BBC study on its international role and influence published

12 May 2025

BBC study on its international role and influence published

The BBC has published new research exploring the impact and influence of its work internationally.

The Impact and Influence research demonstrates that, predominantly through the BBC World Service, the BBC is unmatched in driving favourable impressions of the UK.

The BBC is the country’s most recognised cultural export internationally with 76% of influential audiences around the world having heard of BBC News – higher than any other British cultural export including British sports, films and universities.

The research, which was conducted by independent research company Tapestry, also found the BBC to be the most trusted international news provider amongst all audiences and indicates that BBC users around the world are more likely to invest in the UK than non-users. In fact, 73% of BBC users intend to invest in the UK in the future compared with 51% of non-users.

The Impact and Influence research sought the views of audiences around the world on varying international news providers as well as the BBC. It suggests that those audiences consuming the Chinese state broadcaster, CGTN, and Russian state broadcaster RT, have a direct influence on their country’s respective favourability.

The research indicates that 71% of CGTN consumers view China favourably while 58% of RT consumers view Russia favourably, and that over the past three years, China has shown a considerable increase in favourability. The growth in favourability appears across all countries included in the study with the biggest increases in African countries Nigeria and Kenya. Trust in their services has also increased.

As press freedom has been in retreat globally since 2021, over the same period we have seen a rise in the demand for free media with Kenya, Indonesia, India and Mexico seeing the largest increases.

Tim Davie, Director-General, BBC says: “Our international output is unmatched when it comes to delivering impact and influence around the world for democratic values and UK plc. Of course, these results are the byproducts, not the aim, of BBC World Service journalism, but they are remarkable nonetheless, supporting UK security, trade and influence. We stand ready to do more, to make the most of this opportunity, meet an increasing demand and grow our global audience, leveraging the crucial role we play in the UK’s global standing.”

Jonathan Munro, Global Director, BBC News says: “It’s clear from this research that amidst increasing polarisation, huge surges in disinformation and the drastic reduction in press freedom, audiences value the BBC World Service and our trusted news offer. The BBC World Service has a vital role in delivering for audiences globally, particularly in light of the outcomes from China and Russia’s heavy media investment, but we cannot take our position for granted which is why we’re ambitious for what more we can do in this uncertain, unstable global landscape.”

Further findings from the research include:

While a preference for democracy has fallen across multiple countries, the fall is most evident in Asia and the Middle East
BBC users are significantly more likely to believe in democratic values than non-users and are more likely to participate in democratic processes such as voting in an election or contacting an elected official
BBC users associate the UK with values such as free speech and freedom of the press significantly more than non-users
BBC users are more likely to agree that the media in their country should be free to report on anything they want to without restrictions
Accuracy, independence and impartiality are the most important qualities for news users globally but are the least associated with local news providers

MBC GROUP and Diriyah Company sign land transfer agreement for new MBC headquarters in Diriyah

8 May 2025

MBC GROUP and Diriyah Company sign land transfer agreement for new MBC headquarters in Diriyah

MBC GROUP (“MBC” or the “Company” or the “Group” | Tadawul: 4072), a leading media and entertainment conglomerate in the Middle East and North Africa (“MENA”) region, announces the signing of a land transfer agreement with Diriyah Company to develop the Company’s brand-new headquarters in Diriyah, The City of Earth, and the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The collaborative partnership is to develop the new MBC headquarters, which will serve as a cutting-edge hub for content production, media innovation, and world-class entertainment experiences. The new facility will house MBC offices, advanced filming studios, and an immersive visitor experience centre. This move reflects the importance of Diriyah as a prime destination for top-tier institutions, positioning MBC at the heart of Diriyah’s vibrant business and cultural scene, fifteen minutes from downtown Riyadh. Moreover, the partnership highlights both companies’ commitment to Vision 2030, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a premier media and cultural destination.

With a commitment to serving audiences worldwide, MBC GROUP is home to a plethora of iconic brands. Today, the Group operates over 13 free-to-air (FTA) TV channels, three radio stations, SHAHID – the leading Arabic streaming platform in the MENA region – alongside MBC Studios, a regional production powerhouse, and MBC Academy, a talent and educational platform.

