian economy was still a closed market.

Sangeeta Talwar, formerly of Nestle India, tells Surya Elango how instant noodles forever changed the food habits of the country.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Maggi 2-Minute Noodles. Credit: Getty Images)


TUE 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz12nn3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zvw1f)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pms0xh)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 09:32 Assignment (w3ct5mtv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz12sd7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 10:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct5qkj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


TUE 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz12x4c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zw3jp)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pms8dr)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct6fbx)
The Global Story

.


TUE 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz130wh)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 12:06 Outlook (w3ct5p5q)
Memory Box: The leaf

Leaves fall from trees in their countless millions every autumn. But one leaf – found unexpectedly in the barren grounds of a concentration camp – would become a symbol of hope for the Second World War spy, Odette Hallowes.

After accidentally sending photos of the French coast to the War Office, Odette, a mother of three young girls, was offered a role in the Special Operations Executive (SOE). The SOE was a top secret underground army, helping local resistance movements and conducting espionage and sabotage in enemy-held territories.

Odette arrived in France in November 1942 where she worked undercover. The following year she was captured and after interrogation and torture was sentenced to death and transported to Ravensbrück, a concentration camp for women in northern Germany.

It was in that barren concentration camp that the now malnourished spy picked up a tiny, beautiful green leaf, one that would become a significant lifeline for her. Almost 80 years later, her granddaughter, Sophie Parker was looking through some of Odette’s possessions when she rediscovered that leaf.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Thomas Harding Assinder

If you have a story for our Memory Box about an object with great personal significance, please get in touch! Email outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707


TUE 12:50 Witness History (w3ct5ynf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz134mm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zwc0y)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmshx0)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 13:32 In the Studio (w3ct5tlr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


TUE 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz138cr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 14:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l13vq)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


TUE 15:00 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmsph7)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 15:02 A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols (w3ct7lbc)
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Held in the candlelit Chapel of King's College, Cambridge, this service marks for many people around the world the beginning of Christmas.
It is based around nine Bible readings which tell the story of the loving purposes of God.
They are interspersed with carols old and new, sung by the world famous Chapel Choir who also lead the congregation in traditional Christmas hymns.


TUE 16:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmsw4d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 16:32 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3r6ln)
2024/12/24 16:32 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


TUE 17:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz13mm4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 17:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3r8ph)
2024/12/24 17:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


TUE 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz13rc8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 18:06 Outlook (w3ct5p5q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


TUE 18:50 Witness History (w3ct5ynf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


TUE 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz13w3d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zx2hq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmt7cs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct5w90)
2024/12/24 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


TUE 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz13zvj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:06 Assignment (w3ct5mtv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


TUE 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmtc3x)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 20:32 Tech Life (w3ct5wn9)
Tech Life's look back at the year

From the innovations that flourished to those that flopped, from providing virtual boyfriends to taking very real jobs, we look back an another fascinating twelve months in tech – and hear from reporters, experts and listeners about which tech most changed your lives in 2024.

(Image: a montage of text message like speech boxes on a background of what looks like code. Copyright: Getty Images).


TUE 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz143ln)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 21:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l1z2m)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


TUE 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz147bs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zxfr3)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


TUE 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmtlm5)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct60bd)
First broadcast 24/12/2024 22:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


TUE 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14c2x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:06 People Fixing The World (w3ct5tx3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


TUE 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmtqc9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


TUE 23:32 In the Studio (w3ct5tlr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

WEDNESDAY 25 DECEMBER 2024

WED 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14gv1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 00:06 The Arts Hour (w3ct5qkj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:06 on Saturday]


WED 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14ll5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 01:06 Business Matters (w172zbfvykcgvr1)
Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


WED 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14qb9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zxxqm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmv2lp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 02:32 The Climate Question (w3ct5wss)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14v2f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 03:06 Outlook (w3ct5p5q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Tuesday]


WED 03:50 Witness History (w3ct5ynf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz14ytk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zy56w)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmvb2y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 04:32 Dramas (w3ct7l68)
Purple Heart Warriors

Purple Heart Warriors: 3. True Americans

The battalion heads for Europe. The soldiers spend weeks at sea in bunks stacked five high, and none of them believes that Ken is from the future.

