Global Affairs Documentaries

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BBC Select has a range of compelling documentaries focusing on the latest global issues and social issues that matter to us all. Stream shows from BBC News and leading documentary filmmakers and get the inside story on politics, influential world leaders, regional conflicts and more.

Mariupol: The People's Story

Image of Ukraine flag colors and buildings in Mariupol

In a little under three months, residents of what was a thriving Ukrainian city witnessed the deaths of women and children in a maternity hospital and bodies left abandoned on the streets. This powerful documentary filmed and told by many of the citizens of Mariupol, records the deaths of thousands and daring escapes by survivors. It’s a story of their loss, bravery, and determination.

This 2023 International Emmy Award, 2022 Peabody, and 2023 IDA Documentary Awards-winning documentary is available to watch on BBC Select.

Putin vs The West

Image of Putin wearing sun glasses reflecting the British and US flags

Throughout the two decades that Vladimir Putin has controlled Russia, global leaders have tried various tactics to keep him in line. Now, as war rages in Ukraine and the world faces one of its greatest tests to peace since the Cold War, this documentary attempts to identify where these leaders went wrong and tries to understand how we have reached this point of no return with Putin.

House of Saud

Stream House of Saud on BBC Select

Can Saudi Arabia, a country at the heart of the escalating Middle East crisis, be a force for good?

India: the Modi Question

BBC documentary investigating tensions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the country’s Muslim minority. Narendra Modi is the leader of the world’s largest democracy. Elected twice as India’s prime minister, he’s widely seen as the most powerful politician of his generation and considered a key ally to the US and UK. However, as this fascinating documentary series reveals, Modi has been dogged by allegations about his government’s attitude towards India’s Muslim population. But what is the truth?

Inside Taiwan: Standing Up To China

Inside Taiwan: Standing Up To China

This eye-opening BBC documentary explores whether China’s plans for Taiwan could be put into action, and the dangers they could pose for the world. President Xi Jinping considers Taiwan part of China and seeks reunification, while the island nation maintains its independence.

With tensions rising, journalist Jane Corbin visits the region and speaks to experts from around the world about a situation that has the potential to spark a deadly global conflict. She also explores how Taiwan has been standing up to what they say are Chinese disinformation and cyber attacks in recent times.