Diriyah Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah giga-project, an integrated urban development project that will, once completed, provide homes for nearly 100,000 residents, office space for tens of thousands of professionals in the technology, media, arts and education sectors, create an estimated 178,000 jobs, attract 50 million annual visits, and contribute USD $18.6 billion (SAR 70 billion) directly to Saudi Arabia’s GDP. Diriyah, The City of Earth, covers an area of 14 square kilometers and will feature world-class assets including the Royal Diriyah Opera House and the 20,000 seat Diriyah Arena, leading global hotel and resort brands, more than 150 restaurants, retail districts and multiple educational institutions, positioning it as one of the world’s greatest gathering places and lifestyle destinations.

Commenting on the announcement, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Secretary General of Diriyah Company, said “This partnership is a powerful statement of intent. As Diriyah emerges as a cultural and creative capital for the world, welcoming MBC Group at its heart signals a bold new chapter. Together, we are shaping a future where Saudi Arabia is not only a destination, but a dynamic source of inspiration, storytelling, and global exchange — a place where the world comes to experience the Kingdom, and where the Kingdom reaches out to the world.”

Waleed bin Ibrahim AlIbrahim, Chairman of MBC GROUP, commented: “Establishing our new headquarters in Diriyah is part of our commitment to Vision 2030. This step not only expands our regional presence, but also supports the Kingdom’s vision to strengthen the media and entertainment sector, foster innovation, and drive progress in the creative industries—especially as the growing demand for high-quality, original Arabic content continues to be a key driver in the development of the media industry across the Middle East and North Africa region. He added: “Through initiatives such as the launch of MBC’s new studios in Al-Narjis last year, and the establishment of the group’s new headquarters in Diriyah, we remain focused on supporting the development and production of local content, investing in local talent, and advancing the media and entertainment landscape at the heart of the Kingdom—enriching the region’s creative scene and elevating it to a global level.”

Mike Sneesby, CEO of MBC GROUP, said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone for MBC GROUP, aligning closely with our long-term vision and growth strategy. Diriyah is rapidly becoming a global hub for culture, creativity, and entertainment, and we are proud to be part of this exciting development. Our goal is to create a space where world-class content, creativity, and talent can thrive. We will continue to produce content that resonates with audiences worldwide, while highlighting the Middle East’s rich history and culture, with Saudi Arabia at its core.”

Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo, said: “We are enormously proud to welcome MBC as our first flagship tenant in the Media and Innovation District launched earlier this year at MIPIM in Cannes. This district will include innovative office space for thousands of professionals in a variety of sectors across the media, technology and the arts industries, as well as residential and hotels offerings found nowhere else but in Diriyah.”

The designated land plot is expected to host MBC’s fully integrated media complex. The plots will be developed by Diriyah Company under a comprehensive Development Works Agreement, which will be formalized between the two companies.

In 2022, MBC inaugurated its headquarters in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. In 2024, as part of its commitment to supporting local content production, it opened world-class facilities in Al Narjis, launching the first studio in Q3 2024. The Group employs over 2,000 people.

[Source: MBC press release]

NHK WORLD-JAPAN programme focus in May: Osaka

2 May 2025

NHK WORLD-JAPAN programme focus in May: Osaka

Osaka Area:
Vibrancy Past and Present

Hit the Road: OSAKA May 4 Sun. 5:10/11:10/17:10/22:10 (UTC) As the World Expo draws global attention to Osaka, a short drive away reveals a hidden side—rich in nature, history, and unexpected charm. This is another face of Osaka, waiting to be discovered.
Dining with the Chef – Cook Around Japan – Osaka: A Birthplace of Flavor ep.1 May 20 Tue. ep.2 May 27 Tue. 1:30/6:30/12:30/17:30/22:30 (UTC) In a country renowned for its food, Osaka is particularly noted for its culinary offerings. Join chef Saito Tatsuo as he explores flavors that originated in his hometown.
NHK NEWSLINE Daily / broadcast on the hour NHK NEWSLINE delivers the latest from Japan, Asia, and the rest of the world. Our wide network of correspondents covers breaking news and developing stories, offering a perspective from this corner of the globe. And our team of trusted anchors ties it all together to give you a picture of what’s happening now, and what’s ahead.
NHK NEWS 7 Weekdays at 10:00 (UTC) News 7 is NHK’s flagship domestic evening news program, bringing you the latest from our Tokyo studio. It’s presented with English audio on NHK World for our international viewers.
NEWSROOM TOKYO Weekdays at 11:00/12:00[rerun] (UTC) NEWSROOM TOKYO puts the spotlight on Japan and the rest of Asia. Get all major news, the latest developments, and learn what drives them. See expert reports and analysis. Enjoy sharp insights and probing interviews with a diverse range of newsmakers. And… what’s happening in the entertainment world.
GRAND SUMO Highlights DAILY DURING TOURNAMENTS 16:30/23:30/4:30/8:30 (UTC) The May Tournament of GRAND SUMO is held from May 11th to 25th. The best of today’s sumo! Enjoy daily highlights of this dynamic sport with background info and play-by-play commentary adding to the excitement!