Meanwhile, Ken remembers his childhood with his grandfather – a man whose uniform he is now wearing.

This series is inspired by real events and contains dramatised battle scenes and out-dated racial language.

Cast:

Narrator: Will Sharpe
Ken: Akie Kotabe
Lieutenant/Bus guard/Texan soldier/Reporter: Freddy Elletson
Grandpa Allan/ Mr Yamada: Clyde Kusatsu
Emily: Samantha Dakin
Little Ken: Hudson Roberts.
Mrs Tanaka/Baachan/Shirley/Li: Tamlyn Tomita
Nui Louie/Mr Okimura: Aaron Ikeda
Barry/Captain Kim/Private Sasaki/Radio man: Derek Mio
Shorty: Raiko Gohara
Ohta/Captain Minori: Matt McCooey
Drill Sergeant/General Dahlquist: Martin McDougal
Colonel Pence/Earl Finch/Col Miller: Colin Stinton
Sonny: Kurt Kanazawa
Boxer/Crooner/Pokey: Conrad Lihilihi

Written by Iris Yamashita
Sound design: Richard Gould at Skywalker Sound
Recording and mixing: Leon Chambers
Original music: Josh Sneesby
Consultant: L Stuart Hirai
Dramaturg: James Yeatman
Broadcast assistant: Teresa Milewski
Production co-ordinator: Kate Brook
Associate producers: Tim Bell & Rosa Crompton
Director: Jessica Dromgoole
Producer: Catherine Bailey.
Based on an idea by Simon Pitts

A Catherine Bailey production for the BBC World Service


WED 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz152kp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 05:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7z678)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


WED 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1569t)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 06:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7z9zd)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


WED 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15b1y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 07:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc7zfqj)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


WED 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15ft2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 08:06 HARDtalk (w3ct4p8v)
Ciarán Hinds: Is Northern Ireland a creative powerhouse?

Stephen Sackur interviews Northern Irish actor Ciarán Hinds, whose career took him from the troubled streets of Belfast to an Oscar nomination. Right now, Northern Ireland is a creative powerhouse; why, and will it last?


WED 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmvt2g)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct5znj)
Shipwrecks: The search for the San José

In the first of our three part series looking at the money behind shipwrecks, we start with what's been called "the most valuable shipwreck in the world".

The San José is a Spanish galleon sunk by the British off the Colombian coast more than 300 years ago.

The treasure onboard is estimated to be worth $18bn, which means plenty of people are looking for it, and trying to lay claim to it.

A salvage company, the Colombians, the Spanish and a Bolivian indigenous community all say the shipwreck and treasure is theirs.

We hear their claims and find out more about this "holy grail of shipwrecks".

Presented and produced by Gideon Long.

(Image: Wagner's action of Cartagena (depicting the moment the San Jose exploded) by Samuel Scott. Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London)


WED 08:50 Witness History (w3ct5yqp)
Chef to five presidents

Cristeta Comerford has cooked for some of the most powerful people in the world. She spent almost three decades as a chef in the White House, serving five presidents from Bill Clinton to Joe Biden.

On 5 August 2005, she made history by becoming the first woman and person of colour to be made executive chef of the White House kitchen.

She speaks to Dan Hardoon about making it to the White House, her most memorable state dinners, and what presidents like to eat.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Cristeta Comerford. Credit: Getty Images)


WED 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15kk6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zyryj)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmvxtl)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 09:32 The Climate Question (w3ct5wss)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15p9b)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 10:06 The Global Story (w3ct7l62)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


WED 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15t1g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zz0fs)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmw59v)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct6drv)
The Global Story

.


