Jeremy Bowen: Memories of Iraq - a podcast by BBC Radio 4

Kate Adie presents stories from Iraq, on the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion, Brazil and Colombia.

The BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen first reported from Iraq in 1990, and went on to visit the country on many more occasions - including during the US-led invasion in 2003. Twenty years on since the start of that war, he charts how events during the decade prior shaped the country's destiny.

The city of Fallujah has had to rebuild many times following the invasion by coalition forces, which was followed by the Iraqi insurgency and a takeover by Al Qaeda and Isis. Leila Molana Allen speaks to residents of the city about their memories of the last 20 years, and what life is like today.

In Brazil, measures have been taken to enshrine protection for those who are overweight, including preferential seats on subways, larger desks in schools and an annual day to promote the rights of obese people. But despite these moves, it can take longer for societal attitudes to change, says Bob Howard.

And we're in Colombia on a journey by ferry on the Magdalena river to the old colonial trading hub, Mompox, which later became crucial to the fight for independence. The ripple effects of this region's rich history are still felt today, says Sara Wheeler.

Series Producer: Serena Tarling
Producer: Bethan Ashmead
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Production Coordinator: Helena Warwick-Cross

Further episodes of From Our Own Correspondent Podcast

Further podcasts by BBC Radio 4

Website of BBC Radio 4