
The World
PRI
Host Marco Werman and his team of producers bring you the world's most interesting stories that remind us just how small our planet really is.
Location:
Boston, MA
Networks:
PRI
Description:
Host Marco Werman and his team of producers bring you the world's most interesting stories that remind us just how small our planet really is.
Twitter:
@pritheworld
Language:
English
Contact:
617-300-5750
Website:
http://www.theworld.org/
Email:
theworld@pri.org
Episodes
Police in Spain take down white supremacist terror cell
12/11/2025
Three men arrested last month in Spain have been accused of plotting an imminent terrorist attack and of belonging to a neo-Nazi terrorist organization known as The Base, which started in the US and seeks societal collapse through violence and establishing white-dominated ethnostates. Also, Quebec's provincial government has introduced a bill that aims to expand it's authority to restrict religious expression in public. And, a look at Venezuela’s collapsing oil industry. Plus, a project that brought hundreds of people together from dozens of countries to work on a single dress.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:59
The implications of sperm donors carrying cancer-causing genes
12/10/2025
A sperm donor whose genetic material was used to conceive nearly 200 children in at least 14 European countries has discovered he carries a mutation that increases the risk of cancer. Also, India’s mango farmers are racing to adapt to changing markets and a changing climate. And, around 100 kidnapped Nigerian children have been returned to their families. Plus, a look at the politics behind written font types.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:17
Iraq sees worst drought in nearly a century
12/9/2025
In Iraq, 2025 has been the driest year on record since 1933, with water storage levels dropping dramatically. Politicians blame climate change, but there are also other factors at play. And, even as the US slaps hefty tariffs on Chinese goods, the country's trade surplus is on the rise. Also, after US President Donald Trump shut the door to asylum seekers, many previously hoping for protection in the US have started looking to Mexico, but the country’s asylum system has challenges of its own. Plus, Buenos Aires may have set a new record for the largest-ever gathering of golden retrievers.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:50:35
Syrians look back on one year since the fall of Bashar al-Assad
12/8/2025
Today marks one year since the regime of longtime dictator Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in Syria. The World caught up with Syrians to hear their perspectives as they reflect on the past. Also, the 2025 US National Security Strategy, unveiled late Thursday, has reignited fears of US ‘gunboat diplomacy’ in Latin America. And, despite aggressive immigration enforcement activities in the US — both in courts and on the streets — applications for asylum are at an all-time high. Plus, an ancient boat discovered off the coast of Alexandria matches descriptions of what were known in Queen Cleopatra's time as “pleasure boats.”
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:48:58
In China, the future of transportation is here
12/5/2025
Some of the auto industry's biggest innovators gathered in Shenzhen earlier this year for the Automotive World China Exhibition. From electric cars to self-driving sanitation vehicles, the event made it clear that the future of transportation is already here — and China is leading the way. Also, Somalis in the country's capital say they're discouraged by what they heard recently from the president of the United States. And, under Pope Leo's direction, the Vatican has joined seven other countries in being fully powered by solar energy. Plus, a rare floral phenomenon is unfolding in Rio de Janeiro.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:21
Shenzhen, China, becomes electric car capital of the world
12/4/2025
China produces nearly three-quarters of the world’s electric cars, and no city embodies that dominance more than Shenzhen, home to industry giant BYD. Once known as “The World’s Factory,” the city has transformed into a global hub of clean transportation and high-tech innovation. Also, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. And, Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank say their existence is being targeted as the face increasing attacks and violence by extremist Jewish settlers. Plus, Taiwan’s new envoy to Finland stages a heavy metal concert as an attempt at diplomacy.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:52:46
Multi-lateral military force for Gaza takes shape just outside the enclave
12/3/2025
At a large warehouse in the southern Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, dozens of US officials and soldiers — along with counterparts from other nations — are daily mapping out the day-after plan for Gaza. Also, an Indian government order to require the Sanchar Saathi app on smartphones sparks debate about digital rights. And, international agencies are gearing up to send nearly $7 billion to Jamaica for hurricane recovery. Plus, Erling Haaland reaches a Premier League milestone in record time.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:50:06
Trump formally pardons former Honduran leader
12/2/2025
Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández was convicted last year in a New York courtroom of flooding the US with tons of cocaine. This week, US President Donald Trump has pardoned him and he’s walked out of prison a free man. Also, taking lessons from Shenzhen, China, a megacity that has largely sidestepped the air pollution, overcrowding and failing infrastructure that often accompany rapid expansion. And, leaders of Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda are slated to travel to Washington this week to sign a peace deal overseen by Trump. Plus, a photographer-couple documents people around the world who have been forced to leave their homes because of climate change.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:50:54
As US pressure mounts, Venezuela's president cracks down on dissent
12/1/2025
As the US ramps up military pressure on Venezuela, the Maduro government is tightening its grip at home. Families of political prisoners describe disappearances, torture and a justice system that forces detainees to accept state-appointed lawyers. Also, Hong Kong officials have announced that more than 150 people are now confirmed dead after last week's massive fire that gutted several high-rise apartment buildings in the Tai Po district. And, a discussion about the status of peace talks for Ukraine. Plus, a radiation-eating fungus found at the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:05
