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42 min

S2026 · E1 · Jan 1, 2026

Saudi Arabia, between repression and transformation Episode 1

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, is the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. For almost a decade, he has been radically transforming the country — at a breathtaking pace. Where is the modernizer and despot steering the kingdom? Saudi Arabia is the world's leading exporter of crude oil. But Crown Prince MBS wants to prepare the country for the post-oil era. Two-thirds of the country's population is under 30 years old, and the crown prince is taking radical measures to turn the previously strictly conservative society on its head. The documentary shows how contradictory Mohammed bin Salman's ambitions for his "Vision 2030" are, as it takes a look behind the scenes of the transformation. On the one hand, there is the "Neom" project, which aims to create a futuristic new megacity in the desert. Tourism is to be expanded, major music and sporting events are to be brought to the country, and an extravagant lifestyle is being promoted. At the same time, an authoritarian s

28 min

S2026 · E2 · Jan 6, 2026

Turkey: Can the Marmara sea be saved? Episode 2

Turkey's Sea of Marmara is on the brink of environmental collapse. Pollution, overfishing and climate change are depleting its oxygen. The crisis became visible when a thick layer of algal slime first began spreading across its waters in 2021. Necla Köseoğlu, from Rumelikavağı, is one of the last people still working in traditional small-scale fishing on Turkey's Sea of Marmara. She's also one of the few women in the business. She used to be able to live off what she made from fishing, but those days are gone. Fish stocks in the Turkish inland sea have declined dramatically. The ecosystem is at risk of collapse due to overfishing, urban and industrial waste, and shipping pollution. The Marmara Sea, whose shores are home to around 25 million people, is suffocating.

28 min

S2026 · E3 · Jan 13, 2026

Death on the Matterhorn: Why climbers underestimate the danger Episode 3

The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most famous mountains — and amongst the deadliest. Since it was first ascended in 1865, over 600 climbers have lost their lives on the peak. Despite modern infrastructure and global awareness of the risks, tragedy strikes the Matterhorn again and again. This film asks why so many climbers misjudge the risks. Death on the Matterhorn follows mountain guide and head of rescue operations, Anjan Truffer, up to Solvay Bivouac — one of the mountain's high-altitude huts. It shows how Edith Lehner, warden of the nearby Hörnli Hut, lives with the losses. The crew also accompanies climber Meli Rüfenacht on her first ascent of the Matterhorn — one year after she herself witnessed a fatal fall.

42 min

S2026 · E4 · Jan 14, 2026

Cyberattacks, sabotage, drones - Is Germany ready for war? Episode 4

Carsten Breuer is Inspector General of the German Armed Forces, and thus the highest-ranking soldier in Germany. He says that Russia will be ready for a military conflict with the West in just a few years. The documentary follows Carsten Breuer on camera for nine months. Filmmakers accompany him to a meeting with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (SPD), as well as on trips to southern Lebanon, Ukraine, and the USA. The result is a portrait of the German government's top military advisor that also provides deep insights into the German security apparatus. Where the military meets politics, Carsten Breuer is redefining the role of Inspector General. Unlike his predecessors, he seeks out the public eye to get his messages across. In detailed newspaper interviews, on talk shows, in conversations with citizens, he drives his points home: The Bundeswehr and society must get ready for war.

25 min

S2026 · E5 · Jan 16, 2026

My son was killed - A mother's journey through grief Episode 5

In June 2024, Joanna lost her 20-year-old son Philipos. He was beaten up by another young man, following his sister's high school graduation party. Two days later, he died. The alleged perpetrator, a 19-year-old Syrian, was arrested. A summer evening that ended in disaster. After his sister's high school graduation party, 20-year-old Philipos was brutally attacked in the German town of Bad Oeynhausen. As his mother Joanna was mourning her son, Philipos became headline news. Before long, his death was used to reignite the debate on Germany’s asylum policy. Both in the German parliament, and in the media.

25 min

S2026 · E6 · Jan 18, 2026

Urban foraging for food - Fresh, tasty and free Episode 6

More and more city dwellers are collecting food in the asphalt jungle. They harvest herbs by the roadside and grow wild vegetables in cracks in the concrete. For these modern foragers and hunters, the food is free, tasty and more varied than in the supermarket. Christian Amys is an urban foraging professional. He forages for fresh food in his hometown of Brighton. For him, the English coastal city is an urban Garden of Eden. Christian finds wild vegetables and herbs in places where most people would never expect to find food. The 42-year-old only spends a few pounds a week on food from the supermarket: "I want to be independent and don't like to rely on the supermarket. I like to forage on my doorstep because it's nice to know where my food comes from."

28 min

S2026 · E7 · Jan 20, 2026

Greenland - Between Denmark and Trump Episode 7

Greenland should become part of the United States — at least, that’s the opinion of US President Donald Trump. Talk of the US acquiring, or perhaps even seizing, the world's largest island with its vast mineral wealth has been causing concern not only among Greenlanders. Denmark is outraged, as Greenland — a former colony — is still a semi-autonomous territory of the Danish Realm. But for how long? Many Greenlanders want to take control of their own future. Nukannguaq Zeeb was born on the island and feels deeply connected to the island’s cultural traditions of hunting and fishing. He also coaches Greenland’s national soccer team, a sport introduced by Danish colonialists. He’s critical of Denmark’s ongoing influence. "To be honest, we are currently under Danish rule and not an independent country,” he says. Trump's neocolonial ambitions came as a shock to him.

42 min

S2026 · E8 · Jan 21, 2026

Queer subculture, slums and a spiritual star cult - India’s creative capital Mumbai Episode 8

When the sun goes down, India's megacity most intense side comes to light. Queer subculture, everyday slum life and spiritual celebrity culture - Mumbai nightlife could hardly be more diverse. Anything is possible, here! Mumbai: India's financial, commercial and entertainment center. This is the New York of South Asia, according to many of its inhabitants. Here, they say, anything is possible and hard work pays off. Like New York City, Mumbai is a melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles - and a city that never sleeps. Between red carpets and slums, this documentary shows a city full of contrasts.

42 min

S2026 · E9 · Jan 23, 2026

Is our future on water? - Cities on the ocean Episode 9

Cities, floating on the ocean. It sounds like science fiction, but could soon become reality. Researchers are developing concepts for life on water - on a grand scale. Initial tests are promising. Is success a genuine possibility? Over half of humanity lives near the coast. But in many places, flooding is a constant threat, forcing entire populations to search for new habitats. Paradoxically, these could be located directly on the water. Cities, floating on the ocean. It sounds like science fiction, but could soon become reality. International research has long been developing concepts for life on water. Now, new designs — from temporary huts to affordable student dormitories to smart high-tech villas — seem to hold promise. Could huge numbers of people soon be living in "floating cities”?

12 min

S2026 · E10 · Jan 26, 2026

When the rains cease to fall - Indian farmers left alone Episode 10

Anil Jadhav is an Indian farmer. He had always dreamed of having a large family. But as droughts in his homeland increase, his income — and marriage prospects — are dwindling. While the ecological and economic impacts of climate change are frequently reported on, the social aspects often remain in the shadows. Many Indian farmers can no longer find a partner because they cannot earn enough to support a family. In regions where water was once abundant, chronic drought now prevails. Out of despair, Anil Jadhav has turned to Deepak Jadhav, a matchmaker who specializes in finding arranging marriages for farmers who have fallen into hardship as a result of climate change. This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center.

28 min

S2026 · E11 · Jan 27, 2026

Deep-sea mysteries - A 5-week research mission in the Atlantic Episode 11

Aboard the research vessel Meteor, scientists venture into the vast Atlantic. Five weeks in tight quarters push the team beyond its limits. Their mission: to study unknown species and habitats at the bottom of the sea. It's 3 a.m. in the middle of the Atlantic, and Meteor is surrounded by darkness. But the 58 men and women on board are wide awake. All eyes are on the ship's crane as it hauls a "box corer" - a mechanical sample collector - from a depth of five kilometers. The heavy seas cause it to slam against the ship's hull. The immense pressure levels involved in deep-sea research require heavy-duty equipment, with parts made of steel and even titanium. But when the crew finally manage to get the sample box back on deck, they find it's empty: containing only water and no seabed sediment. After the immediate disappointment, they soon set about preparing the next attempt before sunrise, because time - and money - are of the essence on this five-week expedition.

42 min

S2026 · E12 · Jan 28, 2026

The world of the Amish - Between tradition and temptation Episode 12

The Amish still live as they did in the 17th century: without electricity, phones or cars. While many continue to resist the temptations of the modern world, others are breaking away from the group. For the Amish community in the USA, only the word of the Lord counts. They follow biblical principles to the letter, and believe in traditional gender roles. But younger members of the Christian communit in particular are questioning the extreme rules that guide their lives. Amish life places Christian faith above all else, rejects technological progress and sees a woman's place as being in the home. How long can this world view hold out?

42 min

S2026 · E13 · Jan 29, 2026

Forced to deceive: Inside the cyber mafia and online scams Episode 13

More than ever, digital platforms are being used for manipulation and blackmail. This documentary goes behind the scenes of a cruel online world, and shows just how close the danger is. When an opportunity for love or big money beckons online, it can be hard to say no -- or even question what is happening. But in the case of online scams, the dream relationship turns into a nightmare of merciless blackmail and lost savings. This documentary follows both victims and former perpetrators of online scams. A young man from the German city of Hanover thinks he may have found love with a charming Asian woman he chats with online. But behind the seductive profile are scammers who use intimate photos of him to extort money.

42 min

S2026 · E14 · Jan 30, 2026

Muscles - More than power and pumping iron Episode 14

What impact does good muscle tone have on our health? Studies show that muscle training can slow down the ageing process, prevent metabolic disorders and even inhibit cancer cells. The muscular system is the largest system in our body, accounting for around 30 to 40 percent of our body weight. Healthy and well-trained muscles give us the strength we need for an active life. But muscles can do much more than just set our bodies in motion: regular muscle training has a positive impact on our overall health. This is because muscles work in a similar way to an endocrine organ: when activated, muscles release messenger substances called myokines, which directly influence our central organs such as the brain, liver, heart and intestines. If we lose muscle mass, these organs can become diseased, or metabolic disorders like diabetes can develop. Fit muscles, on the other hand, can reduce the risk of brain diseases like dementia or Alzheimer's, and decelerate the ageing process.

25 min

S2026 · E15 · Feb 1, 2026

Final days full of life - Hospice stories Episode 15

Here, death is ever-present. In hospices, carers and volunteers provide end-of-life support to people who are seriously ill and dying. Their goal is for people to be able to experiences their final weeks and days with dignity, as free from fear as possible. Paul Buchholz has been working at a hospice in Rostock, a city in northern Germany, for 15 years. With kindness and respect, he tries to make his guests' last weeks or days as carefree and pleasant as possible. Ralf Löwenhagen has worked in agriculture for most of his life. He never went to the doctor, never complained, always worked hard. Now he has pancreatic cancer and is receiving palliative care. During therapy sessions in the garden, or when nurse Paul Buchholz pushes him outside on the terrace, his mood visibly improves.

12 min

S2026 · E16 · Feb 2, 2026

Bangladesh at the crossroads: Faith, youth and freedom Episode 16

After the authoritarian regime fell in 2024, Bangladesh is facing an important social and political decision. Which direction will it take? It was an uprising that made international waves: In August 2024, Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian government fell after massive Gen Z protests swept across Bangladesh. It was the end of an era – and for many, the beginning of hope for democracy. Now new elections are coming up. But the mood in the country has become more tense, and political Islam is gaining in strength. Women and minorities are coming under increasing pressure, and many see cultural freedom as being under threat. With the upcoming elections, the country is struggling with the crucial question: What comes next? Is Bangladesh heading for even deeper polarization – or is the long-awaited transition to democracy finally on the horizon?

40 min

S2026 · E17 · Feb 3, 2026

Venezuela in the midst of the US military intervention - Notes from Caracas Episode 17

A filmmaker’s firsthand experience of the US attacks on Venezuela. Her country is at the center of geopolitics—but ordinary people are powerless. A view from Caracas, caught between hope and resignation. In December 2025, the death of her stepfather Nelson brought documentary filmmaker Anabel Rodríguez Ríos home to Venezuela, to mourn with her mother. The country is economically devastated, and the public healthcare system is in crisis. Medical treatment might have helped save her stepfather’s life. But it was too expensive. Meanwhile, in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Venezuela, the US is stationing warships. US President Donald Trump threatened Venezuela’s deposed leader Nicolás Maduro with war, accusing him of "narco-terrorism.” In September 2025, the United States begins ordering strikes on Venezuelan boats without an international legal mandate; the claim is that these are boats belong to drug traffickers. More than 100 people have been killed in these strikes so far.

25 min

S2026 · E19 · Feb 8, 2026

Strong women - The fight for self-determination Episode 19

Women around the world are working to break down outdated structures and empower one another. Initiatives in Germany and Ecuador are calling for equal rights in the workplace, self-determination, and financial independence for women. One of the women working for change is surgeon Katja Schlosser. The former head physician at Agaplesion Hospital in Giessen is working with her association "Die Chirurginnen” (The Female Surgeons) to ensure that female colleagues can continue to practice their profession even during pregnancy. In some clinics, pregnant women are still banned from operating rooms - often due to restrictive interpretations of the Maternity Protection Act. This can put female surgeons at a disadvantage compared to their male colleagues. That’s why Katja Schlosser is calling for an equal say in decision-making processes, as well as equal career opportunities for women.

