Lyse Doucet - Speaker

Lyse Doucet is the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, focusing on global events, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. As a senior presenter, she anchors programmes for BBC World and the World Service from both the field and the studio.

Lyse began her journalism career after studying international relations in Canada. She initially worked with an NGO in Africa before joining the BBC, where her first assignment was in West Africa. She later reported from Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan, covering significant events like the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. In Jordan, she established the BBC’s office in Amman and then moved to Jerusalem, enhancing her expertise in Middle Eastern affairs. Since the mid-1990s, she has reported on major conflicts in the region, including the Arab Spring and the Syrian civil war, as well as key political events and natural disasters in Asia.

Recognised as a knowledgeable commentator, Lyse has a deep understanding of the politics and culture of the Middle East. She provides insights into the geopolitical landscape and its complexities, effectively communicating intricate issues while focusing on the human impact of conflict. As a board member of Inter Mediate, an NGO that promotes dialogue in challenging conflicts, she explores how opposing sides can find common ground.

Lyse shares personal anecdotes from her reporting, such as taking selfies with Iraqi tribal sheikhs during the ISIS threat, and maintains optimism despite the challenges she faces. She has produced documentaries on Syria, Gaza, and Afghanistan and hosted the Radio 4 series "Her Story Made History", interviewing influential women in politics and activism. Her distinguished career has earned her numerous awards, including Emmy, Peabody, and Sony Gold awards, and she has been appointed a member of the Order of Canada and an OBE.