Politics documentaries

Stream a range of BBC documentaries that explore global politics and that provide expert analysis and insights from those close to the story. From accounts of the 20th century's pivotal political events to biographies of modern political figures, BBC Select brings you documentaries about the politics that shape our world.

Leaving Afghanistan

Leaving Afghanistan Documentary

Political insiders tell the story of the US-led coalition’s desperate attempts to end the war in Afghanistan during its two decades of occupation.

When America finally withdrew its troops from Afghanistan in August 2021, it was the culmination of almost 20 years of failed attempts to bring an end to the conflict – and a decision that effectively surrendered Afghanistan to the resurgent Taliban. What started as a mission to capture Osama Bin Laden, ended with four successive presidents trying to find a way to end a campaign that killed tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians and destroyed a nation. Now insiders and experts key players and politicians tell the story of this disastrous war.

Could Hitler Have Been Stopped?

Stream Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? on BBC Select

In this thought provoking history documentary, leading historians consider strategies that could have been used to avoid conflict with Hitler and prevent World War II.

Before the war began, nations adopted a policy of appeasement to the Nazi regime. But the threat of Hitler and the lengths he would go to achieve his barbaric aims were constantly underestimated.

Zelensky: The Making of a President

Watch Zelensky: The Making of a President on BBC Select

In just over three years, Volodymyr Zelensky has  gone from Ukraine’s best-known comedian to one of the world’s most recognizable leaders. He’s rallied his country in its fight for survival against Russia and has gained global respect and admiration.

This in-depth documentary tells the fascinating story of the Ukrainian president’s transformation. The BBC’s former Ukraine correspondent Jonah Fisher who followed Zelensky closely during his rise to power, explores one of the world’s most incredible political journeys.

Gandhi

Watch Gandhi on BBC Select

How did a man so loyal to the British Empire that he acted as a recruiting sergeant in World War 1 eventually lead the Indian people to a revolution that would end British rule forever? And how, when his blueprint for India would be largely ignored, is he still revered as the ‘Father of the Nation’?

Journalist Mishal Husain uncovers the complicated legacy of Mahatma Gandhi in this biographical documentary on BBC Select.

The Man Putin Couldn't Kill

Watch The Man Putin Couldn't Kill documentary on BBC Select

Watch Navalny: The Man Putin Couldn’t Kill, a gripping Alexei Navalny documentary and learn more about the Russian opposition leader and his suspected poisoning.