PRI's The World

Hong Kong authorities today sentenced pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai to 20 years behind bars. And the Milan Cortina Olympics are the first to feature a ban on ski wax containing PFAS, the forever chemicals linked to a range of health problems and diseases. Also, Japan's Sanae Takaichi took a huge risk calling for a snap election just 110 days into her first term as prime minister. Today, she won big. Plus, in a large archive building in Tirana, Albania's capital, a team recently began reviewing 45 years of films produced at the behest of former dictator Enver Hoxha.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Officials from the US and Iran met today in the Persian Gulf country of Oman for talks. Also, newly released Epstein files are fueling political crises, criminal investigations and renewed questions about some of Europe's most powerful figures. And, a farmer who discovered some old criollo cacao trees growing in the Philippines has become the toast of chocolate lovers the world over. Plus, "Time Hoppers: The Silk Road" will be the first animated feature film made by, for, and about Muslims to have a US theatrical release this weekend. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The last remaining US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, New START, expires today, leaving the world's two largest nuclear arsenals without legal limits on nukes for the first time in over half a century. Also, famine conditions spread across Sudan's Darfur region. And, understanding Australia's gun ownership and hate law reforms after the Bondi Beach shooting. Plus, we visit the small Scottish island where all of the Olympic curling stones come from. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A month after US forces captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, some signs of change have emerged. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has proposed a sweeping amnesty law that could free hundreds of political prisoners, but families and human rights groups remain wary. Also, the son of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, Seif al-Islam Gadhafi, has been killed. And, leaders of a fringe ultra-conservative Catholic group, called the Society of St. Pius X, based in Switzerland, say they're going to consecrate new bishops without consent from the Vatican starting this summer. Plus, a reexamination of the Mexican-American war amid a new White House statement. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Russia's massive overnight attack on Ukraine included hundreds of drones and a record 32 ballistic missiles. Meanwhile, troops on the front line say conscripts are having a tough time filling the shoes of more experienced soldiers. Also, Spanish weather forecasters are facing an alarming increase in online attacks for linking extreme weather events to climate change. And, families in Iran search for their missing loved ones after a brutal government crackdown on protesters earlier this month. Plus, an Australian teenager saves his family from being washed out to sea. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt is now open, after being closed for nearly two years. But only small numbers of people are being allowed through, despite thousands of Palestinians in Gaza needing medical care. Also, the story of one woman fighting for her village's future as rising sea levels force residents along Mexico's Gulf Coast to flee their homes. And, Spain's Carlos Alcaraz becomes the youngest player ever to complete a Grand Slam at the Australian Open over the weekend. Plus, "Caetano and Bethania: Live" wins the Grammy for Best Global Music Album. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Keir Starmer is in China this week, marking the first time a British prime minister has visited the country in eight years. UK–China ties have been under strain since Beijing's crackdown on Hong Kong and amid allegations of Chinese spying in Britain. Also, understanding the partial return of internet access in Iran. And, a look at US and Israeli pressure on the ICC. Plus, the northern Finnish port city of Oulu becomes one of two European Capitals of Culture in 2026. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Cuba could deplete its oil supply in as little as 15 to 20 days, according to the data company Kpler, and residents are worried about what might come next. Also, a look at the experiences, hopes and fears of the Somali community in Minnesota amid ICE raids in their neighborhoods. And, a conversation with armed colectivos in Venezuela. Plus, the value of gold skyrockets against the US dollar. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It began as part of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement to stop the war in Gaza. But the "Board of Peace," a brainchild of US President Trump, has morphed into something with more grand ambitions, at least rhetorically. Also, police in Nigeria's largest city fired tear gas on people protesting the ongoing demolition of Makoko, an enormous informal settlement that stretches out into the Lagos Lagoon. And, fighting continues in Syria between Kurdish forces and the central government. Plus, the Most Reverend Sarah Mullally was formally confirmed as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury at a ceremony held at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

India and the European Union have signed a massive trade deal that will account for a quarter of the world's GDP. This follows another deal struck by the EU with Latin American countries this month. Also, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez wants to fast-track residency for hundreds of thousands of immigrants. And, US threats to take control of Greenland have rattled Europe's far-right leaders, some of President Trump's staunchest allies. Plus, when space debris enters Earth's atmosphere, some of it ends up at Point Nemo, a remote area of the Pacific with depths of around 13,000 feet. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Analysts are calling it China's biggest military purge in roughly half a century: President Xi Jinping has placed his second-in-command, China's top general, under investigation. Also, the Israeli government announced today it had found and recovered the remains of the final Israeli hostage. And, seven Japanese American soldiers are being promoted to officer ranks, eight decades after they died fighting for the US. Plus, Japan is without pandas for the first time since 1972! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

