
State of the World from 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
Latest episodes

Feb 19, 2024 • 9min
Surprising Effects of the Middle East Conflict Felt Far Away
Skilled Indian workers move to Israel, tea supply disruption in UK due to Middle East conflict

Feb 16, 2024 • 7min
Outspoken Critic of Russia's Leader Dies in Prison
Alexei Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, dies in prison. Explore his legacy and fight against corruption and authoritarianism in Russia. Learn about his unique style, remarkable recovery from poisoning, and unwavering activism even in prison.

Feb 15, 2024 • 13min
Dire Conditions for Civilians in Gaza and an Uncertain Future for Humanitarian Aid
The podcast discusses the dire conditions faced by civilians in Gaza and the uncertain future of humanitarian aid due to funding cuts. It highlights the interview with a UNRA administrator in Gaza, who talks about the preparation for an imminent offensive and the allegations against UNRRA members. The critical funding situation and its impact on education and health programs are discussed. The podcast also explores an unlikely friendship between an artist in Dublin and a woman from Gaza, formed through an Instagram feed. Fundraising efforts for Gaza and a new mural in Dublin are also mentioned.

Feb 14, 2024 • 5min
Ukraine's Train of Love
Exploring the love and sacrifice of couples visiting their partners on the front line in Ukraine's Train of Love. Emotional reunions in Slovenia and Kramatorsk after being separated during war. The lasting impact of war on relationships and the future outlook.

Feb 13, 2024 • 12min
Portugal's Success Combating its Opioid Crisis
While opioid deaths in the U.S. have soared, Portugal has been able to cut overdose deaths by 80%. We travel there and find that the different outcomes are the result of a different approach. And while you might be able to picture what Rio de Janeiro's world-famous Carnival looks like in the Samabadrome, on the outskirts of the city a very different celebration takes place.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feb 12, 2024 • 9min
Rising Mideast Tension Could Force the U.S. Out of Iraq
The war in Gaza is creating tensions across the Middle East. Nowhere more so than Iraq, where Iran-backed militias are attacking US bases and forcing a dangerous confrontation. We hear about it from our correspondent in Baghdad.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feb 10, 2024 • 6min
Some Gazans More Openly Angry Towards Hamas
Palestinians in Gaza express anger at Hamas's decision-making during the war and call for a ceasefire. The chapter explores the challenges Hamas faces in rebuilding Gaza and the potential need for the organization to change its approach.

Feb 8, 2024 • 6min
John Cage's composition, 'ASLSP,' 'As Slow As Possible,' Lives Up to its Name
John Cage, late composer of experimental music, created a composition that is planned to take over 600 years to perform. A specially rigged organ in Germany has been playing the piece since 2001, and recently struck a new chord after two years. The challenges of performing this composition over centuries, including mishaps and mistakes, are explored by the John Cage Organ Foundation.

Feb 7, 2024 • 13min
What Will Gaza Be Like After the War is Over?
Architect, humanitarian, and musician share their hopes and fears for a rebuilt Gaza after the war. Topics discussed include challenges of reconstruction, need for mental healthcare, and reviving Gaza's culture and music scene.

Feb 6, 2024 • 7min
Kindergarten Resumes in a War Zone
Kindergarten resumes in a war zone as a teacher in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv holds classes underground in a metro station to protect students from Russian attacks. The teacher reflects on the changes in her kindergarten and the challenges of catching up with her new students after two years.