52 min

S2026 · E20 · Feb 10, 2026

The turbulent life of Gaddafi's son: On the death of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi Episode 20

On 3 February 2026, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi was shot dead by four unknown gunmen in Zintan, Libya. This documentary was produced in 2023 and has not been updated for this reupload. It traces the turbulent life of the second son of the former Libyan dictator Muammar al-Gaddafi. In 2021, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi unexpectedly announced that he would run for the presidency in Libya. Statements from relatives and political actors paint a portrait of an unpredictable and fiercely determined man. Saif al-Islam Gaddafi’s presidential bid is a major challenge for Libya. The second son of the Libyan dictator Muammar Al Gaddafi has been convicted several times in Libya and is being prosecuted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity.

25 min

S2026 · E23 · Feb 15, 2026

The Kiel Canal: The busiest artificial waterway in the world Episode 23

A technical masterpiece -- and a big responsibility. The Kiel Canal in Germany is the busiest artificial waterway in the world. But keeping it operational is expensive. The infrastructure of the Kiel Canal is a much-discussed topic. As is the case in Germany with roads, bridges and railway tracks, cost-cutting measures are also impacting waterways. Yet the canal offers decisive advantages for freight transport: every shipping container transported here replaces a long lorry journey. This saves fuel and improves the freight’s carbon footprint. Every year, 25,000 to 30,000 ships pass through the artificial waterway that runs between the port cities of Kiel and Brunsbüttel, connecting the Baltic Sea with the North Sea. But the Kiel Canal, which opened in 1895 and is almost 100 kilometers long, requires constant monitoring and maintenance.

28 min

S2026 · E25 · Feb 17, 2026

The deadly route to Europe: Exploited by smugglers, human traffickers and warlords Episode 25

Thousands of people from Africa attempt to reach Europe via the Mediterranean. The EU is disrupting these migration routes and outsourcing its border control responsibilities to countries in the Sahara and Sahel regions. Christian and David try not to fall off the back of the pick-up. The vehicle is being driven at breakneck speed through the desert by smugglers. Like hundreds of thousands of people before them, the two Nigerians are traveling from West Africa to the Libyan Mediterranean coast. They’re hoping to reach Europe and the promise of a better life.

42 min

S2026 · E26 · Feb 19, 2026

What does dying feel like? Episode 26

What does dying feel like? What is it like to stand on the threshold of death — and turn back? Three young women talk about their near-death experiences and how these moments changed their lives. "I used to be extremely afraid of death. But ever since my near-death experience, that's no longer the case," says model Chanel Silberberg, who became famous through the German reality TV show "Germany's Next Topmodel." She nearly died at the age of 11 from complications related to a chronic illness. The experience fundamentally shaped her.

25 min

S2026 · E27 · Feb 22, 2026

Help for single parents - Can work and family life work better? Episode 27

For many single parents, everyday life can be a challenge. But a number of projects offer assistance and encouragement. Affordable housing, social networking, and childcare services are designed to ease the burden. Single parents in Europe can increasingly rely on help and support from people, associations, and institutions to help them balance raising children with work, financial issues, and mental overload. "A secure, affordable living situation - that's such a key issue in the lives of single parents,” says Sarah Zeller. A few years ago, she found herself confronting this issue when, along with another friend and her child, she decided to set up a shared apartment for the two single parent families. But they searched in vain for an affordable apartment with enough space.

12 min

S2026 · E28 · Feb 23, 2026

Zambia’s toxic legacy Episode 28

The danger is everywhere. An invisible poison — lead — has been destroying lives in Zambia for decades. Headaches, fatigue, stomach pain, memory loss — for many people in Kabwe, Zambia, all that is part of daily life. Children suffer the most. Lead damages their developing brains, slows learning and leaves scars that last a lifetime. The cause is no mystery: An old lead mine. The United Nations ranks Kabwe among the most polluted places on Earth. Around 200,000 people are affected. Nearly every child has dangerously high levels of lead in their blood. We met mothers like Jane, whose 6-year-old daughter Elizabeth struggles to keep up at school because of lead poisoning. Former workers, too: Like Mathias, who spent decades working without protections in the mine and now speaks of a toxic legacy no one wants to clean up.

42 min

S2026 · E29 · Feb 25, 2026

The Canary Islands paradox - Desalination plants: Curse or blessing? Episode 29

Sixty years ago, Europe's first seawater desalination plant was built in the Canary Islands. This technology for producing fresh water was a blessing for the islands. Now, it could prove to be a curse for the ecosystem. This water treatment system is essential for life in the area - but is it compatible with the principles of sustainable development? Due to limited freshwater resources and rising demand, the first seawater desalination plant in Europe was built in the Canary Islands. It is often touted as a perfect solution. Today, the Canary Islands have the highest number of desalinations plants in the world, relative to the islands’ size and population. The fresh water obtained in this way is indispensable for human life on the volcanic islands, but - since it appears to be available in abundance - it also encourages unbridled economic development, such as mass tourism and the intensive monoculture of bananas for export.

42 min

S2026 · E30 · Feb 26, 2026

Economic powerhouse China - How dependent is Europe? Episode 30

China is pushing into European markets - and striving for ever greater military power. This has already had an impact on the internal and external security of Western countries. How dependent is Germany on China? Fancy some iced tea? It'll be delivered by drone. A tree falls onto the road? The driverless taxi swerves out of the way. The rapid development of artificial intelligence and automation in the megacity of Shenzhen shows how high-tech China is integrating innovation into everyday life. Digitalization is everywhere, in a country where administrative procedures are carried out via mobile phone. But the example of Shenzhen also shows that western countries are in danger of being left behind by China in key technologies such as AI, robotics and electric cars. Behind all this advancement lies a great deal of state planning - as well as possible attempts to exert influence.

25 min

S2026 · E31 · Mar 1, 2026

The fate of bull calves in the Alps - From surplus to savior Episode 31

For a cow to produce milk, she must give birth to a calf. Female calves later become dairy cows themselves, while male calves are surplus to the dairy industry’s requirements. They’re packed into trucks and suffer in transit on their way to fattening facilities. Cows must calve once a year to produce milk. However, male calves are unwanted, considered waste products of the dairy industry. They’re often sent to fattening farms, mostly outside the EU. A farmer, a scientist and a butcher want to change this. Instead of sending the animals to factory farms where they’re fattened with soy or corn, the bull calves are sent to the pastures and alpine meadows of the Alps. Along with a small group of farmers, restaurateurs and retailers, dairy farmer Marcel Renz is trying to change the dairy system in southern Germany. He wants to improve animal welfare, shorten transport distances and produce good quality meat that customers are willing to pay a little more for.

12 min

S2026 · E32 · Mar 2, 2026

Creeping blindness: life with glaucoma Episode 32

What happens when your eyesight begins to fail? Michael has glaucoma and has lost most of his eyesight. He’s had to reorder his whole life. For the longest time, Michael Lins didn’t notice anything was wrong. Then, one day in the bathroom, he’s surprised to find that what he thought was a bit of foam in the corner of his eye won’t go away. The doctor’s diagnosis is devastating: glaucoma in both eyes. The eye disease known as glaucoma is one of the leading causes for blindness, affecting an estimated 80 million people worldwide. Some call it the “silent thief” of sight, because it often causes irreparable damage before vision loss occurs. Those affected, like Michael, often only notice the disease once it’s too late. When Michael first learned he was losing his vision, he also lost his will to carry on. Then, he joined a professional rehabilitation program for people who are blind or visually impaired. There, he learned how to navigate his new life.

29 min

S2026 · E33 · Mar 3, 2026

The gangs of Haiti - The criminal coalition Episode 33

Armed gangs control much of Haiti, including the vast majority of the capital Port-au-Prince. According to UN reports, the associated violence left almost 6,000 people dead in 2025 alone and over 1.4 million displaced. Criminal gangs have formed a coalition called "Viv Ansanm" ("Living Together") to consolidate their grip on Port-au-Prince. They finance themselves through kidnappings and extortion rackets, while frequently engaging in gun battles with the police. State institutions function only to a limited degree. Schools and healthcare facilities remain closed or are repeatedly targeted in attacks. Humanitarian aid reaches many neighborhoods only under considerable security risks.

52 min

S2026 · E35 · Mar 9, 2026

Unmasking Hezbollah - Drug trafficking and terror (1/3) Episode 35

In 2008, the United States launched "Project Cassandra". The aim was to uncover how Hezbollah uses drug trafficking and money laundering to finance its military and terrorist activities. The three-part series tells the story of the project. By 2008, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration had gathered sufficient evidence to show that Hezbollah had transformed from a military and political organization into an international crime syndicate. They were making billions from drug and arms trafficking, money laundering and other criminal activities. "Project Cassandra" was the ambitious, top-secret project designed to stop them.

52 min

S2026 · E36 · Mar 9, 2026

Unmasking Hezbollah - Who was behind the assassination of Rafic Hariri? Episode 36

In 2008, the United States launched "Project Cassandra." The aim was to uncover how Hezbollah uses drug trafficking and money laundering to finance its military and terrorist activities. The three-part series tells the story of the project. This three-part series tells the story of "Project Cassandra" through the testimony of DEA agents and others who were directly involved. It is a story that helps explain the history and rise of Hezbollah and brings a complex geopolitical story to a wider audience.

52 min

S2026 · E37 · Mar 9, 2026

Unmasking Hezbollah - Money laundering in Europe (3/3) Episode 37

In 2008, the United States launched "Project Cassandra". The aim was to uncover how Hezbollah uses drug trafficking and money laundering to finance its military and terrorist activities. The 3-part series tells the story of the project. France has been the country of choice for Hezbollah fighters seeking asylum since 2010. France offers several benefits, including the possibility of integrating into a large Lebanese community and freedom of movement on European territory. Paris became a center for laundering money from the cocaine trade. The D.E.A., the American Drug Enforcement Agency, alerted the French police. Together they opened a new chapter of Operation Cassandra, named "Operation Cedar," after the tree that symbolizes Lebanon.

85 min

S2026 · E38 · Mar 13, 2026

The story of our planet, retold Episode 38

Earth influences all life on our planet. The same is true in reverse: Animals, plants, and inanimate matter also shape habitats. But humans are currently changing this dynamic cycle. The documentary shows the evolutionary history of our planet, in which the history of humankind represents only a brief moment. Rocks existed on our planet long before the oceans, forests, plants, and even air came into being. From the very beginning, the earth itself was the foundation of creation. The documentary looks at how inanimate matter created life, shaped landscapes, and gave rise to civilizations.

25 min

S2026 · E39 · Mar 15, 2026

Germany’s RAF: A life in the shadow of left-wing extremist terrorism Episode 39

Sabine, Clais and Orm were children when their fathers were murdered. The killings, carried out by the far-left German terrorist group the Rote Armee Fraktion ("Red Army Faction”), or RAF, brought an abrupt, violent end to their childhoods. In this film, they share how terrorism changed their lives forever. May 2025 marked 50 years since the first criminal trial of RAF terrorists began in Germany. The group’s most prominent victims, like Hanns Martin Schleyer and Alfred Herrhausen, are still remembered today. But the names of other, lesser-known victims have all but been forgotten: police officers, drivers, government employees, a diplomat. Some of these victims had children, who were 12, 13 or even just two years old when they lost a parent. The murders robbed them of their childhood and inflicted deep emotional scars that are still felt, to this day.

12 min

S2026 · E40 · Mar 16, 2026

Father unknown? Life as a sperm donor's child Episode 40

Artificial insemination has been a possibility for decades, yet some aspects of it are still being debated — including in Europe. Not least of those is whether there should be a limit on how many times a donor can give sperm. Hanna got pregnant while without a partner — through a sperm donor. Not only is that allowed in Sweden, the government sponsors it. She became pregnant on her fifth attempt. Other European countries prohibit artificial insemination for single people, others offer less financial aid. The legal situation across Europe is a patchwork of approaches. Leontine's father was an anonymous sperm donor. She wanted to learn more about him, and discovered that she has at least 27 half-siblings scattered across the continent. In Sweden, some believe there should be a limit to how often a person can donate sperm. There is no consensus on that in the rest of the EU.

25 min

S2026 · E42 · Mar 22, 2026

Unwanted intruders: The battle against invasive species Episode 42

Invasive species threaten flora and fauna and can destroy ecological balance. However, combating these dangerous invaders is costly and requires unusual measures. The EU list of invasive species includes 42 animal and 46 plant species. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified these unwanted intruders as one of six "climate killers," because they can throw entire ecosystems out of balance. According to research reports, invasive species cause around €400 billion worth of damage worldwide every year - from crop losses and the decline of native species to expensive control measures.

28 min

S2026 · E43 · Mar 24, 2026

EV battery manufacturing - Why Europe can’t keep up with China Episode 43

If you dominate EV battery manufacturing, you dominate electromobility. China is building one gigafactory after another, while Europe struggles with political uncertainty, lack of know-how, and large-scale projects that end up delayed or cancelled. This is the story of an industry that’s shaping the future. The EV battery is the core of electromobility. Europe had pinned its hopes on Swedish battery developer and manufacturer Northvolt. But it failed spectacularly.