WED 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz15xsl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 12:06 Outlook (w3ct5pdh)
Memory Box: The cardboard piano

Teddy Otieno's love affair with the piano started when he was 13 after and watching videos of Lang Lang on YouTube. He dreamed of learning to play himself but had no access to an instrument, so he sketched out a keyboard on a piece of cardboard instead. Teddy used his cardboard piano to copy the finger patterns of his online heroes, until one day a Kenyan music charity called Ghetto Classics gave him access to a piano for real. He skipped school to practise as often as he could, until a chance encounter with concert pianist Cordelia Williams saw his talent propelled from Nairobi to a UK conservatoire – and then into the final of a reality TV show, where Teddy met the man who started him on his journey.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Julian Siddle and Anna Lacey

If you have a story for our Memory Box about an object with great personal significance, please get in touch! Email outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707


WED 12:50 Witness History (w3ct5yqp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz161jq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zz7y1)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmwdt3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 13:32 Dramas (w3ct7l68)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


WED 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1658v)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 14:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l40rt)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


WED 15:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1690z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 15:06 His Majesty The King's Christmas Message (w3ct7l65)
His Majesty the King's Christmas Message to the Commonwealth


WED 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmwn9c)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct60dn)
World Business Report

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


WED 16:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz16ds3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 16:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3v1vg)
2024/12/25 16:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


WED 17:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz16jj7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 17:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3v5ll)
2024/12/25 17:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


WED 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz16n8c)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 18:06 Outlook (w3ct5pdh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


WED 18:50 Witness History (w3ct5yqp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


WED 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz16s0h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn0zzzdt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmx48w)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct5wc8)
Sport Today: Julien Alfred - The Race of My Life

St Lucia's Julien Alfred became a household name in 2024 after storming to gold in the 100-metre final during the Paris Olympic Games. It was the first time St Lucia has ever won an Olympic medal.

In this special edition of Sport Today, she speaks to Lee James about what it took to become an Olympic champion and also having a national day in her honour back home.

Image: Julien Alfred of Team Saint Lucia celebrates winning the gold medal during the Women's 100m Final on day eight of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on August 03, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)


WED 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz16wrm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 20:06 The Climate Question (w3ct5wss)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:06 on Sunday]


WED 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmx810)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 20:32 Health Check (w3ct5t9q)
One Health in Malawi

Claudia Hammond is in Malawi exploring a movement known as “One Health”: an approach that calls for collaboration between the fields of human, animal, and environmental health, for the benefit of all. And how can this help to prevent disease when people and animals live in close proximity?

We hear how vets and researchers across Malawi are tackling diseases such as rabies, anthrax, and sleeping sickness – and how the sharing of expertise that One Health brings is crucial in their efforts.

Presenter: Claudia Hammond
Producer: Sophie Ormiston


WED 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz170hr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 21:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l4vzq)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


WED 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1747w)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn100bn6)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


WED 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmxhj8)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct60dn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:32 today]


WED 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17800)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


WED 23:06 HARDtalk (w3ct4p8v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


WED 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmxm8d)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


WED 23:32 Dramas (w3ct7l68)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

THURSDAY 26 DECEMBER 2024

THU 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17cr4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 00:06 The Global Story (w3ct7l62)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Saturday]


THU 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17hh8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 01:06 Business Matters (w172zbfvykckrn4)
Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


THU 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17m7d)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn100tmq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmxzhs)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 02:32 The Documentary (w3ct7hz4)
The street that Tech built

The city of Florence is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. But are new technologies and hyper-tourism changing it forever? For BBC World Service the writer Kamin Mohammadi tells the story of how one road – the Via San Niccolo – has changed. Kamin lived there when she first moved to the city 16 years ago, and she has seen the changes firsthand. Speaking to friends who still live on the street, and businesses who have experienced the changes, she asks what the city can do to retain the character that residents – and tourists – love.


THU 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17qzj)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 03:06 Outlook (w3ct5pdh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Wednesday]


THU 03:50 Witness History (w3ct5yqp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Wednesday]


THU 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17vqn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn10123z)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmy701)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 04:32 The Food Chain (w3ct4v82)
Table talk

What do you and your family chat about at dinner? We eavesdrop on conversations over food all over the world, hearing about poetry, politics, what is on TV and how Morag’s leg is recovering.