About half a million Syrians living in Turkey have returned to Syria — just one in five. Although aid groups estimate many more will follow, it's a difficult decision, and many are wary of Syria's new leader and struggling economy. Also, a stretched polar vortex is bringing severe winter storm conditions to half the continental US, and is causing temperatures to plummet across even more of the northern hemisphere. And, Guinea-Bissau's minister of health announced Thursday that the country was halting a controversial Danish-led, US-funded trial of a hepatitis B vaccine. Plus, a groundbreaking Australian play has come to New York for a few weeks. It's called "The Visitors," and it tells an important piece of Australian history from an Aboriginal perspective.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In Iran, some families are still searching morgues for their loved ones. Among those who have found them, some say they have been intimidated and threatened by security forces for holding funerals. Also, Bobi Wine, the leading opposition figure in Uganda's presidential elections, speaks to The World's Marco Werman from hiding, one week after Uganda's longtime president, Yoweri Museveni, was declared the winner of a disputed election. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Davos, Switzerland, on Thursday to appeal for support. Plus, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek shares some sticky situations he's encountered on the Eden Walk. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US immigration system sees one of the most radical policy shifts during US President Donald Trump's second term. Also, testimonies from Iranians fleeing into Turkey amid a crackdown on protests. And, Guatemala declares a state of emergency following coordinated attacks by gangs. Plus, a listen to Taiwan's Indigenous Bunun music inspired by natural sounds. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Venezuela is facing soaring prices, shrinking wages and a middle class that has largely vanished. Also, London Mayor Sadiq Khan says the British capital is one of the safest major cities in the Western world, citing new police figures showing homicide rates have fallen to their lowest level in a decade, but campaigners argue the latest numbers don't tell the full story. And, a look at how US President Donald Trump's first year of his second term has reshaped the global economy. Plus, auroras can be seen at both the northern and southern poles right now as the Earth experiences a "solar storm." Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

President Donald Trump keeps insisting that the US "needs" to take over Greenland, which is controlled by Denmark. Protests in both Denmark and Greenland have denounced US threats to seize the territory. Also, Julio Iglesias, the 82-year-old crooner who's sold more than 300 million records over his long career, could soon take center stage in a Spanish courtroom over sexual abuse allegations. And, a look at the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and his global message against oppression. Plus, the story of a revolutionary woman who led Africa's independence movements. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

With votes tallied from about 50% of polling places, incumbent President Yoweri Museveni is projected to win reelection in Uganda. Also, Indian authorities continue searching for an elephant that's already killed 22 people in the first two weeks of 2026. And, Sara Mardini, who was arrested for helping rescue migrants from the sea in 2018, is acquitted of her charges in Greece. Plus, searching for the best mıhlama for breakfast in Turkey. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As bitter cold descends on Ukraine, so has a fresh barrage of Russian drone and missile strikes. Recent attacks on transformer substations and power plants have plunged Kyiv into its worst wartime heating and power outage. Also, as opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado meets US President Donald Trump in Washington, Venezuelans are watching with a mix of hope and unease. And, The World speaks with some Iranians about the ongoing protests in the country. Plus, a team of engineers tries to flip Kenya's automotive economy on its head with the first-ever Kenyan-made electric vehicle. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland met with US Vice President JD Vance today at the White House today for talks. Also, a discussion about what the end of Temporary Protected Status for Somalia by the Trump administration means for Somalis. And, a look at why international adoptions have largely been a failure. Plus, a little-known amateur tennis player from Sydney beats some of the world's top tennis players at an event ahead of the Australian Open. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Iranian state TV has aired new footage showing piles of black body bags it says hold demonstrators killed during protests. Some footage of the protests has come out even as a communications blackout in the country continues. Also, since Venezuela's announcement last week that the government would release a "significant number" of political prisoners, only 16 people have actually been freed. And, we bring an update from Gaza, where Palestinians are struggling to stay warm and dry as fierce winter storms topple damaged buildings and destroy flimsy plastic shelters amid new Israeli restrictions on aid groups. Plus, from Barcelona to Paris and beyond a handful of shops are keeping the tradition of viewing VHS tapes alive. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Protests in Iran have turned deadly, with hundreds feared shot and killed. The government has shut all communications with the outside world, making it difficult to get accurate information from the ground. But a few have been able to get through, using Starlink, a satellite internet network, including one doctor living in New York. Also, Malaysia and Indonesia have blocked Grok, the AI chatbot feature on the social media platform X, citing concerns that the chatbot is being used to produce sexually explicit images. And, an inside look at the Venezuelan capital as uncertainty over the country's future continues. Plus, we take a listen to a single from Dhruv's debut album, a singer with roots in India and an upbringing in Singapore. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