40 min

S2026 · E44 · Mar 26, 2026

Searching for clues: Donations for terrorism? Episode 44

Islamist terrorism continues to claim numerous victims worldwide. Extremist networks are financed in part by donations from Germany. But investigations often prove to be difficult. Money from Germany repeatedly finds its way into structures that support Islamist terror. This occurs via bank transfers, donation associations, online payment services, and even cryptocurrencies. Many small amounts can add up to large sums. Such cash flows often go unnoticed because investigations in Germany - unlike in some other countries - often fail due to legal hurdles. The documentary follows the money trail from Germany to Syria. It tells the story of a young German woman who returns home after a time spent with the Islamic State terror group. She provides insights into how money is collected, transferred, and used. The film reconstructs how money is collected via middlemen in Germany and Austria - including funding for Hamas.

41 min

S2026 · E45 · Mar 27, 2026

Octopus under threat - Searching for clues around the Mediterranean Episode 45

Octopus is considered a delicacy - grilled, boiled, or fried. But rising demand has consequences, and in several regions of Europe, this intelligent cephalopod is already considered overfished. Stocks are shrinking dramatically, especially in the Mediterranean. In Greece, illegal traps are often used for fishing. Together with the coast guard, the environmental organization Sea Shepherd has removed thousands of these traps from the seabed - part of a mission against environmental crime. The film crew embarks on an investigative journey along the coasts of Europe and Africa. In Galicia, northwestern Spain, there are several large fish processing plants that cut up octopuses, freeze them, and prepare them for the international market. Fishing is subject to strict regulations because natural stocks are shrinking rapidly. To meet the high demand, factories are increasingly resorting to imports from African waters.

28 min

S2026 · E46 · Mar 31, 2026

Slovakia divided - Between Russia and Europe Episode 46

Slovakia stands at a crossroads between western and eastern Europe - and not just in geographical terms. Amidst growing social and political divisions in the country, Prime Minister Robert Fico is using his power to amplify tensions and stir up fear. Once a mainstream Social Democrat, Robert Fico has reinvented himself as a leftwing nationalist - repeatedly attacking the media while pursuing friendly relations with Moscow and stalling EU sanctions against Russia. With confidence in the government and public institutions steadily eroding, many young people are leaving the country - while others take to the streets to fight for democratic values and strengthening Slovakia's ties to the EU.

43 min

S2026 · E48 · Apr 2, 2026

Abolish prisons? - What works better than incarceration Episode 48

Approximately 58,000 people are currently incarcerated in German prisons. Over half of them reoffend after their release. These statistics raise doubts about the prison system. Is something fundamentally wrong with German prisons? To understand what prison does to people, journalist Frank Seibert voluntarily goes to jail. For a few hours, a cell door closes behind him. Isolation and the sudden loss of control change everything, he says after his "release". What good does imprisonment do? Lawyer and former prison governor Thomas Galli says: nothing! He would release 90 per cent of people behind bars on parole. Prison means social exclusion. But it is also expensive, costing the state some €200 per prisoner, per day. In total, this means the system costs taxpayers over €10 million - every single day. Thomas Galli would rather see that money invested in social work and therapy for offenders.

44 min

S2026 · E49 · Apr 3, 2026

Gothic architecture - When cathedrals reached up to the heavens Episode 49

Gothic architecture emerged in France in the 12th century. This architectural style revolutionized church construction, creating cathedrals that soared skywards. But where did the knowledge and technology for building these monuments come from? Light floods the interiors of Gothic cathedrals, which have colorful windows instead of solid walls. All told, the windows of Chartres Cathedral in France would cover an area larger than a football pitch. Another impressive example is St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, Austria, the federal capital's iconic landmark.

25 min

S2026 · E50 · Apr 5, 2026

From Syria to Germany - Nour’s dream to become a doctor Episode 50

It was 2015 when Nour Elhouda Al Ahmad Alhammash and her family arrived in eastern Germany. After fleeing Syria, the then nine-year-old was enrolled in the first grade at a school in the village of Golzow, Brandenburg. In the summer of 2015, Nour Elhouda Al Ahmad Alhammash, the child of a refugee family from Damascus, started school in the village of Golzow. The mayor of Golzow wanted to save the village's primary school from closure, but there weren't enough enrolments. He saw the integration of refugee families as an opportunity for the village. But local people were unsure. Nour was a fast learner, quickly picking up the German language and skipping two grades. In 2019, she moved up to secondary school. In 2025, she took her secondary school leaving exams, or "Abitur.” Her goal: to study medicine. Nour now lives with her family in Frankfurt (Oder), where her father works as a tiler. The family has welcomed another child and has no plans to return to Syria for now.

28 min

S2026 · E51 · Apr 7, 2026

Cyberattacks, data encryption, extortion - How cybercriminals operate Episode 51

Ransomware poses an existential threat to businesses. It's a form of cybercrime that's a highly professional industry. The criminals operate like a business - by infiltrating systems, encrypting data, and extorting money. Those who refuse to pay, face operational shutdown, loss of data, and bankruptcy. Many criminal groups have a division of labor that's similar to that of companies, with teams of developers, negotiators, 'customer support,' and clear deadlines. This documentary shows how almost any company can be targeted and how quickly an attack can threaten the very survival of the business. In the spring of 2025, Philipp Bosshard’s company was hit. It wasn't just the IT system that went down, the entire company ground to a halt. The future of the business and the jobs of its 200 employees were at stake. The hackers set a deadline: Bosshard had twelve days to decide whether to pay the ransom or see if he could somehow find another solution.

42 min

S2026 · E52 · Apr 9, 2026

The Holocaust Wikipedia • The Holocaust, known in Hebrew as the Shoah, was the genocide of Europea Episode 52

‘Stolpersteine’, or ‘stumbling stones’ placed in the pavement commemorate the victims of Nazism. The squares are made of brass and measure 10cm x 10cm. More than 100,000 of these memorial plaques have been laid in over 30 countries. It’s the largest decentralized memorial in the world. The project, launched in the 1990s by German artist Gunter Demnig, continues to grow. This documentary tells some of the personal stories behind the stones. Most of the inscriptions on the stumbling stones begin with the words: "Here lived". This is followed by a name and the key dates of a life. Gunter Demnig laid the first ‘Stolpersteine’ in Germany to commemorate the deportation and murder of the Sinti and Roma. This has resulted in a memorial to all victims of National Socialism - supported by the commitment of citizens, who research the history of those who used to live in their neighborhood. Many enquiries now come from all over the world.

27 min

S2026 · E55 · Apr 12, 2026

Norway at its limit - Tourists flood the north Episode 55

2024 was a record year for Norwegian tourism, with almost 38.6 million overnight stays. The country’s cuisine, culture, and unique destinations entice visitors. But tourism brings its own problems. At a campsite in Stavanger, Per Arne Haarr is often forced to turn away tourists during the high season. Because reservations can’t be made in advance, Robert, Yvonne, and their son Paul have arrived extra early. They hope to secure a spot at this campground in central Stavanger. The family from Germany is on its second visit to Norway and hoping to explore the south of the country. It quickly becomes apparent that since their last visit, things have gotten much more crowded here. Those who like hustle and bustle will get their money's worth along the Fargegaten pedestrian street, in the center of Stavanger. Then there’s the harbor promenade - and, of course, the cruise ships. Up to three of these can moor here at the same time, bringing thousands of tourists to the city every day.

42 min

S2026 · E56 · Apr 16, 2026

The secret to concentration - How to increase your attention span Episode 56

Constant stimuli, digital distractions - how can we stay focused these days? Does talent, training, or technology help? Neuroscientists and mental coaches show how concentration works in the brain. In an increasingly demanding world, we seem to be able to concentrate less and less. How does our brain manage to focus, even when we’re constantly exposed to distractions? This documentary accompanies a top athlete, an air traffic controller trainee, and an e-sports professional on their journeys in search of maximum focus. Swimming world champion Angelina Köhler has to be fully focused for a certain number of seconds to win a race. How does she prepare for this? According to Angie Köhler, the mind is crucial: "The sequences we train in swimming are so precise and technical that if you're not focused, you can't perform them quickly. If you can't concentrate properly, you lose."

42 min

S2026 · E57 · Apr 17, 2026

From stigma to strength - How India's widows are making history at Holi Episode 57

India's widows suffer from exclusion and stigmatization. For decades, they have been fighting for more rights, with the help of NGOs. For the first time, widows are allowed to celebrate the festival of colors at the Gopinath Temple - a breakthrough. India is a country where ancient traditions are still alive. One of them is Holi - the festival of colors. But the country's widows are excluded from it. Most of them live in poverty, stigmatized as outcasts. In Vrindavan, things are different. Here, widows find refuge in the ashrams. At the Gopinath Temple, they are allowed to celebrate the festival of colors for the first time. Munni, Heema, and Chavi live in different widows' ashrams in Vrindavan. They all came to this holy city to find refuge from the humiliation and exclusion practiced by their families and their social environments.

28 min

S2026 · E59 · Apr 26, 2026

When journalists become agents Episode 59

Investigative reporters are always on the hunt for exclusive information. But when the secret service serves as a source, can it also exploit journalists as agents? How can journalists become agents? To answer this question, the report accompanies Lars Petersen, head of investigative reporting at Business Insider, an online platform for business news. He explains how the exchange of information works, and when a line may be crossed. The film also looks back at a major journalism scandal in Germany: in 2005, it became public knowledge that the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) had systematically monitored journalists in the 1990s. In some cases over long periods of time; and particularly those who had reported critically on the agency.

43 min

S2026 · E60 · May 1, 2026

The courier driver business Episode 60

In many German cities, bicycle couriers deliver burgers, pizza, and other food to people's homes. Thousands of these riders come from India, lured by the promise of studying in Germany, and have incurred heavy debts. "We're not animals!” complains Shiwani S. after a hard day at the Berlin labor court. The bicycle courier, who is in late pregnancy, has been waiting for a year and a half for several months' wages to be paid. "Why don't Germans do these jobs at Lieferando, Wolt, or Uber Eats?” agrees Samee U. "Ask yourselves that!” The documentary explores this question and uncovers a system of exploitation that is becoming increasingly widespread in German cities: thousands of young Indians come to the country for worthless degrees at expensive private universities. They are lured here by agencies and heavily in debt, as a result.

28 min

S2026 · E61 · May 3, 2026

The magic of colors Episode 61

Colors make our homes more beautiful. They make our clothes more stylish. And colors are indispensable for art. But what looks beautiful can also be toxic: Many colors contain substances like mercury, lead, or chromium. The production of colors pollutes soil and water. Toxins can get onto our skin via our clothing. Textile dyeing has a particularly devastating impact in Asia. In countries like Bangladesh, China, and India, wastewater is often discharged into rivers without being filtered. "Basically, the textile industry dumps all its waste into the river,” says biologist Jim Ajioka. Along with his colleague Orr Yarkoni, Jim Ajioka has founded a start-up in Cambridge, England. Their aim is to revolutionize the textile market. "Our vision is to completely eliminate the use of toxic chemicals,” he says. To achieve this, the visionaries are relying on biological processes and microbes that can dye fabrics.

29 min

S2026 · E62 · May 5, 2026

Iran: Diary from a warzone Episode 62

These images were never supposed to be seen. Amid the war in Iran, two men secretly film their day-to-day lives. These smuggled recordings reveal the struggle they face between internal repression and external attacks. The 30-minute film, "Embattled in Iran — Diary From a Warzone," features never-before-seen footage of daily life in Iran during US-Israeli bombardments. In January 2026, the Iranian regime brutally cracked down on mass protests nationwide. After weeks of threats, the US and Israel started a war against Iran on 28 February. In those early weeks of the war, two men in different parts of the country began to film: one in the capital, Tehran, and the other in Baluchestan, in the southeastern part of Iran on the border to Pakistan. Using their cell phones, they document their lives without showing their faces, acutely aware of the extraordinary risks involved every time they press record.

43 min

S2026 · E63 · May 7, 2026

Hope, homesickness, new beginnings - How years abroad shape young people Episode 63

A year spent as a volunteer in Berlin. For Angeli from Cameroon, this is the first big trip of his life. How does voluntary service in another country shape a young person? Anyone in Germany can apply for what’s known as the ‘Federal Voluntary Service’. It’s a program enabling Germans to volunteer anywhere in the world. Foreigners can also come to Germany. In 2019, the young Cameroonian Robincrusoe Angeli comes to Berlin as part of the same program. With a small monthly allowance, Angeli does his best to get by. He works with the Grüne Liga, an environmental movement. But it's not always easy, in a city like Berlin. Making friends is difficult, and he’s plagued by homesickness. The documentary sensitively examines how voluntary service affects Angeli. What is he learning about Germany, and what are Germans learning from him? This is a film about falling down and getting back up, good intentions, and how we interact with one another.

43 min

S2026 · E64 · May 8, 2026

The insidious use of knockout drops (1/2) Episode 64

Knockout drops: colorless, tasteless and extremely dangerous. They’ve been around for decades and are used to incapacitate people in order to rob, rape and even kill them. "Spiking" is adding a sedative substance to people's food and drink without their knowledge or consent. The victim is rendered completely helpless and often suffers memory blackout - and crimes go unreported. "I didn't know why, but I knew something bad had happened," says Kate, recalling the night she was "knocked out". The following day, she realized she had been raped. Lawyer Jochen Link from the German organization Weißer Ring, which supports victims of crime, warns that the extent of the problem is being underestimated. Time and again, victims report blackouts even though they have consumed very little alcohol. The range of substances used is wide - from party drugs to sedatives and sleeping pills. Many victims feel ashamed or afraid that they won't be taken seriously.

43 min

S2026 · E65 · May 14, 2026

Oumuamua - A mysterious object from another star Episode 65

Where does Oumuamua, the mysterious interstellar flying object discovered in 2017, come from? Astronomer Robert Weryk spotted it with the help of the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii. But what is Oumuamua? A comet? An artificial object? Many questions and myths surrounded this "thing from another world”. Since it was too fast to be attracted by the gravitational pull of the sun, it was clear that it came from another star system. But what exactly was Oumuamua, which means "a messenger from afar arriving first," in Hawaiian? An asteroid? A comet? A fragment of an exoplanet, that is, a planet outside our solar system? Or even an active space probe, as Avi Loeb, director of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, has speculated?

35 min

S2026 · E66 · May 15, 2026

Knockout drops: Life after an attack (2/2) Episode 66

Knockout drops: colorless, tasteless and extremely dangerous. They’ve been around for decades and are used to incapacitate people in order to rob, rape and even kill them. "Spiking" is adding a sedative substance to people's food and drink without their knowledge or consent. The victim is rendered completely helpless and often suffers memory blackout - and crimes go unreported. "I didn't know why, but I knew something bad had happened," says Kate, recalling the night she was "knocked out". The following day, she realized she had been raped. Lawyer Jochen Link from the German organization Weißer Ring, which supports victims of crime, warns that the extent of the problem is being underestimated. Time and again, victims report blackouts even though they have consumed very little alcohol. The range of substances used is wide - from party drugs to sedatives and sleeping pills. Many victims feel ashamed or afraid that they won't be taken seriously.

25 min

S2026 · E67 · May 18, 2026

The price of iron ore - Relocating an entire city in Sweden Episode 67

A church that "migrates” to a new location kilometers away. A key event in the relocation of the northern Swedish city of Kiruna. As iron ore mining encroaches on its territory, large parts of the city are being forced to make way. Many buildings are being demolished, and the city center now consists largely of new construction. Leaving many residents of Kiruna unhappy. For several years now, Stefan Holmblad Johansson has been preparing for the day the church must leave its longtime home. He’s responsible for the relocation of the house of worship at the mining company LKAB. But he also has a personal connection to the church, like many people here in Kiruna. A few years ago, the Swedes voted the church the most beautiful building in the whole country. Its relocation was staged as a media-friendly folk festival. But for many people, the move is no cause for celebration. Lina Brännström grew up near the old city center.

29 min

S2026 · E68 · May 19, 2026

Far right extremism on gaming platforms Episode 68

From Hitler memes to swastikas and "Sieg heil" salutes: online gamers can encounter all manner of Nazi content. Most platforms are subject to regulation - but far-right ideology is nonetheless able to spread in associated forums. Originally just a form of entertainment, the gaming world is now part of mainstream society - comprising spaces that become stages for extremist political agitation. Security authorities have seen a rise in far-right activity in these online communities, while non-government groups warn of a growing risk of radicalization. The gaming industry has undergone major changes in recent years. Developers are incorporating greater diversity into both characters and narrative perspectives: from female soldiers and Black main protagonists to queer love stories. At the same time, the gaming community has itself also become more diverse.

43 min

S2026 · E70 · May 21, 2026

Europe's drug mafia (1/2) - How drugs made the Netherlands rich Episode 70

For centuries, Dutch prosperity has been based on global trade. But this has always had a dark side. Drugs, like opium and cocaine, are traded too. | Watch Part 2: • Europe's drug mafia (2/2) - The weakness o... The first part of this documentary shows how the Netherlands became the European hub for narcotics. As early as the 17th century, Dutch colonialism laid the foundation for a lucrative drug trade. Opium from Indonesia financed the rise of the trading empire. This was followed by the cultivation of coca plants on Java - which formed the basis for Amsterdam's early cocaine production. Even when international bans officially ended the trade during World War I, the system survived, underground. In the interwar period, an illegal market emerged and continues to have an impact today. After the Second World War, drug trafficking initially seemed to be a thing of the past.

43 min

S2026 · E71 · May 21, 2026

Europe's drug mafia (2/2) - The weakness of states Episode 71

In Rotterdam, local street gangs join forces with Colombians to build their empire. Driven by raging demand, the cocaine trade has triggered an unprecedented wave of violence. The second part of this documentary begins in Europe, in the 2000s. It traces the rise of major criminals who came to the Netherlands as immigrants. These include Gwenette Martha and Ridouan Taghi, who became the main contacts for South American cocaine dealers. To defend the bosses' interests, their organization practiced unprecedented violence. Murders of lawyers and journalists, acts of retaliation with military weapons, and threats against the royal family shook the country. Some surviving drug dealers ended up in Dubai, the trading paradise of the Middle East. From here, they continued their business via encrypted communication platforms.

54 min

S2026 · E73 · May 23, 2026

Trump's America - Is US democracy in danger? Episode 73

Nations once considered beacons of democracy are under attack. Many countries around the world are moving toward authoritarianism and jeopardizing once staunchly protected democratic values. Among them: the USA. The new DW documentary series, "Democracy Under Attack," is an urgent look into the heart of these conflicts. It puts a spotlight on countries where democratic values have long been taken for granted. In an ever-increasingly fractured world, how resilient are today's democracies? Making sense of these questions is Turkish investigative journalist Can Dündar, who has lived in exile in Germany since 2016. In the DW Documentary original series, "Guardians of Truth," he brought stories from Mexico, Belarus, and his home country, Turkey. He met people who, like him, faced the brutal consequences of corrupt institutions and the suppression of a free press.

28 min

S2026 · E74 · May 24, 2026

By tram through the Polish city of Wrocław Episode 74

The best way to appreciate Wrocław is from tram line No. 1. It has been rolling through the city for 140 years - passing rubble, after the war, and past renovated facades, modern apartment blocks and the grassy banks of the River Oder, today. This film accompanies tram driver Tatjana Granowska on her daily journey through Wrocław, and features talks with people along tram line No. 1 - students, artists and other residents of this city on the Oder. They talk about their everyday lives and how this city in the heart of Europe is changing. Tatjana Granowska worked in a travel agency for many years, helping others to discover the world. When that ended, the native Kazakh decided to make a fresh start and became a tram driver. Today, she steers the tram through the city -- and can’t imagine a better job. Kamil Zaremba lost everything in the 1997 floods. Today, he lives on a houseboat on the Oder River. While many in the city fear the next big flood, he feels safe on the water.

58 min

S2026 · E75 · May 27, 2026

Loneliness in young people - Ways out of isolation Episode 75

Loneliness is often underestimated - especially among young people. The documentary follows four young people: Ellen, Gordon, Lilli and Vanelynn, who feel isolated for very different reasons. Ellen moves to Freiburg as a student and doesn't know many people there yet. Another person affected is 19-year-old Lilli, who often feels alone in Cottbus in Brandenburg with her left-wing values. Then there’s influencer Vanelynn from Düsseldorf. Although she’s constantly online, she misses having real-life contacts. The last protagonist is Gordon from Stuttgart, who lives with depression. The four of them speak about their struggles and hopes, which the film records with openness and sensitivity.

27 min

S2026 · E77 · May 31, 2026

Churches as safe havens: How communities protect refugees from deportation Episode 77

For more than 40 years, German churches have been offering refugees church asylum. But this is not a legal right. And the practice is increasingly being called into question by German authorities. As the country’s previously welcoming refugee policy undergoes major change, the state's tolerance for church asylum is waning. Anja is someone who has felt this shift. A pastor in a free church, she grants church asylum to people in her congregation who are threatened with deportation. How does she handle the difficult balancing act between extending charity, and obedience to the law? The state of Bremen is considered a stronghold of church asylum: of almost 2,400 cases nationwide, 200 were registered here in 2024. Ironically, it was here in this liberal Hanseatic city that a scandal erupted during Advent last year: the Bremen Migration Office instructed police officers to remove a 25-year-old Somali man from church asylum for deportation to Finland, his first point of entry into the EU.

28 min

S2026 · E78 · Jun 2, 2026

Homelessness in Berlin - Life and survival on the streets Episode 78

Anyone walking through Berlin will come across people experiencing homelessness. Some have temporary shelter in emergency housing, while others sleep in doorways, on the streets, or on makeshift beds underneath bridges. Berlin has one of Germany’s largest unhoused populations. According to estimates, more than 50,000 people in the city lack permanent housing, and around 6,000 of them live permanently on the streets. The reasons for homelessness vary, from poverty, misfortune, and eviction, to debt, addiction, and criminality. Some try to make ends meet by selling what are known as street newspapers. Others have been living in the same public spaces for years, and are well-known in their neighborhoods, though not always well-liked. This documentary follows Bülent, Daniel and Manni, three men who grew up in Berlin and now find themselves without a home. Six days a week, Bülent sells newspapers outside a shopping center in the city's Moabit district.

42 min

S2026 · E79 · Jun 4, 2026

China: What do young people dream of? Episode 79

What do young Chinese people dream of? What hopes and goals do they have? Do the grandchildren of the "rising generation” still believe in progress through work, and prosperity for all? Or do they have different values? In China, people rarely talk about their own dreams. There is the government’s "Chinese Dream,” of course: It promises prosperity to those who work hard and propel their country forward to the top of the world. But the boom is over, and China’s economy is stagnating. Many young people can’t find jobs. Many also no longer want to work as hard as their parents did. In two episodes "A Day with Paintboxers, Influencers, and Millionaires” and "A Night with Rock Stars, Rebels, and Princesses,” the filmmakers meet young people who are breaking with their parents’ hopes and dreams. The subjects let the filmmakers into their homes, and open their hearts. The filmmakers, in turn, don’t talk about the young people — instead, they let them tell their own stories.

89 min

S2026 · E81 · Jun 6, 2026

Ukraine: Direct from the frontline trenches Episode 81

A video diary from the frontline trenches: Ukrainian commander and cameraman Dmytro Dokunov can’t save his comrades. Can he free himself from the horror of the Russian attack on Ukraine? Dmytro Dokunov, known as Dok, is a tall, peace-loving man, fighting on the frontline against Russian invaders. His mobile phone camera is always on. Everyone in his unit is wracked by fear. There’s nothing heroic about this war. Dok is a pacifist. A vegetarian. He spent the last year before the war in a remote Ukrainian village, building an eco-community, meditating, gardening, and making art. A notice from the military office presented him with a dilemma: to join the army, and face a difficult moral choice, or to run away from mobilization. He decided to accept the challenge and fight for his homeland... Dok ended up in the army's most dangerous unit — the paratrooper reconnaissance unit.

29 min

S2026 · E82 · Jun 9, 2026

Investigating far-right women's groups Episode 82

Right-wing extremist parties are much less popular among women than men. In Germany, one women's organization aims to change that. It offers harmless lifestyle tips alongside xenophobic messaging. Lukreta is a group with close links to Germany's far-right AfD, combining ostensibly harmless lifestyle advice with far-right propaganda. The documentary's investigative team shows how much political influence the organization's members already wield and how well connected they are in Europe. The women's organization Lukreta may look innocent and traditional on the face of it but scratch a little deeper and you will find hardcore political propaganda alongside its trad wife and homespun look. The documentary shows how far-right narratives are intentionally interwoven with everyday tales.

42 min

S2026 · E83 · Jun 11, 2026

China: What do young people dream of? Episode 83

What do young Chinese people dream of? What hopes and goals do they have? Do the grandchildren of the "rising generation” still believe in progress through work, and prosperity for all? Or do they have different values? In China, people rarely talk about their own dreams. There is the government’s "Chinese Dream,” of course: It promises prosperity to those who work hard and propel their country forward to the top of the world. But the boom is over, and China’s economy is stagnating. Many young people can’t find jobs. Many also no longer want to work as hard as their parents did. In two episodes "A Day with Paintboxers, Influencers, and Millionaires” and "A Night with Rock Stars, Rebels, and Princesses,” the filmmakers meet young people who are breaking with their parents’ hopes and dreams. The subjects let the filmmakers into their homes, and open their hearts. The filmmakers, in turn, don’t talk about the young people — instead, they let them tell their own stories.

43 min

S2026 · E84 · Jun 13, 2026

Life-changing decisions - How families deal with trans identity Episode 84

The psychological distress experienced by children and adolescents who feel they have been born as the wrong gender is immense. It can even lead to suicide. But is gender reassignment at a young age the right decision? "Whatever created my body simply made a mistake in the production process,” explains Kira. The 17-year-old was born a boy. Five years ago, she came out to her parents: "I’m a girl.” After the initial shock, Kira’s parents wondered how they could help their child—because puberty was just around the corner, with facial hair growth and a changing voice. "We asked ourselves: But what if it’s just a phase?” recalls Kira’s mother. Should they agree to medical interventions—or wait and see and do nothing? Both can cause harm. A dilemma. Interventions involving hormone treatments and gender-affirming surgeries have side effects. That’s why children and parents should be certain that the trans identity is permanent before starting therapy.