Encompass Digital Media to transform BBC World Service distribution

2 May 2025

Encompass Digital Media to transform BBC World Service distribution

Encompass Digital Media is leading transformation of the BBC World Service’s global distribution from satellite to IP-based delivery. The initiative, which Encompass is delivering in partnership with Zixi, offers unparalleled flexibility, scalability and cost-effectiveness. The first major milestone was reached at the end of March, and delivered the full transition to IP distribution for BBC World Service partners across Europe. There now follows a rolling programme of transformations across the Americas, Pacific, Africa, and Asia.

Encompass has been awarded the contract to establish a global IP distribution network for BBC World Service using Encompass’ Altitude Connect platform, integrating Zixi’s industry-leading IP delivery technology with Altitude Media Cloud, Encompass’ global broadcast cloud platform.

Encompass’ strategy emphasises the modernisation of broadcast infrastructure, audience resilience, and cost-effective content distribution – a natural fit for the BBC’s own distribution roadmap. By moving to IP-based delivery, Encompass expects the BBC World Service will:

Expand accessibility by delivering content more efficiently across a range of digital and broadcast platforms.
Enhance flexibility and security, ensuring uninterrupted service in regions where satellite coverage may be unreliable or cost-prohibitive.
Support sustainability and cost reduction, moving away from legacy satellite technology to a more scalable and adaptable digital framework.

The shift to IP also enables targeted content delivery, allowing the BBC to respond more effectively to market challenges and changing audience needs.

The project involves:

Migrating hundreds of radio and TV partners globally from satellite to IP delivery.
Transitioning from bespoke receiver hardware to commodity, software-based solutions.
Integrating broadcast schedules, using the SCTE 224 protocol, to deliver precise and seamless channel switching across the global platform.

Nigel Fry, Director Distribution, International Services, BBC News, (and a member of the AIB Executive Committee) said: “Transitioning BBC World Service distribution to IP represents a major milestone in our commitment to modernizing how we serve markets worldwide. This shift provides another level of flexibility for our services while aligning with our long-term strategy to adapt to the evolving media landscape. With the support of Encompass and Zixi, we are ensuring that BBC World Service continues to deliver trusted news and information to audiences, wherever they are, with greater reach and security than ever before.”

Marc Bruce, CEO of Encompass Digital Media, said: “We are proud to partner with the BBC and Zixi to bring a new era of IP-based content distribution to BBC World Service. This project is a significant step forward in modernizing broadcast infrastructure, allowing for greater flexibility, cost efficiency, and enhanced security. By moving away from satellite, we are enabling the BBC to reach its global audience with unmatched flexibility and precision.”

Marc Aldrich, CEO of Zixi, added: “Zixi is thrilled to collaborate with the BBC and Encompass to deliver this groundbreaking transition to IP-based distribution. Our technology ensures the highest level of reliability, security, and scalability, allowing the BBC World Service to expand its reach and maintain its reputation for excellence in global broadcasting. This project is a testament to the future of content delivery, where IP distribution becomes the gold standard for efficiency and innovation.”

The Europe migration marks the first major milestone in this transformation. The Encompass and BBC teams are working in close collaboration to deliver the critical path, while the leadership teams co-ordinate next steps for wider industry engagement. While the BBC and Encompass remain focused on a successful phased rollout, this move to IP delivery is not only a technological upgrade, but a strategic shift that will future-proof BBC World Service distribution for years to come.

RFE/RL – the funding saga continues with latest court ruling

30 April 2025

RFE/RL – the funding saga continues with latest court ruling

The six week long saga around the funding and operation of US international broadcasting networks – Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, Office of Cuba Broadcasting, and RFE/RL – continues. On 15 March, Voice of America went off the air, save for 5’ news bulletins that were compiled for some days. Funds from the US Agency for Global Media, USAGM, to the rest of the broadcasting entities were frozen (with the possible exception of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting).

