BBC World Service

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BBC World Service is an international broadcaster, owned and operated by the BBC. It is the world's largest international broadcaster, broadcasting news, speech, and discussions in more than 40 languages to many parts of the world on analogue and digital shortwave platforms, internet streaming, podcasting, satellite, DAB, FM and MW relays.

History

The BBC World Service began broadcasting on 19 December 1932 as the BBC Empire Service, aimed principally at English speakers across the British Empire. The name was changed to the BBC Overseas Service in 1939 and the BBC World Service in 1965. The service gained a reputation for reliability and impartiality during World War II and the Cold War.

Programming

The BBC World Service provides a wide range of programming, including news bulletins, documentaries, music programs, and sports coverage. Notable programs include Newshour, World Update, and The Documentary. The service also provides language-specific programming in languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish, and many others.

Funding

The BBC World Service was funded for most of its history by grant-in-aid through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom. However, since 1 April 2014, it has been funded by the BBC Licence Fee, which is paid by UK households.

Technology and Distribution

The BBC World Service broadcasts on various platforms, including:

• Shortwave radio
• Medium wave radio
• FM radio
• Satellite radio
• Internet streaming
• Podcasting
• DAB

Languages

The BBC World Service broadcasts in over 40 languages, including:

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• Spanish
• Russian
• Swahili
• Hindi
• Urdu

Impact and Reach

The BBC World Service has a significant global reach, with an estimated weekly audience of 279 million people. It is known for its high-quality journalism and has won numerous awards for its programming.

Related Pages

• BBC
• BBC News
• BBC Radio
• BBC Television
• Public broadcasting
• International broadcasting
• Shortwave radio

See Also

• Voice of America
• Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
• Deutsche Welle
• Radio France Internationale

External Links

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