EU leaders are responding cautiously, with some notable exceptions, following US strikes on Venezuela and threats to take over Greenland. Also, the Iranian government cuts off internet access as protests across the country escalate. And, a look at the high-stakes push to bring US oil companies back to Venezuela. Plus, twin mountain gorillas are born at Africa's largest national park in Democratic Republic of Congo. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

We take a look at the life and politics of Delcy Rodríguez, who spent years as part of deposed President Nicolás Maduro's inner circle, and is now Venezuela's de-facto leader. Also, Cubans are watching the developments in Venezuela with growing unease as fuel shortages worsen in their own country. And, winter storm Goretti disrupts travels across much of Western Europe. Plus, experts unearth a 2,000-year-old war trumpet. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The White House has renewed its rhetoric on acquiring Greenland. We hear how the news is being received by people who live there. Also, a discussion about the erosion of international law. And, a look at the frustrations that blind people face during air travel. Plus, the story of a young man who moved as a kid from Guatemala to Texas to Taiwan. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Militias are patrolling the streets of Venezuela and independent journalists have been detained. It's all part of a crackdown signaling the country's authoritarian leaders are not relinquishing power, despite the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Also, a garbage workers' strike in the UK has led to tens of thousands of tons of rubbish piling up in the streets, attracting vermin. And, the Israeli foreign minister has visited Somaliland after Israel became the first nation to officially recognize the segment of Somalia as an independent country. Plus, National Geographic puts out a list of the 11 biggest food trends expected around the world for 2026. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is now in US custody, facing drug-related charges — but inside Venezuela, the fallout is just beginning. In Caracas, residents describe fear, brief celebration and a return to caution as power shifts. Also, Jamaica's tourism sector has rebounded some 80% after Hurricane Melissa. And, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appoints a former Canadian minister to be his new economic advisor. Plus, a bluefin tuna brings in $3.2 million at a fish market in Tokyo. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In this holiday special, The World takes you to China. We visit Shenzhen, which has become the most thriving megacity in the world — without the air pollution, overcrowding and failing infrastructure that often accompany rapid expansion. Also, an unpacking of the latest diplomatic spat between China and Japan over Taiwan. And, a peek at the future of transportation innovation from the Automotive World China Exhibition, complete with electric cars and self-driving sanitation vehicles. Plus, the story of a mother who traveled with her adopted daughter to China in search of answers about her past. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It's been an adventurous three decades for The World and we're glad to have you with us as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. In this special New Year's show, we highlight some of our reporting over the years. We bring you a discussion with Neil Curry, who helped create the show and was The World's first executive producer, as well as a conversation with our reporters Matthew Bell and Shirin Jafaari, who discuss how their coverage of major global news evolved after 9/11. Also, we look at our coverage of the environment in a time of climate change. And, we take a listen to some of our favorite music over the years. Plus, you'll even have a chance to test your global knowledge as our hosts play a round of Geo Quiz trivia. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As we wrap up the year, The World takes a look back at some of our favorite stories from 2025. We visit coffee raves in Barcelona. Also, a landmark performance for a female conductor at the Tehran Symphony Orchestra. And inmates in Milan who are repurposing the wood from migrant boats into musical instruments. Plus, crate digging for vinyl records with a collector in Dubai. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Fueled by a cost-of-living crisis and a weakening currency, Iranians are taking to the streets. While the government says it's offering dialogue, the demonstrations follow a year of growing challenges for the regime and everyday people in the country. Also, a look back at a year of global protests, driven largely by Gen Z, over economic uncertainty. And, air pollution in Germany's once-industrial Ruhr River Valley has decreased significantly, but there's still a long way to go. Plus, a look at New Year's Eve traditions around the globe. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US fired Tomahawk missiles into Nigeria's Sokoto State late last week, claiming to target members of ISIS targeting Christians in the country, but the region hit by the strikes — and facing the brunt of ISIS attacks — is majority Muslim. Also, the world's first carbon tariff is set to take effect in Europe at the start of 2026. And, some patients in the UK who are unable to access emergency dental care are taking matters into their own hands, and even pulling out their own teeth. Plus, the "King of Cachupa" brings a signature dish of Cape Verde to Portugal. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This special show takes a look back at some important and influential people who passed away in 2025, leaving behind their legacies. They include Pope Francis, Kenyan politician Raila Odinga, the world's oldest Olympian Ágnes Keleti, the 49th Aga Khan Muslim spiritual leader, photographer Sebastião Salgado and legendary musicians like Lebanon's Ziad Rahbani, Honduras' Aurelio Martínez and Ghana's Daddy Lumba. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In this holiday special, The World visits Greenland. Former Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute B. Egede stated this year, “We do not want to be Danish, we do not want to be American. We want to be Greenlandic.” We look at divided opinions around the territory's independence. Also, a look at Denmark's controversial parenting test that resulted in a disproportionate number of Inuit families being separated. And, an official apology from Denmark for forcing Indigenous women and girls from Greenland into using contraceptive devices beginning in the 1960s. Also, a look at how a new international airport in the capital Nuuk is trying to keep up with an influx of tourists. Plus, how the abandoned village of Qoornoq is seeing a revival. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In this comedy special, The World takes you around the globe where artists find humor in unconventional places. Chinese-language open mic events become a place for activists to meet, get  group therapy and share pointed views on life back home in China. Also, Syrian comedians embrace a new era in which social critiques are no longer shunned. And, a Ukrainian comic uses comedy as a way to process war. Plus, a linguistic look at why some words sounds funny. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In Ukraine, the Christmas season is being observed even amid war. We hear one story from a Christian ministry leader and Kyiv resident. Also, the Trump Administration has recalled nearly 30 ambassadors and senior embassy officials, serving mostly in African and Asian countries, from their posts. And, a $500 million AI factory is set to open in Armenia. Plus, members of Parliament grant full clearance for Santa Claus to use Ireland's airspace to deliver toys to the country's children. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US Coast Guard pursued a third vessel off Venezuela's coast this weekend. The US oil blockade on Venezuela is also sending shockwaves through Cuba. Also, President Donald Trump has appointed a US envoy for Greenland, a Danish territory that he believes the US should own. And, an NGO in France exposes holiday food scams just in time for Christmas. Plus, David Munyua becomes the first darts player from Kenya to make it to the World Championships. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This week saw two shootings in the US that made national and international headlines. The suspected gunman and one of the victims were from Portugal. Also, Australia's government has vowed to tighten firearms laws, toughen hate-speech measures and curtail immigration in the wake of Sunday's massacre at a Jewish Hanukkah festival. And, the European Union has agreed to provide Ukraine with a $105 billion interest-free loan to cover vital economic and military needs. Plus, a look at the origins of latkes. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