Legal proceedings were initiated by some Voice of America to have staff reinstated and its operations restarted. RFE/RL started proceedings to have its funding, granted by the US Congress, released (USAGM had stopped releasing funds to the Prague-headquartered media company).

On 39 April, Judge Royce Lamberth of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL)’s latest request for a temporary restraining order in its lawsuit against the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM).

In his ruling, the judge ordered USAGM to immediately disburse RFE/RL’s congressionally appropriated funds for the month of April – over US$12m. The court concluded that USAGM’s refusal to disburse the funds on the same terms on which it disbursed the previous month’s funds was arbitrary and capricious. The court rejected USAGM’s argument that it could withhold the funds until RFE/RL signs a grant agreement placing unlawful and unworkable conditions on RFE/RL’s operations. Judge Lamberth found that USAGM’s actions “threaten the very existence” of RFE/RL.

RFE/RL President and CEO Stephen Capus said: “Today’s ruling ordering USAGM to release one month’s worth of the annual funds Congress appropriated to RFE/RL means that our journalists can continue doing their jobs holding dictators and despots accountable.

“We hope to receive April’s late payment quickly because RFE/RL was forced to furlough staff this month and cut back programming to regions crucial to American national security. Every day that USAGM withholds money further endangers our journalists, including four who are currently in prison.

“We will remain in court and look forward to working with USAGM to ensure that we’ll be paid for the rest of the fiscal year.”

Judge Lamberth’s order emphasised that Congress enacted, and President Trump signed, a law funding RFE/RL this fiscal year. He wrote: “It is, after all, Congress that makes the laws in this country. In this case, for example, it was Congress who ordained that the monies at issue should be allocated to RFE/RL.”

BBC News Burmese launches post-quake direct-to-home video channel

24 April 2025

BBC News Burmese launches post-quake direct-to-home video channel

‘Aimed for an audience in need’: BBC News Burmese launches on direct-to-home video channel in the aftermath of Myanmar earthquake

To ensure audiences can access crucial information in the aftermath of the Myanmar earthquake, the BBC World Service has added a direct-to-home satellite video channel to the platforms delivering BBC News Burmese content.

In the coming four months, the Thaicom 6 satellite, which covers Myanmar, Thailand, and the wider region, will deliver BBC News Burmese TV and audio programming. The channel will also provide access, via a QR code, to the service’s website, bbc.com/burmese.

BBC News Global Director and Deputy CEO, Jonathan Munro, says: “In Myanmar, where press freedom is severely restricted and where a vicious conflict continues, we now have an audience also beset by a natural disaster. During the week of the disastrous earthquake, BBC News Burmese total digital reach quadrupled as people came to the BBC for trusted information. With the launch of this new satellite-based video service, featuring our TV, radio and online output in Burmese, we’ll be offering a critical information stream for an audience struggling to recover from the calamity which took so many lives. Aimed for an audience in need, this is yet another timely and much-needed initiative born from the commitment and expertise of the BBC teams.”

In the aftermath of the disaster that struck Myanmar on 28 March 2025, millions in the country, as well as Burmese-speakers in Thailand, came to the service’s platforms for accurate updates and analysis. BBC News Burmese journalists were deployed to the earthquake epicentre and were reporting from Mandalay, Yangon, and Bangkok, as well as from London. BBC News Burmese extended its daily live radio bulletin from 15min to 30min to include additional reporting and lifeline information. Audiences can also watch the Monday to Friday 15-minute TV bulletin which goes on air at 20.45 local time.

BBC News Burmese channel on Thaicom 6 satellite will run all this programming, with evening repeats of radio and TV bulletins from May 2025. The channel will also visualise the QR code for the website bbc.com/burmese, so the viewers can access the latest news and information online.

Over the next few months, the direct-to-home satellite video channel – formerly used by VOA (currently off the air following the effective closure of Voice of America ordered by President Trump, but subject to court cases) – will add to BBC News Burmese availability via the service’s website as well as its YouTube channel and its Facebook page which has a following of 25m people. BBC News Burmese also connects with audiences via Instagram, Telegram and X. Digital free-to-air TV channel, Mizzima TV, rebroadcasts BBC News Burmese TV programmes.

BBC News Burmese is part of the BBC World Service.