Ebola: Is lack of testing the problem?

Ebola: Is lack of testing the problem?

Author: BBC World Service May 20, 2026 Duration: 43:23

Why was the Ebola outbreak able to spread so quickly? We speak to the co-chair of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response about Ebola testing shortfalls in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Also on the programme: we examine the relationship between Russia and China as Vladimir Putin fails to reach a gas pipeline deal during a visit to Beijing. Plus, we hear why the Tyrannosaurus Rex had such short arms.

(Picture: A health worker takes the temperature of an M23 rebel in Goma, North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Credit: Arlette Bashizi/Reuters)


Each day, the team at the BBC World Service brings the world into focus with Newshour. This isn't just a summary of headlines; it's a deep, considered exploration of the events shaping our moment, built on the BBC's global network of correspondents and reporters. You'll hear from the people making the news and those affected by it, with conversations that provide essential context and challenge assumptions. The analysis goes beyond the surface, unpacking the political, social, and human dimensions of stories from every continent. Tuning into this daily podcast means joining a thorough, informed examination of international affairs, where complex issues are given the time and clarity they demand. It's a reliable, authoritative source for anyone looking to understand not just what is happening around the globe, but why it matters. The pace and depth are designed for listeners who want to move past the soundbite and grasp the interconnected narratives defining our time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 75

Newshour
Podcast Episodes
US delegation will travel to Pakistan for peace talks with Iran [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:25
The White House says President Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and son in law, Jared Kushner will travel to Pakistan for peace talks with Iran. Also on the programme, from inside Russia, a look at the Kremlin's tig…
US reportedly considering Spain’s suspension from Nato [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:39
A leaked Pentagon email reportedly outlines options to punish allies over a perceived lack of support for the Iran war. The email also suggested reviewing the US position on the UK's claim to the Falklands islands in the…
Confusion over second round of Iran-US talks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:30
Confusion surrounds the second round of talks scheduled in Pakistan between US and Iranian officials. Also in the programme: We speak to Arab Barghouti, son of the prominent Palestinian prisoner, Marwan Barghouti. In 200…
US and Iran agree two-week ceasefire [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:28
The US and Iran have agreed a two-week ceasefire and as part of the agreement Iran says it will reopen the Strait of Hormuz.Both sides have claimed victory, with the US defense secretary saying it "offers chance at real…