Whether you gossip or have more philosophical debates find out how integral good communication is while we are eating, often marking the only point in the day or week when a family gathers together.

We learn why a matchmaker thinks a dinner date might not be such a good idea after all if you want the conversation to flow. And, psychotherapist Philippa Perry tells us how to keep the peace with the family over Sunday lunch.

Presenter: Ruth Alexander
Producer: Hannah Bewley and Rumella Dasgupta

If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: thefoodchain@bbc.co.uk

(Image: Family and friends sit around the dinner table. Credit: BBC)


THU 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz17zgs)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 05:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc8234c)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


THU 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1836x)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 06:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc826wh)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


THU 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz186z1)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 07:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc82bmm)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


THU 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18bq5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 08:06 The Inquiry (w3ct5xjd)
Can Bhutan retain its happiness?

The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, sandwiched between China and India, is perhaps best known around the globe for its unconventional measure of national development: Gross National Happiness. The concept was introduced back in 1972 by the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It assesses the country’s overall wellbeing on the basis of sustainable and equitable socio-economic development; environmental conservation; preservation and promotion of culture; and good governance.

But the Bhutanese are now finding that their cautious approach to balancing economic growth with the well-being of their citizens, is proving difficult to sustain in light of mounting economic problems. The country which has a population of less than 800,000, is experiencing high levels of youth unemployment and many young people and skilled workers are leaving for countries like Australia and Canada.

To try and counter this brain drain and to attract new investment into the country to help the economy grow, Bhutan has plans to create a ‘Mindfulness City’. This multi-million dollar project is being spearheaded by the current monarch. At its core will be a scaled up, less cautious version of Bhutan’s key concept, which the Bhutanese Prime Minister has called Gross National Happiness 2.0.

So on this week’s Inquiry we’re asking ‘Can Bhutan retain its happiness?’

Contributors:
Dr Ha Vinh Tho, Founder and President, Eurasia Learning Institute for Happiness and Well-Being, Switzerland.

Dr Rishi Gupta, Assistant Director, Asia Society Policy Institute, New Delhi, India

Dr Lhawang Ugyel, Senior Lecturer, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.

Jan Eeckhout, Professor of Economics, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain


Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Jill Collins
Researcher: Matt Toulson
Editor: Tara McDermott
Technical Producer: James Bradshaw
Production Co-ordinator: Tim Fernley and Liam Morrey


THU 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmypzk)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct5zch)
Shipwrecks: Who owns the sunken treasure?

There are more than three million vessels on the world's sea beds, and plenty of explorers looking for them.

But if they find something valuable, do they get to keep it?

We talk to an arbitration lawyer about the laws governing the sea, and hear from maritime archaeologists about the perils of rummaging around on the ocean floor, disturbing long-sunken wrecks that offer a priceless glimpse into history.

Some say we should leave these ships be, especially when they’re graveyards. Others say we should bring them to the surface, put them in museums to educate people, make money from them and perhaps even sell off some of their treasure.

Produced and presented by Gideon Long

(Image: A diver looks at a shipwreck. Credit: Getty Images)


THU 08:50 Witness History (w3ct5yl5)
'Kimchi war'

In the run-up to the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, in the United States, a row broke out between Japan and South Korea over who would supply the athletes' village with kimchi.

The two countries also took their dispute to the United Nations' Codex Alimentarius, an organisation which sets voluntary standards for food.

Dr Chaelin Park from the World Institute of Kimchi tells Vicky Farncombe how South Koreans were upset because they thought Japan was "attempting to take over" their national dish.

"For Koreans, kimchi is more than just food - it’s part of our cultural identity," she says.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Kimchi. Credit: Getty Images)


THU 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18gg9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn101nvm)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmytqp)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 09:32 The Documentary (w3ct7hz4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18l6f)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 10:06 The Explanation (w3ct6pmp)
The Media Show: Jeans, cars, deodorant

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


THU 10:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmyygt)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 10:32 Happy News (w3ct5sr3)
Happy News

Positive news stories


THU 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18pyk)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn101xbw)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmz26y)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct6dv3)
The Global Story

.


