

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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Aug 6, 2024 • 9min
Protests Force Bangladesh's Longest-Serving Prime Minister to Flee
This week’s guest is a journalist who was imprisoned for six years for standing up against the Bangladeshi government. They discuss the recent dramatic flight of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amidst violent protests. The conversation explores the roots of the unrest and its implications for Bangladesh's future. They reflect on the atmosphere of fear and resilience in the face of authoritarian rule. Personal anecdotes reveal the community's desire for justice and change, shedding light on the continuing struggle for democracy.

Aug 5, 2024 • 10min
Israel Waits for Retaliation From Iran; Some West Bank Men Want to Become Martyrs
Tensions soar as Iran promises retaliation against Israel after a Hamas leader's assassination, leaving Israelis in suspense. In the West Bank, young men, like 18-year-old Ahmad, grapple with despair and the allure of martyrdom amid relentless conflict. The harrowing conditions in the Janine refugee camp reveal ongoing violence and a desperate yearning for peace, overshadowed by the trauma of recent events. Personal stories capture the stark divide between dreams and the harsh realities of life in a war-torn region.

Aug 2, 2024 • 9min
"We are hungry!" Nigerians Protest Soaring Food and Fuel Costs
In Nigeria, citizens are passionately protesting as food prices soar over 40% and fuel costs triple, highlighting their struggle to afford basic meals. Meanwhile, in China, live-streamers are embracing digital avatars, sparking a conversation about the future of labor amidst rising AI technology. This new trend raises ethical questions about consent and profit-sharing in a rapidly changing job landscape.

Aug 1, 2024 • 10min
Hezbollah and Hamas Memorialize Slain Leaders as Iran eyes revenge
Hezbollah and Hamas bury their slain leaders. And Venezuelan security forces arrest protesters of last weekend's presidential election.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Aug 1, 2024 • 8min
Thousands of Venezuelans Protest Presidential Election Results
Massive protests erupt in Caracas as Venezuelans demand transparency following Maduro's disputed election victory. Opposition claims evidence supports their candidate's win, intensifying tensions. Meanwhile, an informal Chinese poll reveals a surprising preference for Trump over Harris in the U.S. presidential race, reflecting broader views on U.S. policies. The discussion also delves into the evolving dynamics of U.S.-China relations amidst political strategies and how future leaders might navigate these complexities with caution.

Jul 30, 2024 • 6min
Ethiopia's Drought Forces New Cultivation Methods
People find new ways to grow food after severe drought in some regions of Ethiopia.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jul 29, 2024 • 5min
Rocket Strike Brings Mourning and Questions of Identity to Druze Community
The Druze community of the Golan Heights mourns after a weekend rocket strike on a soccer field kills 12 children. The attack raises questions about the Druze identity— an Arab minority group that can claim Israeli citizenship.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jul 26, 2024 • 9min
Election in Venezuela: A Presidential Challenger Who Isn't Even on the Ballot
Maria Corina Machado, a key political leader in Venezuela’s fight against Nicolás Maduro, discusses the challenges of running a movement without being on the ballot. She sheds light on the oppressive tactics used by the current regime to stifle opposition. Alsu Kurmasheva, a Russian American journalist facing imprisonment, shares her harrowing experiences and those of her husband as they navigate political repression. Together, they highlight the struggles for democracy and freedom in regions marked by authoritarianism.

Jul 25, 2024 • 6min
An Olympic First: Paris to hold the Opening Ceremony in the River Seine
Olympic Opening Ceremonies are typically held in stadiums. For the 2024 Games, Paris is taking the event to the heart of the city, in and along the River Seine. NPR's Eleanor Beardsley has this preview.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jul 25, 2024 • 5min
Beats for Buddhism: A South Korean DJ spins followers to the faith
DJ Yoon Seong-ho, a South Korean DJ uses his beats to attract new followers to his Buddhist faith. He blends tradition and modernity by combining traditional Buddhist practices with modern entertainment, making Buddhism accessible to young South Koreans through music and innovation, reshaping the perception of Buddhism for the younger generation.