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
Jan 6, 2026 • 9min
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Appears in U.S. Federal Court
John Otis, Kerry Kahn, and Carrie Kahn are NPR correspondents who provide insight into Nicolás Maduro's dramatic capture and court appearance in the U.S. They discuss Maduro's tumultuous political career, exploring his rise after Chávez and the subsequent collapse of Venezuela's economy. The trio highlights the subdued public reaction in Venezuela and government's tight control over information. They also delve into the implications of U.S. pressure and crackdowns on opposition, painting a stark picture of the ongoing crisis.
Jan 2, 2026 • 11min
Looking Back: A Dangerous Quest for Food in Gaza
Anas Baba, an NPR reporter from Gaza, shares his chilling first-hand experiences with hunger and chaos during the 2025 humanitarian crisis. He recounts a harrowing midnight rush to a food distribution site under Israeli fire. Crowds fighting for rations and the risks posed by armed thieves paint a vivid picture of desperation. Daniel Estrin provides crucial context, highlighting the dangers and politics surrounding aid in Gaza. Together, they shed light on the brutal realities of survival in a conflict zone.
Jan 1, 2026 • 6min
Looking Back: Turtles in India Making a Comeback
Dia Hadid, an intrepid journalist based in India, shares her inspiring story about the olive ridley turtle's remarkable comeback. She highlights the unique Veles Turtle Festival, where enthusiastic tourists cheer the hatchlings as they make their first journey to the ocean. Hadid discusses vital local conservation efforts, including community bans on seaside development, and how mapping work by Satesh Bhaskar has informed these initiatives. With a reported million nests in one state, there's a bright future for these turtles and the hope for more eco-conscious tourists.
Dec 31, 2025 • 15min
Looking Back: Uncovering the Secrets of an Irish Home for Unwed Mothers
In this engaging discussion, Lauren Frayer, an NPR London correspondent, shares her gripping uncovering of a mass grave at a former Irish home for unwed mothers. She reveals the shocking stigma surrounding unmarried pregnancy in Ireland and the community's long silence about the horrors within these institutions. Frayer also discovers a personal twist, learning of her own cousin's adoption connection to the town. With tales from survivors and insights into ongoing investigations, this conversation sheds light on a painful chapter in Ireland's history.
Dec 30, 2025 • 8min
Looking Back: What a Long Lost Typewriter Says About Chinese Culture
Emily Feng, NPR's China correspondent, dives into the fascinating discovery of Lin Yutang's unique typewriter prototype, found in a New York basement. She shares how this artifact sheds light on the evolution of Chinese computing and the challenges of typing thousands of characters. The conversation explores Lin's vision for a cosmopolitan culture and the deeper implications of language on identity. Plus, the potential secrets hidden within the typewriter's ink spool tantalize listeners, hinting at Lin's final thoughts.
Dec 29, 2025 • 6min
Looking Back: Making Music from the Sounds of War
Joanna Kakissis, NPR's Ukraine correspondent based in Kyiv, shares her powerful insights on how war has transformed life in Ukraine. She highlights a unique youth orchestra that captures the sounds of conflict in their music. The orchestra members creatively incorporate drone sounds and other wartime noises into their compositions, illustrating their resilience. With tales of hope amidst chaos, they craft a piece that reflects their experiences of fear and survival, showcasing the healing power of music in the face of adversity.
Dec 26, 2025 • 9min
Looking Back: The Effects of Melting Glaciers in Europe
Rob Schmitz, NPR Berlin correspondent, dives into the heart of Europe's melting glaciers with insights from the Swiss Alps. He uncovers how climate change is warming the continent at double the global rate, leading to dramatic glacier loss. The discussion explores the terrifying ramifications, such as altered river flows impacting shipping industries. Interviews with experts like glaciologist Daniel Farinotti reveal alarming data on ice loss and the vital role glaciers play in summer water supplies. Glimpse the future of Europe's waterways!
8 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 9min
Looking Back: Canadians Grapple with the Wide Impacts of U.S. Tariffs
Jackie Northam, NPR's international affairs correspondent, shares insights from her reporting in Nova Scotia, where U.S. tariffs reshaped local industries, particularly lobster fishing. She highlights how these tariffs influenced Canadian politics, driving voters towards leaders who could counter U.S. pressure. Northam also explores the community’s resilience in the face of uncertainty and economic upheaval, as businesses seek new markets amidst fears of ongoing disruptions. Additionally, the podcast touches on a surge of Canadian pride and backlash against U.S. policies.
Dec 24, 2025 • 13min
Looking Back: The Refugees Trapped in a Corner of Syria, Now Free
Jane Araf, a journalist based in Amman, shares her firsthand experiences reporting from the Rukban refugee camp in southern Syria. She discusses the dire straits of approximately 7,000 trapped individuals fleeing both ISIS and Assad's regime. Araf highlights the harsh realities of life inside the camp, including lack of medical care and essentials. She recounts poignant moments of families returning home, filled with hope yet uncertainty, and reflects on the challenges faced by children reintegrating into normal life after years of confinement.
Dec 23, 2025 • 9min
Looking Back: Sudan’s Capital, Ravaged by War
Explore the harrowing transformation of Khartoum, Sudan, ravaged by a two-year civil war. Discover the emotional reactions as the Sudanese army retakes the city and hopeful returnees celebrate. Hear intimate stories from local journalist Amar Awad, capturing life in the rubble. Delve into the cultural devastation with reports of looted museums and burnt artefacts. Finally, witness the painstaking efforts underway to restore this once-thriving metropolis amidst overwhelming challenges.
