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 31, 2025 • 8min
The Deadly Long-term Problem Hiding Throughout Gaza
Rob Schmitz, a seasoned NPR reporter, shares harrowing stories from Gaza, focusing on the peril of unexploded ordnance. He recounts a tragic incident where two boys were severely injured after finding potentially explosive materials in the rubble. The discussion reveals the widespread and deadly presence of these munitions, with clearance efforts hampered by local personnel losses and security constraints. Schmitz highlights that the risks will linger for decades, impacting future generations and complicating recovery efforts.
Oct 30, 2025 • 10min
Trump, Xi and the U.S.-China Relationship
Nicholas Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to China, shares insights into the nuances of U.S.-China relations, analyzing the outcomes of Trump's recent meeting with Xi Jinping. He discusses whether an uneasy truce will suffice amidst ongoing trade tensions and evaluates Xi's commitments on fentanyl and agriculture. Joining him, Jackie Northam provides on-the-ground perspectives on Trump's rare earth agreements across Asia, emphasizing the U.S. strategy to diversify supply chains while grappling with China's dominance in the sector.
Oct 29, 2025 • 8min
The Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Deepens
Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR reporter stationed in Cameroon, shares harrowing firsthand accounts from the devastated city of El Fasher. He details the atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces and the dire situation trapping residents. Emi Mahmoud, a Sudanese-American poet and humanitarian leader, discusses the scope of the crisis, calling it one of the worst globally, while advocating for urgent international action. They highlight the humanitarian implications and the need for solidarity to protect civilians still caught in the violence.
Oct 28, 2025 • 7min
Fighting Drug Traffickers Deep in the Peruvian Amazon
Simeon Tegel, a field reporter for NPR, delves into the alarming rise of coca cultivation in the Peruvian Amazon and its devastating effects on indigenous tribes like the Kakataibo. He reveals how drug traffickers are encroaching on their lands, leading to violence and deforestation. The podcast highlights the brave self-defense forces patrolling the jungle and the alarming statistics of coca expansion. Tegel also touches on the community's efforts to sabotage narco airstrips, as well as the challenges posed by COVID-19 and ongoing U.S. cocaine demand.
5 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 5min
The Impact of U.S. Strikes in the Caribbean
Eder Peralta, an NPR correspondent who reported from Trinidad and Tobago, highlights the tensions surrounding U.S. military operations in the Caribbean. Locals express their fears as drones hover overhead and U.S. strikes impact their fishing livelihoods. Peralta questions the justification for these actions, with residents skeptical about claims of targeting drug boats. They also share personal stories of loss, including a family mourning a loved one presumed dead from a strike, illustrating the human toll of geopolitical maneuvers.
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.