THU 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18tpp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 12:06 Outlook (w3ct5nyy)
Memory Box: The medallion

To 12-year-old Ruth Hunduma, it was simply a beautiful gold medallion that her mother had gifted her. As the years rolled on, however, Ruth’s mother Tsehay began gradually revealing more details about the origins of the shimmering trinket. Tsehay said the pendant had been given to her in a particularly difficult time in her life. That was, after the Ethiopian revolution in the 1970s and the bloody period called the “Red Terror” that followed. But it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that Ruth finally got the full story. It began with her mother being abducted and imprisoned for suspected counter-revolutionary activities. Ruth has made a short documentary about it called The Medallion.

From a piece of jewellery to a smartphone, it’s horrifying to see a treasured possession sinking to the bottom of a lake or river. If you’re in California, there’s one man who could help you. His name is Mike Pelley, though he’s better known as Merman Mike. In 2020, Outlook’s Saskia Collette spoke to him about his subaquatic treasure hunts.

Mexican fisherman Marco Lizama owes his life to a food cool box. Back in 2010, he survived five days at sea by gripping onto one. We first broadcast this dramatic tale from Outlook's Clayton Conn in 2018.

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Producer: Saskia Collette

If you have a story for our memory box about an object with great personal significance, please get in touch! Email outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: Ruth Hunduma holding the gold medallion with Nefertiti's face. Credit: Saskia Collette)


THU 12:50 Witness History (w3ct5yl5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz18yft)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn1024v4)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmz9q6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 13:32 The Food Chain (w3ct4v82)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


THU 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1925y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 14:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l6xnx)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


THU 15:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz195y2)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 15:06 The Inquiry (w3ct5xjd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pmzk6g)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct603m)
First broadcast 26/12/2024 15:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


THU 16:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz199p6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 16:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3xyrk)
2024/12/26 16:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


THU 17:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz19ffb)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 17:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf3y2hp)
2024/12/26 17:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


THU 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz19k5g)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 18:06 Outlook (w3ct5nyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


THU 18:50 Witness History (w3ct5yl5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


THU 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz19nxl)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn102w9x)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn015z)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct5w6r)
2024/12/26 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


THU 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz19snq)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 20:06 The Documentary (w3ct7hz4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 02:32 today]


THU 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn04y3)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 20:32 Science In Action (w3ct5vdx)
5 Years of Covid (part 1/2)

Sars CoV-2 has been with us for five years. In the first of a 2-part special, Science in Action asks how well was science prepared for it? And are we any better prepared for the next one?


Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Alex Mansfield, with Debbie Kilbride
Production Coordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth


THU 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz19xdv)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 21:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l7rwt)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


THU 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1b14z)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn1037k9)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


THU 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn0dfc)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct605w)
First broadcast 26/12/2024 22:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


THU 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1b4x3)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


THU 23:06 The Inquiry (w3ct5xjd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


THU 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn0j5h)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


THU 23:32 The Food Chain (w3ct4v82)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]

FRIDAY 27 DECEMBER 2024

FRI 00:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1b8n7)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:06 The Explanation (w3ct6pmp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:06 on Thursday]


FRI 00:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn0mxm)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 00:32 Happy News (w3ct5sr3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:32 on Thursday]


FRI 01:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1bddc)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 01:06 Business Matters (w172zbfvykcnnk7)
Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia and the USA.


FRI 02:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1bj4h)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn103qjt)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 02:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn0wdw)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 02:32 Tech Life (w3ct5wn9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Tuesday]


FRI 03:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1bmwm)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 03:06 Outlook (w3ct5nyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 on Thursday]


FRI 03:50 Witness History (w3ct5yl5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Thursday]


FRI 04:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1brmr)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn103z12)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 04:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn13x4)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 04:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct5tg7)
From The Ashes: Notre Dame

