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
Mentioned books
Oct 24, 2025 • 5min
Furor over Fast Fashion in France
In this episode, NPR correspondent Rebecca Rossman reports from Paris on the uproar surrounding Shein's first permanent boutique at the iconic BHV. Parisian purists are outraged, viewing the move as a threat to their revered tradition of couture. Rossman shares insights on local protests and significant designer activism against the fast-fashion giant. City officials voice environmental concerns, while Shein defends its strategy of appealing to younger customers. The clash between artisanal craftsmanship and mass-produced fashion takes center stage in this heated debate.
Oct 23, 2025 • 5min
Struggling German Industry Turns to Defense Manufacturing
Rob Schmitz, NPR correspondent from Bavaria, dives into Germany's industrial crisis. He reveals how the automotive sector, once thriving, has lost over 51,000 jobs, pushing companies to pivot toward defense manufacturing. Interviews with CEOs like Martin Buchs show how automation and military contracts are saving jobs. Deutz's CEO, Sebastian Schulte, discusses their transition to military engines amidst fierce competition from China. The shift highlights the pressures of new military spending and the need for adaptation in a changing economy.
Oct 22, 2025 • 4min
Making Music from the Sounds of War
In Ukraine, the war's haunting presence alters nighttime sounds, with youth transforming these experiences into music. Young musicians creatively emulate drone strikes through orchestral instruments, giving life to the Shahed Overture. Each musical scene reflects the chaos of conflict, from calm nights to sirens and explosions. The heartbeat rhythm symbolizes resilience and hope amidst trauma. These performers share their profound emotional struggles and the bittersweet nature of playing for fallen soldiers, showcasing both grief and the enduring spirit of life.
Oct 21, 2025 • 8min
A Brazen Theft from France’s Most Famous Museum
In a bold daylight heist, thieves stole millions in jewels from the Louvre in just seven minutes. They used a moving truck and scooters for their escape. The stolen items include priceless Napoleonic tiaras and crowns, raising concerns about cultural loss. Security lapses at the museum have sparked public outrage and political backlash. Investigators are hunting for an organized gang and exploring undercover sting operations, while experts worry about the fate of the jewels if dismantled. This incident highlights a shocking breach of heritage and security.
Oct 20, 2025 • 5min
How to Deal with Mountains of Rubble in Gaza
Gaza faces monumental challenges in its postwar recovery, with about ninety percent of buildings damaged or destroyed. Local and international efforts to clear rubble highlight the risks of unexploded ordnance as helpers sift through debris. The need for reconstruction is dire, yet funding and material shortages hinder progress. Humanitarian concerns grow as water systems are contaminated and displaced families struggle without schools. Insightful interviews reveal the urgent realities on the ground and the complexity of rebuilding a devastated region.
Oct 17, 2025 • 5min
Author Oscar Wilde Gets Back His Library Card Over A Century After His Death
Discover the fascinating story of Oscar Wilde, whose library card was revoked after his infamous trial over 130 years ago. Hear insights into his rise as a Victorian literary star and the societal challenges he faced. Merlin Holland shares his family's connection and reflects on the impact of homophobia. The podcast culminates in a ceremonial reissuance of Wilde's card by the British Library, symbolizing a poignant address to historical injustice. It's a tale of wit, legacy, and redemption.
Oct 16, 2025 • 8min
A Dangerous Sea Journey Was Just the Start of One Migrant’s Ordeal
Miguel Macias, an experienced NPR reporter focusing on migration stories, explores the harrowing journey of migrants to the Canary Islands. He discusses the dangerous sea voyage, including a three-day ordeal aboard a patera. The emotional struggles of migrants, like migration grief and the stark contrast between their hopes for a better life in Spain and the harsh realities they face, are highlighted. Macias emphasizes the need for long-term solutions to migration issues rather than temporary fixes.
Oct 15, 2025 • 6min
An Adored Grandfather’s Funeral Exposes Painful Realities of a Beloved Country
Emmanuel Akinwotu shares a heartfelt account of his grandfather's vibrant funeral in Nigeria, showcasing traditional Yoruba customs full of music and dance. However, the celebration is marred by disturbing realities, such as extortion at the gravesite and demands for money from church leaders and local officials. This highlights a troubling pattern where funerals become profiteering opportunities, especially for city families returning to their villages. Amidst the grief, there are moments of joy as the family honors their beloved patriarch's wishes.
Oct 14, 2025 • 7min
Israel Exchanges Palestinian Prisoners, Detainees for Hostages in Gaza
A significant exchange sees nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees returned to Gaza and the West Bank, sparking emotional reunions and celebrations. The harrowing stories of former detainees, like Joe Saeed Amdin, highlight the profound impact of release after years of captivity. Meanwhile, Israeli hospitals gear up to provide specialized care for the freed hostages, addressing both physical and mental health challenges. Families grapple with reconnecting after traumatic separations, emphasizing the delicate process of healing.
Oct 13, 2025 • 7min
The Ambitious Effort to Save New Zealand’s Iconic Bird
Lauren Sommer, an environmental reporter from NPR, delves into the plight of the kiwi, New Zealand’s beloved flightless bird, facing extinction due to invasive species. The discussion highlights the ambitious Predator-Free 2050 initiative aimed at eradicating threats like rats and possums. Sommer captures the challenges of tracking kiwi chicks and the battle against crafty stoats. Ethical considerations around conservation technology, including AI traps and gene-targeted poisons, spark an intriguing debate on the future of wildlife protection.
