People in the former Soviet republic of Georgia overwhelmingly seek membership in the European Union. But the EU has put those hopes on ice, accusing the government in Georgia of rolling back democratic freedoms. This weekend, Georgian voters head to the polls in a crucial election for the country, caught between pressures from Russia and Europe. Also, younger workers in Portugal are leaving the country in droves, with rising rents and falling wages pushing them out. The government introduced new tax breaks to try to reverse the trend. But it might be too little, too late, to halt brain drain in Portugal. And, a deadly attack took place on Wednesday in Turkey's capital at the headquarters of a Turkish aerospace and defense company.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

More than a year after the attack of Oct. 7, the Israeli military is still operating in the Gaza Strip. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Israel again this week, urging the Israeli government to find a way to end the war and bring the remaining hostages home. But it's not clear at this point what Israel's leaders are hoping to achieve. Also, Mexico's new president wants to address the problem of childhood obesity. She's going after junk food. And, the birth rate in Japan has fallen dramatically. The government is deeply concerned about what that means for the country's future, and its economy. But the government's incentives to Japanese families, aimed at encouraging them to have kids, don't seem to be working.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Russian President Vladimir Putin's government is being squeezed by international sanctions, and he himself faces an arrest warrant for war crimes. But that isn't stopping Putin from hosting a summit this week. Among those invited to the BRICS gathering in Russia are the leaders of China, India and Turkey. Also, the United Nations is calling for an investigation into reports about the killing of dozens of Afghan migrants near Afghanistan's border with Iran. The Iranian ambassador to Afghanistan denied that the killings took place. And, years of war in Ukraine are weighing heavily on the minds of the country's youngest people. Children's books are helping some of them process what they're going through, or just offer a temporary escape.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Whoever wins the November election will be inheriting an enormous foreign policy challenge in the Middle East. The most important US ally in the region — Israel — is fighting a multifront war with no end in sight. So, how would Kamala Harris and Donald Trump differ in the ways that they approach the region? Today, we speak with two foreign policy advisers on the Middle East, including one who's worked with Trump and the other with Harris. Also, Cuba just suffered its second blackout in less than 24 hours. There are numerous reasons for the crisis, but an aging power grid has been a problem for years. And, Jonquel Jones won the MVP for helping the New York Liberty capture its first-ever WNBA finals Sunday night in overtime. People in the Bahamas are celebrating, too. Jones left her home country as a teenager to pursue her basketball dreams in the US.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Bangladesh has issued an arrest warrant for the country's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Also, a bespoke press is now focusing solely on Asian American literature to counter discrimination among that demographic. And, the FBI has announced charges against Ryan James Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder for Team Canada, for allegedly running a drug trafficking ring and being involved in the murders of four people. Plus, a walk along the demilitarized zone that divides the Korean Peninsula.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

The Israeli military says it has killed Hamas' leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar. Also, the governor of La Rioja province in Argentina has put an alternate currency called "chachos" into circulation. And, Italy passes the most restrictive law against international surrogacy in the West. Plus, the US now has a new Arctic ambassador.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has outlined a five-point "victory plan" to his nation’s parliament. Also, Turkish authorities have revoked the license of independent radio station Açık Radyo — or Open Radio — taking it off the air today. And, the Dominican Republic has deported more than 10,000 Haitians in the last week, the first of many planned weekly deportations. Plus, a UK-based group is rewilding a herd of long-horned animals resembling cattle into the Scottish Highlands to fill the ecological role once played by an extinct wild ancestor of today's grazing livestock.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Israel’s attack on a hospital complex in central Gaza, which led to a massive fire that killed at least four people and injured many more, has renewed calls for Israel to uphold international humanitarian law. Also, Canada has expelled India’s top diplomat in the country along with five others, with India responding in kind and expelling six Canadian diplomats. And, the first people to be intercepted at sea by the Italian navy under a controversial migration deal are on their way to Albania to have their asylum claims processed. Plus, 11 months after the National Zoo in Washington sent three pandas back to China, a new pair of bears has arrived. They’ll make their public debut in January.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we’re looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

The United States has the highest number of international students in the world. Last year, the number of students who came to America were almost back to prepandemic levels at over 1 million. Many come in the hope of staying and living the American dream. But that's not so easy. On the flip side, some American students seek to expand their horizons by studying abroad. We hear about how going to school overseas can support working abroad. And, one US student shares his love for Japan and his desire to stay there in the long term.   Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

This year's Nobel Peace Prize has been announced: the honor goes to Nihon Hidankyo, a group of survivors of the 1945 bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. They united in 1956 to speak out about the suffering caused by nuclear warfare. We'll hear some of their stories. Also, a Ukrainian missile strike in Russian controlled territory last week killed several North Korean military officers, according to officials in Ukraine and South Korea. The Kremlin calls those reports "fake news." But we'll hear why experts who have been closely following Ukraine since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion think it's plausible. And, Friday is the International Day of the Girl, so designated by the UN to address the particular challenges many girls face worldwide. We hear the story of a South Asian film called "Maya: Birth of a Superhero," bringing viewers into a virtual reality designed to alleviate the shame and isolation that accompany menstruation in some cultures.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.And, we're looking for feedback on our website. Take our quick survey!

Iranians have been on edge, waiting for retaliation ever since Tehran attacked Israel with waves of ballistic missiles. Officials in Israel have hinted they might target Iran's gas or oil infrastructure. Or they might go even further. We'll hear how Iranians are viewing the standoff. Also, Argentina's president, Javier Milei, garnered votes by promising to fix his country's economy. But since he took office in December, the poverty rate has increased. He says it's just a rough patch; critics aren't so sure. And, hear about the musical collaboration behind a new Afrobeat album called "Lagos Paris London." Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

As Hurricane Milton nears Florida's west coast, the State Assistance Information Line has opened 24/7 phone lines in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole. Today on The World, how language and storm preparedness intersect for immigrant communities. Also, Turkey has blocked the instant messaging platform Discord. This comes amid public outrage over Discord users responding to the recent murder of two women in Istanbul by cheering on the violence. We'll get a better understanding of how Discord works, how people use it, and what's motivating Turkey's objections to it. And, have you ever wondered how an elephant's trunk works, and what that wrinkly pachyderm skin might have to do with it? Wonder no more.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israel is expanding its ground incursion into southern Lebanon and Israeli air strikes continue to target Beirut's southern suburbs. About a million Lebanese have been displaced in recent weeks and many in Lebanon are feeling abandoned by the international community. Also, British Canadian scientist Geoffrey Hinton has been called "the godfather of artificial intelligence" because his research laid the groundwork for advancements in AI. But that doesn't mean he's a proponent. In fact, he's known for speaking out about the dangers of the technologies he helped invent. We'll hear his reaction to Tuesday's announcement that he's won the 2024 Nobel Prize in physics. And, Tunisian President Kais Saied has claimed a second term in a landslide election that critics say was rigged, with his closest challenger getting only 7% of the vote. We'll get analysis on the state of Tunisian democracy, given that this largely predicted scenario has come to fruition.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

It's been one year since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel that stunned the world. It forever changed the course of both large-scale global events and individual life stories. We'll step back and look at the impact of Oct. 7, 2023 — from the fate of the 100 Israeli hostages still unaccounted for, to the transformation of life in Gaza over the last 12 months. Also, during Argentina’s dictatorship, in the late 1970s, state terror led to the killing and disappearance of roughly 30,000. But since then, there's been an effort to hold those responsible to account, and memorials acknowledging the crimes of the past serve as constant reminders throughout the country. But Argentina’s new libertarian President Javier Milei is now closing government investigations into the crimes of the past and looking to roll back lawsuits that achieved justice for the victims of the dictators. And, housing prices are on the rise in Russia, and in big cities like Moscow, it's creating financial strain for people struggling to pay their bills. But the Russian government has taken aggressive action by creating subsidized programs to get more Russians into new homes. Just one catch: they have to be willing to move to the wilderness. We'll hear what it's like to do just that.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Lebanon's facing a massive crisis right now. More than 2,000 people have been killed in the past two weeks amid Israel and Hezbollah's war. Also, with flights to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq canceled, many travelers are stranded in Turkey, a regional transit hub. Our reporter takes us to the scene, as we hear how people stuck-in-transit are thinking about the escalation of war in the Middle East, and how they're feeling about its impact on their lives. Also, Japan shut down all 54 of its nuclear reactors after the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Only a dozen reactors have been restarted since then. The national government wants to more than double that figure by 2030, saying it’s essential to meeting energy and climate goals. But hurdles abound. And, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam just acquired a botany book by an author and illustrator named Maria Sibylla Merian, who was accused of exploiting native knowledge of enslaved people without credit. The German artist embarked on a self-funded voyage to Suriname in 1699 as a 52-year-old divorcee driven by relentless curiosity about the lives of insects. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

While the eyes of the world are focused on Israel's invasion of Lebanon and war against Hezbollah, we have the latest from Gaza. It's almost a year since Hamas militants attacked several sites in Israel and the start of the persistent strikes on Gaza. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed, and there's increasing concern about humanitarian needs of the people. Also, Taiwan has been hit by heavy rains as Typhoon Krathon hits the island. The storm has shut down the country, and there are reports of casualties. We have the latest from Taiwan. And, hurling is a popular national sport in Ireland. It's played with a ball and sticks that are made from ash trees. But a disease has decimated the numbers of ash trees. Now, there could be an alterative solution — bamboo.

Hunger in Haiti is reaching famine levels. Nearly 6,000 people in Haiti are starving, with nearly half the country's population of more than 11 million people experiencing crisis levels of hunger or worse as gang violence smothers life in the capital of Port-au-Prince and beyond. Also, Israel and Iran continue trading threats in the wake of Iran's missile attack. Meanwhile, Israeli forces and members of Hezbollah are battling on the ground in southern Lebanon. Israel announced the death of one soldier. Palestinian officials say 51 people were killed in an Israeli strike there. And, Argentines battle over the future of higher education. Students and teachers are holding a general strike this week to protest massive budget cuts. And Argentine President Javier Milei has vowed to veto a new congressional bill that would fund university budgets over the next year.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Iran has launched a barrage of missiles at Israel. The attack comes just days after the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the chief of Hezbollah. Israelis are being warned to shelter in place. We have the latest updates on that story. Also, Mexico inaugurates a new president. Claudia Sheinbaum is the first woman to hold the country's highest office. She's promised to carry out the vision of her predecessor, but she also has an opportunity to build a legacy of her own. And, music producer Joe Boyd has worked with a long list of big-name acts: Pink Floyd, R.E.M., and many more. In his new book, he charts the interconnectedness of music, around the world and across generations. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israel's attacks in Lebanon escalated over the weekend, beginning with Friday's strike that shook south Beirut, killing Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Sources say that a ground operation may be imminent. We get the latest on those developments and their implications within the region and beyond. Also, Hurricane Helene has brought massive devastation to the southeastern United States. Part of what people there are struggling with is the fallout from mudslides linked to deforestation. This is something we're seeing more and more, not just with Hurricane Helene but in flooding events worldwide. And, in Sweden, an ancient language that's a remnant of Old Norse sounds nothing like the modern Swedish language. But there's been a grassroots effort to save the language, spoken today by only an estimated 2,500 people. This week marks a milestone in that effort: the publication of the first-ever book of Elfdalian grammar written in English.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israel says it struck Hezbollah’s headquarters in a huge explosion that shook the Lebanese capital. We have the latest from Beirut, and reaction from Israel. And in Kenya, the self-proclaimed cult leader of a Christian sect who allegedly told hundreds of followers to starve themselves to death has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter. The case raises larger questions about how Kenyan authorities should be regulating religious organizations. Plus, after their farmlands became too salty for crops, thousands of Bangladeshi farmers switched to salt-tolerant agriculture. They now say they could teach the rest of the world a thing or two about it.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been charged with bribery, fraud and using his position to help Turkey. Also, at least 18 countries around the world have recorded mpox cases, which the WHO has declared a public health emergency of global concern — the epicenter being the Democratic Republic of Congo. And, despite repeatedly clashing over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, Armenia and Azerbaijan are still talking in hopes of reaching a peace deal. Plus, two sisters have begun nonprofits in Boston and Port-au-Prince to help Haitian families.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Climate change appears to be supercharging hurricanes. Meanwhile, storm warning systems in Bangladesh are resulting in fewer casualties. Also,  Nitazenes are synthetic opioids 500 times more potent than heroin, and they’re increasingly showing up on the streets of the UK, the Netherlands, Australia and the US. And, more than 100,000 Armenians displaced by an Azerbaijani military operation a year ago are trying to adjust to life away from home in Yerevan, Armenia. Plus, the Revere History Museum in Boston has expanded its collection to include things like Chinese scripts, Cambodian poems, Brazilian soccer memorabilia and Moroccan dolls.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israeli air strikes in Lebanon continued on Tuesday. And so did rocket attacks from Hezbollah, aimed at northern Israel. The situation is looking more and more like all-out war. The international community is calling for restraint, but events on the ground appear to be heading in a different direction. Also, President Joe Biden's speech at the United Nations General Assembly Tuesday morning was an attempt to cement his legacy on foreign policy. But what will history say about this president's role in global affairs? And, the Belarus Free Theater was banned by the government in Belarus. But the theater group refuses to quit — even in exile.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon today killed more than 356 people and injured at least 1,200 others, marking a major escalation in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. Also, two new studies this week add to existing research that has found microplastics in nearly every organ in the human body. And, Sri Lanka’s new leader, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, won the presidential election on a Marxist platform, riding a wave of anger against the former president's handling of the island nation's economy. Plus, Kenya’s government is taking steps to curb injuries and deaths from snakebites.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A new report by Mediazona and the BBC finds that more than 70,000 Russian soldiers have died in the war in Ukraine. Also, Israel and Hezbollah continue to exchange fire as US President Joe Biden calls for comprehensive peace deal. And, a top official of the European Commission discusses regulating Big Tech. Plus, how the song, “We Are the World” changed the life of a musician from Uganda.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah gave a speech in Lebanon acknowledging the deadly attacks this week that caused pagers and walkie-talkies to explode across the country. He called it a "severe blow,” but also promised that Hezbollah will continue attacking Israel until the war in Gaza ends. Also, the US and Chinese militaries are talking to each other again, but can more face time avert a dangerous conflict? And, Mexican drug cartels don’t actually rely on migrants crossing the border illegally to bring fentanyl into the US. Instead they’re recruiting a growing number of high school and college students. Plus, a man who's lived in Maine for over a decade is now hoping he can make a difference by becoming president of Jubaland state in Somalia.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Recent attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon haven't come in the form of drones or missile strikes. The weapons were already in the targets' hands: their pagers and walkie-talkies. We'll hear how people in Lebanon are feeling and perhaps changing their habits in the aftermath of the coordinated explosion of communication devices. Also, the nations around the globe are nearly evenly split between democracies and autocracies. But the autocracies are home to about 70% of the world’s population. We examine democracy under strain, as dictators consolidate power — and hold onto it. And in Japan, tourists and weather have been blamed for a shortage of rice. But farmers and analysts think something else is going on.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Across Lebanon and reportedly in Syria, Hezbollah operatives have been gravely injured and killed when their pagers exploded. It bears the hallmarks of a coordinated attack and is a major strike against Hezbollah. Also, deadly flooding is underway in more than one global region, with death tolls rising from catastrophic floods in central Europe, and millions displaced by rising waters in central and western Africa. Also, in Lebanon, hundreds of pagers used by members of Hezbollah exploded simultaneously, resulting in dozens of injuries. And a profile of a Japanese drummer with an unconventional performance style. His antics include playing a snare drum with his teeth.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

More details are emerging about the background of the man allegedly involved in the second attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump. One particular aspect of the would-be shooter's history that stands out: His obsession with Ukraine's fight against Russia. A retired FBI agent talks about that. When wildfires rage in remote places, the challenge isn't just to fight the fires; even finding and reaching the fires in order to put them out can be difficult. In a densely vegetated region of Brazil, drones have started helping out. Also, women, activists, and human rights advocates in Iraq say they are worried about a set of possible changes to family law. The new proposal would give religious authorities more power over marriage, divorce, inheritance and child custody. And the Biden administration has waived human rights conditions on US military aid to Egypt. This comes after three years of partially withholding assistance from Egypt. We're looking into the calculations and reasoning behind that shift.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

South America is seeing a record number of wildfires, and a smoky haze hung in the air in cities like São Paulo this week. The World's Carolyn Beeler reports from western Brazil, where climate change is fueling unprecedented flames in the Pantanal wetlands. Plus, video has emerged of North Korea's Kim Jong-un touring a uranium enrichment facility. Analysts say these images will help experts estimate with more accuracy how much nuclear capability North Korea has achieved. And a new book from Atlas Obscura compiles delightful stories of the living creatures whose behavior ranks right up there with the wonders of the world. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Authorities in Belarus have granted amnesty to several dozen political detainees in recent weeks. These are opposition figures, part of the movement that protested the reelection in 2020 of Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko over his authoritarian domestic policies. We hear from a political adviser to the opposition about the prisoner releases, and the reaction in opposition communities in Belarus and in the diaspora. Also, a severe drought in southern Namibia has led to food shortages. So, the country's Ministry of Environment announced a controversial plan: to cull wildlife in order to feed people in urgent need of sustenance. Plus, an influential pastor in the Philippines was just arrested after a two-week standoff between police and his supporters. And, a bicyclist has broken a world record. Lael Wilcox just became the fastest woman to circumnavigate the globe by bike. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Mexico's Senate has just approved a controversial judicial reform; the country's judges will now be elected by popular vote. Protesters flooded the Senate floor to voice their objection to the reform. Also, Russia's use of drones supplied by Iran indicates that Russia is coordinating with Tehran significantly more closely than in the past — even the recent past. And, Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam has brought nonstop rain, and the resulting flooding and landslides have killed at least 64 people. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

An Israeli strike on a humanitarian zone in southern Gaza left a giant crater in the ground where Palestinian families had been living in tents. We have an update on the latest news, as well as perspectives on loss of civilian life in Gaza, even in designated safe zones. Also, around a half a million people cross the Darien Gap between Colombia and Panama every year in the hopes of reaching the United States. They leave behind untold volumes of waste. And all that pollution is threatening a local ecosystem. Plus, Australia has a plan to ban children from using social media entirely. We look at how that is expected to work and what the new policy aims to achieve.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Ukrainian civilians, under relentless Russian bombing, are fleeing the key logistics and transit hub of Pokrovsk. A Ukrainian journalist explains why the fall of Pokrovsk might jeopardize Ukrainian control of the entire Donetsk region. Also, a housing shortage in Ireland is ranked the worst globally. We learn why. And, water shortages are driving discontent in Cuba and other Caribbean countries. Plus, a final wrap-up of the Paris Paralympics.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The Israeli military has conducted intense operations in the occupied West Bank over the past 10 days, launching air and ground attacks, and leaving a trail of destruction. Also, France tries to redefine rape after a man in the south of the country went on trial for drugging his wife and then inviting dozens of men to rape her, over the course of nearly a decade. And, Europe grapples with a rise in xenophobia even though it’s in need of more foreign workers. Also, farmers in Kenya are breeding butterflies for export abroad. Plus, what is the sound of a glacier crying?Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Automakers like Volvo and Volkswagen are making big changes to their business models as demand fluctuates for electric vehicles. Also, the athletics community across East Africa mourns the death of Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who was reportedly killed by her partner. And, a discussion about euthanasia and how and when it’s used around the world. Plus, a collection of 1,984 copies of George Orwell's dystopian novel "1984" hopes to find a permanent home on the Scottish island where Orwell lived.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A new report finds that Incompetence, dishonesty and greed led to the deaths of 72 people in the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire in the UK. It also says the deaths were avoidable and blames several manufacturers and successive British governments. Also, the Pope is on a trip across Southeast Asia. And, the head of Lebanon's central bank has been arrested after more than a year of damning revelations of alleged financial crimes. Plus, a group of people in the Canary Islands is embracing a centuries-old language used to communicate across long distances: whistling.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Three German states held elections this weekend, with the far-right AfD Party making big gains. Also, both major US presidential candidates say they oppose the proposed takeover of US Steel by Nippon Steel of Japan. But the CEO of US Steel and a majority of the company’s shareholders are in favor of the sale. And, a military partnership between Egypt and Somalia has Ethiopia alarmed. Plus, an online story about a hot new singles scene in a Spanish supermarket chain has exploded into a flirting frenzy in grocery stores across the country.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

For Labor Day, we have a special show with reprisals all focused on the theme of transportation — including getting around on foot. Thor Pedersen, a former UN soldier originally from Denmark, went on a decadelong adventure that took him to every country in the world. He never took an airplane. Also, research shows that flight turbulence has increased as climate change has warmed the planet. One researcher explains that the increase in bumpy flights could be caused by changes in wind speed at high altitudes due to warmer air from carbon emissions. And, lithium is in soaring global demand, because it’s used in electric car batteries. This is good news for the economy of Chile, which meets a third of the world’s lithium needs. Experts say there's a big financial opportunity for the region, but it comes at an environmental cost.    

A Palestinian baby in the Gaza Strip contracted polio and is now paralyzed in one leg. It's Gaza's first confirmed case of polio in 25 years. International agencies are scrambling to get an estimated 640,000 young kids in the territory vaccinated, requiring a halt in fighting between the Israeli military and Hamas. And, Kenya is getting a nuclear power plant, but those plans are bumping up against local opposition. Plus, there's a church in Turkey where hundreds of visitors of different faiths come to make a wish on the first of every month. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Hong Kong used to be famous for its feisty and free press. Today, reporting the news there can land you in prison. Two journalists in the Chinese territory are now facing the possibility of jail time after being convicted of sedition for their work. Also, Thailand has a new prime minister. But less than two weeks into her term, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is already facing a complaint that could end up dissolving her political party. Many Thais are now wondering, what's the point of voting? And, Sudan is facing a national catastrophe. More than half of the country's population of 45 million is in need of urgent food aid. Millions have been displaced. Peace talks so far have failed to end the civil war.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The Israeli military has carried out extensive raids overnight in several areas of the occupied West Bank. At least nine Palestinians were killed. Also, since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, they've made it more difficult for women and girls to get any kind of formal education. But some bold activists are still taking big risks to run secret schools for girls. And, the sporting world is once again setting its sights on Paris. This time, the 2024 Summer Paralympics kicking off with an opening ceremony along the Champs-Elysees. Plus, for years, local Sherpas and volunteers have been clearing trash from Mount Everest, which is arduous and exhausting and even deadly. Come autumn, Nepal will deploy drones to help carry the load. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The World Health Organization has declared mpox, formerly Monkey Pox, a global public health emergency. A new strain of the virus has raised concerns due to its rapid transmission. Also, green tea is a major industry in Shizuoka prefecture, on Japan’s Pacific coast. Google “Shizuoka” and you’ll find images of hillsides covered in neat rows of bright-green tea bushes, with Mt. Fuji in the background. But that scenery is changing, with some tea farmers calling it quits and others scrambling to innovate for economic survival. And, a herd of artsy elephants is traveling with a message, as part of an exhibit. These are replicas of real-life elephants made by a community of artisans in southern India.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The deployment of Kenyan police to Haiti was supposed to quell ongoing violence, but two months in, that effort isn't going as planned. Local media report that gangs not only remain in power, but continue to expand their grip on the country. In the US, command of the English language is integral to finding work and housing, navigating education and health care, and everyday tasks, like getting groceries and using public transportation. But across Massachusetts, at least 20,000 immigrants are waiting to get into English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes. And, an urban explorer from Russia was arrested in Albania for visiting some of the country's defunct military sites. Since she can't leave the country, she's started giving unofficial tours of the very sites she was charged with visiting.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Tens of thousands of court workers across Mexico are on an indefinite strike. It comes in response to a controversial judicial reform law that is advancing through Congress. Also, Cambodia has lost more than a third of its primary forests to private development in the last two decades, but a movement of young activists has challenged the government to improve its environmental record. And, the US has expanded its access to the CBP One app so asylum-seekers can book an appointment as soon as they reach Mexico. Plus, a Canadian TikTok influencer inspires people to try his cucumber recipes, causing a sudden spike in demand for fresh cucumbers in Iceland.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A labor dispute between two of Canada's largest railroad operators and union has mushroomed into a full lockout of union workers. Also, in Germany’s self-styled beer town of Munich, more people are switching to non-alcoholic beverages. And, a new art exhibit in Denver showcases the work of a Japanese American prisoner incarcerated at a camp in southeastern Colorado during World War II called “Amache.” Plus, scientists report they were able to "hear" low-frequency gravitational waves caused by the motion of massive black holes across the universe.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Moscow’s mayor has called Kyiv’s overnight assault “one of the largest ever” drone attacks on the Russian capital. It comes as Ukraine continues its incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. Also, a Turkish organization representing the döner industry has applied to the EU to certify döner kebab as a traditional specialty, but German döner makers have vetoed the move, saying it could increase the price. And, Israel wants control over two strategic corridors in Gaza, but Hamas says it will only agree to a deal if all Israeli troops leave the Gaza Strip. Plus, cellist Yo-Yo Ma bridges the Us-China divide.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

US intelligence officials say they’ve confirmed findings made by Google cybersecurity researchers that Iran has tried to hack the Trump and Harris presidential campaigns. Also, Slovakia’s culture minister has fired the directors of the Slovak National Gallery and the country’s most influential theater, which the artistic community says is a crackdown on artistic expression. And, a legal debate on who own the rights to the diaries of Li Rui, once a top Chinese official and a personal secretary to Mao Zedong. Plus, a food blogger in Gaza who makes recipes using the ingredients from food aid packages handed out at refugee camps and anything else he can scrounge up.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Ukrainian troops continue to push deeper inside Russia’s Kursk region. Also, as the West tries to turn away from lithium supplied by China, European leaders are focused on local lithium deposits, but a plan to mine in Serbia is being met with local anger. And, a look at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the biggest performing arts festival in the world. Plus, Switzerland is holding a contest to find the best way to clear out military munitions that have been dumped into its lakes.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Indonesia is set to inaugurate Nusantara as its new capital this weekend. It will replace the current capital, Jakarta, which has a population of about 30 million people and is beginning to slowly sink into the sea. Also, two days of ceasefire negotiations over the war in Gaza wrapped up today with the participants planning to reconvene next week in Cairo, Egypt. And, a new study reveals that islands in the Scottish Hebrides may be the only place on Earth to have a detailed record of how the Earth entered into a deep Ice Age hundreds of millions of years ago. Plus, Iranian-Israeli singer Liraz Charhi releases a new song calling on people across the Middle East to talk to each other more.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The World Health Organization has declared the mpox outbreak on the African continent to be “a public health emergency of international concern.” Following the recording of Sweden’s first case of a new variant of mpox, there is a race to get vaccines into the arms of the most vulnerable Africans. Also, highly anticipated negotiations are underway in Qatar to broker a ceasefire in Gaza. And, a Wall Street Journal investigation has found that Ukraine was responsible for the 2022 sabotage of the Nordstream pipelines in the Baltic Sea that was initially blamed by many on Russia. Plus, a 16th-century-old privately owned Turkish bathhouse goes on sale for $2 million.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The Biden administration is flooding the zone in the Middle East with high-level diplomats ahead of a key meeting on Thursday. Getting a ceasefire for Gaza is the immediate goal. But this is also about bringing down the temperature in a region that's on edge after Israel assassinated two top leaders from Hezbollah and Hamas. Also, the British prime minister has vowed to come down hard on rioters involved in violent far-right protests in the UK last week. Some offenders have already been sentenced to time in prison. But British prisons are already at 99% capacity. And, German authorities issued an arrest warrant for a Ukrainian national named Volodymyr Z. His last name is protected by Germany privacy law, but he's a suspect in the explosions that destroyed the natural gas pipeline running beneath the Baltic Sea. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The Ukrainian military has invaded Russia's Kursk region. The incursion has prompted the Russian military to pull some of its troops out of eastern Ukraine to defend itself. Host Marco Werman speaks with Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov about what's happening on the ground inside of Kursk and how Russian officials and citizens are reacting. Also, the humanitarian situation in Sudan has reached a breaking point. That's especially true in parts of Darfur, which might be experiencing famine, according to the latest report by international experts at the Famine Review Committee. As The World's Halima Gikandi reports, each side of the conflict blames the other for the bleak conditions. And, wrapping up our Olympics coverage: The International Olympic Committee and France tried to minimize the environmental impact of the 2024 Summer Games, foregoing air conditioning, creating a greener Olympics Village — even cleaning up the Seine. But climate change calls the future of the Olympics themselves into question. The World's Gerry Hadden brings us the story.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Greece is on fire. About half of the country is on red alert, after dozens of fires broke out — including several close to the capital, Athens. A prolonged drought and soaring summer temperatures are making it hard for authorities to contain the blazes. Also, Russian leader Vladimir Putin is threatening to restart production of intermediate range nuclear weapons. This is in response to plans by the US to position long-range missiles in Germany. And, we have a wrap-up on the Olympics in Paris, where the closing ceremony and final events took place on Sunday.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Russian strikes in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region have killed around a dozen people and injured 37 others. It comes as Ukraine's incursion into Russian territory continues into its fourth day. Also, Japan Meteorological Agency has issued its first-ever advisory warning of the risk of a huge earthquake along the Pacific coast to help focus people on earthquake readiness. And, with tensions high across the Middle East, we talk to people in Israel, Lebanon and Iran as they face the possibility of a full-blown war. Plus, dark skies are getting harder to find, but some places, like in Denmark, are are now trying to protect their dark nighttime skies by fighting light pollution.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Authorities in Austria have canceled a series of Taylor Swift shows after learning of an alleged ISIS plot to attack the music venues along her much-hyped Eras Tour. Also, after preparing themselves for an evening of violent far-right protests, police in the UK encountered peaceful anti-racism rallies overnight. And, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government. Plus, thousands of bagpipe enthusiasts have gathered for the annual bagpipe festival in a village in Bulgaria.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Hamas has a new leader, Yahya Sinwar, who is said to be one of the main planners of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Also, US Ambassador Rahm Emmanuel will skip the ceremony in Japan this week that remembers the US atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, because of a decision by Tokyo to exclude Israel. And, China agrees to crack down on some precursor chemicals used by cartels to make fentanyl. Plus, young musicians from South America, Africa, Europe and the Middle East convene at New York City's Carnegie Hall for World Orchestra Week.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

In Bangladesh, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of the country's interim government after the army  stepped in following anti-government protests that pushed a long-serving prime minister out of power. Also, public health officials warn that some diseases are seeing concerning spikes in Gaza. And, a federal judge in the US has ruled that Google has a monopoly on the internet search. Plus, what is the relatively new Olympic event, sport climbing?Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule came to an end today after weeks of violent clashes with protesters left more than 300 people dead. Jubilant scenes emerged from the capital, Dhaka, after Hasina resigned and fled the country. Also, it's been five years since India revoked the special status of Kashmir. And, nearly 400 people were arrested in about a dozen cities across the UK over the weekend, after the murder of three young children sparked anti-immigrant riots. Plus, a look at the largest drumming orchestra in the Americas as hundreds of drummers play together in downtown Florianopolis, Brazil.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A UNICEF official talks about what humanitarian aid workers are doing in Gaza to help Palestinian civilians. Also, Vladimir Putin met released Russian prisoners on a red carpet at the airport on Thursday. We'll hear about Moscow's view of the historic prisoner exchange. And Thailand’s wildlife is fantastically diverse. Its elephants, primates and wild tigers are a source of national pride. But one native species that is not loved is the water monitor. It's a dog-sized creature with snakelike fangs and is widely despised by Thais. But one group of young people wants to convince society to start loving this four-legged creature. Also, our reporters serve up samples of the food and drink people enjoy across the globe, when weather heats up. 

American citizens have been freed from Russia on Thursday in a prisoner exchange, including the Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Also, nearly 23 years after the attacks of Sept. 11, the man accused of planning those attacks — along with two accomplices — agreed to plead guilty. Plus, as the incumbent president of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, faces accusations of election fraud, the legacy of a former president, Hugo Chávez, looms large over the country, even though he died more than a decade ago. 

The Israeli army claimed responsibility for a missile strike that killed a Hezbollah commander in his Beirut apartment. At least three people were killed in that strike and some 70 wounded. Hours later, Hamas' leader-in-exile Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard were killed as they slept in Tehran. Following the assassination of Hamas and Hezbollah figures, there are fears about a wider conflict engulfing the Middle East. Also, some Brazilians along the southern coast of the country are celebrating the "day of the right whale." This is an endangered species of whale that has made a comeback in the region due to conservation efforts by the Brazilian government. And, efforts to make the Seine "swimmable" for this year’s Olympics draw on lessons from successful restoration projects in other parts of the world. 

Across Europe, NATO countries are watching Ukraine closely. They're studying how the war is being fought, what tools are being used, and the role that technology is playing on the battlefield.  Also, Nicolás Maduro is declaring victory in Venezuela's recent election, but accusations of fraud are widespread. Protesters have hit the streets in Caracas. And, Beiwen Zhang became a pro badminton player at age 13, after leaving her home country of China for Singapore to pursue the sport. She struggled with the pressure to perform, though, and ended up retiring early. But she's back at it, and competing in the Paris Games. 

A rocket from Lebanon killed 12 children and teens on a soccer field in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights on Saturday, drawing international attention to the region and also to the Druze people living there. We look at how the Druze community fits into the fabric of Israel. Also, as the results of Venezuela's presidential elections continue to be contested, with both sides claiming victory, our reporter on the ground in Caracas brings us the latest on how people are feeling amid the uncertainty. And, the number of US students studying in China is way down compared to previous years. The pandemic is part of the reason. But there are other pressures, some of them related to the tense diplomatic relationship between the US and China.

The Olympic Games have begun in Paris, despite a massive sabotage campaign against France’s rail system. Also, Canada's wildfire season is well under way and has already sparked evacuations, destroyed homes and burned forests across national parks. And, two leading Mexican drug lords from the Sinaloa Cartel have been arrested by authorities in the US. Plus, a new study finds that scribes in ancient Egypt suffered from repetitive stress injuries.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Typhoon Gaemi is one of the strongest typhoons to affect the Asia-Pacific region in nearly a decade, and it's sparked massive evacuations in the Philippines, leaving flooding and landslides in its wake. Also, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek talks about his walk through northern India. And, the civilian casualties tracking group Airwars has been gathering incident-by-incident documentation of civilians publicly reported killed in Gaza, and found that the figures reported by the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health, since the beginning of the war, have been reliable. Plus, Hong Kong’s government is spending millions on a campaign to get the city’s mojo back.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the US Congress for a fourth time. Also, Japan’s Nanmoku village has the oldest population in the world. And, a new study by scientists find wild sharks off the coast of Brazil that have tested positive for cocaine. Plus, host France wants the organizers of the Olympic Games to stick to the French language.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Soldiers and police are patrolling the streets of Paris as the city hosts the Summer Olympics. Parts of the city are off-limits, including much of the Seine river, as the “City of Light” goes on maximum alert to protect athletes and fans. Also, the UAE — where protests are banned — sentences 57 Bangladeshi residents to lengthy prison terms for demonstrating in solidarity with people in Bangladesh over job quotas. And, new rules at the US border have some dog owners concerned. Plus, an international group of scientists discovers "dark oxygen" 13,000 feet below the ocean's surface.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

World leaders weigh in after US President Joe Biden announced that he's ending his bid for re-election and put his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Also, a project in Namibia hopes to combine a pesky plant known as the encroacher bush with a mushroom byproduct known as mycelium to help deal with the country's housing crisis. And, Kenya sends its first fencer, Alexandra Ndolo, to the Olympic Games. Plus, BALTHVS brings back the short-lived psychedelic music era in Colombia.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Earlier on Friday, in the culmination of what the US is calling a sham trial, a Russian court found Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich guilty of espionage. The American journalist has been sentenced to 16 years in prison. We'll dig into the implications of that news, and we'll also hear about the growing number of American journalists being detained in Russia. Also, a drone strike on the city center of Tel Aviv, sent by Yemeni Houthi rebels, killed one person. That's stoking fears of an expansion of Israel's war in Gaza. And, a rare species of crocodile once on the brink of extinction is making a comeback in Cambodia, where locals discovered five nests in May. The newly hatched baby crocs are being seen as a sign of hope.

In Bangladesh, large-scale student protests have taken a violent turn, with clashes between demonstrators and police resulting in bloodshed. We'll have the latest on this developing story. Also, in the east African country of Malawi, members of the LGBTQ community face discrimination in the health care system there. And, in the city of Girona, in northeast Spain, frustration with tourism has turned against an unlikely demographic: people on bicycles. The World's Gerry Hadden pays a visit to find out why.

A Manhattan court finds New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, former head of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, guilty of acting on behalf of Egyptian intelligence and steering money and weapons to the country. Also, there's been a spike in COVID-19 this summer. Host Carolyn Beeler explores whether certain aspects of summer life might be contributing to the spread. And for those who love the Trader Joe's "Everything But the Bagel" seasoning blend, beware. It's banned in South Korea. That's because the flavorful ingredient of poppy seeds are classified as a narcotic.

Venezuela’s authoritarian regime has spurred millions of people to leave the country. But they still want the chance to vote out the current president, Nicolás Maduro, in this month's election but are being shut out. Also, a Russian court has convicted the well-known Kremlin critic Masha Gessen for spreading false information. The conviction and sentencing was in absentia, but the decision means the award-winning writer faces eight years in prison if they return to Russia. And, we look at the epic rivalry between two of Europe's best runners, Josh Kerr of the UK and Jakob Ingebritsen of Norway, at the Paris Olympics.

We'll dig into reactions to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump from abroad, and examine how the incident fits into a broader trend of political violence in democracies worldwide. Also, the government of Cyprus declared a “migrant emergency” in April, when more than 2,000 people arrived there by sea in the first three months of 2024. Many of them are Syrians, and now the Cyrpus government has stopped processing their asylum requests. And, our reporters in Spain and Colombia bring us stories of soccer triumph and heartbreak from the weekend, when both the Copa America and Euro Cup tournaments had their final matches.

The US, Canada and Finland announce plans to work together to fend off growing Russian activity in the polar region. Also, the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl on the small islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. And, gangs continue to control much of Port-au-Prince nearly three weeks after Kenyan police arrived in Haiti. Plus, mystic troubadours in India and Bangladesh sing songs that draw from three different faiths.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The CIA director and a top Biden adviser are in the Middle East this week to meet with Israeli, Egyptian and Qatari officials. It’s part of the latest efforts to reach a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Also, Panama starts building a barbed wire fence in the Darien jungle between South and Central America to stop migrants from reaching the US. And, African migrant communities in Maine are creating new congregations to fill the gap as US church membership declines. Plus, a look at food from around the world with National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek.

The US is showing decreasing interest in continuing to be Europe's “first responder in perpetuity” when it comes to military defense. Also, aid deliveries into Gaza have decreased by two-thirds since the Israeli military began its operation in Rafah in May, according to the UN. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has urged Palestinians remaining in Gaza City to leave, warning that the city would remain a dangerous combat zone. And, European cities are struggling to manage the number of tourists, with some adding tourist taxes and entry fees. Plus, why do some words sound funny?

As NATO turns 75, some trace the roots antagonism between the alliance and Russia to the 1990s, when the Soviet Union and the West were negotiating the terms of German reunification. Also, reformist Masoud Pezeshkian wins Iran's presidential election. And, blind football, one of the most-popular sports of the Paralympic Games. Plus, a look at hilbe, a tasty condiment important to Yemenite Jews that’s considered a folk medicine, a cure all and a source of strength.

France's far-right National Rally party looked poised to win the country's snap parliamentary election called by centrist president Emmanuel Macron in June. But that victory was thwarted by a coalition of center and left parties unifying at the last minute. Also, NATO is at a crossroads as it marks its 75th anniversary. And, around 20% of the National Samsung Electronics Union walked off the job for the first time, protesting for higher pay and better working conditions. Plus, Lebanon remains home to the world's largest Syrian refugee population per capita. Now, Lebanese politicians say they must be sent home.

Britain has a new prime minister. Keir Starmer has moved into 10 Downing Street, after the Labour Party trounced the ruling Tory party in a historic landslide election. Also, another election is playing out in Iran. Voters are taking part in a runoff for the presidency on Friday. The choice is a stark one between a hard-liner and a reformist. But voter apathy is running high. And, Biniam Girmay of Eritrea became the first Black rider to win a stage of the Tour de France.

For The World's Independence Day special, we celebrate with a sort of "mixtape" of reprisals of summer-themed stories from across the globe about everything from music festivals to an old-school beach drink to palm trees in Iraq.

We have the latest on Hurricane Beryl as it hits Jamaica. Also, doping scandals and the invasion of Ukraine have barred Russian athletes from participating in the Olympics. We hear how some will still compete in Paris. Plus, China is doubling the size of its nuclear weapons arsenal, part of its global competition with the US. And chronically late German trains are testing a cultural stereotype and patience.

Israel's military ordered Palestinians in Khan Younis to evacuate, indicating that a new Israeli military offensive there could be imminent. Also, a law passed earlier this year in India created a new pathway for refugees to get citizenship. But the legislation is controversial because it excludes Muslims. Plus, Panama's new president is vowing to stop migration through the treacherous jungle region known as the Darien Gap. This won't be easy. Last year, more than 500,000 people passed through the Darien Gap, which is partly in Colombia. And we hear about "forest bathing," a concept created in Japan as a way for people to get away from work and its stresses by spending time in nature.

As predicted, the French president's election gamble is paying off — for his political rivals. Emmanuel Macron called for early elections and over the weekend, his centrist alliance came in third, while the far-right party of Marine Le Pen won the first round of voting with 33%. What it means for France, and for Europe. Also, he is on his way out as Mexico's president, but Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador still wants to complete a radical reform of the country's judiciary. And celebrations in Brazil called the June Festivals -or Festas Juninas run well into the month of July. These local events are held across the country, with each region doing so in its own different way, at schools, churches and town halls. 

Kenya begins its deployment of police to Haiti just as Kenyans are drawing attention to policing issues at home. When this week's demonstrations in Nairobi escalated, police were accused of excessive force in their response, which included widespread use of tear gas, as well as deadly shootings. Plus, Thursday night's US presidential debate drew strong reactions from throughout the globe. We'll hear global perspectives and takeaways on the televised representation of America's presidency and American democracy. And, the Olympics are coming to Paris for the first time in more than a century. We'll take a fun trip back in time, to see how much the Games have changed since then.

There's a convincing explanation for Mohammad Shabani's death, but the evidence is incomplete. While Fariba Nawa waits for a crucial piece of evidence to be analyzed, she tries to find out how far Iran will go to silence dissidents. A Turkish court case exposes an Iranian kidnapping ring and offers an answer. Fariba finds a source to guide her through some of the inner workings of the secret operation.

Many young Iranians say they plan to boycott Friday’s election to replace the late-President Ebrahim Raisi. Also, a look at the political fault lines behind the attempted coup in Bolivia. And, An appeals court in Paris has ruled that an international arrest warrant issued by France against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is valid. Also, who is Keir Starmer, the Labour party leader expected to be the British prime minister. Plus, scientists find new evidence that the painted lady butterfly is making the  2,600-mile trek across the Atlantic from West Africa to South America without stopping.

Kenya’s president concedes to protesters following a week of unprecedented demonstrations against a proposed finance bill. Also, outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has been selected as the next secretary-general of NATO. And, WikiLeaks founder Jullian Assange walks out of a courtroom on the US territory of Saipan a free man after pleading guilty to a single charge of publishing US military secrets. Plus, French Chilean rapper Ana Tijoux releases her newest album, “Vida.”

Thousands of people have taken to the streets to reject a finance bill underway in Kenya’s parliament, with some demonstrations turning deadly. Also, Israel’s Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the military must begin drafting ultra-Orthodox men for compulsory service, effectively putting an end to a longstanding exemption for the group. And, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has reached a plea deal with the US Department of Justice. Plus,  Cameroonian singer and guitarist "Irma" pays homage to the King of Pop 15 years after the death of icon Michael Jackson.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A series of seemingly coordinated attacks on synagogues and Orthodox churches took place in the Russian republic of Dagestan over the weekend, killing at least 20 people, and injuring dozens more. Also, sword duels with real blades have been barred for centuries throughout Europe. But every year — across Germany and Austria — hundreds of male university frat house members still undergo a secretive, violent and bloody sword-fighting ritual, using real sharpened blades. And, more than 1,300 pilgrims perished making the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia this month. The majority of those who died were "unauthorized," meaning they lacked the official “Hajj visa" that the Saudi government requires. Plus, a cafe and performance space for Arabic speakers in Turkey.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Latvians mark the summer solstice by celebrating the longest day of the year. Also, a new discovery of a rare genetic mutation of one family in Colombia may present an opportunity to learn how the body could naturally resist Alzheimer’s. And, new mothers in different parts of the world find that preparing the traditional foods of their own mothers and grandmothers from their home countries can ease the transition to motherhood. Plus, a look at the intersection of fashion and sports as Paris hosts the Summer Olympic Games.

Russia and North Korea have sign onto a new partnership, vowing mutual aid if either country is attacked, while South Korea responds by saying it will consider sending weapons to Ukraine. Also, French President Emmanuel Macron joins several African leaders to kick off a planned $1 billion project to accelerate the rollout of vaccines across Africa after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaping inequalities in access to them. And, farmers in northern Israel say the war in Gaza has devastated their businesses. Officials in Margaliot, a tiny agricultural settlement bordering southern Lebanon, want the town to “sever contact with the Israeli government” following what they see as months of abandonment. Plus, a new documentary that takes a look at the Women's World Cup of 1971 in Mexico.

Juneteenth marks a celebratory milestone in the history of emancipation in the US, but the legacy of slavery persists, not just in the US but across the globe. Also, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was just sworn in for his second term in office, despite his party losing a decadeslong majority in a recent parliamentary election. And a new series that will run throughout the summer examines key themes in the tense relationship between the US and China. The first installment of "Face Off" centers on the escalating risk of military encounters over South China Sea.

The annual Muslim pilgrimage known as the Hajj isn't just a spiritual journey; it's physically strenuous, too. Travelers to Mecca and Medina this year have braved dangerous heat. Host Marco Werman speaks with a Muslim American who's there right now, participating in the ritual. Plus, Polish abortion rights activists reflect on 30 years of some of the strictest abortion laws in the region just as those laws appear likely to change. And the Turkish government's latest attempt to deal with stray dogs in cities has sparked anger in local communities. A draft law set to be debated by parliament could require cities to euthanize dogs that are not adopted within 30 days.

A UNICEF representative based in Gaza joins us from inside the territory with insights on what a proposed pause in fighting would — and wouldn't — accomplish on the ground. Plus, in a diplomatic shakeup, China is recalling two of its diplomats to Australia. Not the highest-ranking ones, but probably the most famous: giant pandas at the Adelaide Zoo, are going back to China. And, classic American folk tunes meets beloved ragas from India. The home of country music — the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville — is showcasing the ensemble American Patchwork Quartet.

Pope Francis convened a meeting with an unexpected audience while at the G7: more than 100 comedians from 15 different countries. Also, we air Part 3 of the series “Lethal Dissent,” which looks at the death of an Iranian poet living in Turkey. And, Qatar tries to beat the heat by air conditioning outdoor spaces. Plus, a new project tries to prove that gamers do, in fact, “touch grass.”

G7 nations agree to give Ukraine a loan of $50 billion for weapons and rebuilding. Also, a growing number of governments in Latin America are aligning themselves with Palestinians and distancing themselves from Israel. But there's a price to pay for cutting ties with Israel. And, Haiti’s new government selected cabinet ministers this week, as it awaits the arrival of a long-delayed Kenyan security force designed to assist its embattled police. Plus, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek takes us through Afghanistan's wild and mountainous Wakhan Corridor.

Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas deteriorate once again. Also, Denmark has ordered a recall of three types of Buldak, which translates as "fire chicken," manufactured in South Korea. The packaged noodles were deemed so hot they could pose a physical danger to Danish consumers. And, in a rare case, a jury in South Florida has ruled that banana giant Chiquita must pay $38.3 million to relatives of people killed by a right-wing paramilitary group in Colombia that received funding from the fruit company. Plus, remembering French chanteuse Françoise Hardy.

Momentum may be building to end the war in Gaza after a UN Security Council vote for a ceasefire. Also, Mexico deals with around 25,000 tons of trash generated by last week’s elections. Now, environmentalists are concerned that improper disposal of plastic waste could cause serious pollution. And, an effort to reintroduce wild horses to the steppe region of Kazakhstan. Plus, scientists detect a sizable drop in a harmful substance that depletes the ozone layer.

A daylight raid on Gaza over the weekend secured the release of four more Israeli hostages, using intense bombardments that killed hundreds of Palestinian civilians. Meanwhile, Benny Gantz, a key member of Israel's war cabinet, has resigned. Also, an exclusive interview with Lebanon’s foreign minister, who says his country cannot afford an all-out war with Israel. And, French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a snap election in parliament following EU elections, urging French voters to take a clear stance on the rise of the far-right throughout Europe. Also, three Americans have appeared in a Congolese military court, accused of taking part in a failed coup attempt last month in the DRC. Plus, a visit to an all-fungi restaurant in Mexico City, a place that is rediscovering recipes and methods to cultivate, eat and preserve wild mushrooms.

Daytime temperatures are breaking records in the central and northern regions of India. Now, hospitals are setting up special units to deal with acute heat stress. Also, a look at soaring home rental prices in Spain. And, Palestinian families evacuated to Qatar help their children process trauma and grief from the war in Gaza. Also, Team USA is playing in the T20 Cricket World Cup for the first time, and they're surprising cricket fans around the world with their performance so far. Plus, the Caesar salad turns 100.

For months, the Israeli military and Hezbollah in Lebanon have been trading drone, missile and rocket attacks across the border. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened a "very intense" military response. The World's Shirin Jaafari is in Beirut. Also, Thursday is the start of voting for the European Parliament. The polls suggest that far-right candidates will do well, and that could have big implications for some of America's most important allies. And New York's governor is hitting the brakes on a plan to implement congestion pricing in New York City. The plan has been in the works for several years. But other non-US cities went down this road a long time ago. We'll hear how it worked out overseas.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The top diplomat at the United Nations is once again sounding an alarm about the dangers of climate change. Also, in coastal communities around the globe — places such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, Egypt, Italy, Brazil and the southern United States — rising sea water levels threaten to infiltrate freshwater drinking supplies. And, Jerusalem Day marks the "reunification" of Jerusalem in 1967 and the Jews regaining access to the venerated Temple Mount. The day is generally tense as Jews march through the Arab quarter of Jerusalem's old city to commemorate victory in the Six Day War. This year, the holiday is especially fraught because of the war in Gaza. And, 3,000 Palestinian children have suffered at least one amputation in the last eight months, according to UNICEF. That's the largest cohort in recent history. Only a small percentage have been able to be evacuated out of the Gaza Strip. 

The US is strongly pushing a three-phase ceasefire deal in the Mideast that would bring back Israeli hostages and lead to a permanent ceasefire with Hamas. But members of the Israeli prime minister's cabinet have threatened to quit if any ceasefire is discussed. And, US Army Major Harrison Mann quit the Defense Intelligence Agency to protest what he calls Washington’s "unqualified" support for Israel, saying it has “enabled” the killing of Palestinian civilians. Also, results in India's national election are in. The incumbent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi looks like the winner, but the opposition also appears stronger. And the city of Vilnius, Lithuania, recently hosted a "Pink Soup Festival," celebrating cold beet soup. It's a staple in Lithuania and other parts of Eastern Europe.

For the first time, Mexico will have a woman president. Claudia Sheinbaum is a 61-year-old scientist, left-wing politician and a former mayor of Mexico City. Also, this week, we'll meet a child survivor of the war in Gaza who was able to travel to Qatar for medical treatment. And welcome to the Offline Club. It's a place in Amsterdam where visitors pay a cover charge to hang out in a social setting that's completely cut off from the digital world — no phones, tablets or laptops allowed.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Mexico heads to the polls this weekend for its largest-ever election, with more than 20,000 positions up for grabs — including local, state and congressional offices, as well as the office of the president. Also, a range of reactions from European leaders to the news of former President Donald Trump’s hush-money conviction. And, data shows that the number of Canadians heading south to live in the US has jumped 70%. Plus, a conversation with National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek about traversing Uzbekistan as part of his 24,000 mile Out of Eden Walk.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the fifth time in five months, forcing the nearby town of Grindavik to be evacuated. Also, a group of Israelis is trying to push back against another group of right-wing Israelis blocking food aid to Gaza. And, voters in Mexico head to the polls on Sunday. Residents of Tijuana will be watching what the new president does about the environmental problems plaguing their city. Plus, a beloved skate park that was closed down in Philadelphia is getting a second life in Sweden.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Millions of South Africans are voting in what is being called the most important election since the end of apartheid in 1994. The vote could unseat the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party for the first time. Also, water disputes over the Rio Grande river that forms part of the US-Mexico border. And, the US is loosening some restrictions on businesses in Cuba that will allow some Cuban business owners to open bank accounts in the United States. Also, a new bill may be a boost for mothers of the disappeared in Honduras. Plus, a children’s book explaining the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to kids.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

An Israeli airstrike has sparked international condemnation after dozens of Palestinians were killed near a tent camp for displaced people in Rafah. Also, efforts to rescue victims of a Papua New Guinea landslide are facing extreme challenges. And, Mexico is poised to elect its first female president, but in a country with a history of gender violence and inequality, feminists aren’t declaring victory just yet. Plus, a look at the UK’s annual cheese rolling competition.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Lethal Dissent is a 9-part series about the price and peril that Iranian dissidents face for speaking out against their government, and the secret operatives who seek to silence them.It all begins when two friends flee Iran to escape the regime’s crackdown on dissent. But when they arrive in Turkey, one of them dies under unusual circumstances. Fariba Nawa, a reporter in Istanbul, works to unravel the mystery of what happened. In the process, she enters Turkey’s underworld of kidnappers-for-hire and shady government officials, and takes the listener inside an Iranian operation to snatch exiles who stand up to the regime. The stakes: the right to say what you truly believe, and potentially, your life…A story from The World and On Spec Podcast.With support from the Pulitzer Center and Zamaneh Media…First episode drops May 31st wherever you get your podcasts.

This Memorial Day, host Marco Werman and show director April Peavey discover and re-discover The World’s music favorites. That includes a discussion in 2012 with singer Ed Sheeran on his first US tour, a look at the music used to promote the famous Rumble in the Jungle boxing match in 1974 between Muhammad Ali and George Forman, a conversation with twin sisters from Cuba about their diverse vocal influences and the search for a master musician in Pakistan.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The UN's International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to stop its military offensive in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza. It comes as Israel also said it has recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages from Gaza. Also, a look at the UAE’s support of the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces as the war between the RSF and the Sudanese national army reaches a new critical juncture. And, a new book about architecture that was designed but never built. Plus, a look at why we clap, something that researchers say is universal.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

The death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has raised the question of another succession — that of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Raisi was seen as a strong candidate before his death. Also, Kenya’s president is in the US for a historic state dinner celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations with the United States. It comes as Kenyan police prepare to arrive in Haiti to lead a controversial multinational UN force backed by Washington there. And, the Biden Administration faces an uphill battle in its efforts to close down the detention center at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. Plus, a look at the legacy of the Latin Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and accordionist from Colombia, Omar Geles, who has died at the age of 57.Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

Spain, Ireland and Norway say they will recognize a Palestinian state on May 28. They will join 139 countries who have already taken the step. Also, a court has ruled that greenhouse gasses are a form of marine pollution, laying out legal obligations for governments. And, the Aral Sea, which spans the borders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, used to be the fourth largest lake on the planet but changed under Soviet policies. An engineering project turned things around, but the progress is once again on shaky ground. Plus, Jenny Erpenbeck's novel “Kairos” becomes the first translated German work to win the International Booker Prize.

Investigators in Britain have recently released an explosive report detailing how more than 30,000 UK residents contracted HIV or hepatitis from tainted blood products in the 1970s and 1980s. Survivors of the contamination and their families have welcomed new pledges of compensation. And, security forces rescued 350 hostages from Boko Haram captivity in Nigeria on Monday. The hostages had been held in a forest enclave by the militants before they were rescued. Also, who doesn't have a fond childhood memory that's grown hazy with time, especially because there was never a photo to solidify it in the mind's eye? Well, now a Spanish AI company is creating the image on paper based just on the memory. Plus, South Korea bans a North Korean TikTok sensation.

Iranians woke up on Monday to the news of the death of President Ibraheem Raisi and foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The officials were traveling in a helicopter when it crashed in a mountainous area in the northwest of the country. And naturalists have discovered that there are many species that are now hard to find in the United States, but healthy populations can be found across the border, and now wall, in Mexico. But tagging these species in Mexico can also be a challenge, in part because of risks from cartel activity. Also, the top prosecutor at the International Criminal Court today announced a request for arrest warrants from top leaders from both Hamas and the Israeli government. Karim Khan said that he has reason to believe that Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, along with the Israeli defense minister, and three top leaders from Hamas all "bear criminal responsibility" for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Plus, an art portal connecting Dublin to New York City reopens. 

France declared a state of emergency in its Pacific Islands territory of New Caledonia. At least three Indigenous Kanak people and two police officers have been killed in violence that began Monday night over a proposed amendment to the French constitution that expands French citizens’ eligibility to vote in the archipelago's local elections. And, the US military says the first aid shipment has arrived in the Gaza Strip via a floating pier off the coast of the territory. Humanitarian aid officials say basic necessities are desperately needed in Gaza. But the pier is also a sign of a failure in US-Israeli cooperation. Also,  nearly a week after flash floods caused by heavy rain, devastated villages in northern Afghanistan, survivors are struggling with basic needs like shelter and food. The floods left at least 300 dead and many are still missing. Plus, the Vatican adopts new laws to evaluate supernatural phenomena.

Migrants heading from South America to the United States must cross a treacherous jungle known as the Darien Gap. To prepare for the perils ahead, people embarking on that journey now turn to their phones for crucial information. Enter a new social media influencer: documenting the route, and offering survival do's and don'ts for those who come. Plus, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet again. In their talks, the two leaders condemned the United States, and embraced one another's causes. That includes Chinese support for Russia in the war in Ukraine. And it's been described as the "United Nations of sweat": a spa, in Brooklyn, that brings together wellness and relaxation traditions from around the globe. We'll take you there. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.We aim to raise $25,000 by June 14. Will you help us reach our goal? Donate today to keep The World going strong! 

Georgia’s parliament has passed a “foreign agents” bill. Tens of thousands of people have gone out to the streets to protest in the capital city of Tblisi. The bill is modeled after a similar law in Russia. Plus, the Israel-Egypt peace treaty has been a linchpin of stability in the Middle East for the last 45 years. The war in Gaza may be putting that agreement at risk. And, three women from Saudi Arabia are facing political consequences for social media posts. One has fled the country, another is in prison and the third faces a travel ban. And they're sisters. So, what happened to promises of new freedoms for women in the kingdom? Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.We aim to raise $25,000 by June 14. Will you help us reach our goal? Donate today to keep The World going strong! 

In Canada, the embers from last year's record-setting fires smoldered under the ground's surface through the cold winter months, never quite going out completely. The fires, known as zombie fires or overwintering fires, have returned. Also,  Azerbaijan and Armenia are engaged in peace talks after Azerbaijan’s military seized Nagorno-Karabakh in September, displacing tens of thousands of Armenians. But many Armenians are not happy with the talks. And, the Cannes Film Festival begins on Tuesday, and this year's event lands in France at the same time as the #MeToo movement. France comes late to the movement that brings women's stories of sexual harassment and assault to the forefront. 

In Mexico, Mother's Day was a sad reminder for the mothers of more 116,000 people reported missing there. But, in a rare exception, officials managed to find the bodies of three missing foreigners from Australia and the US in less than a week. Plus, athletes have been announced for the refugee team slated to compete in the Summer Olympics in Paris. And you probably saw pictures of the Northern Lights online this past weekend. In fact, the photographs might have surpassed what you saw with the naked eye. We'll find out why.

Pope Francis delivers the official declaration for the Catholic Church's upcoming 2025 Jubilee, a once-in-25-year event for Catholics that goes back to the 14th century. Also, as part of reestablishing ties with Israel, Saudi Arabia wants the US to help it build a civilian nuclear program. And, a look at the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as Israeli troops position themselves to enter Rafah. Plus, a Somali rapper who went from being an unemployed immigrant to a rap star in the UAE.

Russia marks Victory Day with pomp and circumstance and a chance to show off its power and strength. Also, many Nigerians are calling on the government to bring back fuel subsidies as oil prices rise. And, a discussion about the value of written language after a teacher in the UK finds a stone inscribed with ancient Ogham writing from Ireland. Plus, a new gallery in New York City is holding one of the largest showings of African contemporary art in the world.

The long-awaited torch of the Olympic Games arrives by ship in the southern French port city of Marseille. Also, pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca says its ceasing sales of its COVID-19 vaccines. The company says its vaccine saved millions of lives globally but demand is now low. And, a look at what a pause in shipment of weapons destined from the US to Israel means. Plus, the Luminous Stars centers providing mental health care for orphaned children in Iraq.

A group of Americans who had been stranded in desert camps in northeastern Syria for years arrived back in the US on Tuesday. Also, water supplies in Mexico’s capital are at a historic low because of a combination of low rainfall, rising temperatures and outdated infrastructure. And, the IDF conducted air strikes in Rafah, where 1.4 million people are sheltering, and now controls the main border crossing with Egypt. It came as Hamas offered a counterproposal for a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange. Plus, whale researchers have turned to computer scientists to analyze the clicks made by sperm whales in the Caribbean.

In a statement, Hamas said it would approve the Qatari-Egyptian ceasefire proposal. Israel and the US say they are reviewing the deal. It's not the same one that was under consideration 10 days ago. For the people sheltering in Gaza, in the city of Rafah, we'll bring a ground-level perspective on the fast-changing situation, as well as a window into how civilians are navigating the uncertainty. Plus, the largest election in history is currently underway in India, with nearly a billion people casting ballots. They trek by foot, by boat and even on the backs of elephants. And, a North Korean defector wants visitors to the demilitarized zone to understand what his life in North Korea was like. There are the negatives but also the positives.

The Turkish government announced it would suspend trade with Israel, until a permanent ceasefire is achieved and humanitarian aid is allowed into Gaza without interruption. Imports and exports between Turkey and Israel totaled $6.8 billion last year. And, for the first time, researchers observed a wild animal treating a wound with a plant known by humans for its medicinal qualities, according to a study published Thursday in the journal Scientific Reports. Also, lawmakers in the United Kingdom are considering a ban on the sale of smartphones to children under the age of 16. And in France, a hard-hitting study says children should not be allowed to use smartphones until they are 13. Are these bans effective? Plus, Syrian singer Ghaliaa finds her voice in Abu Dhabi. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.We aim to raise $25,000 by June 14. Will you help us reach our goal? Donate today to keep The World going strong! 

Until recently, Myanmar’s army was widely seen as undefeatable — too big and brutal to take down. An armed uprising started three years ago is now on a roll, capturing vast territory and leaving senior generals "demoralized," according to an army major who defected. And, Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi sits at the ancient crossroads of Asia and Europe, of Islam and Christianity, and it is currently the scene of a political confrontation over a Russia-inspired law that critics fear will stifle media freedom. We hear from National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek, in Tbilisi, about the city’s rich cultural past and its current tensions. Also, Haiti’s newly installed transitional council chose Fritz Bélizaire, a little known former sports minister, as the Caribbean country’s new prime minister earlier this week. But the selection process sparked backlash, and the council reversed its decision. Plus, a Neanderthal woman, discovered. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.We aim to raise $25,000 by June 14. Will you help us reach our goal? Donate today to keep The World going strong! 

The rallying cry of many pro-Palestinian protestors is “divest from Israel.” University administrators and donors have so far rebuffed that demand. Many investment analysts argue that it's not feasible for universities to alter their portfolios and sell all assets linked to particular countries. And, this week, the Chinese coast guard fired water cannons at two Philippine patrol vessels near a disputed territory in the South China Sea. The US has a mutual defense pact with The Philippines, so this incident draws the US and China into tension with each other. Also, Colombia's President Gustavo Petro said on Tuesday that an inspection in April showed that hundreds of thousands of bullets, thousands of grenades and 37 anti-tank missiles had been stolen from two different military bases. He said an organized network is behind the theft of weapons and is selling them to militant groups within Colombia and overseas. Plus, the rest of the world's Labor Day. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Israel is offering an "extraordinarily generous" deal and that, "the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and cease-fire is Hamas." But on Tuesday, Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said whether there's a ceasefire or not, the Israeli military will launch a ground offensive into Rafah. And, au pairs come to the US to live with a family and care for the children. They are paid small stipends and work long days, which opens them to abuse. The State Department is considering revamping the program, which would likely make it unaffordable for parents. Also, University of Sydney students set up pro-Palestinian encampments on campus last week, while others in France, Italy and the UK are staging their own forms of protests against Israel's war with Hamas. For now, the demonstrations are small compared to what's happening on US college campuses, but students say they're actions are significant and likely to spread. Plus, the challenge to end plastic pollution. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

More trucks carrying aid are crossing the border into Gaza, and the relief group World Central Kitchen is resuming operations there, four weeks after Israeli soldiers killed seven of the group’s aid workers. Still, the situation in Gaza remains dire. And, Maori poet Tayi Tibble released a new collection of poems, "Rangikura" earlier this month to critical acclaim. Tibble talks with us about her youth, Maori identity, and what it means to connect with Indigenous groups beyond New Zealand. Also, heavy rainfall and flooding in Kenya over the weekend has killed about 100 people so far. Experts say the extreme weather is wreaking havoc across several countries in East Africa. Plus, the struggles of learning Mandarin. Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.

In the third and final part of our reporting series from Syria, we have the story of a woman who married an American member of ISIS. She shares the story of her life under the brutal extremist group and the challenges she faces now. Also, in Barbados, there's a public outcry over a potential land deal that involves property owned by a member of the British parliament whose family got rich from the labor of enslaved people on the island.And, Toronto is seeing an epidemic of car thefts. A vehicle is being stolen about once every 40 minutes. We'll hear about how people there are trying to protect their cars.  Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.  

At its height, ISIS recruited and trained children to fight for its cause. Some participated in atrocities and appeared in propaganda videos. Others were brought to the so-called caliphate by their parents or they were born there. We hear about one young man from Trinidad who has been stuck there for 5 1/2 years. And, European police have busted a criminal ring that over a period of two years stole rare books by famous Russian authors from libraries across Europe. Europol says it has arrested four Georgian nationals in Georgia and Lithuania who are thought to have collaborated in the plot. Also, global average sea-surface temperatures have set records for more than a year straight. It's incredibly anomalous, and worrying for everything from marine life to hurricane season. Plus, a Venice tourist tax. Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. 

Thousands of people with perceived connections to ISIS remain locked away in detention camps across northeastern Syria. Some of the prisoners are children. We visited several sites in what's been called "Guantanamo on an epic scale." Plus, in Kenya, health care workers at public hospitals are on strike over insufficient pay. The strike has already had an impact, with some public hospitals no longer providing services. And, a look inside the European Union's struggle to keep economically and culturally significant plant species, like olive trees used to make olive oil in Italy, safe from imported pathogens and pests. Also, check out The World's Music Heard on Air playlist on Spotify.

Britain’s Parliament has passed contentious legislation aimed at deterring asylum-seekers from heading to the UK. People arriving via small boats or any other “irregular means” will be deported to Rwanda where their asylum cases will be heard. Also, a new report by the Swiss investigative organization Public Eye says that several popular Nestle products sold in lower-income countries contain added sugar, often at high levels, while the same products, when sold in Switzerland, do not. And, a family in the West Bank village of Burin tells the story of their eldest son who was the victim of recent violence by the Israeli army and settlers against Palestinians. Plus, The Little Shop of Kindness, run by volunteers, offers clothes, toiletries and humanity to migrants in New York City.Music heard on air Ta Nye Sal Al Malecon Flowing and Bending Bbye

The head of military intelligence for Israel, Aharon Haliva, has resigned, saying his directorate failed to alert the military and nation in time to prevent Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Also, the US House of Representatives passes another spending package worth $61 billion for Ukraine. And, a German bank has frozen the account of Judische Stimme (Jewish Voice). It comes amid a string of confrontations between the German government and Jewish artists and intellectuals who criticize the war in Gaza and Germany’s unwavering support for Israel. Plus, the Chinatown that has no Asian grocery store.Music heard on air Makhafi  Modul 22 Gedima Shade 

Voting has begun in India in what's being called the largest election in recorded history. Nearly 1 billion people are eligible to vote in the election, which will happen over the next six weeks. Also, US and Iranian officials confirm an Israeli attack on the Iranian city of Isfahan, which is home to several key military sites. And, there’s a growing social media campaign to boycott Canada's biggest grocery store chain, Loblaws, as prices rise across the market. Plus, the UN describes the current state of government and society in Haiti as "cataclysmic," with armed gangs seizing control of much of the country.Music heard on air My Soul Thirsts Moonshine Part 1 All Winter Nature

Qatar has been holding negotiations between Israel and Hamas aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages and bringing about a ceasefire in Gaza. But those efforts have so far failed and Qatar is taking heat for its role from politicians in Washington. And, British surgeon Dr. Khaled Dawas completed his second trip to Gaza last week. He tells us about deteriorating health care conditions in the conflict zone. Also, repeated volcanic eruptions on a remote island in the Indonesian archipelago have prompted authorities to issue a tsunami alert and order more than 11,000 people to leave the area. Indonesia sits along the "Ring of Fire" and has 120 active volcanoes. Plus, a walk across the plains of eastern Turkey, historically known as Anatolia.Music heard on air: Shifting Sky Albala West Vybe Yapilacak Kadin

Heavy rains have dumped more than two years worth of precipitation on Dubai and surrounding nations. It’s in an extreme weather event analysts are linking to climate change. More than five inches of rain fell in 24 hours. And a controversial bishop in Australia is the latest victim of a knife attack. It’s the second-highest profile knifing in three days. Also, a new landmark agreement between the Haida Nation and the British Columbia government recognizes Haida title over all of Haida Gwaii, an archipelago of more than 150 islands almost 60 miles off of British Columbia's north coast. This agreement was negotiated, not litigated in the courts. Plus, Emerson the seal is back again. Music heard on air: Trippar  The Dadra Cycle Camino De Nacar Bla Planet Mars

What is the US' role at this moment in the Middle East, and does the Biden administration hold sway over what comes next? We speak with Retired Admiral John Kirby, who is the spokesman for the National Security Council. Also, Ukraine's leadership has been calling on the US and other partners to replenish its air defense and artillery stocks. Right now, Ukraine is rationing artillery on the front lines, while being outgunned by Russia at a rate of 5 to 1. And, venting when you're angry is often said to be the best way to "get it out." But researchers say that increasing arousal is probably not a good thing. Despite what popular wisdom may suggest, even going for a run is not an effective strategy because it increases arousal levels and ends up being counterproductive. We'll tell what the best way really is.Music heard on air: Sekerleme Olutobazzi Malungu Repetitions Chorinho De Gafieira Bir Adim Ote E40

Iran used hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented attack on Israel over the weekend. It's a turning point in the hostility between the two countries, and in the regional conflict in the Middle East. We have the latest on Israel, Iran and the US role in a deepening crisis as well as reaction inside Iran to weekend attacks on Israel. Plus, a kora player from The Gambia defies deep family traditions around the musical instrument by becoming the first woman to play it. And, Indigenous and First Nations fashion designers are getting more opportunities to showcase their work in special fashion week events.

Ten years ago on Friday, the militant group Boko Haram kidnapped over 200 young women from a secondary school in Nigeria. A decade later, we hear how things have turned out for those women and their families. Also, The World's team in Israel has spoken with the parents of an American-Israeli hostage about efforts to keep pressure on their government — and international community — to bring their son and the rest of the hostages home. And, a city in Thailand has too many monkeys. The situation has gotten so chaotic that the people residing in the city are demanding government intervention.Music heard on air Garland Rose Malungu Sal Al Malecon

The World continues its weeklong series from Israel. According to a new survey, more than 70% of Israelis think Netanyahu should resign now, or as soon as the war in Gaza comes to an end. But there are stark divisions over what should happen next. Also, this year, the US will accept 125,000 refugees, the highest number in decades. That means local aid groups in American cities will be mobilizing to facilitate a smooth landing for new residents as they settle into their new homes. Plus, the movie "Blue Sunshine" tells the story of a transgender schoolteacher living in a small town in India, including her struggles, and perhaps more importantly, her joys. As the film makes its US debut, we'll find out what inspired the director to tell this semi-autobiographical story, and how moviegoers have been responding so far. Music heard on air B’nei Heichala  Olutobazzi  Control Per Capita 

With polls opening this month in India, farmers are angry with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2021, Modi made a rare concession by repealing farm laws after they were met with massive monthslong protests in Delhi. Now, farmers are returning  to the streets. Also, the Israeli war against Hamas in Gaza is also being felt by Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied territories. One area the impact is being felt is around the critical resource of water. Also, Russia often targets Ukrainian apartment buildings and gathering places. Firefighters are typically the first people to arrive after an attack. We talk to a young Ukrainian firefighter who risks his life to save others. Plus, the founder of the first major Black children’s magazine in the UK is opening a journalism school to increase representation for people of color in the industry. Music heard on air: Trembler Con carido y con cuidado Sarı Çizmeli Mehmet  Bad Dog Makhafi

We continue our focus on Israel and the Palestinian territories, with a trip to the West Bank. When the war in Gaza finally ends, the Biden White House is looking for “revitalized” leadership from the Palestinian Authority, which has sworn in a new technocratic government. But it’s not generating a lot of excitement from Palestinians, who are feeling deeply pessimistic about what’s happening in the Gaza Strip. Also, Sharren Haskel is a member of Israel's Knesset, or parliament, from the New Hope party. She's a rising star in Israeli politics and sat down with us to talk about the current status of the war with Hamas and the future of Israel. And, with polls opening this month in India, farmers pose a challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2021, Modi made a rare concession by repealing farm laws after they were met with massive, months-long protests in Delhi. Now, farmers are threatening to return to the streets unless they get guaranteed prices for crops.

 Hamas' deadly attacks on southern Israel on Oct. 7 left an estimated 1,200 people dead and 250 taken as hostages. Most of the world first saw the terrifying videos and images from the Nova music festival. We hear from witnesses who bore the brunt of these attacks and how they feel today. And, Israel is still planning to attack the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which borders Egypt. Nearly half of Gaza's 2.3 million residents have been pushed there to take shelter as Israel continues to strike hard against Hamas. Also, a total solar eclipse makes its way across Mexico, the US and Canada on Monday. The city of Mazatlan, on the Pacific coast of Mexico, was the first place in continental North America on the path of totality, and more than half a million people traveled there to see it. Plus, Brazil's Kamilla Cardoso is named "most outstanding player" of NCAA tournament. 

The killing of seven international World Central Kitchen staff members in an Israeli strike has brought a firestorm of criticism upon Israel. US President Joe Biden called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to do more to get humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israel responded by opening up a border crossing with the Gaza Strip. And, engineered quartz is the most popular choice for kitchen counters in many parts of the globe, including the US and Australia, but the tradespeople who cut and polish them are suffering from deadly silicosis. As of July 1, Australia will implement a complete ban on engineered stone. Also, since 2016, more than 500 women in Kenya have died in gender-related killings. While gender-based violence received national attention earlier this year, activists say interest in the issue has died down. Plus, Brazil's Tropicália superstar Caetano Veloso is on tour. 

In Israel, the ultra-Orthodox community has been exempt from military service. But Israel's Supreme Court just ruled that yeshivas — Jewish religious seminaries — are being cut off from government funding because they don't send students into the military. And, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek talks about his time in Cyprus, where he found the vestigial border line that divides the island's Greek and Turkish communities. He walked through an abandoned tourist city, a relic of a border war that has never been fully resolved. Also, Spain is where quartz countertops first took off and where hundreds of cases of silicosis from dust inhalation soon developed. Today, modern machines and clearer safety rules are meant to keep workers healthy. But some worry that silica dust still reaches workers' lungs. Plus, 30 years after Rwanda's genocide, questions remain. 

Quartz is popular because it looks like marble but is cheaper and needs no maintenance. But the silica dust produced during mining and manufacturing can make it deadly. We hear from Turkish miners about their experiences. And, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake rocked Taiwan Wednesday morning, with the worst damage located in the east coast city of Hualien. Early reports say that nine people have died, with nearly 1,000 injured and many others still trapped. Also, residents of the city of Raqqa in northern Syria, endured three years of hell between 2014 and 2017, when ISIS captured their city and declared it as the capital of its caliphate. Years after liberation, Raqqa's efforts to rebuild have been slow. Plus, the role of clerics in modern Saudia Arabia.

World Central Kitchen (WCK), one of the few aid groups distributing food in Gaza, has suspended its work there, along with others. The move comes on the heels of an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) strike that killed seven WCK workers after they left a warehouse in two armored cars. And, Israel's airstrikes on WCK workers and the Iranian Embassy annex in Syria are drawing criticism from the international community over a potential violation of the rules of war. We hear how the IDF selects its targets and whether its standards over civilian protections may have changed. Also, the three most commonly spoken languages in the world after English are Mandarin, Spanish and Hindi. But a new study shows that two popular chatbots are not always giving correct medical information when they provide answers to questions asked in those languages. Plus, sounds from the Sudan Tapes Archive.

Israeli protesters from various groups have come together to demand elections and the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. To put pressure on the government, they've set up a tent city in front of the Knesset — Israel's parliament — in Jerusalem. And, Turkey's main opposition party, the CHP, won municipal elections in 35 of the country's 81 provinces Sunday, which included Turkey's largest cities. The results are a blow to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's party, the AKP. Also, a conversation with senior Hamas politician Bassem Naim includes a wide range of issues, such as the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, the fate of the Israeli hostages and the future of Gaza. Plus, a special Sudanese beverage for Ramadan.

The World looks at the price of higher education for international students in the United States in this special podcast. American universities make the US the No. 1 choice among students from abroad. But nowhere else is tuition as expensive, leaving many people in debt. Universities depend upon international students’ high tuition fees to balance their books since foreign students can't rely on federal aid. To realize their dreams, some people are starting off by going to community colleges for the first two years. Others are finding creative ways to cut costs elsewhere, like shared living arrangements. Some even work under the table to make ends meet. We also look into students who face visa processing delays even after being accepted to US colleges. 

It’s been one year since Russian authorities detained Evan Gershkovich, a 32-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter. This week, a closed-door court in Moscow extended his detention by three months. He’s the first US journalist to be apprehended under suspicion of espionage in Russia since the Cold War ended. Also, in Turkey, Ramadan is a chance to enjoy evening concerts, and traditional musicians often book several gigs each week. But nonreligious concerts are few and far between during the holy month, and many secular musicians end up being out of work for a few weeks. Plus, 30 million Indonesian Christians pray to Jesus Christ or "Yesus Kristus," a name the Muslim-dominated government once refused to acknowledge. But after a recent legal decision, Yesus has the government's full official blessing. And the "I Am Not A Typo campaign" is calling on tech giants to correct auto-correct in the name of equality and to better reflect a modern, multicultural UK. Research behind the campaign found that almost 5,500 African, Asian, Scottish and other names were not recognized by computers.

Andrii Shadrin is a 28-year-old Ukrainian corporal who serves in a military unit that repairs and replaces equipment damaged in frontline fighting. Shadrin describes what it’s like to return to the battlefield after an injury, when military equipment and ammunition are in short supply. And, Nuha al-Junaid, a Yemeni woman in exile, has been speaking with people across war-torn Yemen and in the diaspora. Their voices show a diversity of experiences that reveal how life does not stop for war. Also, American officials have said that they had warned the Kremlin of an imminent terrorist threat in the days leading up to the March 22 attack that left more than 130 people dead. This is part of a US policy that requires intelligence-sharing in instances where civilian lives are in danger. Plus, remembering Algerian Jewish pianist Maurice el Medioni, who died at the age of 95.

The container ship The Dali that crashed into the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore had two local pilots navigating the large cargo carrier along the Patapsco River. We hear from a ship captain about the challenges of safely guiding a large container ship. And, the demand for language courses on US college campuses typically has reflected global shifts. But today, students are taking Korean — and it's all attributed to K-pop music and K-movies. Also, Senegal's president has led the country since 2012. But that's set to change now with the presumed victory of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the opposition candidate in the elections held this week. Plus, what we know about ISIS-K.

After tense negotiations and four previous failures, the UN Security Council passed a resolution this morning calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. For the first time, the US abstained on a Gaza ceasefire vote, rather than using its veto. And, according to Russian officials, the death toll from the Crocus City Hall shooting in Moscow currently stands at 137, with another 180 people injured. While many key questions remain unanswered, the Kremlin is already forming a narrative that will likely have severe political and security implications. Also, a new study in the Aquatic Mammals Journal suggests that a pod of orcas could be one previously uncategorized by researchers. These killer whales have been spotted far out to sea, as opposed to the pods that inhabit Pacific Northwest waters. Plus, a record year for the Barkley Marathons.

The Kremlin says that more than 40 people have died and more than 100 were wounded in a Friday night attack. The motive for the shootings or who may be responsible is not known. And, for more than a decade, Hosam Bahgat has been under criminal investigation for his work with the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, a human rights group. The court's investigation concluded this week and the charges against Bahgat were dropped. Also, Mongolia’s nomadic herders are facing a savage dzud winter, after more than 2 million livestock have frozen to death. Scientists say this lethal phenomenon — extreme cold and heavy snow following a summer drought — is occurring more frequently and is linked to climate change. Plus, on World Water Day, we hear how a farm in Iraq was hit by water shortages. 

Across Europe, the NATO military alliance is conducting its largest exercises since the Cold War, with tens of thousands of troops from 32 countries. NATO officials and European leaders are adding to the sense of urgency, warning that a direct conflict with Russia is becoming an increasing threat. And, this week, the United Nations said Sudan's civil war is one of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory. Fighting between the country's rival military and paramilitary forces has gone on for nearly a year and now humanitarians are warning of a looming hunger crisis. Also, more than three years after overthrowing an elected government, Myanmar’s military troops are under fire as armed revolutionaries fight to topple the unpopular regime.  The military is now conscripting civilians — a tactic that Myanmar’s population has long dreaded. Plus, walking to the Holy Land.

The Dominican Republic has stationed 10,000 soldiers on their border with Haiti. Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez says his country’s national security is his top priority and does not support the establishment of a humanitarian corridor. And, despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition, the US continues to push Israel to pursue a two-state solution with Palestinians — an independent Palestinian state alongside the Israeli state. What do former negotiators on both sides of the conflict have to say? Also, in Cambodia, the prime minister is hoping a ban on musical truck horns will stop young people from dancing near roadways. Plus, an exhibition on the Amazon of the imagination.

Japan's central bank has raised interest rates for the first time in 17 years. It's a milestone in a long economic recovery and sign of something afoot in the Japanese economy. And, from "Stories From The Stage," Eson Kim tells a tale about how she was held up at gunpoint with her dad in the family's hardware store when she was 12 years old. What happened next forever changed her. Also, all but one of the 100 cities with the world’s worst air pollution last year were in Asia, according to a new report from IQAir. Climate change is playing a pivotal role in bad air quality that is risking the health of billions of people worldwide. Plus, the earliest Japanese inventor of karaoke dies at age 100.

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed a landslide victory in the country's elections held over the weekend, which means another 6 years in the Kremlin. According to the Russian election commission, Putin won 87% of the vote, but most Western countries have said that the elections were neither free nor fair. And, US troops are being asked to leave Niger after the government there revoked a security accord with the United States. There are about 1,000 American troops in Niger working to stabilize the West African nation and fight militants operating in the region. Also, the Sunflower Movement in Taiwan was a student-led grassroots movement that, 10 years ago, stopped the rushed passage of a bill that would have tied the island closer to China. It is credited with changing Taiwan's political direction. Plus, 90-year-old jazz legend Abdullah Ibrahim heads out on a world tour.

The pandemic has been a global trauma with a silver lining of immense scientific and medical development. Michael Mina, a physician-scientist who spent the pandemic focused on immunology and epidemiology at Harvard University, tells us where the world is now and how prepared we are for the future. And, Russian American director Michael Lockshin began his film adaptation of Mikhail Bulgakov’s classic novel, "Master and Margarita," before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Moscow. Now that it’s finally been released, Russians are crowding theaters to watch the cinematic send-up of state tyranny and it's hitting even closer to home. Also, Since Oct. 7, there has been an increase in violent settler activity across the West Bank, with more 260 Palestinians killed. There are also accusations of an increasingly blurred line between settlers and military forces. Plus, Berlin's techno scene is now on UNESCO's cultural heritage list.

As part of the effort to get more food and water into Gaza, the Jordanian Air Force is conducting air drops into the beleaguered territory. The World's Shirin Jaafari travels along on one of the flights to see what the logistics are like and what the air force thinks about delivering aid. And, French far-right groups say superstar Aya Nakamura is not the right performer for the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Olympics this summer. Also, Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to secure his fifth term in office; he's been in power as president or prime minister since 1999. Yet, some Russians are still trying to monitor the elections to point out irregularities and falsifications. Plus, Britain expands its definition of extremism.

Across northeastern Syria, makeshift refineries are a major source of income for local residents who have endured more than a decade of conflict. But this critical resource is also making people sick and destroying the environment. And, US and Caribbean officials have reportedly told Haitian leaders they have 24 hours to name a transitional council that will appoint a new Haitian prime minister. US State Department deputy spokesperson, Vedant Patel, talks about US policy options in Haiti and Gaza. Also, in Germany on Wednesday, a court is weighing whether to remove the far-right party Alternative for Germany's designation as a suspected far-right extremist organization by the country's spy agency, the BfV, or the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. Plus, a remembrance of Egyptian musician Zakaria Ibrahim.

