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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Nov 26, 2025 • 5min
Surf’s Down in Munich
Rob Schmitz, NPR correspondent based in Munich, dives into the plight of local surfers devastated by the disappearance of the iconic Eisbach river wave following a city dredging project. He uncovers thrilling personal stories from surfers who experienced the wave's exhilarating danger. Hear how the river's alterations turned it into unsurfable whitewater and the community's daring attempt to rebuild it with a makeshift ramp. Schmitz captures the spirit of resilience as locals unite to revive their beloved wave.
Nov 25, 2025 • 5min
China’s Split-Screen Economy
Emily Feng, NPR's foreign correspondent reporting on China, brings her insights on the country's dual economies. She highlights the booming tech sector at a Beijing conference, while revealing the struggles of the average worker amidst overcapacity and job insecurity. The discussion includes China's new five-year plan for tech independence and the need to transition from outdated growth models. Feng points out the stark contrasts in innovation's benefits for some and challenges for many, framing this as a risky yet necessary path for future prosperity.
Nov 24, 2025 • 11min
How are Negotiations for a Ceasefire Between Russia and Ukraine Going?
Eleanor Beardsley, a seasoned NPR foreign correspondent in Ukraine, shares poignant on-the-ground insights from residents after recent missile strikes. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German ambassador, provides a critical analysis of the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, emphasizing European exclusion from U.S. plans. Both guests highlight the risks of visible rifts among allies, advocate for a united front, and discuss the need for a ceasefire before tackling territorial disputes. Their perspectives shed light on the complexities and stakes of the negotiations.
9 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 6min
Untangling Home Ownership in Syria After a Long War
The podcast dives deep into the complex issues surrounding home ownership in post-war Syria. Millions were displaced, and many returning find strangers living in their homes. The discussion highlights how fighters occupied abandoned properties and the challenges homeowners face in reclaiming their land. Eyewitness accounts reveal negotiations with occupiers and the emotional celebration when families regain their homes, symbolizing hope and recovery in a war-torn landscape. Olive harvests serve as a poignant backdrop to this journey toward normalcy.
Nov 20, 2025 • 9min
The U.S. Escalates Pressure on Venezuela
In this discussion, John Otis, an NPR reporter specializing in Venezuelan politics, analyzes President Nicolás Maduro's survival tactics including his crackdowns and military restructuring. Kerry Khan shares poignant stories from the Colombia-Venezuela border, highlighting the fears and hardships faced by migrants amid U.S. military pressure. Those on the ground express mixed feelings about potential U.S. intervention, worried about its impact on stability and their uncertain futures.
Nov 19, 2025 • 8min
China, the U.S. and the World’s Energy Future
Julia Simon is a dedicated NPR reporter focusing on offshore wind development in Eureka, while Anthony Kuhn brings insights from China, covering its rapid shift to renewable energy. They dive into the stark contrast between China’s expansive growth in wind and solar power versus the U.S. retreat into fossil fuels. Discussion includes the economic impact of these energy choices, local frustrations in Eureka over stalled projects, and how China is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the global energy transition amid climate challenges.
Nov 18, 2025 • 5min
What’s Next for Israel’s Prime Minister?
Daniel Estrin, NPR's Tel Aviv correspondent, delves into the turbulent political landscape surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He discusses the backlash Netanyahu faces from his coalition and the significant protests stemming from military service demands. Estrin highlights Trump's supportive role as Netanyahu gears up for reelection amid ongoing corruption trials. The conversation also covers the delicate balance of coalition politics and the contentious legislation shaping Israel's future.
Nov 17, 2025 • 7min
Fishermen in Ecuador Contend with Drug Gangs and U.S. Military Strikes
In this engaging discussion, Carrie Kahn, an NPR correspondent reporting from Ecuador's Pacific coast, sheds light on the harrowing plight of fishermen battling extortion from drug gangs while facing the looming threat of U.S. military strikes. She details the challenges of living under constant pressure and how desperation drives some fishermen to risky drug trafficking. Kahn also critiques the impact of U.S. military efforts in the region, revealing the complexities of fighting crime and supporting local livelihoods.
Nov 14, 2025 • 5min
The Culture War Over Pigeon Feeding in Mumbai
Omkar Kandikar, an NPR reporter based in Mumbai, dives into the controversial ban on pigeon feeding in the city. He explores the deep-rooted religious significance of feeding pigeons for many residents, particularly among Jains. The ban, positioned as a public health measure, ignites protests and reveals intercommunity tensions. Kandikar also highlights how feeding birds provides companionship for Mumbai's urban poor, shedding light on the complex social dynamics at play in this seemingly simple act.
Nov 13, 2025 • 5min
Searching for Survivors 40 Years After One of Latin America’s Deadliest Disasters
John Otis, an NPR reporter, revisits the haunting aftermath of the 1985 Nevado del Ruiz disaster in Armero, Colombia, where mudslides claimed thousands of lives. He shares poignant stories from survivors like Fernando Angarita, who recalls the devastation and his own narrow escape. The conversation explores heartbreaking searches for missing children, with deeply symbolic rituals, including survivors launching model boats in memory of the lost. Otis highlights personal stories of hope, like Mariela Diaz’s emotional pilgrimage seeking her brother, encapsulating the enduring impact of this tragedy.
