

The World
PRX
Host Marco Werman and his team of producers bring you the world's most interesting stories that remind us just how small our planet really is.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 11, 2025 • 49min
Israeli army targets and kills 5 Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza
An Israeli strike on a press tent outside a Gaza hospital killed five Al Jazeera journalists on Sunday, including prominent reporter Anas al-Sharif. The Committee to Protect Journalists had warned of the danger to al-Sharif's life, something that’s become part of a pattern of press intimidation. Also, Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay has died in hospital two months after he was shot in an assassination attempt. And, one innovator in Ghana is trying to solve two problems at once by using plastic waste to build much-needed desks for schools. Plus, Finland celebrates the 80th birthday of the popular chubby hippopotamus-like cartoon family known as the Moomins.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 8, 2025 • 50min
Palestinians fearful, hostage families frustrated, as Israel expands control of Gaza
Palestinians in Gaza are reacting with dread to the announcement that Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City. Also, families of Israeli hostages, as well as those seeking the return of their loved ones’ remains, have responded with deep frustration and a sense of betrayal at the Israeli government. And, Ghana approves the world’s first malaria drug for newborns, marking a breakthrough in infant care. Plus, wildcard Victoria Mboko wins her first Women’s Tennis Association title at the Canadian Open.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 7, 2025 • 51min
Israeli PM signals military escalation to occupy all of Gaza
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is talking about ordering the Israeli military to escalate its campaign to take control of all of Gaza. Also, a wildfire rages across southwestern France, exacerbated by a heat wave and a recent project to overhaul the region's vineyards. And, new research identifies the culprit behind more than a decade of mass sea star deaths. Plus, the 2025 World Games kicks off in China with sports like disc golf, drone racing and motosurf.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 6, 2025 • 50min
80 years since US nuclear bombing of Hiroshima
Today marks 80 years since the first use of a nuclear weapon during wartime — the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan. Also, political parties in Israel who represent the Ultra-Orthodox, known as Haredim, are incensed over legislation forcing them to join the army, something they’ve thus far been exempt from. And, a lack of rain and soaring temperatures have stressed Tehran’s infrastructure to the breaking point as a drought and heat wave intensify in Iran. Plus, Italy hopes to build the longest suspension bridge in the world.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 5, 2025 • 50min
Brazil's Bolsonaro under house arrest
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is under house arrest on charges of masterminding a coup to overturn the country's 2022 election. Also, the reinterpretation by AI of a popular movie in India sparks debate. And, a retired US military officer discusses his firsthand experience at the controversial food distribution sites run by the joint US-Israeli Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Plus, attempts to convince Thai society to embrace a traditionally reviled lizard.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 4, 2025 • 50min
Trial begins in absentia for former Bangladesh prime minister
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is facing a landmark trial in absentia over alleged crimes against humanity. The charges are linked to the 2024 student protests that toppled her government. Also, a new report looks at health impacts throughout the life cycle of plastic ahead of a global meeting to negotiate the final steps of an international plastics treaty. And, wholesalers in Istanbul, Turkey, give surplus fabric a second life. Plus, New Zealand recognizes the world’s oldest alpaca in captivity.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Aug 1, 2025 • 51min
Sweeping impacts of new Trump tariffs on global economy
Nicolas Poitier, an economist at Bruegel, discusses the sweeping impact of new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. He breaks down how these tariffs create uncertainty for global trade and affect various industries worldwide. Poitier highlights the ripple effects on geopolitical dynamics and the responses from affected countries. In addition, he touches upon the surprising links between these economic policies and broader global concerns, including climate change's influence on natural disasters in regions like India.

Jul 31, 2025 • 50min
Climate change disrupts monsoon season in India
Climate change is making the Indian monsoon more unpredictable, causing frequent flooding and waterlogging in cities, with additional factors worsening the problem. Also, Lithuania's prime minister steps down after denying any wrongdoing but saying that scandals are hindering the government's work. And, a discussion about growing calls for Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution. Plus, some swimmers are making waves at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Jul 30, 2025 • 50min
The science of earthquakes and tsunamis
A massive earthquake near Russia has triggered tsunami alerts across the Pacific and as far south as Chile. We look at the science behind the phenomena. Also, cyberattacks have surged across European hospitals, disrupting vital patient care. And, dermatologists warn that skin lightening products, particularly used across sub-Saharan Africa, may be increasing people’s risk of getting skin cancer. Plus, some artifacts point to an ancient writing system that was once used by women in Zambia.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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Jul 29, 2025 • 49min
Former Colombian president convicted on witness tampering charges
A court in Colombia has convicted former President Álvaro Uribe on witness tampering charges. To some Colombians, Uribe is a national hero, while others view him as a ruthless strongman who undermined their democracy. Also, military leaders from Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a ceasefire after clashes erupted along their shared border last week. And, controversy over the Brazilian government serving shark meat in schools and at hospitals nationwide. Plus, using the ancient Shinto spiritual practice of forest bathing from Japan to deal with global crises.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
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