Ariel Henry, Haiti’s besieged prime minister, has agreed to resign once a transitional presidential council is installed. We hear how gang violence in the capital has made Port-au-Prince increasingly unsafe. And, the US House of Representatives is set to vote on a bill that would force Chinese company ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a US ban. Also, Since Oct. 7, 2023, Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank have been barred from working in Israel. Tens of thousands in the West Bank who were doing building or agricultural jobs are out of work, and it's drastically impacting their daily lives and the lives of many shopkeepers as people tighten their belts. Plus, can endangered languages be saved? A new book has the answer. 

Cyclists on the Gaza Sunbirds team have always dreamed of competing on the global stage at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. But amid the Israel-Hamas war, the athletes have pivoted to delivering food to community members in need. And, a new study says salmon populations produced in countries such as Norway, the UK and Canada are dying in large numbers. Warming waters and disease are seen as the main culprits for the depletion of farmed salmon. Also, in northwest Nigeria's Kaduna state, gunmen recently stormed into a rural town, rounded up 287 children and kidnapped them to a nearby forest. The circumstances differ from four day ago when Islamist militants kidnapped about 200 women and children elsewhere in Nigeria's rural north. We hear what's behind the most recent kidnapping and what it means for state security. Plus, the sound of "The Society of Snow." 

Ten years ago Friday, flight MH370 took off from Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, carrying 239 people headed to Beijing. During the flight, the plane changed course, turning south toward the Indian Ocean. Its transponder was turned off midflight and was never heard from again. But their families never stopped searching. And, celebrated Japanese manga creator, Akira Toriyama, has died at the age of 68 in Japan. He's best known as the creator of the "Dragon Ball Z" series, which was adapted for TV in the 1990s. Also, the International Criminal Court has been using an old resolution from the UN Security Council on the Darfur region in Sudan in 2005, to investigate ongoing atrocities in the current conflict there. US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack confirms that the United States is supporting the ICC investigation. Plus, Saudi Arabia on foot. 

On March 8, International Women's Day, voters in Ireland will decide if they want to replace a clause in the constitution that deems a "woman's place is in the home." The Irish government has proposed new wording that recognizes the value of the provision of care in the home "by members of a family." And, military regimes in the West African nations of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso recently severed ties from the regional alliance known as the Economic Community of West African States or ECOWAS. Now, their militaries are uniting in an effort to jointly fight Islamist militants. Also, in part four of a yearlong investigative report on children's homes in Uganda by The World's Halima Gikandi, we hear about the tale of two different homes. Foodstep Uganda operates without approval using funds from many American donors; Ekisa Ministries has a different approach. Plus, would you relocate to a Scottish island for the princely sum of $190,000 a year? 

Ukrainian American pastor Alex Zaytsev helped his parishioners evacuate from the strategic town of Avdiivka before it fell to Russian forces last month. They sought safety 40 miles east in Pokrovsk, but he says their new home is no longer safe. And, a United Nations team this week said it found convincing evidence that some hostages taken into Gaza on Oct. 7 were subjected to sexual violence, as well as hostages in captivity. Israelis are preparing for the worst, including the possibility that some of the female hostages may be pregnant. Also, Noah's Ark Children's Ministry Uganda was founded by a Dutch missionary couple 20 years ago. Reporter Halima Gikandi's yearlong investigation into children's homes in Uganda found several allegations of abuse and misconduct going back a decade. Plus, Colin Firth's shirt is sold at auction.

Gangs are taking over Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince. Police and the military have been ineffective in stopping the gangs from attacking the country's main airport last night and breaking out of thousands of inmates from prison over the weekend. And, a UN report finds credible the allegations of sexual assault by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, and against hostages held in Gaza. UN Special Representative for Sexual Violence in Conflict Pramila Patten went to Israel and the West Bank with a team to examine and gather information about allegations of sexual violence. Also, AidChild is an organization founded by American missionary Nathaniel Dunigan in 2000 to support children with HIV. The World's Halima Gikandi conducted a yearlong investigation on children's orphanages in Uganda and found several allegations of abuse and neglect at the organization, going back a decade. Plus, a satellite to help fight climate change by detecting methane.

According to the Pentagon, since the start of Israel's war in Gaza, there have been about 200 attacks on US forces stationed in Iraq and Syria. These attacks have been carried out by militia groups supported by Iran. And, on Monday, the European Union sent a message to Apple and other tech giants: "We will ensure compliance with our regulations." It followed a massive $2 billion antitrust fine for Apple. Also, research has shown that the vast majority of children in orphanages actually have families. Still, many Americans are giving their money to these institutions. In Uganda, those well-intentioned funds have created a whole industry around orphans. Plus, Mexico's lawsuit against US gunmakers could be a game-changer.

People around the world are mourning the death of Alexei Navalny, Russia’s leading opposition politician. Thousands of people came to his funeral in Moscow on Friday. Navalny died last month while being held in a remote Russian prison in the Arctic Circle. And, a team of scientists sought to find out how violence between rebel groups in Central African Republic has affected the country's mortality rate. They found that it's shaken the foundations of the country. Also, Iran is holding parliamentary elections this week but voter turnout is a major concern to its political leaders. Discontent is rampant in the country following years of protests and a struggling economy. Plus, the godfather of Tuareg desert blues.

US President Joe Biden touched down at one key Texas crossing point on the US-Mexico border today. His rival for the oval office, former President Donald Trump, visited another, showcasing a very different border environment. And, a new survey from the Pew Research Center says that representative democracy remains popular globally, but its appeal is also waning. Also, for the first time, the Cuban government has asked the UN's World Food Program for help providing powdered milk to children under 7 years old amid a crushing economic crisis in Cuba. Plus, the Disney merger with an Indian media giant is all about cricket.

As the Israel-Hamas war continues, food aid reaches northern Gaza for first time in weeks. Israeli hostages' families continue to push for their release. This conflict has stirred up strong emotions in Lod, a mixed Jewish and Arab town in central Israel. And, the northeast African nation of Sudan is rich in natural resources. Various international actors are fueling its civil war there with an eye on the bottom line. Also, thousands of junior doctors in South Korea are striking against a government plan to train more physicians, saying they want better pay and working conditions for themselves. The government says if the doctors don't return to work by Feb. 29, they will face arrest and risk losing their licenses. Plus, the latest Disney animated series depicts a futuristic Lagos.

China's foreign minister has resigned. In recent months, other high level officials have been purged from power in China, including the defense minister and several army generals. But why? Plus, Greenland is imposing a "green tax" on the cruise ship industry. Tourism is important for Greenland's economy. But there are concerns about the impact of the tourist business on the island's environment. And camel racing on the Arabian Peninsula goes back to the 7th century. These days, it's still hugely popular, with robot jockeys and cash prizes. But a new team is taking camel racing back to its roots, with a twist.

Voters in the city of Jerusalem go to the polls this week for municipal elections. The current mayor is expected to win another five-year term. But this is not a typical election, with the war in Gaza now well into its fifth month. Plus, every year the world uses up to 50 billion metric tons of sand, according to a United Nations Environment Program report. This is not sustainable and it's already having a negative environmental impact. And in Dubai, where temperatures regularly rise above 100 degrees, the city has set up destination night beaches. And they are thriving. 

The United States has been Ukraine's single biggest provider of military aid. But crucial funding is being held up in Congress. Ukraine is now focusing on drone production in an effort to become more self-reliant. And, as the Israel-Hamas war grinds on, more and more desperate Palestinians are resorting to paying bribes to leave Gaza. Some are crowdsourcing thousands of dollars to pay a network of Egyptian agencies that promise to coordinate their departure. Also, a global scheme to scan as many human irises as possible in exchange for cryptocurrency is setting off alarms in Europe. Privacy advocates say poor people are being preyed upon without knowing what they're signing away. Plus, Out of Eden Walk: Djibouti and the Red Sea.

US President Joe Biden warned Russia in 2021 that it would face “devastating” consequences if opposition leader Alexei Navalny were to die in prison. The White House has vowed it will follow through on that pledge and is expected to announce new Russia sanctions on Friday. And, across Ukraine, many schools have switched to remote learning amid the ongoing war with Russia. In the eastern city of Kharkiv, one school is fully operating underground, within the city's subway system. Also, investors in China are completely abandoning massive property developments across the country. We hear from a reporter sent to explore one abandoned development. Plus, China will return two panda bears to the US.

February 21, 2024

Alexei Navalny was very much the face of the opposition in Russia. Now that he has died in prison, will the movement he helped build, survive? Navalny's widow Yulia Navalnaya, who lives in exile, has vowed to carry on his work. And, in Haiti, a judge responsible for investigating the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse has indicted his widow, Martine Moise, along with 50 others, accusing them of "complicity and criminal association." Also, on Tuesday at the United Nations, the United States used its veto power on the Security Council to block a draft resolution for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. This is the third time the US has used its veto to prevent a call for a cessation in the fighting since the war began on Oct. 7. Plus, 200 years of dinosaur science.

As the United States honors Presidents' Day, The World takes a close look at notable presidents and heads of state around the world, from South Africa's Nelson Mandela to Guatemala's Bernardo Arévalo. And, we hear about Honduras' first female president. Also, we learn more about North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's daughter, who may be next in line as the country's leader. Plus, an exploration of some of the world's oldest leaders.

Alexei Navalny, Vladimir Putin's biggest political opponent in Russia, has died at the age of 47. Navalny, who decided to return to Russia after being poisoned by Russian intelligence with the nerve agent Novichok, had been serving time in an Arctic prison. And, Egypt is building walls and clearing an area near its border with Gaza in preparation for a possible Israeli offensive in neighboring Gaza. In the past, Egypt had refused to accept any displaced Palestinians from Gaza. But new reports suggest Egypt may take a number of refugees in return for financial or other incentives. Also, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is under fire. In the past week, his allies, the country's president and a former justice minister, were forced to resign over a sex-abuse cover-up scandal. Plus, to combat gangs, Ecuador adopts an iron-fist strategy. 

US President Joe Biden signed an executive order Wednesday protecting most Palestinian immigrants in the US from deportation. It comes on the heels of unprecedented US sanctions against Israeli settlers. And, Russia is rapidly making advances to its stockpile of space weaponry, according to the US government. And that's cause for concern in Washington. Also, sexism has long been an issue in the chess world, where women only make up about 10% of licensed players globally, according to the International Chess Federation. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, online chess has been taken more seriously, but it also means that anonymous, sexist comments have increased. Plus, a salute to Black women at Rio's Carnival.

Ukrainian Volodymyr Tsema-Bursov was captured a few months after Russia's full-scale invasion and spent the next 20 months in Russian captivity. He is now back in Ukraine after being released in the biggest prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine since war began. And, Prabowo Subianto, a former army general with links to Indonesia's days under dictatorship, is a favorite for Indonesia's next president. But he will have to work overtime to convince skeptics that he has truly abandoned his autocratic ways. Also, Israel carried out a series of strikes in Lebanon on Wednesday after rockets launched from there killed and injured several people. As Israel and Hezbollah trade tit-for-tat strikes, a new French proposal aims to end the fighting. Plus, why do children struggle with long COVID-19? 

French authorities are accusing Russia of orchestrating a campaign to spread disinformation. France's Viginum, a government watchdog, pointed to nearly 200 websites that have been set up to spread Russian disinformation. And, Valentine's Day flowers are big business not just for US florists, but for growers in countries such as Ecuador, Kenya, Colombia and Ethiopia. We hear how the US holiday affects flower production in Latin America. Also, Senegal has been known as a beacon of political stability in West Africa for several decades. But now, the outgoing president is delaying presidential elections, sparking deadly protests. Plus, a story about how daunting it can be to move to a new country.

Egypt and Israel have officially been at peace for the last 40 years, thanks to a treaty President Jimmy Carter brokered at Camp David in 1978. But Egyptian officials are threatening to rip up the agreement because Israel is vowing to send its troops into Rafah, just across the Egyptian border in Gaza. And, Kenya's Kelvin Kiptum was a fast-rising star in the world of marathon runners. But over the weekend, he died in a tragic car accident. Also, there's a growing rift between the families of hostages about whether to push for a ceasefire or continue to fight Hamas. The majority is adamant about a ceasefire, but a small group of families also formed a group opposing negotiations with Hamas. Plus, "doping Olympics" gets its first athlete.

During his two-hour interview with Tucker Carlson, Vladimir Putin reiterated his beliefs on Russia's claims to Ukraine. He also indicated the release of US journalist Evan Gershkovich might be possible as part of a prisoner exchange. And, record numbers of migrants are showing up at the US southern border, and many are requesting asylum. The system is now overwhelmed, with a backlog of about 3 million asylum applications pending in courts. Also, the premier of Quebec, François Legault, has proposed tuition hikes for students from outside Quebec, in English-speaking regions, who come for an education at venerable English universities like McGill, Concordia and Bishop’s. McGill estimates that the plan will lead to a $94 million shortfall in the school’s budget. Plus, famed Japanese American Boston Symphony Orchestra conductor Seiji Ozawa dies at 88.

The civil war raging in Sudan is a nightmare for children. At least one child is dying from malnutrition every two hours in Sudan’s Zamzam camp. And, a most-serious hurricane is known as a Category 5. But two scientists have proposed the creation of a Category 6 designation, as climate change supercharges extreme weather events. Also, Pakistan's parliamentary elections are being held on Thursday. The vote is seen as hugely significant following the sentencing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in a corruption case that many saw as politically motivated. Plus, "Out of Eden Walk": The first steps. 

Israeli authorities are intensifying their military assault on Rafah, now the strip’s most populous city. We hear from a Gaza aid worker with the Norwegian Refugee Council, who has relocated there with his family. And, China is celebrating the Spring Festival, otherwise known as the Lunar New Year. But this time of year can be challenging if you're looking to do business in China. Also, last year, 24 young volleyball players from the town of Famagusta traveled to the Turkish city of Adiyaman for a tournament, and never came back. The owner of the Isias Hotel, which collapsed in the earthquakes on Feb. 6, is facing criminal charges in a landmark case. Plus, a new book explores the "revolutionary lives" of Frantz Fanon.

It has been one year since Turkey and Syria were hit with twin catastrophic earthquakes. An early morning commemoration for earthquake victims turned into a protest in the hardest-hit Turkish province of Hatay, as survivors look back on a year of grief. And, a lot of eyes are on Washington this week as Congress debates immigration reform built into a military aid package to Ukraine and Israel. Also, militia groups in the Middle East are increasingly using drones to hit targets that were once out of reach. They are relying on these cheap, accessible drones instead of weapons. Plus, all about megalodon, the ocean's largest predator.

In the wake of a drone attack in Jordan by a militia in Iraq that killed three US soldiers, the US has conducted airstrikes across the region against armed groups backed by Iran. The US must search for retaliatory tactics that are proportional but prevent further escalation. And, things got dicey in Hong Kong yesterday when Lionel Messi sat out the match against a local team. When Messi was a late scratch from the roster, fans erupted in boos and chanted repeatedly for refunds. Also, huge wildfires are sweeping through central Chile, causing enormous damage, especially near the coastal resort city of Viña del Mar. Chilean officials are investigating claims that the fires were intentionally set. Plus, sound plays a big role in Oscar-nominated films this year.

Israel continues to engage with Hamas militants in Gaza, with the casualty toll mounting. Not enough food and medicine can get through to stave off a famine. And, is a united Ireland on the horizon? Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government for almost two years, but the Democratic Unionist party struck a new deal with the British government that should see the Northern Ireland assembly up and running again. Also, a mobile app designed to make applying for asylum in the US much easier was rife with problems. A year on, however, most of the problems have been fixed. Plus, a poster of Christ in Spain causes Holy Week controversy.

El Salvador has transformed in the past few years from one of the most-violent countries in Latin America to one of the safest. That's largely due to the intense crackdown on gangs by President Nayib Bukele, who is up for reelection this weekend, and expecting a resounding win. And, Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso are leaving the Economic Community of West African States, known as ECOWAS. All three countries have all experienced military coups in the past few years, and they say the regional trade organization is not helping them fight terrorism. Also, Venezuela and Guyana have been ramping up nationalist propaganda campaigns as a border dispute over the remote Essequibo region, rich in oil and gold, intensifies. Plus, why insects go into the light.

Hopes are dimming for Ukraine's spring push to drive Russia from its territory. Kyiv’s long-awaited counteroffensive has fallen flat and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is reportedly planning to fire his top commander. And, a court in Pakistan ordered former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife to serve long prison terms. It was the second sentence Khan received in two days related to corruption charges. Also, a report by the independent Russian investigative newspaper, The Insider, says a Latvian member of the EU parliament has been working as an agent for the FSB, Russia's intelligence service, for decades. Plus, Turkey's "Sultans of the Net" inspire a generation of girls to play volleyball.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh says he is headed to Cairo to discuss a ceasefire proposal that emerged after talks in Paris. Qatar, the US and Egypt are pushing for a halt to hostilities that lasts at least a month. But Hamas is calling for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. And, for nearly 20 years, Canadian Olympians have received as much as $15,000 for earning a gold medal at the Olympics. Canadian Paralympians, though, have never been paid — until now. Also, Canada's government announced this week its intention to delay the expansion of the medically assisted in dying program, known as MAID. It follows a series of hearings about whether those only with a mental illness should be allowed to seek out euthanasia. Plus, ants, lions and zebras!

President Joe Biden said the US will respond to an attack that killed three American service members in Jordan over the weekend. US troops in the Middle East have come under increasing attacks in recent months amid the war in Gaza. And, the sudden resignation of Harvard President Claudine Gay earlier this month is sparking debate about authoritarian influences creeping into higher education. Gay is the second Ivy League president to resign following testimony to Congress about antisemitism on campus. Also, journalist Paul Salopek has been walking across the globe for the past 11 years. The journey is part of his "Out Of Eden Walk" project in collaboration with Inside National Geographic. Plus, the 24th annual International Guitar Night begins this month.

The top United Nations court on Friday issued a ruling that stopped short of calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. But the International Court of Justice at The Hague also ordered Israel to do more to prevent civilian deaths in the Palestinian enclave. Also, NATO kicked off its largest military exercises since the Cold War. It involves all 31 NATO member countries and 90,000 troops. Plus, Australia Day commemorates the day in 1788 when British colonists arrived and raised the Union Jack. And every year, it sparks a public debate about cultural identity, history and what it really means to be Australian. 

Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in decades. Last week, Cuban government officials announced a new package of austerity measures, which include massive hikes for transportation fares, as well as fuel, electricity, and natural gas, and further restrictions on businesses. And, earlier this week, the US Supreme Court allowed border agents to remove razor wire along the US-Mexico border. Local authorities had installed the fencing to curb migration. Also, it's rare to hear people asking to pay more taxes. But earlier this month, more than 250 of the self-proclaimed super-rich signed an open letter calling on world leaders to tax them more. Plus, a liquor store has opened in Saudia Arabia for the first time in 70 years. 

Russian state media says that a military plane crashed near Russia's border with Ukraine, killing everyone on board. The Russian Defense Ministry says those killed included 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war who were on board. Also, South Africa is bringing a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, accusing Israel of carrying out genocide in Gaza. Germany announced it would intervene in support of Israel. And in Kenya, a sport called padel, which is a mix between tennis and squash, is all the rage. New courts are being built all over Nairobi.   

The Biden administration wants Israelis and Palestinians to get serious about restarting a plan for a two-state solution. The European Union and Arab leaders agree, along many across the international community. But Israel is digging in its heels. And, soon after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin established a group of allied countries to support the besieged nation. Now, for the first time, the Pentagon is out of money for Ukraine. Also, global cocaine production is at historic highs, and cartels are developing new trade routes to get it to market. We hear why much of the rise in cocaine use in Latin America is in Brazil. Plus, the journey of one Venezuelan man to a Colorado town. 

This past weekend, tens of thousands of people took to the streets in cities across Germany to protest the far-right Alternative for Germany party, the AFD. Protests erupted after journalists revealed that members met with neo-Nazis to discuss mass deportations, including of citizens. And,  two incidents of racial abuse interrupted play in Europe over the weekend. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for “an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism," but critics are skeptical. Also, Bologna has become the first major city in Italy to introduce a speed limit for traffic of19 miles per hour in the city. Several other European cities have also lowered their speed limits to curb fatalities, but the restrictions have gotten a lot of backlash. Plus, Haiti's jazz festival flourishes despite security challenges. 

Climate change continues to adversely affect the infectious disease situation across the globe. Countries like Zambia, Bangladesh and Sudan are seeing a rise in infectious disease cases as they battle climate change. Cholera and dengue fever are two examples of such diseases. And, on Friday, the South African government said it would continue its attempt to stop the sale of items that once belonged to Nelson Mandela. While his daughter says sales will fund a memorial garden in her father's honor, the government wants to keep the items in South Africa as pieces of national heritage. Also, in1972, 11 members of Israel's Olympic delegation were killed at the Munich Games. What happened there continues to worry Israeli athletes as an Israeli delegation heads to Qatar for the World Aquatics Championships next month. Plus, did the song "We are the World" make the world better?

The US carried out new attacks against the Houthis in Yemen, its fourth in the past few days. The Houthis are supported by Iran, which has also supported various militia groups across the Middle East. We hear from US Deputy Special Envoy for Iran Abram Paley. And, ever since the military threw out Myanmar's democratically elected government in 2021, armed resistance groups have been battling to oust them. In the past few months, small armies of ethnic groups have taken over towns along the Indian and Chinese borders. Also, on Thursday, Pakistan's military carried out attacks inside of Iran, targetting militants. It follows Iran's strikes on militants in Pakistan. Both attacks occurred in Balochistan, an ethnic region shared by the two countries. Plus, the fallout from Britain's post office scandal continues.

China's birthrate has declined for a second year in a row. We hear about the impact of changing attitudes among young Chinese women on the birthrate. And, independence-minded Catalan parties in Spain's ruling coalition have come out swinging in 2024. They're demanding control of borders and immigration for their northeast region, and want to set a date for a controversial second referendum to form their own country. Also, health care professionals are struggling to treat a staggering number of patients in Gaza. Surgeon Nick Maynard recently returned to the UK after leading an emergency medical team there. Plus, women bird guides in Uganda set a global example. 

Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched ballistic missiles at what it called Israeli “spy headquarters” in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region Monday night. Experts say it's another sign that the Israel-Hamas conflict is expanding. And, the Israel Defense Forces have told the families of two hostages held by Hamas that they are gravely concerned about them. That's after Hamas showed a video in which two hostages appeared to be dead. Israelis are getting impatient with the slow progress by their government in negotiating another prisoner exchange. Also, the market is huge for NIL deals allowing student athletes to monetize their names. But international student athletes have been left out of the lucrative deals due to visa laws. Plus, pig poop pollution in Spain.Today we launch a new format to our show! Carolyn Beeler will begin co-hosting The World along with longtime host Marco Werman at the helm and host Carol Hills — produced by Boston-based GBH and PRX.

Volcanic eruptions are not unusual in Iceland, but they rarely require residents to evacuate their homes. One resident from the village of Grindavik talks about what it’s like to watch lava engulf her town and set homes ablaze. Also, like many cities in the US, Dakar, Senegal, has a street named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Most residents there don't know the street name, but they do know about the man behind it. And, the art of hacking has become stealthier and smarter over the years. Chinese hackers are particularly capable of hiding their code used to infiltrate systems around the world. The "Click Here" podcast reports on how they're able to do this. Plus, Sunday marked 100 days of fighting in Gaza between Israel and Hamas since Oct. 7. The war continues unabated with little pressure on either side to end the fighting. We discuss the likelihood of a ceasefire and what the next period will bring in Gaza.Don’t forget to join us tomorrow for a new format to our show! Carolyn Beeler will begin co-hosting The World along with longtime host Marco Werman at the helm and host Carol Hills — produced by Boston-based GBH and PRX.

The night skies flared orange on Thursday night in Yemen as the US and UK made airstrikes on Houthi targets in the country. US President Joe Biden said it was in response to Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. And, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy wrapped up a trip to three Baltic nations. Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia have all provided an outsized portion of their gross domestic product in money and weapons for Ukraine. Also, Sheikh Imam and Ahmed Negm wrote stinging rebukes of Egypt's autocrats in the 1960s and 1970s. Decades later, their music was sung to topple Egypt’s autocratic leaders in 2011. Plus, an ancient city is discovered in the rainforests of Ecuador.We are excited to announce that The World’s Carolyn Beeler will be co-hosting our daily show along with Marco Werman beginning Jan. 16. 🎙️Be sure to tune in!

Ecuador’s president has declared his country is in “a state of war” with drug gangs and has given the military extraordinary powers to combat drug traffickers. The move comes after armed men invaded a TV station’s live afternoon newscast and a powerful drug gang leader escaped from prison. And, Ellie Highwood crocheted a "global warming blanket" as a baby gift for climate scientist parents back in 2017. The design has made quite an impact on the climate change activism movement. Also, attacks between US and Iraqi militias backed by Iran have been escalating. Iraqi politicians are becoming more vocal in their demand to kick the US out of the country, but some quietly want the US to stay. Plus, the family size is shrinking. We are excited to announce that The World’s Carolyn Beeler will be co-hosting our daily show along with Marco Werman beginning Jan. 16. 🎙️Be sure to tune in!

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to the Israeli-occupied West Bank today, to meet with the leader of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas. He's trying to end the Israel-Hamas war and talk about a post-war Gaza. And, the low-lying Chattogram district in Bangladesh is prone to rising sea-levels, extreme flooding and cyclones. Advocates say authorities must do a better job of helping people with disabilities navigate climate emergencies. Also, Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched their largest-yet drone and missile attack in the Red Sea on Tuesday. Retired US Admiral James Stavridis said the US should consider retaliation, including a land strike on Houthi infrastructure. Plus, Norway approves exploration for deep-sea mining.We are excited to announce that The World’s Carolyn Beeler will be co-hosting our daily show along with Marco Werman beginning Jan. 16. 🎙️Be sure to tune in!

The year 2023 is officially the warmest year on record, by an alarming margin, according to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service. Earth was 1.48 degrees Celsius hotter last year compared to pre-industrial levels — dangerously close to the 1.5-degree threshold flagged in the Paris climate deal. And, the war in Ukraine is close to entering its third year. Yaroslav Trofimov, a war correspondent with The Wall Street Journal, has written a new book, "Our Enemies Will Vanish: The Russian Invasion and Ukraine's War of Independence." Also, hearings begin on Thursday at the International Court of Justice at The Hague, where South Africa is accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians in its Gaza offensive. Israel has rejected the case as "baseless," but unlike in previous cases at international tribunals, it plans to vigorously defend itself in front of the court. Plus, an immigrant family discovers America in a station wagon.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s five-day Middle East mission is raising questions about the limits of US leverage in the region and how Washington’s agenda is diverging from Israel’s goals. And, since Dec. 20, Nicaraguan police and paramilitary units have detained more than a dozen priests and bishops, as the left-wing authoritarian regime of Daniel Ortega escalates a campaign against the Catholic Church. Also, Hezbollah emerged during Lebanon's civil war with the intention of ending Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon. With Iran's backing, it has become the strongest military force in Lebanon, and one of the strongest militias in the region. Four decades after its founding, some say that it is a state within a state. Plus, Inuit in Denmark embrace their heritage with tattoos.

As US and European officials press Israeli and Palestinian leaders for what's next, many in the West Bank aren't looking to the future at all. Even while they've long derided the current old guard, young Palestinians say there's no future to be had as long as the killing in Gaza goes on. And, in a series of raids in eight Turkish provinces, police detained more than 30 people that Turkey has accused of working for Mossad, Israeli intelligence. Officials claim the suspects were planning to kidnap Palestinians living in Turkey. Also, it's been a turbulent few weeks for Poland's TV and radio channels. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has been following through on his promise to overhaul public media in Poland, and the shake-up is under scrutiny from the right and the left. Plus, this punk musician turns to ranchera. Our hearts are full. Thank you to everyone who stepped up to support The World during our fall fundraising drive. We heard from 688 donors and raised more than $67,000. From all of us at The World — thank you! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

Many suspected that Israel was behind the attack that killed at least 84 people in southern Iran on Wednesday. But today, ISIS said two of its members detonated the powerful bombs that came on the death anniversary of Iranian commander Qassem Suleimani, who fiercely opposed ISIS. And, pandemic closures made visa processing delays much longer than usual. Now consulates are staffed up again, but substantial delays remain because of large numbers of visa applicants. Also, North Korea has shuttered its diplomatic missions in Hong Kong, Spain, Bangladesh and six other places in recent months, with experts watching for more closures in 2024. Pyongyang vaguely explains this as a reaction to “changing global environments," but signs indicate a dialing back of old-school revenue sources. Plus, this Libyan pop star wants to go global. ____Our hearts are full. Thank you to everyone who stepped up to support The World during our fall fundraising drive. We heard from 688 donors and raised more than $67,000. From all of us at The World — thank you! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

A massive explosion occurred at a commemoration ceremony for slain Iranian military leader, Gen. Qassem Soleimani in Kerman, Iran. The blast killed more than 100 people and injured over 140 others. Soleimani, a highly regarded and feared Iranian commander, was killed in an attack by the US in 2020. And, Lebanon is reacting to the killing of a top Hamas official, Saleh al-Arouri, in its capital on Tuesday. The strike targeted Hamas offices in Beirut as senior members gathered for a meeting. Also, drivers usually didn't have to wait long to cross the border from San Diego to Tijuana. But growth in border towns now means rush hours in both directions. Plus, a teenaged darts phenom reaches the finals.Our hearts are full. Thank you to everyone who stepped up to support The World during our fall fundraising drive. We heard from 688 donors and raised more than $67,000. From all of us at The World — thank you! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

In an 8 to 7 vote, Israel's highest court on Monday ruled against a law that would limit its powers. Prime Minister Netanyahu's right-wing government had passed the reforms in parliament in an effort to overhaul the country's judicial system. The move was met with months of regular streets protests. And, we remember Peter Magubane, who shot photos in Soweto and across South Africa during apartheid and its unraveling. He eventually became Nelson Mandela's official photographer. Also, Kyiv was again targeted Tuesday morning by Russian missiles. We hear about the civilian toll and Ukraine's response. Plus, a Palestinian American uses music to connect to family.Our hearts are full. Thank you to everyone who stepped up to support The World during our fall fundraising drive. We heard from 688 donors and raised more than $67,000. From all of us at The World — thank you! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

Hip-hop turned 50 this summer. Its influence has been felt in all corners of the globe. The World traveled the landscape and kicked off its Planet Hip Hop series with H. Samy Alim, professor of anthropology and director of the Hip Hop Initiative at UCLA. We also looked at how young Egyptians have used music to push back against the authorities trying to suppress it. And in India, we examined artists using hip-hop to stand up to one of the world's oldest forms of discrimination: caste. Plus in Myanmar, rappers have been considered the artistic arm of a revolution to bring down the ruling military junta through armed rebellion.Show us you’re with The World and make a gift today! Your support ensures we can continue bringing you the empathetic and human-centered journalism you expect. Hurry to make your gift before our fundraiser ends Dec 31. https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

An official count by Ukraine shows that Russia fired 122 missiles targeting civilian areas and cities across the country in the largest attack since the beginning of the war. Also, Patrice Lumumba was a major figure of post-colonial Africa, becoming the first prime minister of Democratic Republic of Congo when it gained independence from Belgium in 1960 — but he died less than a year later. A new book examines CIA involvement in Lumumba's execution. And, in a normal year, tourists and pilgrims would pack hotels in Jerusalem. But this year, many of the hotels are full of Israelis who have escaped violence in communities near the Gaza Strip and Lebanon borders. Plus, entomologist Samuel Ramsey, one of the leading experts on bees and the parasites that threaten their colonies worldwide, talks about developments in bee research over the past year.Show us you’re with The World and make a gift today! Your support ensures we can continue bringing you the empathetic and human-centered journalism you expect. Hurry to make your gift before our fundraiser ends Dec 31. https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

The Biden administration has announced that it’s sending another military aid package to Ukraine worth $250 million. In Kyiv, Ukrainian officials are looking ahead to the new year and making plans for what the war effort may look like in 2024. Also, as the death toll reaches 21,000, many people in Gaza have left all kinds of final messages – both publicly, and to loved ones — to tell them what they would want to be known for in the event of their death. And, Spain's recent amnesty deal for Catalan separatists has led to political upheaval, with conservatives taking to the streets by the tens of thousands. But the protests ignore the country's long history of amnesty measures and pardons. Plus, Mexico says it wants to see progress in US relations with Cuba and Venezuela.Show us you’re with The World and make a gift today! Your support ensures we can continue bringing you the empathetic and human-centered journalism you expect. Hurry to make your gift before our fundraiser ends Dec 31. https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

Christians make up about 1,000 of the roughly 2 million people in Gaza, but they have deep connections to the land. So far, 2% of the Christian population has been killed during the current Israel-Hamas war, and members of the community worry this could be the end of the Christian presence in Gaza. Also, an English Premier League game was officiated by a Black referee this week for the first time in 15 years and only the second time in the league's history. Plus, during the 20-year US-led war in Afghanistan, there were a number of Afghan female soldiers who fought alongside American troops, with many of them being able to flee after US troops left the country in 2021. And, if you missed it the first time, a conversation with New York Times food writer Yewande Komolafe about her book, "My Everyday Lagos: Nigerian Cooking at Home and in the Diaspora."Show us you’re with The World and make a gift today! Your support ensures we can continue bringing you the empathetic and human-centered journalism you expect. Hurry to make your gift before our fundraiser ends Dec 31. https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

Israel is suspected of being behind the assassination of an Iranian revolutionary guard general in Syria over the weekend. The US also attacked pro-Iran groups in Iraq following an attack on US positions by these same groups. We take a look at Israel's hints at its willingness to regionalize the war between itself and Hamas. Also, after missing for three weeks, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has resurfaced in an Arctic penal colony in Siberia. And, the same wall preventing people from migrating across the US-Mexico border is also impacting wildlife. Plus, musician Zach Condon leads the band, Beirut, but his latest album is a solo project, recorded at an isolated cabin in Hadsel, Norway, near the Arctic Circle.Show us you’re with The World and make a gift today! Your support ensures we can continue bringing you the empathetic and human-centered journalism you expect. Hurry to make your gift before our fundraiser ends Dec 31. https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

Today, we're bringing you a special Christmas edition, with stories from ordinary people about extraordinary experiences. Like one Muslim father's creative Christmas stories, with a Persian touch. Hear personal tales from people all over the world in these pieces from Stories From The Stage on The World.Time is running out to support The World before our fundraising drive ends on Dec. 31. We need your help to make our goal. Donate today to power The World for another year! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

The UN Security Council adopted a resolution today calling for more aid to be distributed to residents in Gaza. The US abstained from the vote, after a week of wrangling during which the US Ambassador to the UN crafted language to ensure that the US wouldn't veto the resolution. And, US President Joe Biden spoke on the phone with his Mexican counterpart, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, to discuss the number of migrants at the border. More than 10,000 people have been crossing into the US every day this week. Also, after an outstanding victory this past summer, Bernardo Arévalo is scheduled to be sworn in as the President of Guatemala on Jan. 14. But the country's ruling class is preventing him from taking office. Plus, a look at the writer who published a satirical magazine while hiding in a Dutch home during WWII.Time is running out to support The World before our fundraising drive ends on Dec. 31. We need your help to make our goal. Donate today to power The World for another year! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

The Egyptian government is working to broker a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Also, young people in Britain have been drifting away from organized religion. But one group that's not part of that trend is Muslims. In Part 4 of our weeklong series about youth and faith in the United Kingdom, we'll visit one part of east London where young Muslims make up a huge portion of the community. Plus, Thailand just changed the legal definition of marriage, which will allow same-sex couples there to officially tie the knot. This change has been many years in the making. And, a federal judge in Australia just slapped Airbnb with a $20 million fine for tricking customers into paying higher prices. 

The Sudanese state of Al-Jazirah has fallen to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in a matter of days. Some experts are concerned that a destabilizing military force like the RSF might overrun the whole country, with potentially huge effects on regional security. Also, a new documentary highlights the role Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has played from the Oslo Accords all the way up to today's war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. And, after years of debate, the EU has reached an agreement on reforms designed to share the cost of hosting migrants and refugees, and limit the numbers of people coming in to the bloc. Separately, the French Parliament passed a strict immigration reform law. Plus, election candidates in Taiwan are converging on temples to demonstrate their piety to the public.Time is running out to support The World before our fundraising drive ends on Dec. 31. We need your help to make our goal. Donate today to power The World for another year! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

In Hong Kong, a high-profile trial will decide the fate of Jimmy Lai. The media mogul is on trial for charges of colluding with foreign forces to endanger Chinese national security, and conspiring with others to put out seditious publications. And, on Monday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a law that allows Texas police to arrest migrants suspected of entering the state illegally. The law, known as SB-4, takes effect in March. Also, there's been renewed efforts at establishing a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. A number of countries are working with the two sides to find common ground toward a potential ceasefire and release of hostages. Plus, penguin rescue in South Africa. Time is running out to support The World before our fundraising drive ends on Dec. 31. We need your help to make our goal. Donate today to power The World for another year! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O

After three hostages were killed by the Israeli army last week, the families of those still in captivity are putting more pressure on the Netanyahu government to get them released. Palestinians say the killings highlight that the Israeli army doesn't follow its own stated rules of engagement. Also, US Steel, once the largest steel company in the world, announced that it's being sold to the Japanese firm Nippon Steel for just over $14 billion. And, the Church of England is adopting a new strategy of evangelicalism to reverse the trends of low church attendance and a growing number of youth saying they don’t identify with any particular religion. Plus, Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, who was imprisoned in Russia on a 19-year sentence, could not be reached for court hearings recently. His lawyers have not heard from him since Dec. 6.___Time is running out to support The World before our fundraising drive ends on Dec. 31. We need your help to make our goal. Donate today to power The World for another year! https://on.prx.org/3S9gY0O 

It’s been a bittersweet 24 hours for Ukraine. First, the unexpected news that EU leaders have agreed to start talks to allow Ukraine join the bloc. But hours later came the blow: A funding package for Ukraine worth more than $55 billion had been vetoed by Hungary. And, ever since the brutal attack by Hamas in Israel, the group has been charged with committing acts of sexual violence. But it was just last week, two months after the event, that the UN's Special Representative on Sexual Violence expressed "grave concern" over these reports. Also, a rusting oil tanker with a million barrels of oil was in danger of breaking up when a rescue mission was launched this year by the UN. Veteran diplomat David Gressly is credited with averting a humanitarian and environmental catastrophe in the Red Sea by brokering a deal to replace the endangered vessel. Plus, the sounds of late Malian guitarist Zani Diabaté live on.___We are able to bring you human-centered journalism because listeners like you financially support our independent newsroom. Will you make a donation today to keep The World going strong? Give now.

Concerns remain in Egypt around the Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip. The crossing has been the main point of entry for aid into the beseiged region as the war between Hamas and Israel continues. And, in Moscow on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted a marathon four-hour, end-of-year press conference, featuring questions from journalists and Russian citizens from across the country. What was on his agenda? Also, the Gingerbread City is an annual holiday season display of edible urban designs in London, and for the first time, in New York. Architects in both cities use gingerbread, gumdrops and icing to try out ideas for building sustainable cities. Plus, a debut concert in Rwanda to attract touring musicians in Africa.We are able to bring you human-centered journalism because listeners like you financially support our independent newsroom. Will you make a donation today to keep The World going strong? Give now.

For the first time ever, negotiators at this year's UN climate summit have addressed the leading cause of climate change — fossil fuels. They have reached a historicl deal to transition away from them, but many countries are criticizing the agreement's loopholes and walking away unhappy. And, while most of the 2024 Paris Olympics will take place inside of Paris city limits, the surfing competition will happen nearly 10,000 miles away in Tahiti. Games organizers are planning to build a $5 million aluminum judging tower in the lagoon. Also, the "Click Here" podcast reports that Ukrainian officials are working with the International Criminal Court to collect the data and file cases so those who commit war crimes don't go free. Plus, the original surf sound.We are able to bring you human-centered journalism because listeners like you financially support our independent newsroom. Will you make a donation today to keep The World going strong? Give now.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is back in Washington on Tuesday, making a plea for continued US military aid. Also, Poland is making a political U-turn away from the right-wing government that's been in charge for the last eight years. We'll hear more about Donald Tusk, the new Polish prime minister. And, what the world searched for on Wikipedia and Google over the past year. It turns out, people from different parts of the globe have very different interests. Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match? 

In Jordan, there are signs of growing sympathy for Hamas as the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza continues. In the Palestinian city of Bethlehem, Christian leaders have decided to tone down Christmas celebrations. Also, the European Union is taking steps to regulate AI technology. And at the International Space Station, new evidence proves that astronaut Frank Rubio did not — after all — eat the first space tomato. Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match? 

Russian American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva was arrested by Russian authorities about a month ago. We'll hear about the conditions she's dealing with in detention. Also, the new right-wing government in New Zealand wants to pull back on the use of the Maori language. A lot of New Zealanders are not happy about this, and they've been taking to the streets in protest. And, the painkiller drug Nolotil is banned in the US, UK and Ireland, but still being prescribed in Spain. The drug has been linked with the deaths of several dozen British and Irish people.Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match? 

As global leaders meet at the UN climate conference this week in Dubai, El Hierro, a tiny island in the Canaries, is halfway to the UN goal of ditching fossil fuels. But finding just the right renewable energy mix is proving tough. And, inside Hamas, the Shura Council is the main consultative body that chooses a leader in their politburo. We learn about Hamas leadership and how their command structure operates. Also, a recent hack of the genetic testing company 23andMe has left millions of people around the world with their personal data available online. Plus, a missionary's ill-fated mission. Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match?

This week, the US announced it was imposing visa travel restrictions on Israeli settlers involved in violence in the occupied West Bank. It's considered a rare punishment of Israelis by the US but comes as settler violence is on the rise. And, most of the Thai farm workers abducted by Hamas have returned home, with nine remaining in captivity. The 23 freed workers are now filtering back to their towns and villages in Thailand's rural upcountry. Also, in Washington, Congress is at a standstill over funding for Ukraine. The Biden administration has been pushing to pass a supplemental funding bill that would include roughly $60 billion in aid for Ukraine. But Republicans have signaled that they will block the funding. Plus, a Spanish theater is fined for barring snacks from outside.Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match?

A former career American diplomat has been charged with serving as a secret agent for communist Cuba. Manuel Rocha is accused of being a Cuban mole inside the US government for decades. And, negotiators at the UN climate summit in Dubai are grappling with whether to call for a phase-out of fossil fuels. Australia, a major fossil fuel producer, is under a lot of pressure from Pacific countries and Western allies to join this pledge. Also, Israel and Hamas continue to battle in the Gaza Strip as the death toll from fighting climbs higher. The focus is now centered around the town of Khan Younis, where civilians have been told to evacuate by the Israel Defense Forces. Plus, the sound of Danish dystopian punk.___Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match?

With fighting resuming between Israel and Hamas, disease is spreading among the Gaza civilian population. Potable water is harder to find and southern Gaza is more cramped as people flee airstrikes by Israel's military. And, three commercial ships were hit by missiles launched by the Houthis in Yemen on Sunday. A US Navy destroyer, the USS Carney, came to their defense and shot down three Houthi-operated drones. Also, Russian customs data show that parts that could be used in military hardware are coming into the country through Turkey. The country did not impose sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, but it pledged to not help Russia circumvent them. Plus, a new Bjork song pays homage to her native Iceland's wild fish.Our listener-funded newsroom can’t run without your support. Will you give today to keep our newsroom running strong and help us earn a $67,000 match? 

After a seven-day pause in fighting, during which Hamas and Israel exchanged hostages and prisoners, any chance of extending it has collapsed. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been leaning on Israel to reduce the civilian carnage in their bombing campaign. And, climate change poses an existential threat to Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific. By the end of the century, scientists say it could sink under the rising seas. Also, the US National Park Service announced this week that they plan to remove roughly 200 cats from the Paseo del Morro National Recreational Trail at the San Juan National Historic Site in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Park Service says the cats are an invasive species and could transmit disease. Plus, penguins take thousands of naps every day.We can’t thank you enough for listening to and supporting The World! If you donate $100 during our fall drive, you will receive a special playlist curated for you by our team at The World. Learn more and give today.

A US federal indictment alleges that a Sikh activist named Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was the target of a murder-for-hire. The US government says that Nikhil Gupta was the facilitator working with an Indian official who remains unnamed. And, day by day, more Israeli hostages are being released by Hamas. We hear about Israeli public opinion as Israeli hostages are being released from Hamas captivity in Gaza. Also, Henry Kissinger oversaw some of the most consequential foreign policy decisions of the 20th century. Both revered and vilified, he leaves behind a complicated legacy. Plus, a planetary dance around a nearby star. 

Israel's military and political leaders say they still plan to eliminate Hamas in the Gaza Strip after the current pause in fighting ends. Hamas — a militant group and political party— has been able to defend its presence in Gaza despite the nearly two-monthslong war with Israel. And, for more than four decades, UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon have tried to keep the peace between Israel and Lebanon. Tensions are flaring yet again on the Blue Line that divides the two countries. Also, despite a recent election in Poland, it is unclear exactly which party will rule the country's next government. But humanitarians are concerned that Poland's rough, and possibly illegal, treatment of refugees will stay the same, with little change to the border wall built to prevent more people from coming in through Belarus. Plus, Ed Sheeran has fans around the world.-----We can’t thank you enough for listening to and supporting The World! If you donate $100 during our fall drive, you will receive a special playlist curated for you by our team at The World. Learn more and give today.

Israel and Hamas say the temporary truce in Gaza will continue for another two days in order to facilitate the release of more hostages and prisoners. Also, ahead of COP28, confidence in the global process for addressing climate change is flagging. This year, the president of the climate summit hosted by Dubai is also the head of a national oil company. And a new documentary called "Beyond Utopia" follows a secret operation to move North Korean defectors along a treacherous route, through China and into South Korea.

The ceasefire brokered between Israel and Hamas — that has been extended for another two days — has given Gaza a brief respite from the war. But the flow of aid into the enclave, including water, food and medical supplies, still remains tenuous. Also, South Africa has been one of the few countries to cut diplomatic ties with Israel. President Cyril Ramaphosa said the deaths and destruction in Gaza are tantamount to war crimes and many South African leaders believe Israel's control over the Palestinian territories resembles apartheid. And in the Netherlands, controversial far-right politician Geert Wilders and his party won the Dutch parliamentary election last week in a surprise victory. Plus, a conversation with the feminist activist collective Pussy Riot that's on tour in North America.We can’t thank you enough for listening to and supporting The World! If you donate $100 during our fall drive, you will receive a special playlist curated for you by our team at The World. Learn more and give today.

In this special episode focused on the “The Big Fix,” we hear about climate solutions from around the world. Akureyri, Iceland is on the verge of becoming the world’s first town to go carbon neutral. The town of 18,000 residents has some natural advantages, including abundant hydro and geo-thermal energy. And, the Russian invasion of Ukraine sent energy costs surging, European leaders scrambling for alternative suppliers of gas, and redirected flows of Russian oil toward Asia.  At the time, more than half of Germany’s gas came from Russia. The war pushed a German government that was behind on renewable energy goals to enact some ambitious new policies. Also, the average size of a small farm in India is less than three acres. That makes small farmers there highly susceptible to the changing weather patterns brought by climate change. Tune in for these stories and more from “The Big Fix."___Our reporting is independent, inclusive and in-depth. Best of all, it’s listener supported. Will you give today to support theThe World? 

On the podcast “Movement," Meklit Hadero interviews musicians with roots around the world about how their histories and personal lives get translated into song. For this special Thanksgiving Day broadcast of The World, we share stories from “Movement," related to family and "found family.”  ___Our reporting is independent, inclusive and in-depth. Best of all, it’s listener supported. Will you give today to support theThe World? 

After weeks of negotiations, Israel and Hamas have finally agreed on a temporary ceasefire in Gaza that would start on Thursday morning. What will follow is the release of dozens of people taken hostage by Hamas on Oct. 7. In exchange, Israel will set free a large number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. And, 41 construction workers building a 3-mile highway tunnel under the Himalayas have been trapped for more than a week. We hear about the tunnel collapse and the environmental concerns the construction accident has raised. Also, ahead of the upcoming COP28 climate summit in Dubai, the UN has issued its 2023 Emissions Gap Report — and it's pretty grim. Plus, a crisis at the Latvia-Belarus border. ___Our reporting is independent, inclusive, and in-depth. Best of all, it’s listener-supported. Will you give today to support The World?

As Israel and Hamas inch closer to a ceasefire deal, two peace activists with Standing Together have just returned to the Middle East after a weeklong tour of the US. We hear how the current crisis has upended efforts at Arab-Israeli grassroots collaboration. And, on Tuesday, Ukrainians are marking 10 years since the start of the Maidan revolution. As a result of the uprising, Ukraine’s pro-Russian president fled the country, but at the same time, Russia took advantage of the situation and invaded Ukraine. Also, Germany was once lauded as the European Union's most welcoming country when it came to receiving asylum-seekers and refugees. But that reputation is fast fading as politicians from parties on both the left and the right propose measures to cut back on new arrivals. Plus, the cultural history of eyeliner.____Our reporting is independent, inclusive and in-depth. Best of all, it’s listener supported. Will you give today to support theThe World? 

Over the weekend, officials from Qatar said progress had been made on a potential deal to release some of the nearly 240 hostages Hamas took captive from Israel on Oct. 7. The agreement would reportedly mean that Hamas would set free around 50 women and children and in return, Israel would agree to a temporary ceasefire of several days. And, since the start of the war in Gaza, communication blackouts have become common. Without phones, people can't call for an ambulance or let their families know they are alive. Also, Kenya’s Parliament approved the deployment of 1,000 police officers to Haiti, to lead a multinational force to help deal with the rise in gang violence. But the same day, the country’s High Court temporarily blocked the deployment amid a legal challenge from opposition politicians. Plus, remembering Rosalynn Carter. ____Our reporting is independent, inclusive and in-depth. Best of all, it’s listener supported. Will you give today to support theThe World?

Aid agencies say that deliveries of basic humanitarian goods into Gaza are practically nonexistent. The United Nations is warning that starvation is an immediate possibility. And, Israel has reportedly cut off the water that it supplied to Gaza via pipeline and has also severely limited the fuel needed to run desalination plants, leaving some 2 million people in the Gaza Strip with little to no water. Also, an estimated 1 million Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities remain imprisoned in China, four years after the country claimed to have closed a network of "reeducation camps" in the country's far western Xinjiang region. We hear from a survivor who served time in the system, and Uyghur activists who fear a thaw in US-China relations will mean their loved ones are forgotten. Plus, how do horses fly? Listener support ensures that the coverage we provide on air, online and through our podcast is free and accessible to everyone. Help us keep The World free! Give today.

After a historic meeting with President Biden outside San Francisco on Wednesday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said his country was ready to be a partner and friend of the US. We ask if the four-hour summit changed the fundamental dynamic of the superpowers. And, the Israeli air force dropped leaflets on the eastern part of Khan Yunis, the second largest city in the Gaza Strip, warning people to evacuate. Huge numbers of civilians emptied out of the north after similar warnings from the Israeli military. With nowhere to go, Gazan civilians are increasingly cornered in the ongoing war. Also, negotiators are working on a deal to release a large group of hostages taken by Hamas. Even if some or all are freed, it won't change how deeply Israelis have been affected by the events of Oct. 7. Plus, who is Neil the seal?Listener support ensures that the coverage we provide on air, online and through our podcast is free and accessible to everyone. Help us keep The World free! Give today. 

The British government's flagship immigration plan to send asylum-seekers to Rwanda suffered a major setback today. The UK’s Supreme Court ruled that the policy was unlawful and in breach of both British and international laws. And, Israelis are intensely focused on the fate of 230-plus people being held hostage in Gaza. We hear from peace activist Gershon Baskin, who helped negotiate the release of an Israeli soldier from Hamas captivity in 2011. Also, 50 churches, synagogues, mosques and temples in New York City will start housing nearly 1,000 migrant men. The new plan announced by Mayor Eric Adams means the city will pay these places to have beds, showers and dining areas, filling a desperate need to provide shelter as more migrants continue to arrive. Plus, a food writer celebrates the taste of her hometown in Nigeria. Listener support ensures that the coverage we provide on air, online and through our podcast is free and accessible to everyone. Help us keep The World free! Give today.

Fighting in Gaza has zeroed in more and more tightly on Gaza City, as the Israeli military relentlessly pushes against Hamas, cornering it. Israel has repeatedly alleged that Hamas is hiding its fighters beneath hospitals, a charge that the group denies. We hear how Israel plans to bring the fight to a close and what can be done about the large numbers of civilian casualties. And, Ireland is one of the most pro-Palestinian countries in Europe. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has repeatedly called for a humanitarian ceasefire. But in Northern Ireland, the picture is more complicated. Also, the violence in Sudan between the country's military and the Rapid Support Forces continues unabated. The RSF has now taken the majority of the Darfur region and, earlier this month, carried out mass killings. Plus, Napoleon's hat heads to auction this weekend in France.

Over the weekend, Israeli forces carried out attacks in Gaza, targeting the Al-Shifa hospital, one of the main health care centers in the Gaza Strip. Doctors describe a chaotic situation where they are being forced to either leave their patients or stay and face more attacks. Israel claims Hamas runs a command center underneath the hospital. And, the 3,600 residents of Grindavik, a town in southwest Iceland, left their homes Friday night as magma continues flowing beneath the surface of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Also, Taylor Swift fans in Argentina were seen carrying posters saying, "Swifties don't vote for Milei," the far-right libertarian candidate who has proposed radical changes if elected. Plus, Kenya plans to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.Listener support ensures that the coverage we provide on air, online and through our podcast is free and accessible to everyone. Help us keep The World free! Give today! 

The US power to influence Israel is under scrutiny as the war in Gaza rages on. We put hard questions to one of the State Department's top spokespeople. We look at calls for a ceasefire, the humanitarian crisis for Palestinians and the future of Gaza. Also, Coca-Cola figures prominently in a lawsuit in Southeast Asia where Cambodian farmers were displaced to make way for sugar plantations. And electronic beats with a Confucian influence — music from the South Korean duo Haepaary.Your support is absolutely critical in sustaining our nonprofit newsroom. Donate today to help us reach our goal of $67,000 before the end of the year. Every gift counts! 

Israel announced on Thursday that it would allow for a daily "humitarian pause" that would enable trapped residents of Gaza City to leave. Thousands continue to stream out of Gaza heading further south in the Gaza Strip. And, Palestinian journalist and former New York Times correspondent Taghreed El-Khodary is deeply worried about friends and relatives now dispersed throughout Gaza. From 2001 to 2009, Khodary was one of the few Western media voices on the ground in Gaza. Also, since October, more than 8,000 people, mainly Africans, have come to the shores on Spain's Canary Islands, off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean. The tiny island of El Hierro alone has received over 6,000 migrants. Plus, a "seismic swarm" closes a spa in Iceland.Your support is absolutely critical in sustaining our nonprofit newsroom. Donate today to help us reach our goal of $67,000 before the end of the year. Every gift counts! 

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, an estimated 5,000 Israeli families have fled to Cyprus, where they've been welcomed by an established Jewish community. Meanwhile, only hundreds of foreign passport holders and injured Palestinians have been permitted to leave the blockaded Gaza strip through its border with Egypt. And, US Surgeon-General Vivek Murthy has called loneliness a public health crisis. We hear about the health effects of loneliness and what initiatives around the globe seem to be helping people actually connect. Also, since the beginning of Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has been bombing unique Ukrainian cultural sites. Preservationists are using special techniques to preserve the country's heritage — on their phones. Plus, the panda diplomats' sad farewell. ***Your support is absolutely critical in sustaining our nonprofit newsroom. Donate today to help us reach our goal of $67,000 before the end of the year. Every gift counts! 

One month ago today, Hamas carried out a surprise attack in southern Israel. Oct. 7 ended up being the deadliest day in history for Jews since the Holocaust. And, since current war between Hamas and Israel started, Palestinian journalists in Gaza have been both reporters and victims. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 37 Palestinian journalists have been killed. Also, Russian American journalist Julia Ioffe has produced a new podcast about Vladimir Putin’s origin story, "About a Boy." We hear how Putin's hard-scrabble childhood — and the rough justice of the neighborhood playground — taught him lessons that shape his thinking and actions to this day. Plus, the king's speech is not written by the king.Your support is absolutely critical in sustaining our nonprofit newsroom. Donate today to help us reach our goal of $67,000 before the end of the year. Every gift counts!

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets this weekend, with many gathering in a wealthy section of Jerusalem outside the home of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We hear about how calls for Netanyahu’s resignation might impact the course of the war with Gaza. And, Spain’s socialists seem to be ready to form a coalition government after inconclusive elections in July. But to do so, they’ve had to promise to grant amnesty to fugitive Catalan separatists for their attempt to break away from Spain in 2017. Also, Boeing, the Portland International Airport, and some of the cheapest electricity in America all depend on harnessing the power of the Columbia River. That river is once again the focus of negotiations as Canada and the US work to revamp the treaty that governs how Canada manages the dams on its portion of it. Plus, a significant move for Australia's new LGBTQ museum.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken gave a speech in Israel, standing at the podium alone, reminding the world that the US believes a two-state solution is the only way out of a conflict whose devastation has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths. All this amid the threat that the war could expand to involve Hezbollah, potentially pull in Iran, and possibly even the US. And, the leader of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah spoke about the Israel-Gaza war on Friday for the first time since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Hassan Nasrallah's televised speech was long awaited by people throughout the region. Also, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has temporarily militarized security at some of the country's most-important ports and airports as he seeks to tame rising crime. Plus, climate comedy in translation.

