Many Palestinians in Gaza have no homes left to return to

Israel-Hamas war

As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continues to hold, Palestinians have been making their way back to their homes in Gaza. But many of them are finding that their homes are gone. The UN estimates that 70% of the total structures in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed and that it could take decades just to clear the rubble.

What is Maria Butina doing now in Russia after her release from a US prison?

Global Politics

Japan’s transit system is private. Should other countries consider the same?

Japan in Focus

Out of Eden Walk: A 12-year walk between oceans

Out of Eden Walk

A new wave of violence in the West Bank amid Gaza ceasefire

Conflict & Justice

As Japan’s economy adapts to a tourism boom, so does daily life 

Japan in Focus

Tourism numbers are sky-high in Japan. The country saw record numbers of travelers throughout 2024, and government officials are hoping to see the numbers double by 2030. But workers are in short supply. So, to adapt to the tourism boom, Japan is turning to everything from robot hotel receptionists to contactless restaurants.

Top White House officials echo Trump’s message to end the war in Ukraine

Ukraine

As president-elect, Donald Trump said on more than one occasion that he could end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office. More than a day into his presidency, the war rages on. But “ending wars” does still appear to be a top priority for the new administration.

Supporters of impeached South Korean president rally for him to be reinstated

Leaders

Over the weekend, hundreds of President Yoon’s supporters smashed their way into a court building in Seoul. Police restored order early Sunday morning, but not before making dozens of arrests.

Trump withdraws US from World Health Organization as he assumes presidency

Health & Medicine

Devi Sridhar, author and professor of global health at the University of Edinburgh, discusses the implications of US President Donald Trump pulling out of the World Health Organization.

International athletes pivot to American football for a chance at joining the NFL

Sports

The NFL started a new program several years ago to introduce talented athletes from other sports and around the globe to American football. The program includes practicing on the field and learning in the classroom. Since then, dozens of athletes have signed with NFL teams.

This is The World

The World is a public radio program and podcast that crosses borders and time zones to bring home the stories that matter.

Follow The World

Subscribe to The World’s Latest Edition podcast for free using your favorite podcast player: