In Colombia, there has been fighting between the Colombian Government, rebel groups and other factions for over 50 years. FARC, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, a rebel guerrilla group, remains in control of some remote areas of the country but has not gained significant political power. An historic peace deal signed by Colombia’s President and the FARC leader was expected to end decades of hostility. Colombia’s President was even recognized for his efforts with a Nobel Peace Prize. But when the deal was put to a popular vote, it was rejected by a narrow majority. Listen to hear more about this conflict and reasons why Colombian voters rejected the deal.
Story Length: 3:32
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May 16, 2016
3:23
Brazil has taken an unprecedented move and suspended its president from office pending an impeachment trial. Brazil’s Senate voted to put Dilma Rousseff on trial for impeachment for breaking financial rules. Rousseff denies any wrongdoing and plans to fight the impeachment. Almost 60 percent of Brazil’s Congress is under criminal investigation, and the acting President, Michel Temer, is also accused of profiting from a corruption scandal. As a major political and economic power in South America, Brazil’s crisis could have serious ramifications.
Read MoreApril 29, 2016
5:24
There is an important debate in the United Kingdom about whether they should stay in the European Union or leave. One opinion is that there is a huge amount of discontent with the workings of the European Union and it will dissolve in the future. Another opinion is that the European Union has helped facilitate change in Europe and has promoted democracy, human rights and market economies. Listen as two brothers debate this issue, then discuss your students’ opinions about whether Britain should leave the EU.
Read MoreOctober 5, 2015
2:08
Russia and the U.S. are conducting airstrikes in Syria, with the agreed target of ISIS. However, Russia has launched 20 airstrikes on other targets besides the terrorist group. The U.S. Defense Secretary said the strikes were expected, but to some, the targets may be a surprise. Russia is said to have targeted rebels who oppose Syrian President Assad, a Russian ally but no friend of the United States. The Defense Secretary said this development may prolong the civil war and drive Syrians toward ISIS. With both Russia and the U.S. conducting air operations in the same country, errors or mistakes are likely. This week, Russia and the U.S. will hold talks to make sure both sides’ pilots do not harm each other during the bombings. Listen to hear more about this developing conflict.
Read MoreJuly 28, 2014
5:37
The fighting between Israel and the Palestinians is disrupting normal life for people living in both areas. Daily life looks very different on both sides, as the West Bank looks like a village and Israel proper looks like California. One man who is walking around the world following the path of ancient man stops to reflect what he saw while passing through the West Bank and Israel. Listen to this public radio story to hear what he saw.
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