28 min

S2026 · E85 · Jun 16, 2026

New military service rules - Young Germans facing a tough decision Episode 85

In the event of war, would you take up arms for your country? Since military service reforms came into effect in January 2026, young Germans are once again faced with this question. That's because every 18-year-old German male is obliged to answer questions about serving in Germany’s military, the Bundeswehr, and must undergo a mandatory physical examination. The move is part of efforts to recruit more personnel. Elias has just turned 18. A few days after celebrating his birthday, he receives a letter requiring him to complete a questionnaire for the Bundeswehr, what’s known as a "declaration of readiness". While he does think a stronger military is important, he can't imagine serving in the army himself. Tom, on the other hand, hopes the military might offer him a career path. The 16-year-old already volunteers with the German Red Cross. At a careers fair, he explores career opportunities within the armed forces - from being a paramedic to becoming an officer.

42 min

S2026 · E87 · Jun 18, 2026

San Michele - Venice's cemetery island Episode 87

Venice is a city unlike any other, so it's no surprise its cemetery is also unique. Located halfway between the city of Venice and the glassblowing island of Murano, Venetians find their final resting place on the cemetery island of San Michele. Since the early 19th century, not only native Venetians have been buried here, but also famous visitors such as Ezra Pound, Luigi Nono, Sergei Diaghilev, Igor Stravinsky, Joseph Brodsky, and Emilio Vedova. They have their graves there, in the city they loved. But the island is not just a place of death and silence. Every day, people come here to care for the cemetery. Visitors also arrive regularly, including members of the association "La laguna nel bicchiere” or "The Lagoon in a Glass.” The association's goal is to revive forgotten vineyards in Venice and on its islands. One of these is located in the novitiate garden of the former Camaldolese monastery on San Michele.

26 min

S2026 · E88 · Jun 21, 2026

Wild Rügen - Tourism vs. nature conservation Episode 88

Rügen is one of Germany’s most popular travel destinations, and one of its most sensitive natural areas. As millions of visitors flock to the beaches and chalk cliffs here each year, nature conservation and tourism inevitably conflict. The documentary highlights the fragile balance between nature conservation and tourism —and the impact of this on animals, plants, and the local people. Rügen is home to some of Germany’s last remaining untouched coastal and forest landscapes. This unique natural environment is increasingly under threat. Problems include overcrowded beaches, illegal trails, RV campsites at the edge of the forest, nighttime drone flights, and dogs running loose in protected areas. The documentary follows rangers from the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve in their daily struggle to enforce rules and protect habitats—often meeting resistance from visitors who confuse freedom with being allowed to do whatever they want.

26 min

S2026 · E89 · Jun 23, 2026

In the shadow of the World Cup - Mexican families search for their loved ones Episode 89

It's World Cup season in Mexico - yet the spectacle can't hide a dark reality in the country. Over 100,000 people are still listed missing. It's believed many of them have been murdered. As a World Cup host city, Guadalajara is keen to show it’s modern and safe. Yet just a stone's throw from the stadiums lie the mass graves of murder victims. While authorities laud the festive atmosphere and the security measures, locals know these are focused only where the world is watching. Just out of view, daily life is still shaped by fears of kidnapping and enforced disappearances. This documentary follows a women's soccer coach, an activist and a father whose daughter was abducted. Ever since 2022, when armed men abducted Yessenia from her home, Miguel has been searching for his daughter. For years, alongside raising her young son, he's devoted everything he has to finding answers. Today, he is running out of strength and the financial resources to continue.

42 min

S2026 · E90 · Jun 25, 2026

Canada's multicultural metropolis: When night falls in Toronto Episode 90

"We're just like New York," they say of their city, and usually add: "Only nicer!" Toronto is a melting pot of diverse cultures. Most of its residents have immigrated, at some point. The documentary features the Neon Riders of Toronto, decorating their bikes with colorful lights and heading out at night for a ride and a party. Then there’s 28-year-old Jill, who opts to spend the night catching raccoons instead of losing herself on a club dancefloor. Or Quinn, who upholds the traditions of his Indigenous ancestors through painted constellations. And the guys from the Latino band ‘6ix Pal Mundo’, who are creating a new soundtrack for the city. These are just a few of the many stories and moments in a film about a city that welcomes everyone, is beautiful but never pretentious, and doesn’t beg to be loved -- but is adored by its inhabitants. A place where entering the world’s largest underground pedestrian tunnel system can feel like taking a journey through several different continents.

26 min

S2026 · E91 · Jun 28, 2026

Romania - Torn between work and home Episode 91

In the 1990s, many Romanians left their homeland in search of work. They left behind deserted villages: children were raised by their grandparents, the elderly lived alone, and communities fell apart. Antoanela Andonescu — affectionately known to everyone as "Coca” — also left her homeland back then. She worked for decades in Italy as a geriatric nurse. "The harder I work, the sooner I can return,” she kept telling herself. But months turned into years. Her sisters followed her, and home faded into a memory. When Coca finally returns to her small hometown of Bicaz in eastern Romania, she brings her savings with her — and a new sense of responsibility. She establishes a nursing home for the elderly who were left behind during the great wave of emigration. Almost all the residents in her nursing home have children abroad: Former cement factory worker Vasile has lived here since his family moved to Western Europe.

29 min

S2026 · E92 · Jun 30, 2026

Banned weapons - Why Europe is bringing back landmines Episode 92

Landmines can maim and kill civilians and are banned in many countries under the 1997 Ottawa Treaty. Yet on Europe’s northeastern border, these controversial weapons are making a comeback. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states are rearming and bringing banned anti-personnel landmines (APLs) back into their arsenals. While military and political leaders say they contribute to strategic deterrence, mine victims and deminers say they pose a serious long-term danger. The war in Ukraine has reshaped Europe’s security thinking and triggered a radical shift in Finland. According to Colonel Riku Mikkonen of the Finnish armed forces, the military considers APLs a cost effective tool for national defence and a pragmatic instrument of deterrence. But to Zoran Ješić, who lost a leg to a mine in the Bosnian war, these weapons continue to kill, maim and render entire regions uninhabitable even decades after conflicts have ended.

42 min

S2026 · E94 · Jul 2, 2026

From Latin America to Europe - The dangerous schemes of human traffickers Episode 94

Women in Latin America are recruited with brutal methods, then enslaved in Europe. A survivor recounts how she was lured to Spain with the promise of a job, then forced into prostitution. A young woman from Latin America applies to a modeling agency in Spain. Flight, accommodation—everything is paid for. But when she arrives, her papers are taken away and she is forced into sex work, first in Spain, then in Germany. The reason given: she had to repay the travel expenses. Only the police can free her, during an undercover operation. Sebastian Eichler from the Mainz Criminal Investigation Department conducts his investigations as follows: He responds to online ads as a fake client, then reveals himself as a police officer during the appointed meetings. "It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack,” says Eichler, "to take action against the perpetrators, we need the women’s statements.” But often, the women remain silent out of fear.

28 min

S2026 · E96 · Jul 5, 2026

How the Mafia’s cattle are terrorizing Italian villages Episode 96

In the southern Italian region of Calabria, in the municipality of Cittanova, hundreds of feral cattle are causing trouble. They’re eating crops and causing accidents. The problem is a relic of the great Mafia wars and a legacy of the ’Ndrangheta clan. Herds of ‘sacred cows’ cause serious road accidents, destroy fences and ruin farmers’ crops. And they’re often deliberately used as a means of intimidation. Few people dare to speak out in protest. Giuseppe "Peppe” Morabito, a councilor in Cittanova, has been campaigning for years against the presence of these animals and the authorities’ silence. After his daughter was involved in a serious car accident with a bull, he set up the "No Bull” citizens’ initiative. He tirelessly travels through the rugged terrain to document the movements of the herds and the damage they cause. His aim: to persuade the state to act. But resistance is dangerous, for the cows are a symbol of power.

42 min

S2026 · E99 · Jul 10, 2026

How does sexual desire really arise? - The science behind arousal Episode 99

Sexual desire often feels like a spontaneous, almost uncontrollable sensation. A thought, a touch, a voice — and suddenly, the body and mind react. But arousal is less random than many people think! Lara, a student in Munich, is undergoing sex therapy coaching. Together with Dania Schiftan, a psychotherapist and clinical sexologist based in Zurich, she is exploring the nature of her sexual arousal. One thing becomes clear: many people's sexual desire is heavily shaped by conditioning. When certain patterns are repeated over and over, neural pathways become entrenched, while others atrophy. New stimuli or unfamiliar situations then have a hard time triggering arousal. But arousal pathways like these can be rewired. The brain is neuroplastic and therefore malleable. Methods such as conscious breathing, movement and mindfulness can help us perceive our own bodies in a more nuanced way — and thus also control desire and arousal more effectively.

89 min

S2026 · E100 · Jul 11, 2026

On the smugglers’ trail - Making billions from tiny eels Episode 100

The European eel is threatened with extinction. But it is also a highly sought-after commodity on the global market. The trade in young eels is booming. And it’s increasingly controlled by organized crime. The film "Billion Dollar Babies — The Big Business of Eel Trafficking" tells the story of a multi-billion-dollar illegal trade, centered on one of nature’s most enigmatic creatures. Born in the Sargasso Sea near the Bermuda Triangle, the eel begins its journey of up to 5,000 kilometers to Europe — as a translucent ‘willow-leaf’ larva known as a glass eel. To this day, it remains unclear exactly how the European eel reproduces. Commercial breeding isn’t possible: every eel consumed comes from the wild. The documentary follows the trail of a global network of smugglers, middlemen and high-ranking triad bosses. The investigative journey takes viewers from European fishing grounds via Paris to Hong Kong and on to mainland China.

27 min

S2026 · E101 · Jul 12, 2026

Forensics 3.0 - How modern crime labs are closing in on criminals Episode 101

Forensic science is advancing rapidly. What began 100 years ago with fingerprint analysis has evolved into a high-tech discipline. Today, even the smallest traces of DNA can help investigators identify a suspected killer. For criminals, the walls are closing in. Crime scenes are now scanned with lasers and reconstructed virtually, allowing investigators to revisit every detail and reexamine how a crime may have unfolded. The same technology is increasingly being used on corpses, which can also be digitally scanned and analyzed. But artificial intelligence is creating new challenges for investigators. Criminals are using AI tools to manipulate video and audio recordings, producing highly realistic fake content. The software needed for such alterations is freely available online, raising serious concerns for criminal investigations and the integrity of evidence.

50 min

S2026 · E102 · Jul 15, 2026

Muscle mania and the cult of masculinity - When the body becomes an obsession Episode 102

Until recently, the use of anabolic steroids was the privilege of elite athletes. But the use of performance-enhancing drugs among young men has now reached alarming proportions. A powerful documentary about a phenomenon that’s increasingly alarming: young men’s fixation on the perfect body, and their growing use of performance-enhancing substances to achieve it. What was once reserved for professional elite sports is now widespread among teenagers and young men with bodybuilding ambitions. The consequences are serious. The film radically challenges prevailing male beauty ideals and delves deep into the mechanisms of a global muscle-building industry. Conceived of as an investigative field study, the film reveals the social, psychological, and physical risks associated with the relentless pursuit of corporeal perfection.

43 min

S2026 · E103 · Jul 16, 2026

Nigeria’s mysterious art treasures Episode 103

The first major city in sub-Saharan Africa was founded in what is now Nigeria. Ilé-Ifè, the sacred city of the Yoruba, was a center of African civilization. Until its decline. When the German collector and African explorer Leo Frobenius became the first European to reach the city of Ilé-Ifè in south-western Nigeria in 1910, the realistic portrait art he encountered led him to believe he had stumbled upon traces of the lost continent of Atlantis. A golden age in the African rainforest? In the era of imperialism and colonialism, nobody in Europe was willing to believe it. Yet in recent years, several research teams have examined the city’s rise, its trade relations, the daily lives of its citizens and, ultimately, its decline in greater detail. Whilst a team led by the Frenchman Gérard Chouin is developing a chronology of the city based on its pottery and tiled floors, Nigerian archaeologist Babatunde Babalola takes us on a treasure hunt around a glass factory.

43 min

S2026 · E104 · Jul 17, 2026

What makes us happier? - The formula for happiness Episode 104

Why are the Finns the undisputed world champions when it comes to happiness? They have topped the United Nations’ "World Happiness Report” eight times in a row. Is it nature, saunas, tango, or karaoke that brings the Finns so much happiness? Can we learn to be happy? Or does happiness reside in our genes? At first glance, the results of the World Happiness Report don’t seem to fit the cold, dark North at all. Winters are harsh. Many Finns have an alcohol problem. Russia is a direct threat. The economy is stagnating. Yet the vast majority of Finns feel happy. Finnish actress Meri Koivisto sets out to discover what the formula for happiness in the far north could be.

