Channel Profile: PBS World

BOSTON: Docs on timely social issues are on the shopping list at PBS World, the multicast channel operated by WGBH Boston, WNET.org and APT.

ON THE RECORD: RON BACHMAN, DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING, WGBH
How do you schedule the channel from morning through late night, Monday through Sunday?
The channel is a mix of documentary, public affairs and news programming. Each day a block of documentary programming (in a range of nonfiction genres including history, science, natural history, investigative reporting, social and political issues, independent film, etc.) runs four times, augmented by timely public affairs and news programming that refreshes throughout the day.

Are you acquiring content from the international market?
Not presently but we may do so in the future.

Are you buying second-run content from within the U.S.?
We’re more interested in original content but depending on the specific content, we might consider it.

What is your approach to commissioning new productions from U.S. producers?
For now, we’re more in the acquisition than the commissioning business, seeking completed productions for licensing.

Do you have any blocks or slots you are looking to fill?
Films on timely social issues of interest and relevance to an American audience (but not only on domestic topics) are of particular interest.