
World Today
With in-depth panel discussions on domestic and global news and current affairs, World Today gives you the story behind the headlines.
Latest episodes

Jan 24, 2025 • 53min
Panel: Are U.S. allies ready for a second Trump administration?
Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History, along with Jonathan Aronson, a Professor of Communication and International Relations, and Teng Jianqun, Director at the Diplomacy Study Center, delve into the potential upheaval from a second Trump administration. They discuss Trump's unpredictable foreign policies and the resulting anxieties among European allies, particularly concerning NATO and economic relations. Exploring historical parallels and geopolitical implications, the conversation reflects on the delicate balance of U.S. alliances amidst rising global tensions.

Jan 23, 2025 • 52min
What are the hot topics at the World Economic Forum?
Guan Xin shares on-the-ground insights from the World Economic Forum in Davos, focusing on pressing global issues. Liu Baocheng discusses China's new measures to stabilize its capital market, while Dinghening Beijing analyzes the geopolitical shifts with Trump's potential return. Wang Jin provides a historical lens on the Panama Canal's significance amidst shifting U.S.-China relations. Also highlighted is Microsoft's initiative in restoring the Amazon rainforest, weighed against the environmental impacts of AI growth.

Jan 22, 2025 • 52min
What's China's message at Davos 2025?
Dr. Cui Hongjian, an international relations expert, joins forces with Ding Hung, who analyzes the Quad meeting, and tech scholar Professor Zhang Gon, to discuss China's message at Davos. They delve into the deepening China-Russia ties and the implications of the Quad's stance against China. Ainer Tengen sheds light on Belgium's investigation into Apple over conflict minerals. The discussion also touches on Trump's monumental AI infrastructure plan, exploring its potential effects on the tech landscape and global cooperation.

Jan 21, 2025 • 51min
What to expect from Trump's second term as US president?
①Donald Trump has begun his second term as he returned to the White House after four years. What will be his priorities and what do they mean for the US and the rest of the world? (00:36)②The arrested South Korean president appeared for the first time at his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court. What will happen next? (24:58)③The IMF expects steady global economic growth of around 3.3% in 2025 and 2026. (32:42)④Nigeria has joined BRICS as a partner state. (42:31)

Jan 20, 2025 • 50min
Will the Gaza ceasefire deal hold?
①A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas has come into effect. But are there still uncertainties in its implementation?(00:43)②China's economy expanded 5% in 2024, hitting growth target. (11:30)③South Korea's impeached president has been officially arrested, triggering riots by his supporters. How does this reflect the country’s deepening political polarization? (24:12)④The EU and Mexico have sealed a trade deal as they seek to reduce their reliance on the US. (34:29)⑤China unveils blueprint for building strong education system by 2035. (42:35)

Jan 17, 2025 • 53min
Panel: How will history judge Biden's foreign policy?
Join experts Wang Jin, an Associate Professor on international relations, Harvey Dzodin, a veteran media executive and global affairs analyst, and Edward Lehman, a legal commentator, as they dissect Joe Biden's foreign policy. They delve into the intricacies of U.S.-China relations, NATO rejuvenation, and the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The discussion also critiques historical accountability for global conflicts, addresses the challenges of climate initiatives, and contemplates how Biden's decisions might be judged by future generations.

Jan 16, 2025 • 53min
What's in the Hamas-Israel ceasefire deal?
Jia Daoziong, an international political economy expert, and Wang Jin, specializing in Middle East politics, discuss the intricate details of the newly announced ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. They delve into the three-phase approach involving troop withdrawals and hostage exchanges, highlighting the complexities of the negotiations. Additionally, Travis Longcore addresses the devastating impact of wildfires in California, stressing the need for better urban planning. Former President Danilo Turk critiques the EU's tariff strategy on Chinese electric vehicles, urging for enhanced dialogue.

Jan 15, 2025 • 53min
How did China's auto industry perform in 2024?
Yang Xi Yu, a Senior research fellow specializing in China-Japan relations, and Wang Jin, an associate professor with insights into Lebanon's politics, discuss significant geopolitical developments. They examine how the ruling parties of China and Japan are committing to ongoing dialogue amid tensions. The conversation shifts to China's auto industry, celebrating a record-breaking year with production and sales surpassing 31 million units, highlighting the rise of new energy vehicles. Lastly, they explore Lebanon's political changes with the election of President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

Jan 14, 2025 • 53min
What issues top Sri Lanka President's agenda for his China trip?
Dr. Zhou Mi, a Senior Research Fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade, and Chen Jiahe, Chief Investment Officer at Novakate Technologies, dive into Sri Lankan President Anurav Dissanayake's visit to China. They discuss the significance of strengthening Sri Lanka-China ties amid financial struggles and the search for an IMF loan. The duo also tackles the U.S. export bans on AI technologies, emphasizing their impact on global innovation, and the rise of the Chinese app Red Note as U.S. TikTok users seek alternatives.

Jan 13, 2025 • 53min
Victims of the earthquake in Xizang mourned. What's the latest with the relief work?
Jiang Shixue, a Professor of International Relations, shares insights on China's growing ties with Grenada amid climate collaboration efforts. Xu Yawen recounts the harrowing aftermath of a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Xizang, detailing challenges faced by survivors and relief teams. Liu Baocheng discusses the renewed economic dialogue between China and the UK, while Yan Liang examines China's robust fiscal strategies to stimulate domestic demand. Together, they cover pressing topics that highlight international relations and humanitarian efforts.