State of the World from NPR
NPR
Immerse yourself in the most compelling and consequential stories from around the globe. The world is changing in big ways every day. State of the World from NPR takes you where the news is happening — and explains why it matters. With bureaus spanning the globe, NPR reporters bring you facts and context from the ground so you can cut through the noise of disinformation. NPR's State of the World, a human perspective on global stories in just a few minutes, every weekday. State of the World was previously State of Ukraine. You'll continue to hear Ukraine coverage here, along with other international stories.Support NPR's reporting by subscribing to State of the World+ and unlock sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/stateoftheworld
Episodes
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Dec 25, 2025 • 9min
Looking Back: Canadians Grapple with the Wide Impacts of U.S. Tariffs
Jackie Northam, NPR's international affairs correspondent, shares insights from her reporting in Nova Scotia, where U.S. tariffs reshaped local industries, particularly lobster fishing. She highlights how these tariffs influenced Canadian politics, driving voters towards leaders who could counter U.S. pressure. Northam also explores the community’s resilience in the face of uncertainty and economic upheaval, as businesses seek new markets amidst fears of ongoing disruptions. Additionally, the podcast touches on a surge of Canadian pride and backlash against U.S. policies.
Dec 24, 2025 • 13min
Looking Back: The Refugees Trapped in a Corner of Syria, Now Free
Jane Araf, a journalist based in Amman, shares her firsthand experiences reporting from the Rukban refugee camp in southern Syria. She discusses the dire straits of approximately 7,000 trapped individuals fleeing both ISIS and Assad's regime. Araf highlights the harsh realities of life inside the camp, including lack of medical care and essentials. She recounts poignant moments of families returning home, filled with hope yet uncertainty, and reflects on the challenges faced by children reintegrating into normal life after years of confinement.
Dec 23, 2025 • 9min
Looking Back: Sudan’s Capital, Ravaged by War
Explore the harrowing transformation of Khartoum, Sudan, ravaged by a two-year civil war. Discover the emotional reactions as the Sudanese army retakes the city and hopeful returnees celebrate. Hear intimate stories from local journalist Amar Awad, capturing life in the rubble. Delve into the cultural devastation with reports of looted museums and burnt artefacts. Finally, witness the painstaking efforts underway to restore this once-thriving metropolis amidst overwhelming challenges.
Dec 22, 2025 • 11min
Looking Back: The Story of Three Defiant Nuns in Austria
In this intriguing discussion, Esme Nicholson, a Berlin-based NPR international reporter, unveils the remarkable tale of three Austrian nuns, all in their 80s, who escaped a nursing home to reclaim their former convent. Their defiance against church orders sparked a community uproar and a growing Instagram following. From clever locksmith strategies to navigating church backlash, the sisters’ journey emphasizes their determination to live life on their own terms. Esme shares insights into their deep devotion and the local support ensuring their dignity.
Dec 19, 2025 • 4min
Why Cuba is Watching Venezuela Intently
Leila Faddle, an NPR reporter based in Havana, delves into the complex relationship between Cuba and Venezuela amidst rising U.S. sanctions. She discusses how Venezuela is crucial for Cuba's economy, providing discounted oil and support. Cubans express their economic struggles with shortages and low wages, but interestingly, they reject any U.S. intervention despite their frustrations. Faddle also touches on the shifting political landscape in Latin America, highlighting how regional alliances are affecting Cuba's already isolating position.
6 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 4min
Venezuelans React to the Threat of a U.S. Blockade
Carrie Kahn, NPR's foreign correspondent, dives into the challenges faced by Venezuelans amidst a U.S. ban on oil tankers. She shares harrowing accounts of daily shortages confronting residents in Caracas. Experts argue that this economic decline won't spark mass rebellion, while some predict Maduro may resort to illicit activities for survival. Meanwhile, Kahn highlights the resilience of young Venezuelans trying to navigate their lives despite the turmoil, all while Maduro stands firm against U.S. claims.
Dec 17, 2025 • 6min
Will Myanmar's Election Change Anything?
Michael Sullivan, an NPR reporter with extensive experience in Southeast Asia, shares his insights on Myanmar's upcoming election amid tumultuous civil strife. He discusses the military government's desperate measures to legitimize the election, including propaganda efforts and arrests of dissenters. Sullivan highlights international skepticism, citing Human Rights Watch and the UN's views on the election's fairness. Additionally, he reveals the conflicting opinions of rebels and civilians, who yearn for stability despite the perilous circumstances.
Dec 16, 2025 • 9min
Innovating Ways to Address Poverty in Uganda
In this enlightening discussion, NPR reporter Fatma Tanis shares her firsthand experiences in southwest Uganda, highlighting the transformative effects of cash grants and coaching on local families. Joining her is Dean Carlin, an economist who innovated a block grant model that pools resources for community banking. They delve into the challenges faced, including unexpected low borrowing due to market changes and fear of losing essential savings, and the strategies being implemented to enhance program access, like mobile money. A captivating exploration of meaningful poverty alleviation!
Dec 15, 2025 • 4min
Hanukkah Celebrations in Israel Clouded by an Attack Far Away
Jerome Sokolowski, an NPR correspondent based in Tel Aviv, discusses the impact of a tragic mass shooting at a Hanukkah event in Australia on celebrations in Israel. He highlights the mixed emotions of joy and sorrow as locals gather for revived public festivities following years of COVID and conflict. The podcast also features a Chabad menorah lighting where Rabbi Shul Reizes speaks of spreading light amid darkness. Additionally, it addresses rising anti-Semitism in Australia and the profound grief felt by the Jewish community.
Dec 12, 2025 • 5min
An Interview with a Hamas Leader
Basim Naim, a senior Hamas negotiator, discusses the group's surprising willingness to lay down arms for up to ten years if not provoked. He shares his harrowing experience of surviving an Israeli airstrike, which inadvertently catalyzed ceasefire talks. Naim also argues that the aftermath of the October 7th attacks cannot be solely blamed on Hamas, positioning the conflict within a broader context. NPR correspondent Daniel Estrin provides critical insights and the geopolitical implications of their conversation.