26 min

S2026 · E105 · Jul 19, 2026

Couchsurfing in Argentina: Soccer fever, tango and wild Patagonia Episode 105

Argentina is in turmoil, as President Milei reshapes the country with radical austerity measures. Subsidies are being cut, the state is shrinking, and reforms are dividing society. What does this mean for the people living there? The German journalist and travel writer Stephan Orth visited Argentina and travelled through the country couchsurfing. What he found was a divided country going through a tumultuous time: Since Javier Milei took office, Argentina has been experiencing a period of radical transformation. Subsidies are being cut, the public sector drastically downsized, labor rights weakened, and environmental protection laws rolled back — all in the name of a neoliberal shock therapy that has deeply shaken the country. But despite the crises, Argentinians have not lost their joie de vivre. Buenos Aires remains crazy about soccer, especially during the Superclásico rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate.

29 min

S2026 · E106 · Jul 21, 2026

The Berlin rental rip-off: The housing crisis boom on tiny rooms Episode 106

Just under 6 square meters for 600 euros a month. People moving to Berlin often find only overpriced, furnished short-term rooms available. It's all due to the city's housing shortage: Germany has rent cap laws, but they don't apply to temporary, furnished accommodation. Some landlords even take it a step further. With drywall partitions, they're dividing existing apartments into multiple tiny rooms. What was once a four-bedroom apartment now has eight people crammed into it. It's often younger people moving to Berlin who face the worst of it. Now, the boroughs of Neukölln and Pankow are tightening regulations on room rentals and expanding neighborhood protection measures to crack down on the business model. Along with tenant activists, newcomers are pushing back against high rents and sketchy rental practices. The fight is on for affordable housing and the chance to build a future in Berlin.

43 min

S2026 · E108 · Jul 24, 2026

By train to Mount Etna Episode 108

For almost 120 years, the "Circumetnea” narrow-gauge railway has been circling Europe’s highest volcano. The train travels through impressive lava landscapes and vegetation zones, as well as two nature parks, with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mount Etna always in view. At the foot of Mount Etna, amidst black rocks and prickly pears, the narrow-gauge railway winds its way through rocky wastelands, wooded areas and lush green hills. Lava eruptions have meant the railway line has had to be rebuilt many times over the years, most recently in 1981. Mount Etna, standing at 3,352 meters, is Europe’s most active volcano. Most eruptions affect mainly the immediate vicinity of the crater; they rarely pose a threat to people or animals. However, violent eruptions do occur from time to time. Then, volcano spews clouds of ash and chunks of rock kilometers into the atmosphere, and lava flows make their way down into the valley.

26 min

S2026 · E109 · Jul 26, 2026

Will non-alcoholic wine save the winemakers? Episode 109

Wine consumption is declining in Europe. This poses a threat to European wine-growing regions. Winemakers in Spain and Germany are seeking a way out of the crisis by producing alcohol-free wine. Many people want to live healthier lives. As a result, alcohol consumption in Europe has declined: by a good 20 percent, over the past 20 years. It’s a trend that also impacts wine: Experts warn that nearly a third of Germany’s vineyard acreage could disappear in the coming years. Particularly affected are the labor-intensive steep slopes. These slopes produce distinctive wines, shape the cultural landscape and attract tourists. Jürgen and Luca Dahms share their love of wine. Yet their perspectives also diverge. Father Jürgen, a winemaker, stands for classic, traditional wine enjoyment, while Luca, who works in the insurance industry, has found surprising success marketing alcohol-free wines. Both see an opportunity to preserve threatened vineyards by de-alcoholizing wines.

28 min

S2026 · E110 · Jul 28, 2026

Morocco's cannabis reform: Why small farmers are left behind Episode 110

Morocco's legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes was welcomed by growers in the country. The promise of a better future, however, has yet to materialize for many small-scale farmers. Cannabis farmers in northern Morocco are under pressure from changing climate conditions, with water shortages intensifying the already fierce competition in the sector. In Azila, a village that depends entirely on the drug trade for its livelihood, farmers are allowed to cultivate cannabis but are not authorized to trade it. Here in the Rif Mountains, thousands of families rely on cannabis cultivation, but most live under precarious conditions. The most productive land, where the plants grow best, belongs to a handful of large operators who are increasingly taking control of the business. Anyone who continues to sell the crop illegally risks imprisonment. Many farmers support legalization because they hope it will enable them to live without a constant fear of prosecution.

52 min

S2026 · E111 · Jul 29, 2026

When shame changes sides - The case of Gisèle Pelicot Episode 111

The sensational abuse trial involving Gisèle Pelicot, as seen through her daughter’s eyes. A documentary about the harrowing reality of drug-induced sexual violence and the courage of the victims to speak out. Over a period of ten years, Gisèle Pelicot was systematically drugged by her then-husband in Mazan, in the south of France. On numerous occasions he invited men from the area to sexually assault her. Central to the film is the personal perspective of their daughter, Caroline Darian, who speaks at length for the first time about her mother’s story and her own experiences during the trial. Darian has become an important voice for victims in recent years. As a whistleblower, she draws attention to the hitherto overlooked role of substances in sexual violence - an aspect that is often neglected in criminal proceedings.

42 min

S2026 · E112 · Jul 30, 2026

Neele dances through life - Artist with Down syndrome follows her own path Episode 112

Neele Buchholz is an actress and dancer. She has Down syndrome and regularly encounters barriers in the entertainment industry. Even so, she is determined to work as an independent artist. Neele Buchholz has found success in her career. She has appeared in numerous television productions, feature films, and stage performances. At an early age, she decided not to work in one of Germany's sheltered workshops for people with disabilities — the path often expected of people with Down syndrome. "I said, 'No, I don’t want that because it’s boring,'" Neele recalls. Her parents strongly supported her decision to pursue a career in dance and acting. After nine years in a permanent position with a dance theater company in Bremen, she landed a role in a successful TV series. She then took the step into freelance work. However, she does face certain challenges at castings or when learning scripts. "I need time, but they always want things done quickly, quickly, quickly," Neele says.

28 min

S2026 · E113 · Aug 2, 2026

From ADHD to heart disease - Why women get sick differently than men Episode 113

Heart disease, ADHD, mental health: When it comes to medicine, men and women often need different treatments. Yet general medicine is based on the male body. The risk of dying after a heart attack is twice as high for women as for men. ADHD often goes undiagnosed in girls. For men, mental health issues are still often considered a taboo subject: The suicide rate among men is nearly three times higher than it is among women. Yet in medical education, drug research, and everyday clinical practice, the standard patient is still imagined as male. In Frankfurt am Main, doctors want to change that. Germany’s first university-affiliated Women’s Heart Center was established there. Research and teaching on cardiovascular diseases are focused on women, and personalized therapies and preventive screenings are offered specifically for them. ADHD, on the other hand, often goes undetected in girls—and thus untreated.

52 min

S2026 · E115 · Aug 5, 2026

Steve Jobs and the Apple story - From rebel to tech titan Episode 115

As Apple turns 50, this film tells the story of the tech company that revolutionized our world, along with its opportunities and downsides. Has this tool of liberation become an instrument of control? Founded 50 years ago, Apple grew from a counterculture movement into a global corporation. The film looks back at the breathtaking rise of headstrong visionary Steve Jobs, who never gave up on his dream despite fierce competition, his destructive perfectionism and even his ousting from his own company. Colleagues and companions shine light on the expertise behind Apple: designer Hartmut Esslinger created Apple's legendary 'Snow White' design language, and typographer Erik Spiekermann developed groundbreaking typefaces. People like Daniel Kottke, a former flat mate of Steve Jobs and one of the first Apple employees, share insights into the inner workings of the legendary team. Andy Cunningham, who was sacked by Jobs a total of five times, also weighs in.

41 min

S2026 · E116 · Aug 6, 2026

Assaults in the hospital - When doctors harass their female colleagues Episode 116

Women who become doctors choose their profession to heal people. But in hospitals, they often become victims of sexual harassment. This film features case studies from Switzerland. From obscene jokes by powerful bosses in the operating room to sexual blackmail and assaults during training: in this film, female students, doctors, and surgeons recount what they have had to endure. In an environment still marked by a culture of silence, harassers are rarely punished by their superiors. Often, victims are reluctant to file a complaint for fear of jeopardizing their careers. Some take the risk and report the incidents to human resources, but these complaints are seldom followed up. Although hospitals claim to have a zero-tolerance policy, harassers rarely experience any negative consequences.

43 min

S2026 · E117 · Aug 7, 2026

Hotel hope - Where refugees begin a new life Episode 117

An integration experiment, in the heart of Germany: Refugees move into a vacant hotel, where they receive targeted support. The aim is for them to find work or a training placement, ultimately fostering a successful integration. An empty hotel in downtown Düsseldorf is ready for a new idea. Karin Jungjohann has one - and isn’t afraid to experiment. "What do people need most, no matter where they come from? A sense of hope for the future," said Karin Jungjohann, one of the founders of the Düsseldorf language school "Hispi". For years, she had observed how refugees in accommodation centers struggle to progress in their lives. At the same time, she was being approached by restaurateurs in Düsseldorf looking for people to fill jobs in the catering industry. This gave rise to the idea for a project designed to rethink the accommodation, support and integration of refugees: the House of Friends.

58 min

S2026 · E118 · Aug 8, 2026

JD Vance: From Trump critic to vice president Episode 118

From hillbilly to the White House: JD Vance’s rise to become Trump’s vice president is seen by many as symbolic of a worrying trend in the US that’s further polarizing society. JD Vance’s story is the story of an America that has long felt overlooked. An America of the white working class, marked by economic decline, the opioid crisis and the aftermath of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. An America that fears losing even the little that it still holds on to, through migration and social upheaval. JD Vance has undergone a remarkable transformation: from a fierce critic of Donald Trump to a loyal supporter of the MAGA movement and, ultimately, Trump’s vice president. As far as his supporters are concerned, it is a career trajectory that gives him credibility. Critics, on the other hand, see in his politics a dynamic that could upset the political balance in the US and endanger democracy. Some already regard him as a potential contender for the presidency.

27 min

S2026 · E119 · Aug 9, 2026

BookTok and Gen Z - Are young people saving the book market? Episode 119

The digital book club BookTok got its start during the pandemic in 2020. Today, it is a big success, used primarily by young women who are fans of a particular literary genre - so-called "New Adult,” or romance novels for young adults. The new books have striking, glossy covers, their language is easy to follow, the stories are romantic, exciting and full of eroticism from a female perspective. But young women aren't just engaging in online discussions about their favorite books. Book blogger Jess 'miss.Nerdstagram' also meets her followers in person at events like the Book Ball at Namedy Castle in Germany. Author Kim Leopold from the German town of Rheine also frequently takes to the road to be close to her fans. She's an 'own voice' author writing about her own personal experience, in stories that satisfy the hunger for authentic narratives. Topics such as mental health, body positivity and ADHD are close to her heart.

43 min

S2026 · E121 · Aug 15, 2026

Careers in the male domain - Female construction workers in Germany Episode 121

No other sector in Germany employs as few women as the construction industry. The few female construction workers face many challenges—including sexism. This report follows four of them. Julia, Frieda, Sally and Anna. Four women who work as bricklayers, carpenters, and construction workers. All four women share a love for their profession—although it can be physically demanding. And all of them have experienced sexism. How do they stand their ground against the macho men on the building sites? And why are women like them still the exception in this line of work?

88 min

S2026 · E122 · Aug 16, 2026

The Mölln attacks - Surviving racist terror Episode 122

In 1992, three people died in an arson attack carried out by neo-Nazis in Mölln, northern Germany. They were relatives of İbrahim Arslan, who was seven years old at the time. The film follows the family as they come to terms with their trauma. Ibrahim survived the fire, but lost his sister, cousin and grandmother. In the wake of the Mölln attacks, the town received thousands of letters of solidarity. They were archived - and forgotten for almost three decades. Woven into İbrahim's moving quest to uncover the past and his encounters with three of the letter-writers, the rediscovered letters form a visual and emotional bridge between the past and the present. The film follows İbrahim and his siblings, painting a sensitive portrait of a trauma that continues to shape their lives to this day. For İbrahim, coming to terms with the past means one thing above all else: fighting racism and championing a culture of remembrance centered on the perspectives of those affected.

25 min

S2026 · E123 · Aug 18, 2026

War in Sudan - Fleeing violence and hunger Episode 123

For over three years, Sudan has been caught up in a devastating civil war. Both the Sudanese Armed Forces and their opponents, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have been accused of committing war crimes in their struggle for power. It's the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Millions of Sudanese have been forced to flee their homes; hundreds of thousands have lost their lives. The RSF's capture of the city of El-Fasher in the Darfur region in October 2025 marked one of the bloodiest chapters in this ongoing conflict. In just a few weeks, the militias are believed to have massacred over 60-thousand residents. A few of the survivors that managed to flee tell their stories in this documentary. They recount the atrocities: rapes, murders, bombardments, hunger and the death march to the displacement camp. Sudan's civil war would likely have ended already if both sides weren't being backed by foreign powers.

42 min

S2026 · E124 · Aug 20, 2026

Mission in the Alps: The mountain rescuers Episode 124

The picturesque Bavarian Alps, beloved by mountaineers and hiking enthusiasts. But overconfidence or sudden weather changes can create emergencies. Then, mountain rescuers are the last hope. On the Blaueis ("blue ice") Glacier, a young mountaineer is in distress. Alone when a thick fog rolls in, he's unable to continue. A team from the Ramsau Mountain Rescue Service sets out immediately, but the fog becomes a problem for them as well. The mountain rescuers' keen sense of direction is put to the test: Two teams search from different directions for the man, who is likely already severely hypothermic. A hiker has fallen 40 meters in the Bavarian Alps. The air rescue team prepares to fly to the accident site using a helicopter. There's no information yet on the condition of the victim. But experience dictates that in a fall from this height, the rescuers should prepare for the worst. Both missions end well. But that is not always the case.