In 2019 a devastating fire ripped through the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Locals looked on in disbelief, and millions watched on television around the world, as the iconic wooden spire came crashing down into the flames. Many thought Notre Dame was lost forever, but the 860-year-old Cathedral was not for giving up and over the past four years a team of skilled workers, at a cost of 700 million Euros, have painstakingly reconstructed this medieval masterpiece.
In this Heart and Soul Christmas special, as the doors of Notre Dame reopen, Colm Flynn travels to Paris to meet five people who say the symbolism of this Cathedral's restoration has had a profound impact on their faith. From a young wheelchair user who constructed a wheelchair for Pope Francis from the Cathedral's burnt wood, to the firefighter who saved the sacred chalice from the flames, to the young female footballer involved in the Paris Olympics who is now inspired to see the cathedral's rebirth... and a choir made up of the Cathedral's architects and carpenters singing to give thanks.
At Christmas, a time of joy and hope, the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral stands as a testament of the power of faith, not just for Christians in France, but right around the world.

Presenter/ Producer: Colm Flynn
Executive Producer: Rajeev Gupta
Editor: Chloe Walker
Production Coordinator: Mica Nepomuceno


FRI 05:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1bwcw)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 05:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc8501g)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


FRI 06:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1c040)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 06:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc853sl)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


FRI 07:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1c3w4)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 07:06 Newsday (w172zbkdqc857jq)
Live news, business and sport from around the world.


FRI 08:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1c7m8)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t4n)
Steven McRae: Should ballet do more for young dancers?

Mishal Husain speaks to Steven McRae, a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet in London. He had a meteoric rise to the top, defying serious injuries along the way. At 38, he’s still in the game, beyond the age when most ballet dancers retire. How does he want his profession to change to look after a younger generation?


FRI 08:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn1lwn)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 08:32 Business Daily (w3ct5z2g)
Shipwrecks: Business Daily meets a treasure hunter

Carl Allen is a multi-millionaire former businessman who ran a trash bag company in the US.

He's now the owner of an island in the Bahamas, a philanthropist and deep-sea treasure hunter, scouring the seabed for sunken Spanish galleons, slave ships and long-lost treasure.

He tells us about his relentless search for one Spanish galleon that’s fired his imagination for the past 40 years. We discuss the ethics of treasure hunting and his belief that the best way to bring up relics from the bottom of the ocean is through PPPs - public-private partnerships.

Produced and presented by Gideon Long

(Image: Carl Allen on a boat with some treasure. Image credit: Brendan Chavez at Allen Exploration)


FRI 08:50 Witness History (w3ct5yfn)
Dinner for One: How an English comedy became a German tradition

Every New Year’s Eve, millions of Germans turn on their TVs to rewatch an old favourite – the comedy Dinner for One.

The black and white sketch is in English and features a British cast but is virtually unknown in the United Kingdom.

The two-hander starts with butler James laying a table for five people for dinner.

Then Miss Sophie arrives. It's her 90th birthday and she wants to celebrate with four friends: Sir Toby, Admiral von Schneider, Mr Pomeroy, and Mr Winterbottom.

The only problem is they’re all dead so James must impersonate the guests – and drink on their behalf – with hilarious results.

The late German entertainer Peter Frankenfeld first saw the show in the theatre during a trip to Blackpool.

He wanted to record it in Germany but Freddie Frinton, who played the butler and owned the copyright to the show, initially refused to take part because of his experiences during World War Two.

Peter’s son Thomas Frankenfeld tells Vicky Farncombe how his father’s own war story, involving snipers and a Nazi surgeon, persuaded Freddie to change his mind.

The programme is now shown on TV every New Year’s Eve in places including Germany, Scandinavia and Switzerland.

“We watch it every year,” says Thomas. “It's really funny. Still after all this time.”

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: Dinner for One. Credit: Getty Images)


FRI 09:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1cccd)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn104krq)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 09:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn1qms)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 09:32 Science In Action (w3ct5vdx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:32 on Thursday]


FRI 10:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1ch3j)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 10:06 Unexpected Elements (w3ct5q2y)
Festive Trash Talk

December is a time of celebration, family feuds, and now scientific rivalries. It's also one of the most wasteful months of the year, with festivities in full swing across the globe. No wonder the world is overflowing with rubbish—both literal and metaphorical!