An environment holiday special
11/28/2025
The World take a look at a variety of environment stories in this holiday special. A new report finds that renewable energy sources made up more of the global electricity mix than coal for the first half of 2025. Also, scientists in Greenland study glacial meltwater to better understand what it could do to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. And, a look at how climate change is exacerbating Canada's fire season. Plus, an activist who's working to protect trees in Mexico City.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:44
A holiday transportation special
11/27/2025
The World brings you a collection of transportation stories from across the globe. Air carriers around the world expand premium seats and luxury cabins for big spenders. Also, a group of YouTube streamers turn the nerve-racking logistics of world travel into friendly competition. And, a look at Bolivia's cable car system — the longest in the world. Plus, pets flying with their owners in style.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:50
Fishermen avoid Caribbean waters over fear of US strikes
11/26/2025
The Trump administration's airstrikes in the Caribbean are having a chilling effect on small-scale fishermen, who fear being attacked by mistake. Also, Taiwan's president asks lawmakers to approve a new $40 billion spending package in response to recent moves by China. And, Italy’s legislature passes a law that will make femicide an offense punishable by life imprisonment. Plus, the Olympic flame is lit; a look into the tradition of harnessing the sun’s energy.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:06
Taiwan watches US diplomacy with China and Russia closely
11/25/2025
Taiwan is closely following Washington’s diplomacy with Beijing and Moscow, as it hopes for US support to stay independent from China. Also, Indian authorities have launched a sweeping crackdown in the Kashmir Valley following a bomb blast outside Delhi’s historic Red Fort last week. And, Britain prepares an overhaul of its asylum system as governments across Europe tighten their rules amid rising political pressure. Plus, a 14-year-old girl wins the gold medal in this year’s surfing competition in Iran.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:06
Fires threaten ancient forests in drought-stricken Iran
11/24/2025
Fires in drought-stricken Iran are threatening ancient forests that are home to endangered species. Also, Ireland considers making a program permanent that would provide a stable income for artists. And, we bring you updates on the outcome of the UN climate summit in Belem, Brazil. Plus, a look at the origins of apples in Central Asia.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:31
How agriculture gets overlooked in climate change talks
11/21/2025
This year's COP30 summit in Brazil has highlighted food, forests and land as key topics. One sector that spreads across all of these is agriculture, and it’s responsible for about one-third of global carbon emissions. Also, China is rapidly expanding its nuclear forces just as the only major nuclear agreement, between the US and Russia, is set to expire next year. And, a conversation with former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin who was the youngest elected world leader when she was in office. Plus, a new initiative that guides Asian American teens and young adults help each other cope with stress.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:42
US-Russia plan pressures Ukraine to concede
11/20/2025
A look at a 28-point framework to end the war in Ukraine, secretly drafted by the US and Russia in Miami last month without Ukrainian officials at the table. Also, representatives of more than a dozen Caribbean nations are in the UK this week to promote reparations for slavery and the mistreatment of Indigenous people in former colonies. And, the US plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that has the Kingdom’s neighbors in the region worried. Plus, paintings breaking records at Sotheby's art auctions.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:40
US wants Venezuela's 'Cartel of the Suns' on the terror list
11/19/2025
The Trump administration is moving to label Venezuela’s “Cartel of the Suns” as a foreign terrorist organization, but some experts say the label doesn’t fit. Also, a new study examines the extent of damage being done by excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. And, an update on conditions on the ground for Palestinians in Gaza. Plus, rapper Eminem sues a beach accessory brand for choosing a name too close to his own alter ego, Slim Shady.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:49
Saudi crown prince meets with Trump at White House
11/18/2025
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman met with US President Donald Trump today, visiting the White House for the first time in seven years. Also, Peru tries to reduce the toxic use of mercury in small-scale gold mining. And, a research project in the UK hopes to fast track the hunt for new antibiotics by using artificial intelligence. Plus, could cross country runners, who don’t race on snow or ice, compete in the Winter Olympics?
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:45
China becoming biggest source of renewable exports
11/17/2025
China is making huge investments in eco-friendly technology and is quickly becoming the biggest source of renewable exports around the globe. Also, a special tribunal in Bangladesh sentences ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death over deadly crackdowns on a student-led uprising last year. And, Equal Pay Day draws attention to the wage gap between men and women in Europe. Plus, a new study finds that the average human spends 78 minutes a day on the move.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:48:08
Sudan's civil war escalates, humanitarian crisis grows
11/14/2025
Sudan's civil war is escalating as the paramilitary RSF group, which now controls the Darfur region, escalates its attacks and turns its focus east, amid a growing humanitarian crisis. Also, Chileans head to the polls on Sunday to elect their next president and Congress in a first-round vote where security is front of mind. And, the Deaflympic Games kick off in Tokyo this weekend. Plus, a woman conducts the Tehran Symphony Orchestra in a rare performance.
Listen to today’s Music Heard on Air.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Duration:00:49:34