Police in London report that antisemitic attacks increased by more than 1,350% in the first two weeks of October. The country's small but close-knit Jewish community is saying the British government isn't doing enough to protect them. And, some South American governments have protested Israel's actions in Gaza. A few have cut ties entirely or recalled their ambassadors in Tel Aviv. Also, the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has been the scene of intense hope, anxiety and frustration this week. Several hundred people have been allowed to get through the border, including aid workers. Plus, the Beatles get by with a little help from AI.

The Rafah crossing gates swung open for individuals today for the first time since the Israel-Gaza war began. Hundreds of foreign nationals and wounded civilians streamed through, but the majority of the estimated 400 US citizens in Gaza weren’t permitted to exit. And, the Palestinian Authority used to control Gaza but was largely squeezed out after Hamas took over. They still run the much-larger Palestinian territory, the West Bank, but do they have any power to speak or act on behalf of Palestinians in Gaza now? Also, top AI experts and representatives from major countries with ambitions in developing artificial intelligence are meeting at a country estate in England. Plus, the German president apologizes for colonial rule in Tanzania. ___We aim to raise $67,000 by Dec. 31 to power our newsroom. Will you help us reach this goal and unlock a matching gift? Donate today to double your impact and keep The World going strong!

On Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes on the Jabalia Refugee Camp in Gaza City killed at least 100 people. Israel says it's in Gaza to root out Hamas fighters from underground tunnels. We hear about the international laws of warfare in this conflict. And, South African runner Caster Semenya won her first Olympic gold medal in 2009. But claims that her naturally high levels of testosterone should disqualify her marred her career. Her new memoir, "The Race to Be Myself," comes out on Tuesday. Also, King Charles is in Kenya on a four-day official visit, where he is expected to acknowledge abuses perpetrated by British authorities during the colonial era. Plus, trick or treat, mate! Halloween is catching on down under. 

The offensive Israel launched in Gaza over the past few days is unfolding very differently than many expected, according to Shashank Yoshi, a defense editor at The Economist. Israel seems to have begun an incremental, gradual invasion that is likely to be sustained — and catastrophic — for the civilians who remain in northern Gaza. And, hundreds of angry men broke past barricades and entered the airport in Dagestan, a Muslim-majority republic in southern Russia. They were searching for Israelis and Jewish people arriving from Tel Aviv, but found none. Also, in Latvia, an organization called the Children’s Hospital Foundation has been hosting groups of Ukrainian children and their families for 10 days of fun, therapy and respite away from the war. Plus, Aga Khan Master Musicians offer zigzagging musical journeys on their new album.

The US military carried out airstrikes in Syria against Iranian proxy militias on Thursday night. The strikes targeted weapons and ammunition storage areas that were connected to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. And, civilians have mobilized for war across Israel. We hear from a 45-year-old Israeli tax attorney who got word two weeks ago that his reserve unit was being called up. Also, in recent weeks, there's been a significant increase in the number of charter flights operating between Haiti and Nicaragua, which are believed to be carrying Haitian migrants. Some experts say the Nicaraguan government is taking capitalizing on the situation. Plus, this Spanish musician emerges from a flamenco tradition with her latest album.

The war in Ukraine continues to rage as the world's attention lies elsewhere in the Middle East. Fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces has escalated significantly in and around the town of Avdiivka since Oct. 10. And, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to touch down in DC on Thursday. He wants the US to ease restrictions on technology exports to China and reduce support for Taiwan, while the US is seeking Chinese cooperation in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Also, many women saw no future for themselves in Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. So, when offered a chance to leave, many took it. For some, their temporary status in the US is a constant shadow. Plus, how this Cambodian American singer found her voice.

UN aid operations in Gaza are in jeopardy more than two weeks after Israel banned fuel shipments into the territory. The UN agency that provides aid to civilians says it must halt operations on Wednesday night if no new fuel is delivered. And, as the fighting intensifies in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas, the West Bank is simultaneously seeing an escalation of violence. Israel carried out an airstrike on Jenin in the northern West Bank, targeting what it said was militant activity around a mosque. Also, Jamaica's women's national soccer team exceeded expectations at the World Cup this past summer. Players hoped for more respect from their country's national soccer federation, but the team says they haven't seen any improvements. And, Richard Roundtree, actor who played "Shaft," dies at 81.

Israeli hostages released on Monday reported being transported through Gaza's underground tunnels. Experts say many of Israel's hostages could be located somewhere along Gaza's vast tunnel network. Hamas has a long history of using tunnels to move in and out of the Gaza Strip. And, Hezbollah emerged during Lebanon's civil war with the intention of ending Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon. With the backing of Iran, it has become the strongest military force in Lebanon, and one of the strongest militias in the region. Also, gunmen ambushed at least a dozen police officers and a local security supervisor on Monday in a coastal town near Acapulco, once a jewel of Mexico's tourism industry. Plus, Iceland strikes for women's equality.

Qatar played the delicate role of negotiator this weekend in the release of two US hostages held by Hamas. But an estimated 200 hostages remain in captivity. Now, many in the region are looking to the tiny, energy-rich Gulf state to reach out to Hamas and press for more releases. And, the first round of elections shows voters' reluctance in Argentina to easily hand the presidency to a far-right libertarian candidate who has promised drastic changes for the country. Also, Ukraine's fight against the Russians is being called the first-ever drone war, as it carries out reconnaissance missions and launches strikes using drones. But it's not Ukraine's military that is building the drones, but small-scale entrepreneurs. Plus, the world's oldest dog dies at the age of 31.

For nearly two weeks, food and medical supplies have not been allowed into Gaza, which is being bombed by Israel. Aid trucks are poised to cross over the Rafah border crossing in Egypt to Gaza to provide humanitarian aid to the millions of Palestinians trapped. And, Israel has confirmed more than 200 Israelis are currently being held hostage in Gaza. There is pressure on Israel's government to work to secure their release from Hamas following the Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. Also, Russian American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva has been detained in Russia. She works for the US-funded news service, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Russian officials are accusing her of "failing to register as a foreign agent." Plus, Sydney Opera House turns 50. 

The Biden administration has made commitments to both Ukraine and Israel to provide stepped up military support. We hear what the US is delivering to both governments, who determines which country gets which armaments and what the foreign policy implications are for a president who came into office promising to end US involvement in “forever wars.” And, misinformation and online hatred is playing a role in the war between Hamas and Israel. There's been an increasing number of fake images as well as hate speech directed at Muslims and Jews on social platforms like X, formerly known as Twitter. Also, in Greenland, a small autonomous vehicle is gathering data that's helping scientists figure out what happens when fresh water from icebergs melts into the ocean. Plus, a giant tortoise is looking for a forever home.

United States President Joe Biden touched down in Tel Aviv on Wednesday to find a nation awash in grief and anger. He pledged staunch support for the US ally and seemed to win a pledge from Israel to allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Yet, division and uncertainty within Israel complicates Biden’s visit. And, Argentines will elect a new president this weekend, with polls showing a lead for far-right libertarian candidate Javier Milei. The former Rolling Stones cover band singer turned economist, TV pundit and politician is proposing radical changes in Argentina. Also, microfinance was hailed as a way to change the lives of hundreds of millions of people without access to credit. But with banks involved, borrowers in Cambodia are now drowning in debt and being forced off their land. Plus, the Oxford English Dictionary was the first Wikipedia. 

Under continuous Israeli bombardment, Gaza is reeling from 3,000 dead and thousands injured. Badly hurt Gazans are rushing to hospitals that are running on scant fuel supplies. On Tuesday, a hospital was struck by a bomb, leading to hundreds of casualties and deepening the crisis. And, before Oct. 7, Israeli authorities played a key role in ensuring Gaza’s infrastructure functioned and residents had access to some food, water, power and medical supplies. Israel’s enforcement of a strict blockade has dire consequences for Gaza’s civilians. Also, in Ecuador, political outsider Daniel Noboa is faced with the Herculean task of reducing a terrifying, drug-driven crime problem within a shortened 18 months in office. Plus, a solar-powered vehicle completes an off-road test drive.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been shuttling back and forth to Arab capitals, hoping to win support for Israel’s massive offensive in Gaza. But key regional leaders, including Egypt’s Abdul Fattah al-Sisi and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aren’t on board with Israel’s plans. Also, millions of Palestinian refugees live in the countries that border Israel, including about 500,000 in Lebanon. We hear from Shatila refugee camp in Beirut, where Palestinians are closely watching what's happening in Gaza. And, over the weekend, Australians went to the polls to vote in a referendum to recognize First Nations people in the constitution through an advisory body called the "Voice to Parliament." It was crushed by wide margins. Plus, a cricket World Cup stunner.

Israel continues to bombard the Gaza Strip following Palestinian militant group Hamas' deadly attack on southern Israel. And, this Sunday, the Polish public will decide if the ruling party deserves a third term in office. Polls predict it will be a tightly fought contest between the ruling Law and Justice party and the main opposition coalition led by Donald Tusk. Also, Xbox maker Microsoft closed its $69 billion deal for Activision Blizzard on Friday, building up muscle in the video-gaming market with best-selling titles including "Call of Duty" to better compete with industry leader Sony. Plus, cricket fans gear up for the most-anticipated match of the World Cup.

Egypt is worried that the war between Hamas and Israel could spill over into its territory. The only border crossing between Gaza and Egypt came under Israeli attack this week, prompting Egyptian officials to close it. And, Israel's response to the deadly attack by Hamas over the weekend is already underway. But as hundreds of thousands of Israeli troops gather on the border of the Gaza Strip, they're facing a new challenge as more than a hundred Israeli hostages are being held inside Gaza by Hamas. And, Argentinians are headed to the polls on Oct. 22 while the country grapples with a triple-digit inflation rate. The front-runner candidate for president, Javier Milei, is a radical libertarian with a plan to dissolve Argentina's Central Bank and adopt the US dollar as legal tender. Plus, this Venezuelan opposition leader on upcoming elections.

As Israel wages war against Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and centrist opposition leader Benny Gantz formed a war cabinet after joining forces in an emergency unity government. Israeli troops are massing at the border with Gaza while Israeli air strikes continue. And grisly details are emerging about the killing of Israeli citizens in their homes in southern Israel by Hamas militants. Also, the US has decided that the power grab by the military in Niger is indeed a military coup d'etat. It's a definition with outsize implications for Niger. The US will now suspend hundreds of millions of dollars in assistance to Niger, including counterterrorism assistance. This comes at a time when various armed Islamic fundamentalist groups with ideological ties to ISIS roam unpoliced stretches of desert in the Sahel, attacking Nigerien troops and towns. Plus, Costa Rica courts evangelicals.

People in southern Israel are in crisis mode, still taking stock after an invasion by Hamas, and steeling themselves for violent days ahead. And, a Gaza resident and journalist describes a city of flattened neighborhoods, where doctors are treating patients on the floor following Israeli airstrikes. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has vowed full support for Israel. Also, residents of the western city of Herat in Afghanistan are grappling with the aftermath of a 6.3-magnitude earthquake. Plus, a symphony in New Zealand composed solely for chickens.

As Hamas militants carry out an unprecedented attack on Israel and fighting continues for a third day, we will bring you the latest from both sides of the conflict by The World's Durrie Bouscaren. Plus, we devote the rest of the show to Indigenous People's Day with a special that celebrates and explores the history and culture of native peoples around the globe.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee gave the peace prize to Narges Mohammadi, a long-time activist in Iran and a leading voice in the women-led freedom movement. And, a study in South Africa has found that humans cause more fear in wild mammals than the sound of lions. The study profoundly changes our understanding of fear in the wild. Also, Britain's policing minister caused a ruckus earlier this week when he urged shoppers to make a citizen's arrest if they observe someone stealing. Shop thefts have more than doubled in the past three years, costing retailers more than $1 billion a year. Plus, America’s National Football League heads to England.

On Wednesday, the Biden administration waived 26 laws to build a section of the border wall in southern Texas along the Rio Grande river pointing to "high illegal entry." It marks a major shift away from President Joe Biden's initial calls to halt the border wall from being completed. And, in recent weeks, there have been reports of Russia withdrawing much of its Black Sea fleet from their main base in Crimea after repeated attacks by Ukraine. It is being interpreted as a victory at sea for Ukraine in a war that's dragged on with little progress on land. Also, the 2023 Nobel Prize in literature goes to playwright and novelist Jon Fosse, of Norway, cited by the judges "for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable." Plus, Habibi Music Festival, from Marrakech to Baghdad.

Pakistan announced on Tuesday that all migrants who are in the country illegally must depart by the end of October. The order is seen as targeting the 1.7 million Afghans living in Pakistan. And, Barça, one of the most-victorious soccer teams over the last 20 years, now stands accused of paying millions of dollars to ensure it had referees favorable to the squad. Also, for the first time in more than a decade, European Union leaders will seriously discuss adding new members when they gather in Grenada, Spain, this Friday. We hear how the calculus for expansion has changed since Russia waged war on Ukraine. Plus, Jane Goodall's reasons to hold on to hope. 

The United Nations National Security Council has approved the dispatch of a multinational armed force led by Kenya to the beleaguered nation of Haiti, to help combat violent gangs. It's the first time in almost 20 years that a force would be deployed to the Caribbean nation. And, the rising number of undocumented immigrants has overwhelmed officials in many US cities. But business leaders in Topeka, Kansas, are reaching out to legal immigrants, paying a select few up to $15,000 to move to there. Also, as more private entities and governments launch into space, disposing of orbital debris has becoming a bigger problem. Left in the atmosphere, even small bits can damage satellites and spacecraft. Plus, growing demand for cocaine in Europe. 

Hungarian American Katalin Karikó and American Drew Weissman won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday for discoveries that helped create the mRNA vaccines to protect against COVID-19. Some five decades of public and private research laid the groundwork for the quick development of the lifesaving immunizations. And, US Congress passed a short-term spending bill over the weekend but didn't include funding Ukraine's war effort. Why are some lawmakers now questioning monetary and military support to Ukraine? Also, the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, took responsibility for a bombing outside the Turkish Ministry of the Interior early Sunday. Two people were injured. We hear about the fallout from the attacks. Plus, police in Europe make record busts as demand for cocaine continues to grow.

A suspected suicide bomb blast during a procession to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad has left more than 50 people dead and many more wounded in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. There's been growing instability in Pakistan caused by ISIS and the Pakistani Taliban. And, the Peace Corps started out as way for idealistic young people to do good and change the world. But with countries producing their own college graduates and even poor farmers connected by cellphones, is it still relevant? Also, Europe’s rewilding efforts are seeing spectacular successes in Spain, where wild horses run free and vultures are once again circling the remote canyons of one of Europe’s least populated areas. Plus, from village to village, a Kurdish musician records old folk songs to preserve a generation. 

The leader of the breakaway Armenian republic of Nagorno-Karabakh says the enclave will dissolve its state institutions on Jan. 1, 2024. Residents have been streaming out of the mountainous enclave since Azerbaijan seized control of it last week. And, China is home to the world's largest high-speed rail network. The country is now launching a new high-speed system that will cut across bodies of water and along the coast of Fujian province in the country's southeast. Also, the Women's Initiatives for Gender Justice was a strong voice in The Hague for victims of gender violence in places like northern Uganda, where rebel leader Joseph Kony terrorized the local population. Now, its former director, Brigid Inder, is being accused of funding him behind the scenes. Plus, how Sasami's zainichi Korean heritage informs her music.

On Wednesday, at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, six Portuguese people between the ages of 11 and 24 years old are presenting their case. They accuse the 32 members of the European Union of violating their human rights for what they say is a failure to adequately address climate change. And, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio returned to Earth from the international space station today. Rubio's return along with Russian cosmonauts comes at a time when US-Russia relations are in question. Also, "fast fashion" routinely borrows the designs of Southeast Asia's Indigenous weavers in the hill tribes of Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. Now some are calling it plagiarism. Plus, a modern take on an ancient Chinese folktale. 

On the 12th day of the United Autoworkers strike, President Joe Biden joined the picketers in Wayne County, Michigan. The UAW strike involves American autoworkers but Canada and Mexico play a critical role in the supply chain of the US auto industry. And, billionaire Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai has been languishing in prison for the past three years. He’s one of the most high-profile supporters of the island’s pro-democracy movement and a persistent thorn in China's side. Also, break dancing started in the US in the 1970s, but it has since spread across the globe. It's now set to make its Olympic debut in Paris next summer. Plus, Lego scraps its first attempt at a recycled plastic toy brick.

Ethnic Armenians have been fleeing Stepanakert, the capital of the Armenian enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is now under the control of Azerbaijan, the country that surrounds it on all sides. We look at how this latest crisis fits into a long history of division, displacement and war. Also, US Senator from New Jersey Bob Menendez is facing accusations of taking bribes in return for favorably treating the government of Egypt. Now, there are calls to reassess US aid for Egypt. Plus, new immigrants in many parts of the United States can have a hard time finding work if they don't have a driver's license. But it can also be difficult to pass a driving test in a new language. That's why the state of Maine is expanding its multilingual driving schools. And, a choir in Spain will start selecting a group of girls to join the boys at the altar, singing at Sunday masses.

Indigenous communities in Brazil are celebrating after the country’s supreme court rejected a legal policy that would have weakened their ability to claim land.  Also, a new book talks about the most powerful woman in North Korean history: Kim Yo-jong, the sister of Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un. And, major film sets across the UK have had to close down because of the actors’ and writers’ strikes in the US. Plus, a look at Lachlan Murdoch, son of the famed media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, who is set to take over his father’s media empire.

The Biden administration is expanding and extending its temporary protected status order for Venezuela, allowing Venezuelans to work. This includes nearly half a million Venezuelans currently in the US. And, Poland's prime minister has said that Ukraine will no longer receive weapons because Poland is upgrading to more modern weaponry. This announcement comes on the heels of a dispute over economic protection for Poland's farmers as the country has banned the import of Ukrainian grain. Also, Pope Francis recently set off a firestorm among Ukrainian Catholics when he praised Russia's great past and culture. Ukrainian Greek Catholics, for whom the pope is a spiritual leader, would like to hear his support for Ukraine in the war against Russia. Plus, this Freetown mayor focuses on climate resilience.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres only invited leaders with credible new climate pledges to speak at this year’s UN climate ambition summit. But the UN has limited power to cajole nations when it comes to climate. And, Armenian separatist forces in Azerbaijan's breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh surrendered on Wednesday, 24 hours after Azerbaijani forces began an offensive to take full control of its territory. Also, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden have been at odds over proposed judicial reforms in Israel, which Netanyahu backs. On Wednesday, the two leaders are expected to meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Plus, reparations for Japanese Canadians may be seen as too little, too late. 

At the UN General Assembly today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy again sounded the alarm over Russian aggression. And, family groups crossing the US border illegally reached an all-time high in August. This is a concern for Biden administration officials, as families have always been the hardest migrants to deport. Also, Canada and India are feuding right now over India's alleged potential involvement in a politically motivated killing of a Sikh Canadian activist. India has denied Canada's accusations thus far and the two countries have expelled each other's senior diplomats. Plus, a group of Tibetan Buddhist monks go on a sacred arts tour in the US.

A year and a half into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, its impact has been felt most acutely in lost lives, flattened cities and destroyed infrastructure. But the environmental damage from combat has also contaminated Ukraine’s soil, water and air. From Ukrainian farm fields polluted with mines to Norway's new role as the largest exporter of natural gas to Europe, The World's environment correspondent Carolyn Beeler reports on how the environment and climate impacts are likely to be one of the longest-lasting legacies of the war, persisting for decades after the fighting stops.

The Dominican Republic and Haiti are in a serious dispute over water rights. The Dominican government has moved to seal the border and stopped issuing visas to all Haitian citizens, until the dispute is resolved. And, the United Nations General Assembly kicks off next Tuesday, when both Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskiy and US President Joe Biden are expected to take the stage. Also, Sept. 16 will mark one year since the death of Mahsa Amini, who was in Iranian police custody for improperly wearing her headscarf. Her death sparked protests throughout Iran and the world against the Iranian government's repressive treatment of women. Plus, an American caver in Turkey speaks about his 11 days underground.

In the US, auto industry professionals all have their eyes on the emerging electric vehicle market — and the growing global dominance of China's auto industry in electric cars. And, the US State Department estimates that about 10,000 people from around the world are trapped in “scam mill compounds” in Cambodia. They are forced to work for criminal syndicates, luring unsuspecting targets into fraudulent crypto schemes. Also, flooding devastated the city of Derna in Libya. We hear voice messages from everyday people and aid workers about the extreme damage it has wreaked. Plus, threats to a wildly popular Mexican singer point to cartel wars.

A humanitarian crisis has unfolded in eastern Libya, after a major storm battered the region and destroyed two dams. About 10,000 people are missing and more than 5,000 are confirmed dead, after floods wiped away entire neighborhoods in the city of Derna. And, "The Listening Project," launched by The New Humanitarian, is inviting Yemenis from across the country and in the diaspora to talk about their own experiences of war and their daily lives. Also, later this month, Slovakia holds a parliamentary election that will have ramifications far beyond its borders. If the opinion polls are correct, it would mark the return of Robert Fico: a man who models himself on Viktor Orbán, Hungary's “alt-right” leader. Plus, China's tobacco problem.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un arrived in Russia by armored train on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin. The two are expected to hammer out an arms deal that could help Russia continue its war in Ukraine. And, the so-called Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is projected to double the country's electricity supply and promises agricultural expansion. This has worried Egypt for years, and now that the dam is full and complete, the region confronts a new reality. Also, fighting in Sudan between rival armed forces has now dragged on for 150 days. So far, multiple international efforts at mediation have failed to bring about a lasting ceasefire. Experts warn that a broader civil war could be on the horizon. Plus, Portugal's river of wine.

On Friday evening, a rare 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco in the heart of the Atlas Mountains. More than 2,000 people are reported dead, with many more injured. Aid workers say rough terrain is making rescue efforts difficult. And, last week, the US announced it was sending depleted uranium munitions to Ukraine's military in its fight against Russia's invasion. They are expected to be used against Russian tanks, which are susceptible to the weapon. Also, the bombing of Chile's presidential palace by the military on Sept. 11, 1973, marked the end of a socialist president and the beginning of 17 years of right-wing authoritarianism. We hear how the US played a role in undermining socialist policies and popular support. Plus, soul food in Mexico City, Mexico.

US President Joe Biden arrives in India as Delhi is gearing up to host the G20 summit this weekend. The group of 20 nations includes the United States, Russia and China among others. And, Canada’s temporary foreign worker programs are a “breeding ground” for modern forms of slavery, a United Nations expert has warned. Also, the UN on Friday released the most comprehensive analysis to date of global action on climate change. The report makes clear that radical changes are still needed to meet agreed-upon climate targets. Plus, this Puerto Rican rapper swims against the current.

For the first time in Mexico’s history, two women will face off for the presidency in next year's vote. Some see the candidates as a milestone. But others caution that Mexican women still face a misogynous culture and rising sexual violence. And, getting that acceptance letter from a US university is cause for celebration. But getting a student visa in time to attend the first day of class can be a bigger achievement, when wait times can last for months in some countries. Also, Pakistan continues to suffer the impacts of climate change in the form of floods and fires. The climate catastrophes have also brought about a major health crisis there. Plus, the massive hidden cost of invasive species.

The conviction and sentencing of former Proud Boys' leader Henry “Enrique” Tarrio for seditious conspiracy coincides with a rise in Proud Boys membership since the Jan. 6 riots at the US Capitol. Prosecutions of right-wing extremist leaders impacts membership in extremist organizations worldwide. And, Wednesday is “back to school” day for millions of children in Britain, but thousands of students were unable to return to their classrooms due to fears that some school buildings may be in danger of collapse. Also, European countries and the United States now ship recyclable plastic waste to countries like Turkey. But this rapidly growing industry often skirts regulations, leading to health and environmental risks for the surrounding community. Plus, sunsets in Ibiza always have a soundtrack.

Heads of state, experts and climate activists from around Africa and the world arrived in Kenya’s capital Nairobi this week for the inaugural Africa Climate Summit. Climate financing and sustainable development in Africa are at the top of this summit’s agenda. And, a huge auto show in Munich this week has put China's growing dominance in electric cars on display. About 41% of exhibitors at this year's event are headquartered in Asia. Also, we remember former New Mexico governor and UN ambassador Bill Richardson, who played a key role in winning the release of dozens of US citizens held abroad. Richardson died in his sleep on Friday, at age 75.  Plus, what's it like to be pregnant in Russia?

In this one-hour special, The World looks at transportation issues around the globe. Thor Pedersen, a former UN soldier originally from Denmark, went on a decadelong adventure that took him to every country in the world. The trick — he never took an airplane. And, NASA’s Artemis program aims to bring the first woman and first person of color to the moon in 2024, and it's the prelude to a much bigger ambition — sending humans to Mars. Also, lithium is in soaring global demand, because it's used in electric car batteries. This is good news for the economy of Chile, that meets a third of the world’s lithium needs. Plus, a Finnish driver gets a $120,000 speeding ticket.

Today is the first day of school across Ukraine. UNICEF just released a report on the devastating impacts of war on Ukrainian students' education, especially those near the frontlines. And, Cambodia is still recovering from the murderous reign of the Khmer Rouge when most academics were killed. Today, universities have been rebuilt but most people in the impoverished kingdom can't afford even the lowest tuition fees. Also, The World wraps a summer celebration of 50 years of hip-hop, from its birth in the South Bronx to its influence around the globe. Plus, a piano-tuner shortage in Australia. 

A fire at an apartment building in Johannesburg, South Africa, has left dozens dead and more victims are expected to be recovered during emergency search operations. The dilapidated building was home to hundreds of occupants, many homeless. And, ever since Spanish Soccer Federation President Luis Rubiales forced a kiss on star player Jenni Hermoso, people have been calling for Rubiales to resign. The situation has sparked a "mini-revolution" in Spain. Also, on Sept. 1, after a three-year pandemic hiatus, interest on student loans in the US will start accruing again, affecting more than 40 million borrowers. The US is an outlier when it comes to high tuition and debts. Plus, an ancient thundering dance floor in Peru.

After the Taliban takeover, the US finished pulling out its forces from Afghanistan two years ago. The withdrawal was violent and chaotic. What lessons were learned from it? And, beginning in 2026, US prices of expensive prescription drugs may be coming down as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. Also, in the early morning hours of Wednesday, military leaders in Gabon announced they seized power and put President Ali Bongo under house arrest. Bongo had just been declared the president in a flawed election. Plus, London's foxes: pest or survivor?

Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leaders of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, proposed a plan for the kind of democratic government he's undermined in the past. Meanwhile, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who leads Sudan's national military, is headed to Egypt and Saudi Arabia for talks. And, disturbing video published on Tuesday by The Guardian newspaper shows the dire conditions of people staying in one of Libya’s migrant detention centers. Also, at least seven people are dead in Haiti after a pastor leading a protest marched through a gang-controlled suburb of the capital. Human rights groups are blaming the pastor for taking protesters into such a dangerous situation and the police for not preventing it from happening. Plus, how do you weigh an ant? 

US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo is in Beijing on Monday for talks with her Chinese counterpart. The meeting comes as China continues to struggle with deflation and slowing growth. And, on Saturday, incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa was declared the winner of Zimbabwe's presidential election. Electoral observers and opposition leaders say the election had serious issues. Also, the Syrian government thought it had crushed the popular uprisings that began in 2011. But in the past week, two major cities in government-held areas in the south have seen mass demonstrations against the government. Plus, Crimean singer Jamala heads to US for her first major stateside tour.

Greece's wildfires continue to burn. In some cases, asylum-seekers are living in the forests for fear of being deported to Turkey and reversing any potential asylum claims. And, in Russia, Vladimir Putin has consolidated power and taken control of the entire political system. Yet, even as Russia continues to plunge deeper into authoritarianism, the country still hosts elections. Also, a year ago, nearly a third of Pakistan experienced catastrophic flooding that caused massive infrastructural damage. More than 1,500 people lost their lives. We hear how the rehabilitation process has progressed a year later. Plus, this silly hip-hop group challenges politics in Ecuador.

One day after a jet dropped out of the sky north of Moscow, reportedly killing Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his top commanders, rival private militias are jockeying to fill the vacuum. And, researchers from the British Antarctic Survey say it's likely no emperor penguin chicks survived in 4 out of 5 colonies in one Antarctica region. Loss of sea ice is to blame. Also, the number of children living with only one parent — usually the mother — is growing worldwide, according to the UN. In Latin America, a combination of patriarchal culture and weak laws allow for many fathers to skip out on their financial obligations and get away with it. Plus, a race across Europe using public transit ends in a sprint.

Yevegeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary army, is reported dead in a plane crash near the city of Tver, just north of Moscow. Earlier this summer, Prigozhin led an armed mutiny in an attempt to oust the military leadership within Russia’s Ministry of Defense. And, makeshift chairlifts that bring kids to school in remote, mountainous regions of Pakistan are a local solution to a common problem: the scarcity of roads and buses. Also, belching and farting from cows is responsible for a worrying amount of greenhouse gas emissions every year. Ireland is facing up to the fact that having so many cows may be detrimental to the country's climate goals. Plus, a controversy over Adolf Hitler's house. 

The Panama Canal uses a series of locks to raise the water level and carry ships across from one ocean to the other. But that requires lots of freshwater — and it's running low in Panama. And, On Wednesday, Zimbabweans will take to the polls to vote for their next president. Observers are saying this election is marred by violence and intimidation against the opposition and its supporters. Also, right now, in South Africa, the BRICS summit is in full swing. BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India China, South Africa, an economic bloc of countries billed as five major emerging economies collectively representing 40% of the world’s population. Plus, remembering Isabel Crook, an anthropologist who joined Mao Zedong’s rural revolution.

Eradicating the swirling gyre of plastic trash in the Pacific Ocean has been the longtime goal of Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit group. On Monday, in Victoria, British Colombia, the group took a big step forward, hauling 120,000 pounds of plastic out of the ocean using retrofitted fishing trawlers and specialized nets. And, Bernardo Arévalo upset Guatemala’s political establishment by clenching his country’s presidency this past weekend. But he faces a tough task ahead. Also, in Ecuador, a peaceful snap presidential election took place over the weekend amid an unprecedented security crisis that has left three politicians assassinated in less than a month. Plus, an artist's fake green card project inspires conversations about US citizenship.

Ecuadorians will take part in a snap election this weekend in a tense political atmosphere. The country is grappling with a recent wave of unprecedented violence that has seen three politicians assassinated in less than a month. And, a former Afghan diplomat, Abduljamil Bais, is resettling with his family in Canada. This follows a harrowing journey for Bais, his wife and three kids through South and Central America. Also, in Myanmar, rappers are considered the artistic arm of a revolution to bring down the ruling military through armed rebellion. "Rap Against Junta" is a collective of lyricists who work under pseudonyms and change locations frequently to avoid getting caught. Plus, a Cuban pianist longs for home.

The entire population of Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, was ordered to evacuate due to wildfire danger this week. A climate engineer says he's astonished by the speed of the fires approaching the city. Also, fighting that began in April between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has created a humanitarian crisis, forcing 4 million people from their homes. And, Ukrainian officials have expressed frustration with the treatment of Ukrainians in Israel. Now, Kyiv is reportedly considering canceling visa-free travel for Israelis. Plus, a look at popular ice cream flavors from 18th century Britain, including “brown bread,” and how it's been resurrected for visitors to try at 13 historical sites across England.

Two years after the 2021 Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, independent journalism there has been all but completely snuffed out. Some news outlets continue to report on Afghanistan, but from outside the country. We hear from one Afghan newspaper editor, now working out of Washington, DC. Plus, the South Korean thriller "Parasite" was the first non-English language film to win best picture in 2020. But there's another film from South Korea that's been on the radar of international movie buffs for two decades. Now, "Oldboy" is getting a remake. And in Colombia's capital city Bogota, a guerrilla campaign of vigilantes armed with spray paint cans are calling attention to crumbling urban infrastructure.

Tuesday marks the second anniversary of the Taliban takeover of the Afghan capital, Kabul. Since then, the group has transformed the country into a place where women have very few rights and many are struggling to make ends meet. And, in Ethiopia, an airstrike on a crowded town square in Amhara killed at least 26 people on Sunday. Amhara is a regional state where local militiamen and government forces have clashed recently over efforts to disband the militias. Also, a judge in Montana sided with young people who argued that the state had violated their right to a “healthful environment” by promoting fossil fuel use. We hear how climate change litigation is gaining momentum globally. Plus, this scholar examines Shakespeare through a racial equity lens.

In Australia, 1 in 25 properties will be effectively uninsurable by 2030, according to a recent report due to rising risks of extreme weather events. In the face of worsening wildfires, droughts, floods and cyclones, insurance companies are either pulling out of the highest risk areas or making premiums so high as to be unaffordable. And, activists take on drug gangs in the anti-establishment community of Christiana, in Copenhagen. Also, some young men in Niger’s capital Niamey, say they’re a "citizens’ watch group," patrolling the streets to ensure that outsiders do not drive into Niamey and try to turn back the military coup. We hear why some youth are in favor of the coup. Plus, this Nicaraguan exile makes a new home in the Colorado mountains.

The US and Iran have reached a deal that will see the release of Iranian American prisoners held in Iran in exchange for Tehran gaining access to its frozen assets. Also, authorities in Ecuador have arrested six Colombian suspects in connection to the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. We look at the possible role of organized crime in the shooting. And, to celebrate hip-hop turning 50, we look at women who are rocking the mic across the globe. Plus, the mystique around North Korea, the so-called “Hermit Kingdom,” has allowed officials to profit through restaurants across Southeast Asia, where customers can try the cuisine and watch North Korean waitresses sing and even dance. But now, many of them are closing down.

Fernando Villavicencio, 59, was on the rise as a presidential candidate in Ecuador. He fearlessly took on drug cartels and corruption. On Wednesday, he was shot and killed outside of a political rally in Ecuador's capital, Quito. And, Sixto Rodriguez, the Detroit-born singer-songwriter known under the moniker Rodriguez, has died. His 1970 debut album didn't attract much attention in the US, but it garnered a cult following in South Africa. Also, an accidental data breach is causing anxiety among Northern Ireland's police force. The breach is the second in a matter of weeks and includes the full names and locations of police officers. Plus, Hawaii's royal capital is devastated by wildfires.

Britain has begun moving asylum-seekers out of government-funded hotels and onto a large barge docked off the country's southwest coast. The move is part of a controversial plan by the Conservative government to crack down on the number of asylum-seekers arriving on small boats off UK shores. And, Brigadier Gen. Moussa Salaou Barmou was Washington’s point person in Niger, in charge of elite forces that US troops had been training to fight militants. Now, he’s the spokesperson for the military junta that ousted Niger’s democratically elected president. Also, while most of the globe's economies are grappling with the effects of inflation, China's economy is charting a different course  — suffering from deflation. Plus, how the siege of Sarajevo turned this musician from a pop-star to a punk rocker. 

Thailand's election three months ago resulted in a winner from the country’s most progressive political party ever. But the party’s leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, is blocked from becoming prime minister because Thailand's military-backed senate believes he’s unfit to rule. Also, since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July, its troops have been attacking Ukraine’s ports, destroying 220,000 metric tons of grain in the past week alone. But US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield says the grain deal could be brought back to life. And, more than 100 years ago, many Europeans, especially Italians and Spaniards, migrated to Argentina. Now, some of their descendants are returning to Europe, once again chasing economic stability. Plus, Tijuana's All-Star Little League team heads to the World Series.

Niger's military coup leaders failed to return government to civilian hands Sunday — a deadline set by the Economic Community of West African States. The 15-nation bloc has yet to respond with military action as it promised. And a rennovated naval facility built on Cambodian shores is poised to serve as China's second-ever foreign military base. But Chinese officials are downplaying the importance of the Ream Naval Base. Also, health officials in Australia announced this month that they've virtually eliminated HIV transmission in inner Sydney, which was once the epicenter of the disease in the country. Plus, Moroccan women advance in World Cup.

It's been six months since two massive earthquakes hit Turkey and Syria, killing more than 59,000 people and collapsing thousands of buildings. We hear what life is like for survivors as rebuilding continues. And, from "Stories from the Stage," Javed Rezayee tells the story of how he pits his meager cooking skills against those of his father, a talented professional chef. Also, a federal appeals court has ruled that the Biden administration can temporarily continue to enforce its strict immigration program while the Justice Department appeals a lower court ruling that blocked it. The controversial policy at the heart of the court battle largely restricts migrants who passed through another country from seeking asylum in the United States. Plus, how one man visited every country in the world without taking a flight.

Thousands of tourists evacuated off the Greek island of Rhodes last month are being offered a free holiday on the island next year by the country’s government. But a new report by the European Commission suggests that summer holidays on the Mediterranean coast may soon be in jeopardy if temperatures continue to soar. And, paleontologists in Peru have discovered the fossils belonging to the most massive, whale-like animal called Perucetus colossus. Also, in Colombia today, a six-month ceasefire begins with the rebel group, the National Liberation Army, or the ELN. The truce is controversial, because the ELN is known for attacks on civilians, its association with drug trafficking cartels, and its violent hold on the region around Colombia's border with Venezuela. Plus, Dominican musician Yasser Tejeda assures us "it'll all work out."

China’s capital has been battered by more than 29 inches of rain since Saturday. It’s the heaviest rainfall Beijing residents have seen in 140 years and has taken the lives of at least 20 people. And, top American officials have been visiting Saudi Arabia and Israel in recent weeks to discuss a possible normalization deal between the two sides. President Joe Biden said last week that a deal may be on the way, but both sides have put forward major demands. Also, a rising number of cases in Florida of Hansen's disease, commonly known as leprosy, highlights the increase in tropical disease infections found in the US. Plus, the evolution of hip-hop in South Korea. 

Nearly 1 1/2 years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the environmental damage from combat has contaminated Ukraine’s soil, water and air, at an estimated cost of $56 billion. This impact is likely to be one of the longest-lasting legacies of the war, persisting for decades after the fighting stops. And, on Tuesday in Canada, new regulations take effect that require health warning labels on individual cigarettes. Canada is the first country in the world to take this step. Also, Marta da Silva, who is known as Marta, is a legend of Brazilian and international soccer. She was the first player ever to score in five consecutive Olympics, and the most World Cup goals in world history. This World Cup, she says, is her last one. Plus, the changing landscape for Sweden's music industry.

International condemnation for last week's military coup in Niger continued to grow over the weekend. West African leaders have threatened economic sanctions, travel bans, and possible use of force if the president is not reinstated within a week. And, a series of drone attacks in Moscow on Sunday brought the war closer to Russian citizens. Although Ukraine has not taken responsibility, President Volodomyr Zelenskiy said afterward that attacks on Russian territory are an “inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process” in the war which has ravaged Ukraine for nearly 18 months. Also, the blast that killed dozens at a political rally in Pakistan this weekend exposed the deepening rivalries between the country’s powerful militant groups. Officials say ISIS is responsible for the explosion. Plus, a Brazilian masterpiece comes to the US.

President Joe Biden has given the green light for US cooperation with the International Criminal Court on its investigation into Russian war crimes in Ukraine, in a reversal of the US’s stance on the ICC. The Trump administration had sanctioned the ICC’s chief prosecutor who was investigating alleged of war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan. Also, after the armistice between North and South Korea 70 years ago, the two countries were in ruins leaving hundreds of thousands of children as orphans. And, El Salvador's Congress has passed legislation that would allow up to 900 people to be tried together for the same gang affiliation. Plus, through "Stories from the Stage," one woman's tale of love in two cultures.

Russian President Vladimir Putin told African leaders gathered for a summit in St. Petersburg today that his government would provide grain shipments to six African nations for free, in order to help avert a food crisis caused by Putin's decision to pull out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative last week. And, on July 27, 1953, the United Nations and North Korea signed a ceasefire, bringing an end to three years of fighting on the Korean Peninsula that killed more than 36,000 US soldiers and an estimated 2 million Korean civilians. But a formal peace agreement was never signed. Also, tributes to iconic Irish singer Sinéad O'Connor continue to pour in today after she was found dead in her London home on Wednesday at the age of 56. "Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare," wrote Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar. Plus, the evolution of Senegalese rap.

The FSO Safer is an oil tanker in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen that has fallen into dangerous disrepair. The huge quantity of oil aboard could leak or explode. The UN has organized a mission to prevent a nightmare scenario by siphoning the oil out and onto a new ship. And, a well-known education activist has been in detention in Afghanistan since March. Matiullah Wesa had been fighting for education for Afghan children for more than a decade, mainly in remote areas of the country. Also, 90,000 migrants and asylum-seekers have arrived in New York City since the spring of 2022. Now, Mayor Eric Adams is saying there is "no guarantee the city will be able to provide shelter and services to new arrivals." Plus, this Belgian duo starts difficult conversations with humor and dance beats. 

Exactly one month after Qin Gang disappeared from public view, on Tuesday, his removal and his successor was announced in Chinese state media. No explanation was given. And, every summer, Antarctic ice sheets recede as they melt, and every winter they regrow when the temperature drops. But recent observations and data show the ice is not regrowing. Also, researchers believe that the H5N1 virus known as avian flu may have killed millions of wild birds globally as the outbreak ravages South America. Plus, trying to prevent violence in Sudan with old-fashioned detective work.

In a vote boycotted by the Israeli opposition, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bid to overhaul the judiciary is in motion with a vote passed 64-0. Israelis have protested day after day for months, and those protests have included Israeli combat veterans and military reservists. And, Greece’s Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis declared "war" with wildfires in a recent address to the country’s parliament. The country has been battling wildfires on islands at opposite ends of the country: western Corfu and eastern Rhodes. Also, since the start of the Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, many European countries have been trying to find ways to reduce their dependency on Russian energy. One place they’re starting to look is West Africa, where Senegal and Mauritania are capitalizing on recent discoveries of natural gas. Plus, Boston's links to the slave trade.

Every night over the last week, Russia has bombarded cities along Ukraine’s southern Black Sea coast. With these attacks, the Russian military has tried to disrupt Ukraine’s ability to export grain. And, "Stories from the Stage" are tales told by ordinary people with extraordinary experiences. We begin with Ana Hebra Flaster, who came to the United States from Cuba when she was 6 years old. Flaster is a writer who grew up in New England and her storytelling is inspired by her father. Also, in dozens of towns and cities across Spain, the far-right Vox party has found itself invited into ruling coalitions — and it has already begun dismantling policies meant to preserve nature and protect sexual and gender diversity. It now could strongly influence this weekend's federal elections, should the center-right Popular Party win a majority of votes. Plus, Kyiv's wedding officiant.

Iraqi protesters stormed the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad after Stockholm police gave permission to a yet another person to burn the Quran. Relations between Iraq and Sweden are now frayed and some Swedes are beginning to wonder: "When does the legal right to burn a Quran become a hate crime?" And, women in Afghanistan took to the streets this week to protest a Taliban ban on beauty salons. The ban will come into effect in five days, leaving roughly 6,000 women out of work. Also, centenarian statesman Henry Kissinger flew to Beijing for a surprise meeting yesterday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Plus, FIFA Women's World Cup kicks off in New Zealand and Australia.

Wrapping up a four-day trip to China, US climate envoy John Kerry said no new commitments on climate were made, but the world's two biggest climate polluters have agreed to work together at major international meetings this year. And, today, protests against the rising cost of living resumed in Kenya. The demonstrations are organized by Kenya's opposition leaders, who say the country's new government is not doing enough to improve the economy. Also, since 1930, countries that make up the British Commonwealth have gathered every four years to compete in the Commonwealth Games. But the Australian state of Victoria has abruptly canceled its hosting of the next scheduled Games in 2023 — citing the extraordinary cost of hosting it — leaving the fate of the competition in question. Plus, this Israeli rapper is aiming high.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to DC was initially planned as a largely symbolic event. But it has evolved into a full-on diplomatic embrace. And, there's a crisis at sea right now — an international shortage of workers to work on the ships that traverse the oceans. What's behind the shortage and its impact across the globe? Also, Private 2nd Class Travis King left his tourist group of the Joint Security Area on the border of North and South Korea and has been detained by the North Korean authorities. We hear from an expert about what the news means for the US-North Korean relationship. Plus, in Sweden, local communities are trying to fight back against gun violence.

Russia announced it's walking away from an agreement that allows Ukrainian grain shipments to leave Black Sea ports. The deal brokered by the UN and Turkey in 2022 has helped guarantee grain shipments from Ukraine to countries around the world. And, the European Union announced a deal with Tunisia over the weekend to stem the flow of migration. Tunisia has now stated it will only take back Tunisians who illegally crossed into Europe. Also, US Climate Envoy John Kerry heads out on a four-day visit to Beijing. Chinese and US officials are motivated to find solutions to the dangers climate change poses, but domestic pressures are making it difficult to hammer out a deal. Plus, two surprise victories at Wimbledon.

The UN has called for an investigation into the deaths of 87 people whose bodies were found in a mass grave in Sudan's Darfur region. Also, nearly half the world's oceans are currently experiencing a heat wave that could get worse before the end of the summer. And, as Spain accelerates its investment in solar and wind parks, a growing number of mayors and environmental nongovernmental organizations in the southern region of Andalusia worry that the natural landscape will be altered forever with olive groves, forests and high plains being plowed over. Plus, we revisit the heartwarming story of a woman looking out for another woman's son studying abroad in the UK.

Russian authorities have imprisoned thousands of Ukrainian civilians. The noncombatants are being held both deep inside Russia and in occupied Ukrainian territories not far from the fighting on the front lines, where many are forced to dig trenches and graves. We hear from a reporter who uncovered the story. Also, climate-fueled weather systems are creating unprecedented challenges for humanitarian organizations. We speak with a first responder. And Sudan's capital, Khartoum is a war zone. A longtime resident tells us how he survived a month of gun battles and escaped.

The upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup is being billed as the biggest edition to date, with host countries Australia and New Zealand hoping to leverage the buzz and ensure the momentum surrounding women’s sports sticks around long after the tournament. Also, Paris is taking another step in fighting climate change by announcing that SUVs and other heavier vehicles will be charged more to park in the city center. And, Iraq is facing its worst water shortage in a century, with 7 million people experiencing reduced access to water. Plus, a Ukrainian filmmaker captures life in the besieged city of Mariupol as most residents fled for safety before it was overrun by Russian forces.

After months of blocking Sweden's efforts to join NATO, Turkey has agreed to support Swedish membership in the Western military alliance. Also, the UN secretary-general warned this week that Sudan is on the brink of a “full-scale civil war.” USAID Chief Samantha Power tells us about global efforts to assist increasingly desperate Sudanese civilians. And, with extreme weather events proliferating across the globe, we discuss how parts of the world are becoming less and less habitable. Plus, a look at a 22-pound waxy chunk of what’s known as ambergris discovered in a sperm whale on Spain’s Canary Islands that could fetch some $550,000.

The Biden administration and Kyiv are making the case that cluster munitions would make a critical weapon in Ukraine's counteroffensive, even though they are widely condemned, and even banned, by many nations for the risks they pose. Also, the health care industry in the US has been at the forefront of labor shortages since the pandemic erupted. But foreign nurses hoping to work in the US continue to face delays in the processing of their green cards. And, the breadmaking industry in Senegal is facing a shortage of wheat imports from Russia, disrupted by the war in Ukraine, so the government is looking for a new plan. Plus, a Venezuelan artist is using bottle caps to create large-scale eco-murals to raise awareness about recycling.

Where is Yevgeny Prigozhin? In a country where simply expressing public dissent can land you in serious trouble, the Russian warlord who just weeks ago marched thousands of fighters toward Moscow is now, apparently, free to roam the country. Also, in the last decade or so, Egypt has gone from military dictatorship to revolution, from fledgling democracy and then back to military dictatorship. And the Spanish military this week used a well-known Michael Jackson song during an awards ceremony and sparked some controversy. It was another reminder to pay attention to the lyrics before you use popular music in an official capacity.   

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is in Beijing for four days of talks on trade, investment and tariffs. We look into how the two superpowers might find common ground amid growing tensions. Also, a new report reveals larger-than-usual profits for top corporations over the past two years, all while people around the world struggled through a cost-of-living crisis. And, the Taliban have given all women’s beauty salons in Afghanistan one month to close down in another blow to women's rights. Plus, the Tour de France bicycling race kicks off. We take a look at the races within the race.

The Israeli military wrapped up its biggest operation in the occupied West Bank in many years. At least 12 Palestinians and one Israeli soldier were killed in the fighting that took place early this week. We'll hear more about what happened and what it could mean for the future. Plus, need to get your US passport renewed this summer? You might need to be patient. And, why is the new "Barbie" movie banned in Vietnam?

Climate change is undeniably bad for the animal kingdom. But some animals are able to adapt — so far — by changing their behaviors or even their bodies. In this special series all about animals, we travel the world to learn about medicine for cats in Turkey, invasive bees in Spain, the status of bullfighting in Colombia and a frog so small it can't jump. Also, a tiny owl was discovered on Príncipe Island in Africa, and now it is endangered. And, we hear the story of two brothers in India who are going out of their way to protect black kites, the most-hated carnivorous raptor in the country. Plus, we remember biologist Roger Payne and his "Songs of the Humpback Whale."

Sports touch so many facets of our lives, and often play a central role in global news about culture, money and politics. This special podcast takes you around the world through the lens of sports, from tennis in Sierra Leone to the NFL in Spain, boxing in Cuba to judo in France. We also hear about racism endured by soccer players in Spain, and the need for an anti-discrimination network for global soccer. Also, how many World Cup stadiums are there in Qatar? And, what do athletes eat at Olympic dining halls? Plus, a small but growing group of extreme athletes in Sonora, Mexico, who are pushing themselves to new heights.

The fatal police shooting of a Black 17-year-old boy outside Paris this week has fueled social divisions along racial lines. What are the issues associated with racism in France, and how do they play out in a society that prides itself on "Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité"? And, early into the fire season in Canada, it is already the worst fire year on record. Blazes are particularly bad in eastern Canada, where the forest industry is reeling. Also, the UN General Assembly voted to set up an independent body to investigate and clarify the status of missing persons in Syria. More than 130,000 people are considered missing or "disappeared" in Syria since the start of the country's uprising and civil war. Plus, Tijuana loves Little League baseball.

French President Emmanuel Macron held a crisis Cabinet meeting on Thursday afternoon as protests continued in France in response to the police shooting of a teenager. Authorities deployed 40,000 police officers across the country as they brace for a third night of violent demonstrations. Also, historian Samuel Lamontagne, who co-leads the Hip Hop Initiative, tells us about the enduring power of hip-hop in France. And, much of the DEA's early efforts were focused on Southeast Asia, where US troops in Vietnam were using heroin. We hear the story of an investigator who tried to bust up a heroin ring in Thailand and was stymied by the CIA. Plus, the presence and future of the Wagner Group in Africa. 

Residents of Nanterre, an area west of Paris, destroyed bus stops and set cars on fire to protest the police shooting of a 17-year-old who failed to stop when ordered by traffic police. Also, Peru is dealing with a record outbreak of dengue:150,000 people have been afflicted by the viral disease this year,  and nearly 250 have died. Dengue is also spiking in Laos and Sri Lanka, and threatens to spread to Europe as climate change transforms weather patterns around the world. And, for several weeks now, Taiwan has been gripped by a #MeToo movement. Hundreds have come forward accusing politicians, celebrities and everyday people of sexual misconduct. Plus, Muslims in Senegal prepare for Eid al-Adha celebrations.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko was often dismissed as Vladimir Putin's puppet. But given his key role cutting a deal with Wagner mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, analysts are reconsidering that assessment. And, the new International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina, opens to the public today. Charleston was the largest slave port in the United States, and the new museum hopes to serve as an archive for the nearly 80% of African Americans who can potentially trace back to an ancestor who arrived there. Also, the annual typhoon season has already begun in Japan, but with climate change has come more severe storms and heavier rainfall. Tokyo, a city built on marshlands, is particularly vulnerable to flash flooding. Plus, dolphin moms use "baby talk" to engage their young.

On Saturday, the Wagner Group took control of a major Russian city, in one of the biggest crises of President Vladimir Putin's political career. Putin's long-time henchman, Yevgeny Prigozhin, authorized the revolt but soon backed down. Observers say the incident left an opening for Ukraine to exploit, but Russian airstrikes have continued unabated. And, Prigozhin's rebellion has raised many questions. We hear from Russia scholar Mark Galeotti about how vulnerable Putin remains and his response to the short-lived mutiny. Also, a new initiative is launching this August to end hunger among school children in Nairobi, Kenya. Plus, Elton John's first — and maybe only — appearance at Glastonbury.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US has secured his country 31 Predator drones worth $3 billion. The purchase could mark a shift global dynamics — historically, India has turned to Russia for it's military hardware. Also, an investigation has found that criminal gangs are using sham bank accounts and secret online marketplaces to steal from almost anyone — individuals, churches, corporations — and are routing the money overseas. And, the nonprofit Haitian Education and Leadership Program (HELP) is assisting people who are unable to pay their tuition bills. Plus, in the latest installment of The World's "Planet Hip Hop" series, we take a look at Argentina's trap music scene.

A stop-and-start peace process between Sudan's warring parties has been put on pause by the US. Reports of genocidal violence in Darfur continue to emerge, as the grinding fight in Khartoum continues. And, commemorations in Britain mark the 75th anniversary of the arrival of a ship from Jamaica, the HMT Empire Windrush. Also, Japan has passed a number of reforms to redefine the country's rape laws. The definition of rape has now been broadened so sexual assault victims have more rights and do not have to prove they fought back against their attacker. The age of consent has also been raised from 13 to 16. Plus, "King of Clones" film traces the rise and fall of an infamous Korean scientist.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on his first state visit to the United States. India is a strategic partner for the US when it comes to countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific and has the potential to chip away at China's tech-manufacturing prowess. And, French officials raided offices across the country associated with the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games. Authorities are looking into alleged embezzlement of public funds and favoritism in handing out Olympic contracts. Also, a look at what two different tragedies say about Pakistani society: Last week, more than 300 Pakistani migrants died when an overcrowded fishing trawler sank off the coast of Greece. This week, the heir to one of Pakistan's biggest private fortunes, along with his teenage son, are among five people aboard the missing Titanic submersible. Plus, celebrating the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge.

A private submersible with wealthy patrons aboard has gone missing during a dive to see the Titanic's remains. The US Coast Guard is searching hundreds of square miles as the sub has a limited amount of oxygen. And, nearly half of all men in Malaysia are smokers. Public health experts are now calling for an anti-tobacco policy that bans the sale of cigarettes to anyone born in 2007 onward. Also, before the war in Ukraine, rich and powerful Russians headed to London, Paris and Monaco to buy real estate. Now, they’re snapping up luxury villas and prime location real estate in the United Arab Emirates. Plus, Washington prepares for a visit with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In this hourlong, education-focused special, The World delves into the challenges immigrants face in accessing higher education, looking at issues such as language, borders and costs. US employers who say they can't fill jobs want Congress to raise the number of visas to foreign college graduates. Also, thousands of students attending US colleges and universities actually reside in Mexico. But when border wait times can be two to four hours long, it takes a special dedication to get to class each day. And, we meet several students who struggled to battle Mexican and US bureaucracy to be able to transfer schools. Plus, is the US still the number one education destination?

The conflict between Sudan’s rival armed forces has now entered its second month. More than 2 million people have become displaced by the fighting so far, and the situation is especially dire in Darfur. This week, the governor of West Darfur was killed after speaking up about atrocities there. And, a group of Austrian writers say that many composers of the country's regional anthems were in, or associated with, the Nazi party, and are asking for the songs to be changed. Also, El Salvador has cracked down on gang violence in the past year, by hauling tens of thousands of people to jail without due process. And many citizens of other countries, including the US, Colombia and Guatemala, have been caught up in the crackdown. Plus, shouting into the wind is apparently a good thing.

Wednesday’s deadly shipwreck off southern Greece, involving a fishing boat reportedly carrying up to 750 migrants, highlights the desperation that drives people to risk their lives to reach continental Europe. And, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is planning to visit China on June 19, in hopes of opening further dialogue with Beijing to dampen a general atmosphere of escalation. Also, the United Arab Emirates, one of the biggest oil-producing nations in the world, will be hosting COP28, the United Nations' climate summit. Critics say this is like having tobacco companies oversee the work of the World Health Organization. Plus, we remember Roger Payne, the biologist who showed us the musical side of whales.

Ukrainian leaders say their military is making progress on the battlefield. In less than a week, they have liberated seven villages from Russian occupation. And, John Bolton, former President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, says he’s not surprised that classified documents were found in a Mar-a-lago bathroom. Also, host Marco Weman catches up with Cuban American musician Gloria Estefan, as she looks back at her successful career as a bilingual singer and songwriter. Plus, bumpier flights coincide with warmer skies.