Unexpected Elements dives headfirst into the scientific bin to wallow in waste. Could worms be the unexpected heroes of our plastic pollution crisis? How much garbage have we jettisoned into space? And why is part of our very own genome called "junk DNA"?

But it’s not all rubbish, we’re also talking trash. While celebrations can bring people together, spending too much time with loved ones can lead to tense moments. Rafi Kohan shares expert tips on how to outsmart your opponent during a heated board game debate.

And don’t think trash talk is limited to sports fields. The world of science has its share of drama, too. We’ll explore some of history’s most scandalous squabbles with scientists behaving badly.

Come waste an hour with us on Unexpected Elements!

Presenter: Caroline Steel, with Chhavi Sachdev and Candice Bailey
Producers: Harrison Lewis, Imaan Moin, Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, William Hornbrook and Eliane Glaser
Sound engineer: Gavin Wong


FRI 11:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1clvn)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn104t7z)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 11:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn1z41)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 11:32 The Global Story (w3ct6dxc)
Lab-grown meat: Why countries are banning it

Lab-grown meat is often touted as the solution to climate-friendly meat production. But in some parts of the world, governments are introducing laws to stop it from being produced. Why are some countries trying to ban it, before it’s even on the shelves?

Host Lucy Hockings speaks with Graihagh Jackson host of The Climate Question programme on the BBC World Service and our Asia business reporter Nick Marsh, about whether cultivated meat is a potential solution to the climate crisis or just a gimmick.

At the moment, we’re sharing some of our most popular episodes from the past twelve months, including this one. All of these episodes and many more are available to watch on the BBC World Service’s YouTube channel. Just search for “The Global Story” on YouTube to find us.

The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Beth Timmins

Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Hannah Montgomery

Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Senior news editor: Sam Bonham


FRI 12:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1cqls)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 12:06 Outlook (w3ct699w)
Memory Box: Your stories

Listeners from around the world share the stories of their most treasured objects and place them in Outlook's Memory Box.

By the age of 6, Hilda Bih Muluh from Cameroon was losing the ability to walk. A kind nun made her some 'special shoes' which enabled her to play with other children again. Hilda, who has muscular dystrophy, says the shoes gave her the permission she needed to accept her differences and move into the world with confidence. She's also written a book called The Girl with Special Shoes.

Saab Naseer from the UK would like to place his mum's hand-embroidered top into the Memory Box – he has fond memories of her working away on it while sitting in their front room, and it reminds him of their shared love of embroidery.

Njoki Kariuki lives in Kenya, and her special object is a fossil stone she collected from a bucket-list trip to the Amazon. She has kept the stone on her mantelpiece because it serves as a reminder that she achieved her dream of visiting the Amazon.

And Elaine Arsenault, from Canada, has a wooden box to place in our box – a box that provided the inspiration for a series of children's books she wrote which changed the trajectory of her life.

Samuel Kabaso in Zambia has a treasured object that reminds him of his late father. It's a gaming console that Samuel says brings back happy memories of playing games with his siblings.

And Heather Stewart, in Canada, has a very special set of bagpipes that belonged to her Grandfather. He played them in the D-day landings in WWII, and they are still played today by her brother-in-law.

Presenter: India Rakusen
Producer: Hannah Fisher

If you have a story for our Memory Box about an object with great personal significance, please get in touch! Email outlook@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

(Photo: Embroidery detail on a treasured top. Credit: Saab Naseer)


FRI 12:50 Witness History (w3ct5yfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 13:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1cvbx)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn1051r7)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 13:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn26m9)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 13:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct5tg7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]


FRI 14:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1cz31)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 14:06 Newshour (w172zb9966l9tl0)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


FRI 15:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1d2v5)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t4n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 15:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn2g3k)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 15:32 World Business Report (w3ct5ztl)
First broadcast 27/12/2024 15:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


FRI 16:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1d6l9)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 16:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf40vnn)
2024/12/27 16:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


FRI 17:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dbbf)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 17:06 BBC OS (w172zbjfxf40zds)
2024/12/27 17:06 GMT

BBC OS gives a vibrant account of the day’s events with explanation and reaction from those involved.