European leaders are locked in talks in Brussels over how the EU will fund future support for Ukraine. Also, a Chinese man who documented human rights abuses in China was detained by ICE and may soon be deported to Uganda. And, 11 members of the Nigerian Air Force were released from detention yesterday in Burkina Faso, where they had made an emergency landing more than a week ago. Plus, a look at some classic Christmas treats from Denmark. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

EU-US relations remain tense after Washington's new national security strategy slammed the European Union's migration policies, warning that the bloc risks “civilizational erasure.” Also, heavy winds, rain and cold are making life dangerous for Palestinians in Gaza. And, a lawyer takes Pakistan's government to court over taxes on pads and tampons. Plus, a look at a traditional celebration in Ghana known as Detty December. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The killing of two US service members in an attack in Syria over the weekend has raised questions about the future of American forces in the country. Also, prosecutors in Serbia have charged a government minister with abuse of office and falsifying of documents in an apparent attempt to pave the way for a real estate project financed by a company linked to Jared Kushner, US President Trump's son-in-law. And, a look at a secret software that can track anyone anywhere. Plus, new theories arise into the cause of one of Europe's worst maritime disasters, three decades later. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Australia's Jewish community is reeling from a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. Also, Chile elects José Antonio Kast in its runoff presidential election as the country's most right-wing leader in decades. And, a new software that can track just about anybody just about anywhere. Plus, a look at a new generation in Turkey adding its own spin to reading fortunes in coffee grounds. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This week, the Trump Administration announced sanctions against Colombians involved in hiring out mercenaries to the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group fueling Sudan's civil war. Also, aging landfills in the UK risk leaking toxic waste into nearby communities. And, a year on, Israel continues to hold Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the head of the last functioning hospital in northern Gaza. Plus, a look at the deeply calming side of the music of Icelandic wünderkind Gabriel Olafs. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices