After Dinner SpeakersLyse Doucet OBE is the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, covering major global events with a particular focus on the Middle East and Asia. A senior presenter for BBC World News and the World Service, she anchors programmes both from the field and in the studio, bringing audiences to the heart of complex international stories.
Originally from Canada, Lyse studied international relations before beginning her career in journalism. After working with an NGO in Africa, she joined the BBC, where her first assignment took her to West Africa. She went on to report from Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, covering pivotal moments such as the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. Later postings to Jordan – where she established the BBC’s Amman office – and Jerusalem further cemented her expertise in Middle Eastern affairs.
Since the mid-1990s, she has reported on every major conflict in the region, including the Arab Spring and the Syrian civil war, as well as key political developments and natural disasters across Asia.
Widely regarded as one of broadcasting’s most authoritative and respected voices, Lyse Doucet combines deep knowledge of the region’s politics, economics and culture with a rare ability to convey the human dimension of global events. Her reporting balances rigorous analysis with empathy, illuminating not only the geopolitical landscape but also the lived experiences of those affected by conflict.
Lyse Doucet OBE – Speaker and Facilitator
Drawing on decades of frontline reporting, Lyse Doucet, a keynote speaker, speaks compellingly about geopolitics, particularly in the Middle East and its impact on global relations. She also discusses how opposing sides can be brought together. Why and how risks need to be taken and understood.
As a guest speaker, Lyse provides fascinating insight into her broadcasting career and her experiences reporting from the world’s trouble spots. With candour, warmth and occasional humour, she shares vivid personal experiences – from navigating war zones to unexpected moments of connection – always underscoring stories of courage and hope.
An accomplished host and moderator, Lyse brings sharp journalistic insight and global perspective to conferences and live events. Alongside her reporting, she has produced acclaimed documentaries on Syria, Gaza, and Afghanistan, and presented the Radio 4 series Her Story Made History, which spotlighted influential yet often overlooked women in politics, journalism, and activism.
Her distinguished career has been recognised with numerous international honours, including Emmy, Peabody and Sony Gold awards.
She is a Member of the Order of Canada and an OBE, and has served as a Council Member of Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs.