FRI 18:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dg2k)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 18:06 Outlook (w3ct699w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:06 today]


FRI 18:50 Witness History (w3ct5yfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


FRI 19:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dktp)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn105s70)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 19:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn2y32)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 19:32 Sport Today (w3ct5w27)
2024/12/27 GMT

BBC sports correspondents tell the story behind today's top sporting news, with interviews and reports from across the world.


FRI 20:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dpkt)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:06 BBC OS Conversations (w3ct5rcq)
Winning your country’s first Olympic or Paralympic medal

Earlier this year, five countries won Olympics medals for the first time in history.

To end our conversations for 2024, we celebrate three of those athletes from Nepal, Cape Verde and Dominica. We hear about some of the challenges on their journey to sporting greatness.

“I was teaching while I was training for quite a bit,” said Thea LaFond, who won gold in the triple jump for Dominica and had little financial support early on in her athletics career and was often the only person in her event who also had a full-time job.

“I remember one weekend when I was working,” she said. “I took Friday off, left Thursday night from my classroom, and then flew to Finland to compete and was back in classroom on Monday morning.”

We also hear how the athletes’ experiences not only affected their country, but also inspired others.

“Most importantly I believe my success has done more than just put me in the spotlight,” says Nepalese Paralympian Palesha Goverdhan, who was born without a palm on her left hand and won a bronze medal in Taekwondo.

“It has shifted people’s mindsets. It has shown people, especially athletes and persons with disabilities, that anything is possible.”

They are joined by Cape Verde boxer David de Pina, who had to leave his country and family in order to get the right training.

Hosted by Luke Jones.

A Boffin Media production with producer Sue Nelson in partnership with the BBC OS team, including producer Iqra Farooq.

(Photo: David De Pina after winning bronze in Paris. Credit: Cristiano Barbosa)


FRI 20:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn31v6)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 20:32 CrowdScience (w3ct5rj7)
I didn’t know that!

Did you know that flies fly in rectangles, fish hide by lighting themselves up and the moon is lifting the ground underneath your feet? Anand Jagatia quizzes members of the CrowdScience team on the moments from the past year that had them scratching their heads in amazement.

We hear Dr Erica McAlister’s attempts to calculate how many flies have ever existed, and about flies’ mating choreography, courtesy of Prof Jochen Zeil. We learn how to tell a mosquito’s sex thanks to Eggrey Aisha Kambewa and Dr Steve Gowelo.

Astronomer Dr Darren Baskill describes tides not of water but of land; Dr Edie Widder paints a vivid picture of a camouflaged creature of the deep; and we explore starfishes’ five-fold symmetry with Dr Imran Rahman.

Khimlal Gautam, Mountaineer and Chief Survey Officer for the Government of Nepal, tells us of the near-death experience he had when checking the height of Mount Everest.

And finally, axolotl expert Dr Elly Tanaka is astonished at the dedication of CrowdScience presenter Alex Lathbridge to the subject of her research.

Presenter: Anand Jagatia
Producer: Ben Motley
Editor: Cathy Edwards
Production Co-ordinator: Ishmael Soriano
Studio Managers: Donald MacDonald and Giles Aspen

(Photo: Lost in formulas Credit: Cimmerian via Getty Images)


FRI 21:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dt9y)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 21:06 Newshour (w172zb9966lbnsx)
Interviews, news and analysis of the day’s global events.


FRI 22:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1dy22)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:06 The Newsroom (w172zbqpn1064gd)
The world's Newsroom brings you global events as they happen


FRI 22:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn39bg)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 22:32 World Business Report (w3ct5zwv)
First broadcast 27/12/2024 22:32 GMT

The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.


FRI 23:00 BBC News (w172zgfhqz1f1t6)
The latest five minute news bulletin from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:06 HARDtalk (w3ct5t4n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:06 today]


FRI 23:30 BBC News Summary (w172zggb5pn3f2l)
The latest two minute news summary from BBC World Service.


FRI 23:32 Heart and Soul (w3ct5tg7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 04:32 today]