

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 14, 2024 • 8min
UK Ditches Coal Power, Embraces Elvis
Britain has officially closed its last coal-fired power plant, marking a significant shift towards cleaner energy. The podcast explores the implications of this historic transition through personal stories and expert insights. In an unexpected twist, a small Welsh town has transformed into the venue for a world-renowned Elvis festival, reviving community spirit and providing joy through music. This lively celebration highlights the power of culture to unite generations and honors the lasting impact of the King of Rock and Roll.

Oct 11, 2024 • 9min
A Mother and Newborn from Gaza Reunited After Months Apart
Raneem Hijazi is a resilient mother from Gaza who survived an airstrike while eight months pregnant, tragically losing eight family members including her young son. She shares her gripping journey of survival and the heart-wrenching months spent separated from her newborn daughter, born amidst chaos. Raneem reflects on the contrast between grief and joy during their reunion, illuminating the profound realities of motherhood against the backdrop of conflict. Her story is one of hope, resilience, and the enduring bond between mother and child.

Oct 10, 2024 • 8min
What a Hospital in War-torn Sudan Looks Like
Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR's Africa correspondent, and Dr. Jamal Mohamed, an orthopaedic surgeon at Alnao Hospital, provide harrowing insights from a war-torn Sudan. They reveal the staggering impact of war, with over 10 million displaced and hospitals on the brink of collapse. Dr. Mohamed shares the emotional toll of caring for malnourished children and the urgency of amputation surgeries amid severe resource shortages. Their conversation highlights both the resilience of healthcare workers and the dire need for international support in this humanitarian crisis.

Oct 9, 2024 • 6min
On the frontline of Israel's invasion of Lebanon
Eder Peralta, NPR's correspondent reporting from Marjayoun, Lebanon, shares firsthand insights into the chaos following Israel's military invasion. He vividly recounts the destruction faced by civilians, highlighting their urgent need for evacuation. The podcast explores the daily struggles of those living amid conflict, their fears, and their aspirations for peace. Additionally, it reveals the unsettling bombing of a historically safe Christian village, capturing the anxiety of residents amid the escalating tensions.

Oct 8, 2024 • 6min
Family of Hostage Held in Gaza Still Has Hope
Abby Onn, a family member of hostages taken during the October 7th attacks in Gaza, shares her heartfelt journey. She discusses the dual pain of losing loved ones while keeping hope for the return of her remaining relative. Abby reflects on the emotional toll of this tragedy on her family and how they communicate their experiences to children, emphasizing the importance of hope amid chaos. Her story highlights resilience in the face of adversity and the enduring bonds of family.

Oct 5, 2024 • 38min
October 7th: A Year of War Through the Eyes of Those Who Lived It
Daniel Estrin, NPR reporter focusing on the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, joins Aya Betraoui, who highlights civilian impacts in Gaza, Kat Lonsdorf from the West Bank, Hadeel Al-Shalchi documenting Palestinian experiences in Jaffa, and Michelle Kellerman advocating for peace. They discuss personal stories of trauma and loss, the psychological toll on communities, and the urgent need for dialogue. The challenges in Gaza and the West Bank show a stark reality, while women's advocacy for peace sheds light on hope amidst chaos.

Oct 3, 2024 • 7min
On the Ground in the Country with the World's Worst Displacement Crisis: Sudan
The podcast dives into the heart-wrenching humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where 12 million people have been displaced by relentless fighting. Personal stories paint a vivid picture of life in Omdurman amid conflict. Amidst the ruins, the resilience of the Sudanese shines through as communities band together to rebuild their lives. Their solidarity and mutual support reveal a powerful narrative of hope and strength in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Oct 2, 2024 • 6min
The Fight Over Who Writes the History of Modern China
As China marks 75 years of Communist Party rule, a fierce battle brews over its historical narrative. The party seeks to shape a positive recounting of events, while archival discoveries at Stanford reveal contentious truths from insiders like Li Re. The discussion also dives into the significance of June 4th, 1989, and the ongoing struggle against historical censorship. Legal disputes further complicate efforts to control the narrative, showcasing a reluctant clash between authoritarianism and the quest for an authentic history.

Oct 1, 2024 • 7min
Israel Invades Lebanon, Iran Attacks Israel
NPR correspondents provide firsthand insights into the dramatic unfolding of the Middle East conflict. They detail Iran's recent missile strikes against Israel following Israel's ground offensive into Lebanon. The tense atmosphere is palpable as they navigate the complexities of military actions, including Israel's airstrikes in Beirut and Iran's hypersonic missile launch. The discussion also touches on the potential implications for regional stability and the role of Hezbollah in this escalating situation.

Sep 30, 2024 • 9min
Israel Widens Its Airstrikes in Lebanon, How Will Iran Respond?
Hassan Nasrallah, leader of Hezbollah for over thirty years, discusses the recent escalation of Israel's airstrikes targeting his group, aiming to halt rocket fire into northern Israel. The devastation in Beirut and the growing tensions signal a potential larger conflict. The conversation also pivots to Iran's military strategy, examining how its support for Hezbollah could adapt amid these developments. The implications for regional stability are profound as challenges in air defense and asymmetric warfare rise to the surface.