News Broadcasting
BBC launches humanitarian radio programmes in Iraq
LONDON: In order to help the Iraqis cope with the severe trauma that came with Uncle Sam’s incessant attacks, the BBC World Service Trust will launch a series of programmes to provide the people of Iraq with information on health and security.
The daily programmes, funded by the Department For International Development, will be produced by local journalists trained by the BBC World Service Trust and will be in Arabic.
A lot has been written and said regarding the looting and law and order breakdown in several parts of the country. Through the programmes, the trust is aiming at providing people with guidance on protecting themselves and their families. The programmes will also include personal testimony from Iraqis to help them deal with the trauma of war and its debilitating effect on people trying to rebuild their lives. The programmes will record diaries with Iraqis about their daily lives and encourage them to share their experiences.
An official release informs that in addition to humanitarian information, the programmes will also follow the progress of the United Nations’ agencies and international non government organisations when they return to Iraq. They will highlight the problems arising from the return of up to one million exiled Iraqis to their homeland.
The trust has previously worked in Afghanistan, Somalia and Sierra Leone. In Afghanistan, the trust produced similar programmes in Pashto and Dari during and after the US-led aerial attacks on Afghanistan.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
