The World

This week, the Trump Administration announced sanctions against Colombians involved in hiring out mercenaries to the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group fueling Sudan's civil war. Also, aging landfills in the UK risk leaking toxic waste into nearby communities. And, a year on, Israel continues to hold Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the head of the last functioning hospital in northern Gaza. Plus, a look at the deeply calming side of the music of Icelandic wünderkind Gabriel Olafs. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Three men arrested last month in Spain have been accused of plotting an imminent terrorist attack and of belonging to a neo-Nazi terrorist organization known as The Base, which started in the US and seeks societal collapse through violence and establishing white-dominated ethnostates. Also, Quebec's provincial government has introduced a bill that aims to expand it's authority to restrict religious expression in public. And, a look at Venezuela’s collapsing oil industry. Plus, a project that brought hundreds of people together from dozens of countries to work on a single dress. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A sperm donor whose genetic material was used to conceive nearly 200 children in at least 14 European countries has discovered he carries a mutation that increases the risk of cancer. Also, India’s mango farmers are racing to adapt to changing markets and a changing climate. And, around 100 kidnapped Nigerian children have been returned to their families. Plus, a look at the politics behind written font types. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In Iraq, 2025 has been the driest year on record since 1933, with water storage levels dropping dramatically. Politicians blame climate change, but there are also other factors at play. And, even as the US slaps hefty tariffs on Chinese goods, the country's trade surplus is on the rise. Also, after US President Donald Trump shut the door to asylum seekers, many previously hoping for protection in the US have started looking to Mexico, but the country’s asylum system has challenges of its own. Plus, Buenos Aires may have set a new record for the largest-ever gathering of golden retrievers. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Today marks one year since the regime of longtime dictator Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in Syria. The World caught up with Syrians to hear their perspectives as they reflect on the past. Also, the 2025 US National Security Strategy, unveiled late Thursday, has reignited fears of US ‘gunboat diplomacy’ in Latin America. And, despite aggressive immigration enforcement activities in the US — both in courts and on the streets — applications for asylum are at an all-time high. Plus, an ancient boat discovered off the coast of Alexandria matches descriptions of what were known in Queen Cleopatra's time as “pleasure boats.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Some of the auto industry's biggest innovators gathered in Shenzhen earlier this year for the Automotive World China Exhibition. From electric cars to self-driving sanitation vehicles, the event made it clear that the future of transportation is already here — and China is leading the way. Also, Somalis in the country's capital say they're discouraged by what they heard recently from the president of the United States. And, under Pope Leo's direction, the Vatican has joined seven other countries in being fully powered by solar energy. Plus, a rare floral phenomenon is unfolding in Rio de Janeiro. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Join journalist Jeremy Siegel as he shares how Shenzhen transformed from 'The World's Factory' to the electric vehicle capital, led by BYD's impressive rise. Dalia Hatuka provides a stark perspective on the escalating violence in the West Bank, detailing daily struggles and settler aggressions against Palestinians. Chitij Bajpay discusses the nuances of India-Russia relations amidst Putin's recent visit. Meanwhile, investigative journalist John Allen Namu sheds light on the troubling allegations against British troops in Kenya. A riveting mix of technology, conflict, and accountability!

Tova Lazaroff, a reporter from Jerusalem, shares insights on the operational hub in Kiryat Gat, where international officials are strategizing for Gaza's future. Prateek Awagre, a tech policy researcher, dives into the contentious Indian Sanchar Saathi app, raising vital privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Thira Edwards from the University of the West Indies discusses Jamaica's ongoing recovery efforts after Hurricane Melissa, highlighting the social and infrastructure challenges faced. Together, they tackle pressing global issues that resonate far beyond their regions.

Jeremy Siegel, a journalist reporting from Shenzhen, dives into the city’s remarkable urban planning and infrastructure commitments that have allowed it to thrive without the pollution and overcrowding typical of rapid growth. John Lee Anderson provides an in-depth look at the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, discussing the complexities of local militias and Rwanda's influence. Their insights reveal the intricate balance of power, resource exploitation, and humanitarian efforts in crisis zones.

Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, shares insights on the complex dynamics of Ukraine's peace negotiations amid rising U.S. military pressure on Venezuela. Field reporters describe harrowing accounts of political repression in Venezuela, including forced disappearances and torture of dissenters. They also update on the tragic aftermath of a catastrophic fire in Hong Kong. Additionally, discover the fascinating radiation-eating fungus found at Chernobyl and its potential scientific applications.