86 min

S2026 · E125 · Aug 21, 2026

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange: Idol and public enemy no. 1 Episode 125

For some he's a hero. For others, he’s public enemy number one. Certainly, his revelations challenged US power. This film follows the WikiLeaks founder’s extraordinary life story. With the publication of thousands of secret US military and diplomatic documents in 2010, WikiLeaks ushered in a new information age. Suddenly, thanks to founder Julian Assange, state secrets were out in the open — and under scrutiny. For many journalists and activists, Assange was a pioneer who used new technologies to evade both censorship and reprisals. For others, he symbolized an openness that could bring both nation states and multinational corporations to their knees. For seven years, Assange sought refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in London. After that, he spent five years in a British high-security prison facing US charges of espionage carrying a potential sentence of 175 years. Following a deal with the US Department of Justice, he was finally released in the summer of 2024.

52 min

S2026 · E126 · Aug 22, 2026

Climate change and displacement - How people are being forced to flee their homes Episode 126

Over the past 10 years, climate change has displaced an average of 70,000 people, every day. This, according to figures from the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR. Poorer countries are particularly hard hit. There is no universal legal framework that would offer these people protection. Climate-induced displacement is not recognised as a valid ground for asylum under the Geneva Convention. Now, three countries in Latin America, the Pacific and Asia are responding to an emergency that directly affects each of them. One of these countries is Bangladesh. It is one of the places most severely affected by climate change. In 2024, around 2.4 million people in Bangladesh became internally displaced. Most of them lost their homes due to a natural disaster. Cyclones and tropical storms cause devastating damage, while rising sea levels are flooding mangrove forests and agricultural land. Melting glaciers in the Himalayas are causing flooding along the rivers.

26 min

S2026 · E127 · Aug 23, 2026

Men in the modeling business Episode 127

More and more men are dreaming of a career as a top model. But the competition is fierce. At places like the Hamburg Model Academy, which offers a sort of crash course for aspiring models, men learn the basics. Those who really make it can earn daily rates in the four-digit range — and see themselves on giant billboards. At the Model Academy, run by Hamburg modeling agency Modelwerk, young men learn how to pose, work the camera, and stride elegantly down the runway. It's a ruthless business: Many agencies quickly weed out models who don't make an immediate impression. The industry is looking for fresh faces, preferably with experience. "We send guys who are serious about it abroad for several months first," explains Claudia Midolo, founder and head of the Modelwerk agency. In places like Turkey, Vietnam, or Mexico, they gain practical experience, earn money, and yet remain fresh for the western market. A models' reach on social media is also becoming increasingly important.

29 min

S2026 · E128 · Aug 25, 2026

Girls make a comeback - What India and China are doing about the women shortage Episode 128

For decades, many families in India and China did not want daughters. Girls were often aborted, killed as infants, abandoned, or sold. But in recent years, things have started to change. Political decisions aimed at curbing rapid population growth in India and China, together with a widespread preference for boys for economic reasons, have led to a situation where both countries now have more men than women. Again and again, the preference for sons over daughters caused families to resort to radical measures, ranging from sex-selective abortions to infanticide, the abandonment of girls, and, in China, the sale of girls after birth. As early as 1990, Indian economist Amartya Sen, who would later win the Nobel Prize in Economics, warned that more than 100 million women were "missing" in the developing world, and especially in India and China, in the ratio to men. Today, many men in China and India are unable to find wives due to the shortage of women.

43 min

S2026 · E130 · Aug 27, 2026

Our body as a "high-performance machine" - How resilient are we? Episode 130

The human body is adaptable, resilient, and astonishingly capable — truly a "high-performance machine". Humans have always sought to test their limits. But how resilient are we really? This film explores the tension between our bodies' impressive capabilities, and the moments when they clearly say 'enough is enough.' How resilient is the human body really? Where are its limits, and what happens when we cross them? In his youth, Stefan Santifaller tested his physical capabilities so hard as a competitive athlete that he became seriously ill. Pushing physical limits can very quickly push a person to their mental limits as well. When that happened to Stefan Santifaller, it forced him to reorient his life. Even in everyday life, we can reach our mental limits—whether due to worries in our personal lives or at work. When this type of overload happens, the body sends out signals, or "warning signs." Those affected often feel nervous, restless, depressed, tired, or weak.

28 min

S2026 · E131 · Aug 30, 2026

Breaking taboos in Italy - Opening an exclusively male ritual to women Episode 131

Every year, the Italian town of Viterbo honors its patron saint, Santa Rosa, with a unique procession. A 30-metre-high sculpture has traditionally been carried through the town by more than 100 men. Now, women are challenging that exclusionary custom. Viterbo is an Italian town with a centuries-old tradition. Every year, on 3 September, more than a hundred men carry the huge Macchina di Santa Rosa sculpture - standing almost 30 meters tall - through the old town. For many, this ritual is a defining part of their identity. But Viterbo is changing, and a new generation is questioning why this tradition is reserved for men. At the heart of this development is 13-year-old Stella. She was the first girl to be accepted into the Mini-Macchina club - the first step for children hoping to one day become fully-fledged Macchina bearers. Now she's preparing for her most important challenge.

29 min

S2026 · E132 · Sep 1, 2026

Daily life in a German prison Episode 132

Around 44,000 men and women are incarcerated in Germany's approximately 170 prisons. About 1,800 are serving time for murder, while most are incarcerated for assault, robbery, theft or drug-related offenses. One of them is Marcel M., serving time in Berlin's Plötzensee Prison. A repeat offender, he calls it "Stealing, stealing, stealing — all for the addiction." Marcel was living with a drug addiction, it's landed him in prison several times. He's already spent a third of his life behind bars. He wants this to be the last time. Marcel is finishing up his training in the prison's car workshop. After he's released, he wants to find a steady job. Plötzensee Prison in Berlin has space for around 650 places for male inmates. Some 250 correctional officers look after the prisoners in shifts. Helena Emisch has worked there for eight years now. She knows the prison inside and out and aims each day to strike a balance between professional distance and connecting with the inmates.

43 min

S2026 · E134 · Sep 3, 2026

Black people in Nazi Germany - Lionel Romney's survival in a concentration camp Episode 134

Afro-Caribbean sailor Lionel Romney survived eleven months in a concentration camp. His story illustrates how Black people were systematically persecuted under the Nazi regime. Lionel Romney was born in Santo Domingo in 1912 and raised on Sint Maarten. As a young man, he signed on to a cargo ship to see the world. But his longing for freedom turned into a tragic odyssey. Caught up in the turmoil of World War II, his ship came under fire and sunk. The crew survived. But Lionel was taken prisoner by the Italians. After years in various camps, he was eventually deported to the Mauthausen concentration camp. He survived there for eleven months, before American troops liberated the camp. Decades after the war, Lionel Romney entrusted his memories to his daughter, Mary.

97 min

S2026 · E135 · Sep 4, 2026

Laughing to survive - On tour with the Palestine Comedy Club Episode 135

Six Palestinian comedians go on tour in Israel and the Palestinian territories. What begins as a stand-up comedy show evolves, in the face of terror and war, into a plea for humanity. Although there are no comedy clubs -- and hardly any stand-up comedy -- in the Palestinian territories, comedian Alaa Shehada decides to found a stand-up comedy troupe, along with other local artists. Their goal? To develop a program that combines Western comedic traditions with Palestinian narrative forms, to perform in front of an audience. Despite cultural and security hurdles, the group’s six members—each holding a different travel permit—manage to stage a tour of theaters in the Palestinian territories and in Israel. The shows are well attended, and the group begins to gain attention, even internationally. Eventually, they receive an invitation to London for a series of performances. These are set to begin on, of all days, October 7, 2023.

58 min

S2026 · E136 · Sep 5, 2026

Truth under pressure: Life as an investigative journalist in Kyrgyzstan Episode 136

What does it mean to practice investigative journalism in Kyrgyzstan? What are the consequences of holding politicians accountable for corruption? Here, practicing journalism can be life-threatening. Instead of being celebrated as heroes, journalists in the Central Asian republic of Kyrgyzstan often face threats. Their private lives suffer, as does their safety—and sometimes even their very lives wind up on the line. Ali Toktakunov, one of Kyrgyzstan’s best-known investigative journalists, stands up to the ruling elite by exposing a corruption case. But when his most important informant is shot dead, Toktakunov flees to the Czech Republic. The tension between his personal life and his work is brought to light by director Samara Sagynbaeva—who is also his wife. Her diary-style documentary paints a portrait of a courageous journalist.

25 min

S2026 · E137 · Sep 6, 2026

Off to Scotland - Happiness, solitude and oysters Episode 137

Lars used to be a police officer. Together with his wife Sandy and their young son, he moved from Germany to a remote Scottish island in the Atlantic. Colonsay has only 120 inhabitants, a shop and a café - and not much else. Lars was keen to escape big city life and pitched the idea to his Scottish wife, Sandy. She agreed to relocate their family and move to Colonsay. The remote island is where she grew up; she and Lars even got married there a few years ago. Lars is a lively, sociable type. Will the solitude and almost eerie tranquility on the island in winter suit him? Lars’ father-in-law runs an oyster farm on Colonsay. He’d been looking for someone to take over the business and now Lars is there to help. It’s a tough business. In summer, life feels like a holiday. But in winter, ‘the demons come’, as the islanders say. Lars, too, is struggling with his past. It’s only light for a few hours a day in winter, and the island is often battered by storms.

29 min

S2026 · E138 · Sep 8, 2026

Osteoarthritis - New hope for the knee Episode 138

Cold therapy, knee distraction or cartilage transplantation from the nose to the knee: what really helps with knee pain? New procedures are bringing fresh hope to people with osteoarthritis and joint degeneration. Knee pain, wear and tear, osteoarthritis: millions of people suffer from these conditions. Natural remedies and high-tech medicine can alleviate the symptoms and improve joint mobility. Cartilage loss in the knee was long considered irreversible. The cartilage acts as a shock absorber between the bones of the joint and cushions the impact of each step. Once it starts wearing away, the bones rub against one another. This can lead to osteoarthritis; often accompanied by pain and restricted movement. This is where an innovative approach from The Netherlands comes in: knee joint distraction. When the bones of the knee joint are pulled slightly apart, this creates a space that stimulates the body's natural cartilage-repair mechanisms.

54 min

S2026 · E139 · Sep 9, 2026

Backbreaking work: Deep-sea fishing in the Arctic Ocean Episode 139

A state-of-the-art fishing trawler from Cuxhaven sets sail from Tromsø to hunt for cod. The crew faces six weeks at sea, during which the men must work hard, in shifts around the clock. The fishermen receive only a modest base salary but are paid a percentage of the sales proceeds. This means: The more they catch, the more they earn. The fishermen process the catch directly on board. But suddenly, the equipment comes to a standstill. No one knows what’s wrong. Will the crew have to return to shore? Also on board is scientific observer Tim Schorr. His job is to document what the crew is catching from the sea. But he falls ill and must disembark as soon as possible. The problem: the nearest port is a two days’ journey away. The film offers a glimpse into the tough business of deep-sea fishing - work the fishermen love, despite the hardships.

86 min

S2026 · E140 · Sep 10, 2026

September 11 attacks Wikipedia • The September 11 attacks, colloquially known as 9/11, were a coor Episode 140

On September 11th, 2001, four hijacked airplanes struck the heart of America. At 8:46 am, New York time, the first airplane crashed into the World Trade Centre -- an attack whose global consequences still reverberate to this day. As early as 1999, Osama bin Laden devised a plan to use civilian aircraft as weapons. The targets were chosen for their symbolic significance to the USA: The World Trade Centre was an economic hub, the Pentagon was the military nerve center, and the White House was the center of political power. But how could the attack manage to succeed? Months before the attacks, the CIA had crucial leads - including the names of known terrorists. Yet they failed to put the puzzle together. This documentary retraces the attacks of September 11th, 2001 in precise chronological order - in the air, at Ground Zero, in newsrooms and in the centers of power in the USA.

82 min

S2026 · E141 · Sep 12, 2026

From neo-Nazi to soccer coach for refugees Episode 141

A former far-right extremist now coaches a soccer team of young refugees. As a coach and mentor, he helps them build a sense of community and settle into their new home. Thomas Eichstätt, known to everyone as "Eichi,” used to be deeply involved in the far-right scene in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Today, he volunteers in the small town of Torgelow as the coach of FC Pio. Many of the young players he coaches have fled their home countries. They face an array of challenges in their adopted country: they must find jobs, navigate a lack of acceptance, and process their experiences as refugees. But on the field, what matters most is the moment. Soccer offers these players structure and a sense of belonging. Off the field, many are caught up in the difficult process of integration and are consumed by a longing for home. Whether on the field or off of it, "Eichi” is there for them. For some players, he has become an important role model.

42 min

S2026 · E142 · Sep 12, 2026

Inside the AfD - How Germany's far-right populist party operates Episode 142

"Inside the AfD" looks behind the respectable facade of the Alternative for Germany political party. Insiders reveal the tough tactics used by the right-wing populists to combat criticism. Within the party, dissenters are systematically brought into line, while political opponents are labeled "troublemakers." Criticism is rigorously suppressed, and those with differing views are excluded. To understand the methods the AfD uses to pursue its goals, and how these can lead to deep division within communities, the filmmakers travel to a village in southwestern Germany. Residents share their experiences of targeted attempts at intimidation, while the investigative report provides deep insights into the structures of right-wing populist networks in southwestern Germany. These networks are representative of many communities across Germany in 2026.

28 min

S2026 · E143 · Sep 14, 2026

The Latin dance teacher directing Russia's sabotage in Europe Episode 143

In 2024, several Latin Americans were caught committing sabotage on behalf of Russia. A DW investigation reveals how they came to work for Moscow's secret services and who recruited them. It started with an arson attack at a Polish construction-supply business and continued with arrests in Czechia and Romania for similar offenses. Just weeks later, Lithuanian investigators uncovered a plot to set fire to military equipment. All of the suspects were from Spanish-speaking countries, but investigators traced the actions back to Russia's secret services - and a Cuban dance teacher in Russia, Oemis Romagoza Durruthy. DW and three other European broadcasters have spent more than a year looking into this case. This documentary reveals how Russia reached across continents to organize a destabilizing campaign against Europe and follow the trail of these attacks to a dance studio in Russia.

43 min

S2026 · E144 · Sep 18, 2026

How to unlearn hate - Stories of courage, hope, and reconciliation Episode 144

How do we break free from a spiral of hate? This documentary follows people in Bosnia, Mexico, and Canada who have found ways to deal with hate—and to overcome it. As the host of a children’s show, Tobi Krell is surrounded by closeness and trust. At the same time, he observes a growing coarsening of society worldwide: People treat one another with aggression, violence, and hostile stereotypes. He sets out to look for approaches to breaking the cycle of hate. In Sarajevo, he meets Adnan, a war veteran. Three decades after the end of the Bosnian War, tensions remain palpable. Adnan grapples with the question of how to dispel stereotypes—and what it takes to counter them in everyday life. In Canada, Tobi Krell meets Lauren and her mother. As a teenager, Lauren joined a far-right group. The two explain how they were able to stay in touch despite this experience—and what role personal bonds play in leaving such groups.

27 min

S2026 · E145 · Sep 20, 2026

Storms, waves and risky maneuvers - The most dangerous job in the North Sea? Episode 145

Marine pilots must make crucial decisions under extreme conditions. Transferring from a cargo ship to a small pilot boat in hurricane-force gusts can be fatal. For marine pilots, this is the most dangerous moment in their daily working lives: climbing down a rope ladder from a cargo ship in gale-force gusts, and transferring to a small pilot boat. In mid-January, a pilot fell into the sea off Borkum and was taken to hospital suffering from hypothermia. Just a few days earlier, a British colleague died during a similar maneuver. Harbor pilot Gerhard Janssen and sea pilot Dominik Thieben are getting ready for their assignment. In force 8 winds, they set off in the pilot boat to the cargo ship "Silver Soul". They must guide it safely out of the harbor, along the Ems River in northern Germany, and out into the North Sea. They face oncoming traffic, poor visibility and a narrow channel that leaves little room to maneuver.

29 min

S2026 · E146 · Sep 22, 2026

Rivers under pressure - From drought and competing agendas Episode 146

Hotter temperatures, falling groundwater levels, and dry soil are putting pressure on Germany's water resources. Can plans to improve water retention and restore river landscapes solve the problem? This documentary follows people who are fighting to secure the future of water resources in three German states. They range from scientists to farmers, to environmental groups, and politicians. We discover the consequences of decades of river straightening and hear why floodplains are so important for flood protection, drinking water supply, and climate adaptation. Using the examples of the Unstrut, Mulde, and Elbe rivers, the film illustrates the opportunities offered by renaturation projects as well as the divisions they can cause. Amid the tensions between nature conservation, agriculture, and political interests, one central question arises: How can Germany ensure more water is retained in the land in future?

42 min

S2026 · E149 · Sep 25, 2026

How dependent is Germany on skilled workers from abroad? Episode 149

To what extent do German hospitals rely on foreign healthcare professionals? This film looks at expert opinions and the personal experiences of doctors from abroad, to highlight the structural challenges facing the German hospital system. Germany is training more doctors than ever before - but the shortfall in hospitals still runs to thousands. The reason for this lies less in the absolute figures than in their distribution. Many specialists are drawn to urban centers, while rural areas face a shortage of skilled staff. Furthermore, many doctors are set to retire in the coming years, and an increasing number of them are working part-time. This is creating a noticeable shortage despite the high density of doctors, a problem exacerbated by a hospital system that's under financial pressure in many places. Although Germany has many hospitals by international standards, these include numerous small clinics in rural areas that are often barely profitable.

43 min

S2026 · E150 · Sep 26, 2026

India's little-known minority - The Siddi and the Olympic dream Episode 150

Nimeksha Siddi is 18 years old and India's sprinting hope for the 2028 Olympics. Nimeksha belongs to the Siddi ethnic group, whose daily lives are marked by racism and exclusion. The 18-year-old sprinter Nimeksha flies down the home straight like a bolt of lightning. She's a Siddi. Hardly anyone knows about her people, not even in India, where the Siddi have lived for 500 years. Her ancestors came to India from Africa as slaves or mercenaries. It's not known how many Siddi live in India. They all have the surname Siddi. They are Muslim, Christian or Hindu - and are often mistaken for tourists by many Indians. Most live in poverty, scraping by as day laborers, gathering plants, honey or rubber. In 1983, India's Minister for Sport launched a program aimed at tapping into the community's athletic potential. Children from Siddi villages were recruited and coached in running. One of the most successful was Kamala Siddi.

58 min

S2026 · E151 · Sep 27, 2026

Deceptively real and life-threatening - On the trail of product counterfeiters Episode 151

Germany is one of the most important destination countries for counterfeit goods in Europe. The trade in counterfeit goods is booming—especially in clothing and accessories. But most dangerous of all are counterfeit medications. The trade in fake medications has become extremely lucrative. In some cases, it is even more profitable than the drug trade. This investigative documentary traces the paths of counterfeit brand-name products and medications, uncovers production facilities, and exposes the criminal networks behind them. Laboratory tests show that counterfeit medications can be harmful to consumers’ health. In some cases, they can even be life-threatening.

29 min

S2026 · E152 · Sep 29, 2026

High-tech shark deterrence - Australia's new strategy for safe beaches Episode 152

After a series of fatal shark attacks, Australia is turning toward high-tech solutions. This includes drones, smart capture systems and cutting-edge research, which — unlike shark nets — don't harm the predatory fish. Marine biologist Paul Butcher heads the New South Wales shark management program, which introduced smart drumlines that allow sharks to be caught alive before being tagged and released without hurting them. The program is aided by the world's largest drone-based beach surveillance system. One of Butcher's key collaborators is Mark Atkins, who oversees the drone program. The system delivers real-time warnings for swimmers and surfers, while airborne cameras also provide researchers with valuable data on shark movements. Drone operator Gabriel Roxburgh conducts patrols of Bellina's coastline. He is taking a closer look at the new arrival of massive schools of baitfish, because he knows that, where prey gathers, large predators usually follow.

42 min

S2026 · E153 · Sep 30, 2026

Rudolf Steiner and his Waldorf philosophy Episode 153

Rudolf Steiner is synonymous with Waldorf education - and its controversial teachings. This documentary explores the impact his ideas have had, and why they continue to draw both supporters and critics, to this day. The name Rudolf Steiner resonates. To some, he's a visionary educational reformer and humanist. To others, the founder of a world view that lies beyond scientific validity. His teachings have shaped education, agriculture and medicine - garnering plenty of criticism, along the way. The film paints a nuanced portrait of a thinker vacillating between a desire for reform and esotericism. It explores the enduring impact of his ideas and asks what role they play in the present day, at a time when scientific knowledge and social norms are increasingly coming into question. Does Steiner's esoteric world view help fuel today's skepticism towards science?

43 min

S2026 · E154 · Oct 2, 2026

Trump and power - A deep divide across America Episode 154

A cinematic journey through the first year of Donald Trump's second term as president. Fear, hope, protest, loyalty and disappointment all shape this portrait of the US as a nation in turmoil. Washington, D.C., and Piedmont, West Virginia. As President Trump's second term sparks fear and alarm in the liberal capital, coal country in Appalachia clings to the hope of a long-awaited economic turnaround. Only a two-and-a-half-hour drive separates Washington, D.C., from Piedmont, West Virginia — yet the two places exist in hugely different cultural worlds. In liberal D.C., shock about Donald Trump's return for a second term runs deep. Many federal workers fear for their jobs, rights and democracy. In coal country, by contrast, Trump is seen as the last hope for an economic revival. Coal trains may still rumble through town, but factories stand empty and drug problems are tearing through the community. Even so, there's tremendous resilience to be found here.

51 min

S2026 · E155 · Oct 3, 2026

Mao Zedong - From peasants' son to communist revolutionary (1/3) Episode 155

From peasants' son to revolutionary leader — Mao Zedong laid the foundation for modern China. This three-part documentary offers an in-depth look at one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Part 2 & 3 coming soon! Part 2: Available from 10 October 2026 Part 3: Available from 17 October 2026 The legacy of the "founding father" of the People's Republic of China remains deeply controversial. Revered in Europe as a revolutionary icon in the late 1960s, Mao led China to the brink of disaster and ultimately clung to power with a regime of terror. Yet today's leaders in Beijing continue to draw on the cult of Mao. China is now a global power, a transformation that would be difficult to imagine without Mao Zedong. When Mao Zedong was born in 1893, nothing hinted at his meteoric rise to power. The son of a farming family, he grew up during a period of political instability and profound social upheaval.

28 min

S2026 · E156 · Oct 4, 2026

Humanoid robots and new chips - Will Germany become a tech hotspot? Episode 156

Could Germany become a hotspot for the global markets of the future? Young startup founders are using cutting-edge innovations to tackle tomorrow's biggest challenges. They're not just dreaming about the future — they're building it. With humanoid robots, climate-friendly chocolate and next-generation semiconductors, they just might transform entire industries. David Reger, founder of NEURA Robotics, is developing intelligent humanoid robots with his team in Metzingen, Germany — not to replace people, but to assist them: in the home, in caregiving and in dangerous situations. Speed and efficiency are the focus for brothers Sebastian and Daniel Schall, the minds behind Black Semiconductor. Their chip technology combines electrical and optical data transmission — a small revolution in the semiconductor market. In a purpose-built high-tech production facility in Aachen, Germany, international experts are laying the foundations for tomorrow's energy efficiency.

29 min

S2026 · E157 · Oct 6, 2026

Putin's foreign fighters - How Russia is recruiting foreign nationals for the war Episode 157

Russia needs more soldiers. At least 250,000 have already died in the Ukraine war. Moscow is also seeking new recruits abroad - sometimes using questionable methods. A group of Indian nationals traveled to Russia for a vacation. They wound up on the front-line - conscripted against their will by the Russian army. And this is not an isolated case, with frequent reports of foreigners falling into the clutches of Russian recruiters. Russia needs a reliable supply of new soldiers for the war against Ukraine. But the Kremlin wants to avoid a mass mobilization at home. Instead, it is ramping up its international recruitment drive, targeting men from countries like Kenya, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Cuba and Central Asia. Some are lured by money, others by promises of work or study opportunities. Ukraine says more than 27,000 foreign fighters are now fighting on the Russian side. The film takes viewers to Ukraine, Kenya and India, features interviews with the relatives of fallen foreign soldie

86 min

S2026 · E159 · Oct 8, 2026

Through Kazakhstan by train Episode 159

Each year, a train carrying doctors and medical gear travels through remote areas of Kazakhstan. The project is called Salamatty Kazakhstan, or "Healthy Kazakhstan." The train is underway for eight months and the clinic operates daily. Salamatty Kazakhstan was launched by the government to improve medical care in the country's sparsely populated regions. Some communities are hundreds of kilometers from the nearest hospital or clinic. The train's timetable is shared online. In addition to medical staff, the train crew includes kitchen staff, stewards, and technicians. On its journey of around 20,000 kilometers, the train stops in numerous villages and small towns in the Kazakh countryside. The film follows this unique social project, showing doctors and support staff as they form close bonds during the eight-month journey: working, eating and living together. Patients come to the clinic with physical ailments, but they also share their everyday worries. The film offers a rare glimpse

132 episodes in Season 2026

Some details come from TheTVDB.

Exciting stories on a wide variety of topics from around the globe: DW brings viewers background reports from the worlds of politics, business, science, culture, nature, history, lifestyle and sport.

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Cast

1 person

Abdul Aziz Ghazi

Himself, Imam Abdul Aziz

Total runtime 747h 15m · Episode length 35 min · Type Documentary

Show info

Premiered

January 9, 2017

Latest episode

October 10, 2026

Status

Returning series

Network

Deutsche Welle

Country

Germany

Type

Documentary

Episode length

35 min

Total runtime

747h 15m

Original language

German

Production

D

DW

Production

D

DW Studios

Production

Germany

Produced in

Languages

Spoken on screen

English · German

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