Former US President Donald Trump makes his first appearance in a Miami federal courthouse. He is accused of taking hundreds of documents, many of them highly classified, from the White House in 2021. And, thousands of villagers southeast of Manila have left their homes to find safer ground due to seismic activity detected at Mount Mayon. Also, a 44-year-old mother of three in the UK is now looking at a 28-month prison sentence for taking abortion medication too late into her pregnancy. Abortion was legalized in Britain in 1967, but an older law was used as the basis for the sentence. Plus, why the Golden Globes have a new owner.

Military officials say Ukraine has retaken four small towns from Russian-held territory. This follows much talk of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. And, US and Mexican authorities confirmed that eight young workers were killed in western Mexico, after they supposedly tried to quit their jobs at a call center operated by a violent drug cartel. Also, in March, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Russia’s commissioner for children’s rights Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova. The charges were related to the forced deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia. Plus, the prehistoric bird bones that were used as flutes.

The collapse of the Kakhovka dam is an environmental catastrophe for people in southern Ukraine. Destroying a dam goes against international law. And, the Migrant Trail walk continues for a 20th year, putting a spotlight on migrant deaths in the Arizona borderlands. The 7-day, 75-mile walk begins in Sasabe, Sonora, and ends in Tucson, Arizona. Also, the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has spread across the country. A new ceasefire agreement is set to start on June 10. Plus, singing South African firefighters are helping to battle the blazes in Canada.

Hundreds of captured Russian soldiers, conscripts and mercenaries are being held in 50 sites around Ukraine. Russia also has Ukrainian POWs captured from the war. Frequent prisoner exchanges are a sign of direct talks between the two countries. And, in Ukraine's southern region of Kherson, evacuations are underway to get residents out of areas affected by flooding caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Also, hip-hop turns 50 this summer. The World launches "Planet Hip Hop" to celebrate its influence in all corners of the globe. Plus, scientists get a thrilling new look at the Earth's mantle.

The world of professional golf experienced a seismic shift on Tuesday when the US-based PGA Tour and the Saudi Arabia-backed league LIV, announced a merger. For Saudi Arabia, it's only the latest in an ambitious plan to extend the kingdom's influence and participation in global sports. And, in Canada's eastern provinces from Quebec to Nova Scotia, wildfires have caused thousands to flee their homes and untold damage. Also, with large numbers of young Russian fighters dying on the Ukraine battlefield, the Wagner mercenary group must constantly recruit to replenish their fighters. They've gone online and are using the same tactics that the ISIS once used to lure young men to go to fight in Syria. Plus, female crocodiles can reproduce without males.

A major dam in southeastern Ukraine collapsed on Tuesday, flooding villages, endangering crops in the country's breadbasket region and threatening drinking water supplies, as both sides in the war scrambled to evacuate residents and blamed each other for the destruction. And, the Department of Homeland Security has been allowing reporters to observe and report on deportation flights as part of a public diplomacy campaign aimed at discouraging migrants from coming to the US. Also, last year, an estimated 3,500 Rohingya Muslims boarded wooden boats and set off from Bangladesh in search of starting their lives over in Malaysia or Indonesia. Hundreds of them never made it. Plus, a driver in Finland gets a $130,000 speeding ticket.

On Sunday, rescue workers pulled the last survivor from the devastating crash in India's eastern Odisha state, that has left at least 275 dead and more than 1,000 injured. Relatives are now on the scene trying to locate their loved ones. And, there's been a push to add new members to BRICS — a group from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — in an effort to counterbalance the power of Western countries. Also, hundreds of thousands of people hit the streets yesterday in Poland, protesting what they see as growing authoritarianism in the country. Many were motivated in response to a new law that is supposed to target Russian propaganda in Poland. Plus, gang violence in Haiti loosens its grip.

A new investigation from Reuters found billions of dollars labeled as "climate finance" going to projects that only had a tangential relationship to climate solutions. And, it's pufferfish season in Southeast Asia. Most fisherfolk will throw pufferfish back, but some bring them to market, serving niche groups of customers who love eating them, despite the warnings. Also, Tunisia is the birthplace of the so-called Arab Spring, and Syria is where protesters witnessed some of the most brutal crackdowns. Today, both countries are "turning a new page," as one Syrian official recently put it. Plus, Ama Ata Aidoo, a giant in the African literary scene, died this week at the age of 81. 

Ukrainian journalist Volodymyr Solohub has traveled to eastern Ukraine near the front lines in Donetsk this week. He talks about how Ukrainian troops are using new Western weaponry and low-tech homemade drones. And, in Europe, inflation is getting curbed, stocks are up, key sectors are rebounding and the US Congress seems to be on course to raise the debt ceiling and prevent the global markets from meltdown as a result. Will it last? Also, Iraq’s date palms were nearly decimated after decades of war. We hear about one group's efforts to save them. Plus, this blues musician fled Russia for Serbia.

The United Nations says more than 1 million people have been displaced by the conflict in Sudan. Despite on and off ceasefires, the fighting between the country's armed forces and paramilitary has shown no signs of ending soon. And, Nigeria has only about 1 doctor for every 5,000 residents. Members of Nigerian Parliament are backing a new bill that will medical graduates to work in the country for five years to limit the medical brain drain. Also, a spacecraft with an all-private astronaut team splashed down off Texas in the Gulf of Mexico late Tuesday. Two of the four astronauts on board are from Saudi Arabia including the first Arab woman to go into orbit. Plus, a the $70 billion deal that could impact the future of cloud gaming.

At least eight military drones appeared over the skies of the Russian capital and its suburbs early Tuesday. Russian Defense Ministry officials say all of the drones were intercepted and damage from falling debris was minimal. And, on Monday, Nigeria’s Bola Tinubu was sworn in as the country’s new president in the capital Abuja. He enters office amid ongoing court disputes against the election results, rising insecurity, and a struggling economy. Also, on the Serbian border with Hungary, 90 minutes from Belgrade, a group of five Russian game developers have found a new home after fleeing Russia under threat of arrest. Plus, in Hong Kong, public censorship of Tiananmen Square is underway.

In parts of northern Ukraine, near the border with Belarus, Russian troops were firmly in control for several weeks after Russia's full-scale invasion started in 2022. The World revisits a story from the Chernihiv region, about how residents there are putting their lives back together, even while the war rages on. We also go back to a school in Romania where Ukrainians are starting over. And, Ukrainians are finding ways to keep living their lives amid war. That includes searching for — and finding — love. School is out for the summer! But we have one more assignment for you. If you are a student or a recent graduate from an American university, we’d like to know why you chose to study in the US. Was it what you hoped for? What do you like, what do you not like? When you graduate will you return home? Record a voice memo with your story. Include your name and location and email the voice memo to [email protected]. We might feature your story on the program.

Last month, Elon Musk’s satellite internet, Starlink, went live in El Salvador. The government hopes this will revolutionize internet access in the region. But many worry that the cost of the service will keep it out of reach for many people. Also, being a doctor in Ukraine brings great risk. There have been more than 700 attacks on health care facilities since the war there began. And, a tattoo artist in Jerusalem is carrying on a 700-year-old Christian tradition. Plus, Turkish voters head to the polls again. We have a preview of the upcoming runoff presidential election. School is out for the summer! But we have one more assignment for you. If you are a student or a recent graduate from an American university, we’d like to know why you chose to study in the US. Was it what you hoped for? What do you like, what do you not like? When you graduate will you return home? Record a voice memo with your story. Include your name and location and email the voice memo to [email protected]. We might feature your story on the program. 

The latest wave of COVID-19 infections to hit China could see as many as 65 million cases per week by the time the surge peaks at the end of June. It’s being fueled by omicron XBB, a subvariant that’s been found widely in the US. Plus, Greek authorities have made some 200 beaches water accessible to people with disabilities. And the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," Tina Turner, has died at the age of 83. The iconic musician spent the last few decades of her life in Europe. What prompted that choice?

Tunisia's democracy continues to deteriorate with the arrests of opposition politicians, including the main opposition leader. Now, the children of these politicians are mounting pressure on the government by filing a case against them in the African Court of Justice. Plus, women who once worked for NGOs in Afghanistan speak out against the Taliban's ban. And, the global impact on markets as the US hits its debt ceiling.

The US isn't the only country that's created a "debt ceiling." Denmark has one, too. But Danes don't play politics when it comes to paying their debt. Also, millions of Ukrainians fled their country after Russia's full-scale invasion last year. While many have returned, some can't or won't. We meet Ukrainians who are starting over in France. And, Filipinos have a message for Taylor Swift: "Come back!"

Beijing is not happy. As the G7 meeting in Hiroshima, Japan, wrapped up, the Chinese government is protesting what it sees as the "anti-China" tenor of the summit. Also, the Biden administration says it will support an effort to train Ukrainian pilots learning how to operate F-16 warplanes. Plus, Angelique Kidjo, the musician and activist from Benin, is one of three recipients at this year's Polar Prize for music in Stockholm. She takes her responsibility seriously "for our world to be a better place." 

For more than a decade, Greece was seen as the "sick man of Europe." But in the last couple of years, its economy has performed better than many of its EU neighbours. So, the center-right government should be feeling pretty confident heading into a general election this Sunday. But it's not that clear-cut. Also, a shared religious site in Jerusalem is among the most contentious. A worst-cast scenario was avoided last month during overlapping religious holidays. Security is back to normal. But what does "normal" look like? And, China's population is on the decline. A lot of young people don't want to get married and have kids. But Beijing is rolling out a new initiative to try and reverse this trend. Plus, The World concludes its series looking at waste pickers across the globe. Today, it's off to Japan, where garbage picking has been turned into a choreographed performance.

Japan is set to host the G-7 summit in Hiroshima, the site of one of the only two nuclear attacks in history. Also, a comedy group in China is being heavily fined for a viral joke that made light of a Chinese military slogan. And, a longtime ban on dreadlocks at elementary schools in Malawi has been lifted. Plus, we hear the second part of report on how a Sudanese warlord rose to power, while operating with impunity.

The fight for control of Sudan. It's a match between two generals. One's been accused of committing war crimes. He also claims to be one of the richest men in Africa. Also, the arrest of controversial influencer Andrew Tate last December turned a spotlight on Romania's adult webcam industry. And, the megacity of Mumbai, India, generates an astonishing amount of trash. An informal network of recycling scavengers make it livable. A look at Mumbai's chaotic, yet effective, recycling program.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's recent appeal to European leaders has brought in more military aid for the country's defense against Russia. It's an indication that Western officials believe Kyiv’s forces could reclaim significant swaths of territory. Also, in southern Mexico, droughts are getting worse. That's forcing farmers to adjust and adapt. And, with the end of the pandemic-era rule known as Title 42 last week, the rules for seeking asylum at the US border have changed dramatically. They can be confusing. So, just how does the process work? Plus, across Ghana, waste picking is crucial for building a "circular economy" to eliminate waste. It's also a vital survival strategy for many. But it's a dangerous, undervalued job.

When polls opened in Turkey on Sunday, opposition candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu seemed poised to unseat Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has been in power for 20 years. Now, the two are headed to a runoff. And, US ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety said the South African government sent arms to Russia in December 2022 aboard a ship under US sanctions. Also, the United Kingdom's schemes to help settle Ukrainian refugees helped house over 170,000 Ukrainians since last year. Now, one of the creators is calling on the UK government to support a similar scheme for Sudan. Plus, the UN marks the 75th anniversary of the "Nakba" for the first time, when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians became refugees.

After months of stalemate, Ukraine’s military says it’s gaining ground in the embattled southern city of Bakhmut. We hear from US Ambassador Bridget Brink about the current situation on the ground. And, angry and exhausted, Turkish voters head to the polls on Sunday, as President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan faces a robust challenge from six opposition parties who have united behind candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu. Also, fighting continues for a third day this week between Israel and the Palestinian militant faction, Islamic Jihad, in the Gaza Strip. Plus, celebrating Mother's Day around the globe.

Shelters in cities like Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, are emptying as many of them have decided to surrender to US authorities before Title 42 ends on May 11. Some fear that stricter rules might prevent them from coming after the pandemic-era policy expires. And, the Saudi government began talks to broker a peace deal between leaders of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group, which have been fighting for control of Sudan's capital since April 15. Also, across Europe, prosecutors have been nabbing suspects involved in the drug trade for the Italian mafia group, Ndrangheta. Plus, Russian artists in exile create new work — and identities. 

As the number of people trying to cross the jungle on their way to the United States increases, transporting migrants and leading them on treks across the rainforest has become the main industry in Capurgana, a small village on the southern edge of the Darien Gap in Colombia. And, the Pentagon announced $1.2 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine this week as the country prepares for a major counteroffensive against Russia. Also, this weekend, 64 million Turkish voters will choose their next leader. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan moved the elections up by a month after facing criticism for his response to devastating earthquakes in February. Plus, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen takes home the coveted Best in Show award at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Migrants from South America, Africa and Asia are crossing the Darien Gap between Colombia and Panama at record rates. As the US prepares to lift Title 42 on May 11, many migrants believe their chances of getting into the US will increase. And, early Tuesday morning, the Israeli army targeted senior leaders of the militant group, Islamic Jihad, in an operation it says killed three senior leaders in Gaza. Also, amid ongoing fighting in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, many are still trapped at home, with limited supplies. Neighborhood committees have formed to bring in food and water, and check on people's welfare. Plus, legendary opera singer Grace Bumbry dies at the age of 86. 

More than 100,000 people turned out in central Tel Aviv, Israel, on Saturday to say no to the government's plans for judicial reform, for the 18th consecutive week. For now, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding off on the judicial overhaul. And, in 2021, the United Nations Human Rights Council established the International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the context of Law Enforcement. Their most recent trip brought the international experts to the United States. Also, the humanitarian crisis continues to deteriorate in Sudan as the fighting intensifies. The UN estimates 19 million people will be food insecure in the coming months. Plus, get ready for Eurovision, kicking off soon in Liverpool. 

After three years, and the death of millions of people, the World Health Organiziation's Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced an end to the emergency. He made clear that the pandemic is not over and measures to prevent COVID-19 spread need to remain in place. And, a government app encourages Iraqis to report immoral behavior on- and offline. Also, in Serbia, two separate shooting sprees in two days have left 17 people dead in the Balkan country where gun violence is rare. Now, Serbia's president wants "practical disarmament" of the country, which has some of the most guns per citizen of any country in the world. Plus, how a group of Cuban female musicians claimed a once-forbidden drum.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt have all made investments in Sudan and consider the Red Sea country an important location. These interests further complicate the ongoing fighting on the ground. And, scientists believe only a fraction of the potential 2 million marine species in our oceans have been identified. A new Ocean Census project aims to change that by identifying 100,000 new species in just 10 years. Also, US officials are dismissing Russian accusations that it "masterminded" Wednesday’s drone attack on the Kremlin. Plus, Copenhagen's mayor urges the "Danish capital of America" to support the LGBTQ community.

Videos apparently show two drones exploding over the Kremlin early Wednesday morning. Moscow claims the drones are from Ukraine and an attempt to assassinate Russian leader Vladimir Putin. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has denied any involvement in the attack. And, the capture of the Niovi, a Greek-owned vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, is the second-such capture by Tehran in recent days. We hear about the potential impact on shipping, and what it says about the safety of vessels passing through the waters off Iran. Also, The Writers Guild of America is on strike for better wages and royalties. How might this impact international series? Plus, some animals are able to adapt to climate change— so far. 

In the Palestinian city of Nablus, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, there’s a new group of national heroes. They’re part of an upstart militant group called the Lions’ Den. And, how is AI helping to protect against sushi sabatoge? That's the latest TikTok trend where young pranksters in Japan are contaminating sushi served on conveyer belts in restaurants. Also, Ukrainians believe that the future of the democratic world will be determined by whether the Ukrainian military can break a stalemate with Russia and drive the country backward— perhaps even out of Crimea — for good. Plus, the sound baths of French artist Anthony Gonzalez and his electronic ensemble, M83.

Fighting in Khartoum between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces is spreading throughout Sudan. Violence in the western Sudanese region of Darfur threatens to revive the civil war and genocide that engulfed that region 20 years ago. And, there's no May Day parade this year in Cuba due to an acute fuel shortage crisis on the island. Also, pollution from the Tijuana River to the Pacific Ocean have long plagued swimmers and surfers on both sides of the US-Mexico border. We hear about how a recent court settlement is bringing hope for cooperation. Plus, a new book, "Winnie and Nelson: Portrait of a Marriage," explores a fraught political partnership. 

In Ukraine, air raid sirens went off on Friday at dawn as Russia fired 20 cruise missiles and two drones into the country. Meanwhile, Ukraine is preparing for a long-awaited spring counteroffensive against Russian armed forces. And, the German government says it will set up an international commission to conduct an inquiry into the deadly hostage-taking — and botched police raid — at the 1972 Olympics in Munich. Also, the Biden administration on Thursday announced new efforts to limit the flow of unauthorized migrants across the southern border, including the opening of migrant processing centers in Guatemala and Colombia. Plus, panda diplomacy reveals a rocky US-China relationship. 

Hundreds of people have been killed in the fighting in Sudan in recent weeks, including a Sudanese American physician. Dr. Bushra Ibnauf lived in Khartoum and was training other medical professionals. He was stabbed outside his home earlier this week. And, there's been a mixed reaction to the new bitcoin currency in El Salvador. Also, Venezuela’s best-known opposition leader, Juan Guaidó, unexpectedly arrived in the US this week. He was rerouted to Miami after getting kicked out of Colombia, where he attempted to attend a summit without an invite. Plus, "Pele" means "the best."

US President Joe Biden is meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Wednesday at the White House in a display of strengthening US-Korean solidarity. But recent Pentagon leaks indicating the US eavesdropped on Yoon's presidential office has rattled his cabinet, and could complicate the meeting. And, the World Food Program's regional director for the Middle East, Eastern Europe and North Africa says these countries are facing food shortages brought on by military conflicts, and by natural and manmade disasters. Also, people continue to flee Sudan as more fighting continues on Wednesday on the outskirts of the capital, Khartoum. Residents from the capital region are also having to make tough decisions about leaving. Plus, a look at legendary Harry Belafonte's role in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.

Those with the means to leave Sudan's capital, Khartoum, are streaming out of the city as fighting continues between two rival generals. Those left behind are hoping that a shaky US-brokered ceasefire can provide a measure of calm. And, Israel marks its "tensest Memorial Day" in many years on Tuesday. It’s typically a moment of national unity but the political atmosphere is deeply divided. Also, since the passage of a law in Russia banning LGBTQ-related material, books have been pulled from shelves, and authors and publishing houses have had to relocate. Plus, we remember singer Harry Belafonte who has died at the age of 96.

Nations around the globe are busy evacuating their personnel from embassies in Khartoum, Sudan, amid fighting between rival military commanders. With little diplomatic presence left, what role can the international community play in trying to end the violence? And, the COVID-19 pandemic weakened health care systems around the globe. USAID's Dr. Atul Gawande talks about how global health care systems are getting back on their feet. Also, the Goldman Prize has awarded Zafer Kizilkaya for his decadelong work establishing community-managed marine-protected areas along Turkey's coastline. Kizilkaya is the first winner from Turkey. Plus, Sifan Hassan places first in the women's London Marathon. 

Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed in Sudan as fighting continues between Sudan's rival armed forces. The fighting has also damaged health facilities, making it difficult for health workers to help those caught in the crosshairs. And, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recently said that Kyiv and the West share some responsibility for the conflict in Ukraine, creating tension between Brazil and the US. Also, new publicly available artificial intelligence tools are making it easier than ever for people to create art. These AI-generated songs, photographs and entire interviews all come with a range of ethical questions. Plus, re-creating the resilience of Roman concrete. 

A new UNICEF report estimates that 67 million children have not received a single dose of important vaccines since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. And, this week, a camp for internally displaced people in northern Iraq was abruptly closed, leaving residents to suddenly find new places to live. Also, The World relaunches "The Big Fix," a series focusing on how people around the world are working to cut greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. Plus, Spanish police take down the biggest cocaine lab found in Europe.

According to intelligence sources, a Russian military program is currently mapping offshore wind farms, gas pipelines, and power and internet cables in the waters around Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden. And, Boston's first and only Yemeni restaurant marks Ramadan. Also, the deadliest mass shooting in Canadian history happened three years ago this week in Nova Scotia. It led to new restrictions on guns, which in turn added fuel to a growing guns rights movement. Plus, a Yiddish "street song" pays homage to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

As fighting continues between Sudan’s two most powerful military generals, civilians say they don’t trust either of the warring factions. And, about 100 more detainees have been flown from Saudi Arabia to Yemen, days after a major prisoner exchange between the two sides. Also, survivors of last month’s devastating earthquakes in Turkey are finding ways to save an Indigenous species of silkworm. Plus, Sudanese American MC Oddisee describes overcoming cultural taboos around mental health as he releases a new album.

After days of growing tensions, fighting broke out on Saturday between forces of Sudan's military and paramilitary. And, a Moscow court has sentenced Vladimir Kara-Murza, one of the Kremlin’s most outspoken critics, to 25 years in prison for treason. Also, southern Spain is looking to ancient irrigation methods to water a drought-stricken region. Plus, Arab Chilean singer Elyanna came to the famed music festival Coachella with a set entirely in Arabic.

FBI agents arrested 21-year-old air national guardsman Jack Teixeira, who has been identified as the prime suspect in the leak of classified intelligence documents. They contain military secrets relating to Ukraine, as well as information about other countries. A former CIA officer reacts to the news. Also, a decade ago, two bombs went off at the Boston Marathon. It's a tragic day that still reverberates and a moment that changed how security at big sporting events gets done. Also, Mexican activists are helping American women get abortions. The procedures require no travel, clinics or prescriptions. Plus, we hear from singer Pilani Bubu from South Africa — a onetime lawyer and businesswoman who gave it up to become a singer-songwriter.

A leaked trove of classified US intelligence information has revealed secrets about Russia's war in Ukraine. The incident has been embarrassing for the Pentagon and the White House, and the Kremlin, as well as the media, are all paying close attention. And, a celebrity chef explores cuisine and culture on the US-Mexico border, taking viewers to Baja California, Sonora and Chihuahua. Also, Muslims around the world are spending these days fasting, praying and gathering with friends and family for the holy month of Ramadan. In southern Turkey, families are observing their fasts while living in tents in the earthquake-devastated region of Hatay. Plus, remembering the iconic British fashion designer, Mary Quant, who brought miniskirts to the masses.

On Wednesday, the Biden administration announced that by 2032, two-thirds of new vehicles sold in the US would need to be electric in order for auto manufacturers to be in compliance. And, Nigerian activist Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode's new book, "The Stolen Daughters of Chibok," documents the April 2014 kidnapping of northern Nigerian schoolgirls by Boko Haram. Also, Bengali Muslims all over India face discrimination. Plus, the last stop of a 9,000-mile butterfly migration.

Alibaba just released a new AI chatbot called Tongyi Qianwen, or "seeking truth by asking a thousand questions." But China is clamping down on companies doing cutting-edge AI work, fearing it could subjugate "state control." And, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is visiting Somalia as part of a UN effort to support the drought-stricken nation. Nearly 5 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity, partially due to climate change caused by wealthier nations, according to the UN. Also, US President Joe Biden begins a four-day trip to Ireland on Tuesday, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. In the past month, the terrorism level in the region was raised to severe. Plus, the wife of a jailed Chinese dissident speaks out. 

US officials are struggling to keep up with the increasing number of migrants arriving at the southern border and seeking asylum. Beginning this week, asylum officers will screen a small number of migrants at the border in temporary facilities. And, Saudi officials traveled to Sana'a, Yemen, on Sunday for direct talks with Houthi rebel leaders. Their arrival signals a new chapter in the effort to forge peace in Yemen's long civil war, but few have faith that a deal will change the lives of the Yemeni people. Also, the first tranche of funding from the International Monetary Fund was transferred into Sri Lanka's government coffers late last month. But after the island nation's economic and political collapse last summer, prices for electricity and fuel, as well as food insecurity rates, are still high. Plus, Sierra Leone's Bai Kamara, Jr. is the "traveling medicine man."

A human rights group in Haiti says the number of kidnappings in the country have tripled compared to the same time period last year. As the political and economic situation worsens, police are outgunned and gangs control much of the country. And, a new book explores how patriarchy became common around the world. Also, the United Nations said this week that it has been informed by the Taliban that its female employees can no longer work in the country. The UN demanded the order be rescinded, saying that women are essential to providing services in Afghanistan. Plus, Guatemala's "flower carpets" decorate Holy Week. 

Pinpointing the “end” of the COVID-19 pandemic depends on the vantage point. Medical professionals wait for death rates to subside and immunity to build. Social scientists tend to focus on perceived risk. And, ahead of Easter, the Nicaraguan government has banned Holy Week processions. It's part of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega's ongoing tussle with the Catholic Church, which is part of the country's political opposition. Also, recent Russian defector Gleb Karakulov is giving the world a behind-the-scenes look into Russia's government and its president. Plus, a lone Nigerian rooster is ruled a nuisance.

Early on Wednesday, dozens of Israeli police raided al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, one of the holiest sites in Islam, to clear people who it said were barricaded inside. The incident comes during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and just as Passover begins, stoking fears of more tension in the region. Many Ukrainian Jews will be observing Passover this year. And a traditional Jewish text is being published in Ukrainian for the first time. It's another small way push away from Russian language and culture. Also, more US troops will rotate into the Philippines after Manila identified the location of four new military bases. Beijing is not happy about the the new developments so close to its shores. And, we remember the creator of the popular board game "Catan." Klaus Teuber's game has sold some 32 million copies in 40 different languages.

In a quick ceremony in Brussels, Finland was officially accepted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization as its 31st member. The Kremlin aired its grievances against the alliance, claiming that troops would be deployed to the area along Russia's border with Finland. And, starting this month, the Japanese government is offering a new incentive to get families in densely populated Tokyo to move out to less populated areas: 1 million yen — about $7,600 — per child. Also, the US military is facing a recruitment crisis. The Army missed its target by 25% during the past fiscal year. Other branches of the military are also seeing a drop in recruiting. Plus, a call for bell ringers for Britain's coronation.

Russian authorities have detained a 26-year-old native of St. Petersburg after a bomb killed a prominent military blogger in a café on Sunday. Russian officials are accusing Ukraine and Russian opposition activists for the attack. And, more than 60 Chinese Christians fleeing government harassment are struggling to reach the US. They’ve been detained along the way in Thailand on visa charges. Also, the fate of Ecuador's President Guillermo Lasso is in the hands of the country's national assembly after the constitutional court approved impeachment proceedings against him for acts of corruption. Plus, how the Taliban won Afghanistan.

Donald Trump has made history as the first US president to be indicted for a crime, but this is something that’s pretty common around the globe. We hear about how numerous world leaders have been caught up in their own legal problems. Also, inflation has long haunted the economy of Argentina. But it’s now reaching excruciating levels, soaring past 100%, the highest level in 30 years. And, the ascension of Humza Yousaf as the first minister of Scotland is another historic milestone for the United Kingdom. He’s the first Muslim and first South Asian to hold the position. This also follows Rishi Sunak’s rise as prime minister of Britain. Plus, the Museum of Failure started in Sweden back in 2017. It has since traveled the world, displaying more than 150 failed products. But the museum isn’t about making fun of the inventions. It’s about using them to normalize failure.

Russia's security services arrested American reporter Evan Gershkovich, of The Wall Street Journal, in Moscow on Thursday. Gershkovich was hit with espionage charges by Russia's government — a first for a US correspondent since the Cold War. And, Rafael Grossi, head of the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency, said the situation in war-torn Zaporizhzhia is "very dangerous," as continued shelling in the area is jeopardizing safe operations at the nuclear plant there. Also, the 15th-century “Doctrine of Discovery'' provided the legal basis for the colonial-era seizure of Indigenous lands. On Thursday, Pope Francis formally repudiated the doctrine. Plus, a guy in a bear suit makes people smile on the streets of Kyiv, Ukraine.

The relationship between the US and Israel has always been strong. But as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition tried to overhaul Israel's judicial system, fissures between the two leaders have begun to show. And, Mar. 29 marks 50 years since President Richard Nixon announced that all US combat troops had left Vietnam. Also, more than 1,000 AI researchers and tech leaders have called for a moratorium on AI training. The letter warns that no person can truly understand the complicated systems they are creating in AI labs, and that they could pose an existential danger. Plus, a rare collection of Shakespeare's Folios are up for sale.

Dozens of migrants are dead after a fire swept through a holding facility in the Mexican border town of Ciudad Juárez. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador says the fire was started by migrants who were protesting news of their deportation. And, during the Khmer Rouge's reign, many of Cambodia's ancient relics were spirited out of the country. Now, looted antiquities are starting to be returned. Also, protests in France continued on Tuesday as workers railed against raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. These reforms would theoretically help young people, but students have turned out in droves to support the older generation. Plus, we remember the Ethiopian pianist and nun Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou, who died at the age of 99.